1 32 123 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/d09afd736881f5a6ca4ab6c759a64d67.pdf 0555ee116f20062791828fa9cfbcb8ad PDF Text Text MAY 2020 VOLUME 82, NO. 5 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O COVID-19 As the world grapples with the global spread of the COVID-19 virus, SIU members continue delivering vital cargoes and supporting American military personnel (generic image at immediate right). At press time, the only SIU-crewed vessels known to be out of service as a result of the pandemic were the cruise ship Pride of America and numerous NY Waterway passenger ferries. The hospital ships USNS Mercy (above, left) and USNS Comfort (above, right) have mobilized to provide relief by treating non-coronavirus patients in Los Angeles and New York, respectively. The civilian crews of the hospital ships include members of the SIU Government Services Division. The SIU has taken significant steps to help ensure members’ safety while also facilitating the flow of crucial commerce. Mariners have been declared essential workers by federal and state governments. Pages 2-4. (USNS Mercy photo by Mass Communications Specialist 2nd Class Kelsey Adams; USNS Comfort photo by Bill Mesta. Maritime Strategy Issued Page 5 OSG Completes Purchase of Tankers Page 10 �President’s Report We’re Up to the Challenge As of this writing in early April, our country was bracing for what was expected to be a surge of confirmed coronavirus cases, despite nationwide efforts to limit their spread. You all know that the COVID-19 pandemic is tragic, complicated and unpredictable. It has upended what we recently considered “normal life” in so many ways. The loss of lives around the world has been devastating; the economic harm figures to be massive. There are two things above all else that I want SIU members and your families to know. First, every decision made by me and our other officials has been done first and foremost with your wellbeing in mind. We have been conducting weekly SIU video conferences (along with participating in what sometimes feels like a million conference calls with various agencies and operators). I open and close those SIU-specific Michael Sacco online meetings the same way: by telling everyone to keep safety at the absolute top of the list in every single action we take. The second main point is that we will indeed get through this together. Our organization has a rock-solid history of rising to the occasion, no matter the circumstances. Our members take a backseat to no one when it comes to serving as America’s fourth arm of defense. No one knows how long the pandemic will last, but better days lie ahead – and SIU-crewed vessels will help lead the way in the recovery. Meanwhile, please make sure you’re getting the latest union news from our website, from our text service if you’re so inclined, and definitely from the hiring halls, which are staffed as usual and reachable by phone and email even though they’re closed to walkins. As many of you know, we’re active on social media as well, so that’s another way to keep up with announcements. I know you’ll stick together, support each other, and keep up your wonderful professionalism aboard the ships. There’s a reason the U.S. Merchant Marine has been designated as an essential part of the workforce – and there is no doubt we’ll deliver. Jones Act Turns 100 On a much different note, next month marks the centennial for arguably the most important maritime law in U.S. history. The Jones Act always has been vital to America’s national, economic and homeland security. Without it, the American-flag fleet would be wiped out, as would the pool of U.S. citizen mariners who crew our commercial and military-support vessels. In turn, our country would face monumental security risks as foreign-flag vessels and boats and foreign crews had free reign on our rivers, waterways and coastlines. The Jones Act regularly comes under attack by foreign-flag interests and misguided free-traders who don’t give a damn about the U.S. Merchant Marine or America’s better interests. They conveniently overlook the bipartisan support enjoyed by the nation’s freight cabotage law, along with the top-level backing from our military leaders. And don’t expect the anti-Jones Act crowd to acknowledge the 653,000 American jobs supported by the law, or the fact that 91 nations around the world maintain some form of cabotage law. The Jones Act was exceptionally sound policy when it was enacted in June 1920. Today, it’s arguably more important than ever, and I’m proud to lead all of us in supporting it. O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 82 Number 5 May 2020 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 Capital Gateway Drive; 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 Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2020 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 Maritime Labor Leaders Urge Congress: Protect Jones Act The heads of nine maritime-oriented labor organizations, including SIU President Michael Sacco, recently fired off a letter to the chairs and ranking members of the House Transportation and Infrastructure and the House Armed Services committees to preserve the nation’s freight cabotage law (the Jones Act) as they crafted legislation to help American workers and businesses caught in the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic. The letter arrived on Capitol Hill on March 19 as foreign-flag interests were scheming new ways to cripple the 100-year-old law that states cargo moved from one domestic port to another must be carried aboard U.S.-crewed, U.S.-built, U.S.-owned and U.S.-flagged vessels. As hotel, casino, restaurant, retail, transportation and manufacturing workers were being laid off, some were calling for financial assistance to the foreign-flag cruise ship industry, which pays little to no federal taxes. The letter reads: “As you may be aware, a number of groups and individuals are attempting to use the current coronavirus pandemic as a rationale to waive one or more of our nation’s maritime cabotage laws. We strongly oppose such efforts and ask your help to ensure that such harmful, unwarranted and unjustifiable waivers of the cabotage laws are not included in the various stimulus packages designed to help the American worker and American industries. “At a time when American workers and their families are facing economic hardship, the public health crisis should not be exploited to the benefit of foreignflagged industries that do not employ American workers, avoid paying U.S. taxes, pay substandard wages to their foreign employees and want to use these hard times to break into our nation’s vital industries,” the letter continued. “We oppose any efforts to waive the Jones Act that would undermine the wellbeing of American mariners and the domestic maritime workforce. When this crisis is over, irresponsibly weakening the fundamental laws governing the U.S. maritime industry would only contribute to the growing loss of American jobs to foreign interests. “We thank you for your consistent support for the American maritime worker and appreciate your efforts to protect American maritime jobs,” the letter concludes. It was signed by Sacco; MEBA President Marshall Ainley; SUP President Dave Connolly; AMO President Paul Doell; Maritime Trades Department Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan; MM&P President Don Marcus; MFOW President Anthony Poplawski; IBU of the Pacific President Marina Secchitano; and Transportation Trades Department President Larry Willis. Jones Act Support Evident in Hearing The leader of the U.S. Maritime Administration and a U.S. congressman both expressed strong backing for America’s freight cabotage law during a March 11 hearing on Capitol Hill. Their respective comments were made as the House Armed Services Subcommittees on Readiness and Seapower and Projection Forces conducted a joint hearing on Sealift and Mobility Requirements and the National Defense Strategy. U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney (D-Connecticut), chairman of the Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces, stated, “This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Jones Act. For a century the Jones Act has helped promote a robust domestic maritime industry while preserving our nation’s security. We are a maritime nation and the Jones Act is one of the foundation pillars of a strong maritime policy now and in the future.” Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby said, “We also remain committed to our domestic Jones Act fleet. Jones Act requirements support U.S. shipyards and repair facilities, sustained supply chains that produce and repair American-built ships and the employment of U.S. citizen mariners. It is the indispensable foundation of the U.S. maritime industry and our economic and national security.” The Jones Act, which supports approximately 650,000 American jobs, requires that cargo moving between domestic ports is carried aboard ships that are crewed, built, flagged and owned American. Approximately 90 nations around the world maintain some form of cabotage law. News Article Further Exposes Pitfalls of Runaway-Flags A story posted by Politico on March 11 focused on how the United States could not effectively deal with the recent coronavirus health scares aboard foreignflag cruise ships, even though a great many Americans were passengers. “The cruise industry disproportionately counts Americans as customers but operates primarily in international waters and avoids tough scrutiny by registering ships mostly in small Caribbean countries with little incentive to enforce international treaties,” wrote Tanya Snyder in an article titled “Coronavirus on the High Seas: Why the U.S. Can’t Touch Cruise Lines.” “That has led to a hodgepodge of loosely enforced standards, which regulators in the U.S. won’t be able to change quickly,” the story added. The article identifies the cruise lines sailing under so-called “flags of convenience,” a system the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) has fought against for decades. (The SIU is affiliated with the London-based ITF, which is composed of more than 650 transportation-related unions from 150 countries.) The flag-of-convenience (FOC) system, also known as runaway flags, allows vessel owners from one nation to register their ships in a different country that features lower standards for worker qualifications, safety, pay and taxes, and hire crews from still other nations. (Like the ITF, the SIU also has fought against FOCs for many years.) “In essence, cruise ships are a regulatory black hole,” Snyder wrote. The Politico story listed several attempts by members of the Congress to upgrade the United States’ ability to better enforce health and safety policies on cruise ships with American passengers. These attempts have failed. More recently, international media focused on pas- sengers on several cruise ships being stranded aboard their vessels because the coronavirus was detected among both the crew and tourists. Once a ship docks, according to Politico, a country can apply some jurisdiction. “A Japanese infectious diseases expert was allowed onto the Diamond Princess, where more than 600 passengers were infected with the coronavirus, released a video on YouTube blasting the ‘chaotic’ process to try to control the spread of the disease on board the ship, conducted by people with no background in infection control,” Snyder wrote. Cruise lines have been among the hardest hit during the recent stock market downturn, which led to talk about a possible bailout for the industry, much of which is based in Florida. When Politico reached out to the chairman of the House Transportation Committee, U.S. Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-Oregon), regarding such a proposal, he replied, “They aren’t American. They don’t pay taxes in the United States of America. If they want to reflag their ships … and pay U.S. wages and pay U.S. taxes, then maybe.” FOC cruise lines did not receive money in the relief bill that was enacted in late March. Meanwhile, the ITF over the years has brought thousands of FOC cargo ships under ITF contract while striving to promote a genuine link between flag states and vessels. As pointed out by the ITF, for workers, runaway-flag shipping can mean “very low wages, poor on-board conditions, inadequate food and clean drinking water, and long periods of work without proper rest, leading to stress and fatigue.” The federation further notes that by “flagging out, shipowners can take advantage of minimal regulation, cheap registration fees, low or no taxes, and freedom to employ cheap labor from the global labor market.” May 2020 �COVID-19 PANDEMIC SIU Members Deliver Despite Pandemic Deemed “essential workers” by the federal government, SIU members remained on the job as the world continued grappling with a devastating pandemic. By early April, the coronavirus outbreak had sickened hundreds of thousands around the world, killed tens of thousands, and severely damaged the global economy. United Nations Secretary General António Guterres said the COVID-19 pandemic signaled a challenge unseen since World War II. “It is a combination, on one hand, of a disease that represents a threat to everybody in the world and, second, because it has an economic impact that will bring a recession that probably has no parallel in the recent past,” he said. “This is, indeed, the most challenging crisis we have faced since the Second World War.” For the SIU, the pandemic has led to unprecedented steps aimed at protecting individual safety while still facilitating the flow of essential commerce along with military support. In late March, the union announced that its hiring halls were closed to nonemployees until further notice, although members can still conduct their union business by phone, email and fax. The SIU also publicized an agreement with many of its contracted companies that included temporary restrictions to ship, suspension of crew reliefs, and detailed protocols for combatting the virus. At press time, the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan was finalizing modifications to various benefits in order to help members and their dependents. The union-affiliated Paul Hall Cen- Acting Secretary of the Navy Thomas B. Modly has his temperature read as part of a COVID-19 screening prior to a tour of the Seafarers-crewed hospital ship USNS Mercy in Los Angeles on March 31. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Natalie M. Byers) ter for Maritime Training and Education (PHC), located in Piney Point, Maryland, also had taken exceptional steps to protect apprentices, upgraders and employ- How to Obtain The Latest Union And Industry Info The SIU is promptly posting and otherwise circulating union- and industry-specific updates related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are some ways members can stay informed: Visit the SIU home page: www.seafarers.org. The page includes a prominent section dedicated to COVID-19 news. Sign up for SIU text alerts. We use them sparingly, and anyone can opt out. To sign up, text the word “join” (without the quotation marks, and it’s not case-sensitive) to 97779. Stay in touch with your hiring hall. As reported elsewhere, the halls are closed to non-employees, but are still staffed by union officials and office workers. Call them or email them. For those on social media, check the SIU Facebook page (@SeafarersInternational). Our social-media sites also are linked on the home page of the SIU website. We’re also active on Twitter but generally don’t use that medium for time-sensitive communications to the membership. The SIU home page includes a section dedicated to updates about the pandemic. May 2020 ees. The school in mid-March cancelled or postponed all upcoming classes. However, the PHC also continued to conduct courses already underway, while giving students the option to drop the class and leave, without penalty. At press time, only around a dozen upgraders were at the school, along with around 50 apprentices. Many steps were being taken to keep classrooms, offices and other parts of the campus sanitized while observing “social distancing,” a term that has come to dominate modern dialogue. SIU headquarters cut back to a skeleton crew and was closed to visitors. Employees continued processing claims, pension checks and vacation applications. (Those Seafarers and retirees not already signed up for direct deposit were encouraged to enroll.) The membership assistance department and others also remained open, with reduced staff on hand and others teleworking. Incredibly, as of March 31, the only members who’d been formally diagnosed with the coronavirus were aboard the cruise ship Pride of America. A very small number of positive cases were being addressed aboard the vessel. According to regular communications between the union, company and crew members, morale remained good, and all concerned were handling the situation well. Similarly, rank-and-file reaction to the extraordinary circumstances largely seemed relatively upbeat and determined, notwithstanding questions about possible extra pay, restriction to ship, and crew changes. Seafarers on social media regularly encouraged each other, whether they were working or stuck at home because of various government orders. Members expressed a desire to rise to the occasion, stick together and get through the pandemic, and they clearly maintained a sense of humor despite the challenging circumstances. Recertified Steward Karl Meyer wrote, “Sitting on the hook off Tianjin, China, moving boxes. Commerce does not stop, nor do we.” Chief Cook Sherron DeCoteau posted, “I’m on the beach, but being safe and prepared to relieve my shipmates when needed.” Chief Steward Jorcell Davis encouraged his fellow Seafarers with this popular post: “Steward depart, this is your time to do what you do best. People’s spirits are down and all they have to look forward to is three hot meals and a paycheck…. Put your foot on the gas and go above and beyond. We control the morale on the ships…. Bon voyage, stay safe out there.” While most SIU-crewed vessels (deep sea, Great Lakes and inland) remained in operation, there were at least two notable exceptions. One is the aforementioned Pride of America. The other, collectively, is the passenger ferries owned and operated by NY Waterway. Most of NY Waterway’s customers are daily commuters. With New York at the epicenter of the outbreak in the U.S., the company quickly went from having 180 captains and deckhands working aboard dozens of boats to only around a dozen mariners and two or three ferries. By contrast, the SIU-crewed hospital ships USNS Mercy and USNS Comfort seemed to give the nation a boost when they were mobilized in late March. President Trump travelled to Norfolk, Virginia, to help see off the Comfort as it left for New York; Acting Secretary of the Navy Thomas B. Modly visited the Mercy in Los Angeles. Those vessels’ respective crews include members of the SIU Government Services Division; the Masters, Mates and Pilots; and the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association. The hospital ships were deployed to help relieve overcrowding at hospitals by taking on non-coronavirus patients. “This great ship behind me is a 70,000ton message of hope and solidarity to the incredible people of New York, a place I know very well, a place I love,” Trump said, standing in front of the gleaming Continued on next page Seafarers LOG 3 �COVID-19 PANDEMIC SIU President Sends Message to Membership Editor’s note: This communication was posted to the SIU website on March 23, and also was sent to a number of SIU President Michael Sacco vessels, federal agencies, and ship-operating companies. Dear SIU Brothers and Sisters: Thank you for your dedication, professionalism and patience as the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic. Through your sacrifices and service, you are writing a significant chapter in SIU history. While the worst part of the pandemic is, obviously, loss of life, I think the other greatest difficulty is not having many answers. People historically are very resilient when they understand the challenge. In this case, no one knows exactly what the “all clear” will look like or when it’ll happen, or even the best way to get there. But in the meantime, I cannot overemphasize this point: Every decision and every action the SIU takes is being done with your safety and health in mind. The health of you and your loved ones is my top priority. The same goes for our officials and employees. That is why, for instance, we not only didn’t object to temporarily stopping routine crew changes and implementing restriction to ship, we supported it. The inconveniences are a sacrifice that must be made in order to maximize your safety. In many ways, this is the shipboard version of helping “flatten curve” (slowing the virus’ spread). At the same time, and as you well know, our country depends on us. The U.S. Merchant Marine is vital to the nation’s national, economic and homeland security. That’s why it’s so important for you to keep up the good work and guard your health. At some point, we also undoubtedly will be at the tip of the spear of the country’s economic recovery. And, at all times, we still must be able to crew up ships if there’s an activation. The union is in virtually constant contact with our ship operators and the leaders at the Maritime Administration, TRANSCOM, and MSC. We’re all pulling together and will continue doing so. I’m sure you’re aware of some of the measures that have been implemented by those agencies, including travel, shore-leave and turnover restrictions. Like us, they’re taking extraordinary measures because these are extraordinary times. In that spirit, I well remember how SIU members realized that times had changed during the Middle East wars – and how you responded in outstanding fashion. I know you’ll do the same now. Keep an eye on our website and social media pages for updates, and you can also stay in touch with your hiring hall. I also recommend periodically checking the National Maritime Center website – we’re re-posting their announcements (for example, the recent one about credential extensions), but of course the information will land there first. I also offer a special word of thanks to our members aboard the hospital ships USNS Mercy and USNS Comfort – and indeed, to all of our CIVMARS throughout the fleet. Thank you for stepping up during this time of need. Last but definitely not least, I am sensitive to your concerns about your families as you make work-related sacrifices. This goes back to my main point: Every step the union takes is being done in order to maximize the chances of everyone reuniting in good health. Thank you for upholding the finest traditions of the Brotherhood of the Sea. In Solidarity, Michael Sacco President President Trump Signs $2.2 Trillion U.S. Stimulus Package into Law March 29 President Donald Trump on March 29 signed into law a massive $2.2 trillion stimulus package in an attempt to alleviate the worst effects of the coronavirus pandemic on the American public and the U.S. economy. According to several sources, the farreaching legislation stands as the largest emergency aid package in U.S. history. It represents an enormous financial injection into a struggling economy with provisions aimed at helping American workers, small businesses and industries grappling with the economic disruption. A centerpiece of the stimulus package is that it will provide direct financial assistance to Americans in the form of checks, with the amount received based on income. Individuals who earn $75,000 in adjusted gross income or less will get one-time direct payments of $1,200 each, with married couples earning up to $150,000 receiving $2,400 – and an additional $500 per child. The payment will scale down by income, phasing out entirely at $99,000 for singles and $198,000 for couples without children. It also gives money to directly to state governments, and bolsters the unemployment benefits program. Under the law, jobless benefits will be extended to those not normally covered, such as freelancers and workers in the gig economy. In addition, the package will provide billions of dollars in aid to hard-hit hospitals struggling to deal with the outbreak as well for state and local governments that are cash-strapped due to their response to coronavirus. The new law will also provide distressed businesses and industries with hundreds of billions of dollars – $500 billion to be exact – in zero-interest loans, tax breaks, and other emergency aid. That portion of the package sparked criticism from progressive 4 Seafarers LOG lawmakers like Rep. Alexandria OcasioCortez (D-New York), who attacked it on the House floor as a corporate bailout. “We have to go into this vote eyes wide open. What did the Senate majority fight for,” she said. “One of the largest corporate bailouts with as few strings as possible in American history. Shameful! The greed of that fight is wrong for crumbs for our families. And the option that we have is to either let them suffer with nothing or to allow this greed and billions of dollars, which will be leveraged into trillions of dollars, to contribute to the largest income inequality gap in our future.” In a compromise move, the final deal provided for accountability through an independent Inspector General and congressional oversight panel regarding how these funds are dispersed. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, appearing on Fox Business, had a mixed reaction. “The (Senate) bill makes many important investments” but “it falls short in protecting frontline workers and does nothing to preserve America’s pensions,” he said. Service Employees President Mary Kay Henry agreed, calling the measure “a good first step to address the economic and health problems faced by working people of all races and ethnicities.” But it’s “no substitute” for coordinated administration action. “We still need to do more,” she said. “Congress should immediately begin work on a new bill that ensures every working American has paid sick days, everyone can get coronavirus testing and treatment free of charge, no matter their immigration status, and working people continue to come before corporations. In particular, continuing to bar Dreamers, TPS-holders, and undocumented families from access to testing and medical services will have devastating public health consequences.” In New York, Lt. Cmdr. Nevin Yazici demonstrates how to properly fit an N95 respiratory protective device aboard the Seafarers-crewed hospital ship USNS Comfort as the vessel prepares to admit patients March 31 in support of the nation’s COVID-19 response efforts. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sara Eshleman) Seafarers Continue to Perform Vital Mission Even With Worldwide Plague Continued from Page 3 white hull of the Comfort. “We’re here for you. We are fighting for you and we are with you all the way and we always will be. You have the unwavering support of the entire nation.” “I would like to personally thank the men and women embarked aboard Mercy,” said Modly. “I’m proud of the hard work and agility they demonstrated to get the Mercy to Los Angeles (from San Diego) and begin accepting patients almost immediately. “The white hull and red cross of this ship have been a welcome sight around the world, standing at the forefront of our humanitarian mission,” he continued. “And now this great ship is serving our own people in this time of need, providing critical surge hospital capacity to the people of Los Angeles. This is just one of the many ways the Department of the Navy is responding to protect the American people in this time of need.” Meanwhile, the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center posted a series of updates about credentialing and customer service. All 17 of the agency’s regional examination centers and three monitoring units are closed to the public until further notice. Various extensions have been given for merchant mariner credentials, medical certificates and STCW endorsements. Drug-testing protocols also have been modified. May 2020 �DOT Releases National Maritime Strategy Report Spells Out Vital Need for Strong U.S. Merchant Marine America’s long-awaited national maritime strategy is here – and it supports taking aggressive steps to ensure the ongoing viability of the U.S. Merchant Marine. The Department of Transportation earlier this year issued the strategic document in the form of a report to Congress titled, “Goals and Objectives for a Stronger Maritime Nation.” As noted on its cover page, the report was developed by the DOT and its Maritime Administration “with interagency engagement through the U.S. Committee on the Marine Transportation System.” Among other declarations and recommendations, the report expresses powerful backing of the Jones Act, the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP), and cargo preference laws. It calls for boosting domestic shipbuilding, repeatedly cites the critical value of merchant mariners, and categorically states the need to recapitalize the Ready Reserve Force (RRF). Mandated by legislation from 2014, the report establishes four “strategic goals” with 39 “objectives” therein. The goals are to “strengthen U.S. Maritime Capabilities Essential to National Security and Economic Prosperity; Ensure the Availability of a U.S. Maritime Workforce that Will Support the Sea lift Resource Needs of the National Security Strategy; Support Enhancement of U.S. Port Infrastructure and Performance; and, Enable Maritime Industry Innovation in Information, Automation, Safety, Environmental Impact and Other Areas.” The DOT has committed to the following steps within one year: prioritize the 39 objectives for near, medium and long-term capability; develop an implementation plan for the near-term objectives; consider a timeline for addressing the medium and long-term objectives; and, review and report on regulations that impact the competitiveness of the U.S.-flag fleet. As noted in the report’s introduction, America’s military sealift capability al- Plans Administrator Issues Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan Notice As you may be aware, the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan’s (SMPPP) last valuation date was December 31, 2019. Since that date, the world has been experiencing a pandemic arising from the spread of COVID-19. A state of national emergency has been declared in the U.S. As a result of the health scare, the financial markets have experienced substantial loses. Unfortunately, the value of your defined contribution account between the valuation date and the disbursement date has been affected. Under federal law, the Plan’s Board of Trustees are required to act in the best interest of all Plan participants. This includes those who are now eligible for distributions from the SMPPP and all the other remaining participants in the Plan. Large withdrawals by few participants could have an unintended detrimental impact on the remaining participants. The Plan must balance the interest of those remaining participants with those who are currently withdrawing their benefits. In order to mitigate the potential size of the losses to the remaining participants, the Trustees have decided to temporarily withhold 20% from all current benefit payments. The Trustees will review this action in the future with the hope that the immediate financial crisis will be resolved, allowing the Plan to remit the balance in the future. Of course, this does not impact the mandatory 20% federal tax withholding that will also be deducted. I hope that you and your family will remain in good health throughout this emergency. – Margaret Bowen, Seafarers Plans Administrator ways has depended on private-sector crews and vessels. “Privately owned U.S.-flag ships in the international trades, the U.S. mariners they employ, and the U.S. shipyards and port facilities that support and sustain the ships’ operation and maintenance have long been relied upon as primary resources to serve as a naval and military auxiliary in time of war or national emergency,” the report asserts. “These ships, mariners, and facilities have been integral and essential to the defense of our Nation.” In that vein, the report later states, “Maritime readiness supports national security and a more resilient economy. DOT strongly supports DOD and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in their missions to protect our citizens and national interests in times of crisis and natural disaster.” Instructively, the agency cites the historic reliability of U.S. mariners – but warns against any further erosion of the shipboard manpower pool. “The United States maintains a workforce of highly qualified maritime professionals, reflecting a strong tradition of maritime education and training,” DOT says. “As large U.S. flag commercial vessels have left the fleet and international credentialing and certification requirements have become more stringent and costly, it is possible that the size of the mariner workforce will decline. Any further decline of the mariner workforce increases the risk of not having a sufficient number of mariners with appropriate experience and credentials to support sustained operations of more than six months by the full U.S. Government surge sealift fleet, U.S. Government non-surge fleet, and U.S.-flag commercial fleet during a wartime emergency.” Later, the report spells out the aforementioned four goals and underlying objectives. That section includes: Goal 1: Strengthen U.S. Maritime Capabilities Essential to National Security and Economic Prosperity Objectives for Goal 1: 1.1 Leverage U.S. maritime policies to advance U.S. commercial interests in the global economy. 1.2 Increase the use of U.S.-flagged vessels in domestic energy transportation and international energy markets. 1.3 Develop and expand marine highway service options and facilitate their further integration into the current U.S. surface transportation system through the America’s Marine Highway Program, especially where water-based transport is the most efficient, effective and sustainable option. 1.4 Adapt organizational structures and related authorities, roles, and responsibilities to ensure the sustained ability to monitor the global performance of the U.S.-flagged fleet and the third-party organizations that perform delegated inspection and certification functions on the U.S. Government’s behalf. 1.5 Ensure effective use of third parties for inspection and certification by strengthening third-party oversight, auditing, and integrated risk management. 1.6 Address the challenges of the Arctic’s rapidly changing environment to ensure the safety and security of the U.S. marine transportation system. 1.7 Recapitalize the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) with modern vessels as ships reach the end of their usable lives. 1.8 Improve the capability of U.S.-flag international trading vessels to better align with DOD and DOT sealift requirements through a combination of MSP funding, MSC chartering, enforcement of preference cargo requirements, regulatory reform and policy, and incentives to reduce vessel operating costs. 1.9 Examine new ways to support shipbuilding and repair facilities, and increase U.S. coastwise trade for eligible U.S.-flag vessels. 1.10 Enhance the U.S. shipyard base by fostering support for shipyard modernization and innovation, and promoting use of the Capital Construction Fund (CCF) and Construction Reserve Fund (CRF) programs. Continued on Page 11 SIU Regional VP Sends Message to American Steamship Crews Editor’s note: This communication was posted on the SIU website in early March. Dear SIU Brothers and Sisters: On March 6, GATX Corporation formally notified the union that its subsidiary American Steamship Company (ASC) plans to operate all 11 vessels this season. This is what we anticipated, but it wasn’t until a few days ago that we received written confirmation. Further, and as many of you know, GATX is in the process of selling ASC to Rand Logistics, Inc. The transaction is not a certainty and may take many months to finalize, partly because it’s subject to review by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission and the U.S. Department of Justice. In any case, the sale will not affect your union contract, which remains in effect until June 15, 2020. The SIU will work with the new owners to secure a subsequent contract and to protect your jobs. In the meantime, please keep up the great work throughout this sailing season. Your continued professionalism will help everyone involved. Fraternally, Tom Orzechowski SIU VP Great Lakes and Inland Waters May 2020 SIU jobs are secure aboard American Steamship Co. vessels including the Walter J. McCarthy Jr., pictured in Superior, Wisconsin. Seafarers LOG 5 �PITCHING IN FOR COMMON GOOD – Prior to the temporary closures of the hiring halls, Jacksonville, Florida-area Seafarers help keep that facility sanitized. In addition to the work of the nighttime cleaning crew, Port Agent Ashley Nelson and staff “wiped down” the hall at least once per day. As usual, SIU members stepped up to help. Among those lending a hand were QMED Steve Wilson (above, left) and Bosun Robert Bryson (above, center). Also pitching in (photo at right, from left) were QMED Lawrence Brooks, AB John Paul and AB Mehdi Youssef. These photos were taken in mid-March. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU WITH CIVMARS ON WEST COAST – SIU Asst. VP Joe Vincenzo (right) and SIU Representative Jesse Ruth (standing) meet with SIU Government Services Division members in late February at the CSU West Coast. WELCOME ASHORE IN BALTIMORE – Recertified Bosun Brian Fountain (right) picks up his first pension check at the hiring hall, where he is congratulated by Port Agent John Hoskins. AT THE JACKSONVILLE HALL – Taking the union oath during the March membership meeting (from left) are QMED Antonio Griffin, OS Darryl Brown and QMED Justin D’Angelo. SIU Port Agent Ashley Nelson is at right. Brother Griffin received his A-seniority book; the other two Seafarers are B-seniority members who received their full books. ABOARD CROWLEY TUG – Cook/AB Marilyn Olson is pictured aboard the Ocean Wave in Lake Charles, Louisiana. 6 Seafarers LOG WELCOMING NEW MEMBERS – From left, Reefer Engineer Frank Buckman, OS Carlene Mitchell, OS Christian Howe and AB Eric Gardner are pictured aboard the Joshua Humphreys in Norfolk, Virginia, shortly after joining the SIU Government Services Division. May 2020 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU BOOKS GALORE IN ALGONAC – GUDE Husam Yahya (left in photo at left) receives his B-book from Port Agent Todd Brdak. In photo at center, ACU Ahmed Said (left) gets his A-book from Safety Director Gerret Jarman. (Said was scheduled to upgrade to chief cook.) In remaining photo at right, GUDE Abdulhamid Salem (left) receives his probationary B-book, while AB Abdo Alasaadi (right) picks up his A-book. They are pictured with Jarman. ABOARD OVERSEAS LOS ANGELES – Pictured March 1 aboard the OSG vessel in Richmond, California, are (photo at left, back row, from left) SA Jessie Espiritu, ABG Mohammed Haruna, GUDE Ahmed Saleh, AB Joseph Nicodemus, GUDE Salah Alosfur, (front) Chief Cook Keith Hall, Steward/Baker Johnny Sawyer, Recertified Bosun Teodulfo Alanano and SIU Oakland Port Agent Nick Marrone II AT THE HOUSTON HALL – AB Regina Ewing already was taking the threat of COVID-19 seriously when she stopped by the hall in mid-March. ABOARD SUNSHINE STATE – Pictured on the Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning vessel are (from left) Recertified Bosun Marc Marcus, ABM Daniel Harris, ABM Randy Shaw and Third Mate Julian Martinez. The masks were for routine work-related reasons, not COVID-19. May 2020 EMPHASIZING SAFETY – Labor and management always team up at Watco to promote safe operations. Pictured at the company’s marine transfer station in Elizabeth, New Jersey, are (standing, from left) Watco supervisor Andrew Jones, Seafarers Scott Howe, Scott C. Smith, Scott Smith, Thomas Napoli and Watco manager Chris Jackson, and (front, from left) Seafarers Stephen Krupp, Michael Mazzone and Corey Hornig. Seafarers LOG 7 �Several World War II mariners (front row, in dark jackets) were honored at last year’s National Maritime Day ceremony in Washington, D.C. They and their comrades now are eligible for a Congressional Gold Medal. The photo above, taken right after the ceremony, also includes Paul Hall Center apprentices, featured speakers, SIU officials and others. Among those pictured are (back row, from left) SIU VP Contracts George Tricker, Port Agent Victor Nunez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, President Michael Sacco, Gen. Stephen Lyons (USA, commander of the U.S. Transportation Command), Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby, SIU VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski and SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez. New Law Honors WWII Mariners with Gold Medal The U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II recently received some long-overdue recognition. President Donald Trump on March 13 signed into law the Merchant Mariners Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2020. The legislation previously passed the House and Senate without objection. The measure provides for the award of a Congressional gold medal collectively, to the United States Merchant Mariners of World War II, in recognition of their dedicated and vital service. The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. Congress. In an opinion piece published March 14 in the New York Post, Dr. Peter Navarro, assistant to the President and Director of the Office of Trade and Manufacturing Policy, wrote, “Let this Congressional Gold Medal not only celebrate some of the most unsung heroes of World War II; let it also reawaken our interest in promoting U.S.flagged ships and credentialed merchant seamen and strengthening our shipyards and broader defense industrial base. Such a result would be a truly lasting tribute to those World War II merchant mariners who defended freedom then and a broad salute to our future merchant mariners who will defend us in the tomorrows to come.” As reported earlier in the Seafarers LOG, the legislation leading to the act becoming law originally was co-sponsored in the House by U.S. Representatives John Garamendi (D-California), Don Young (R-Alaska) and Susan W. Brooks (R-Indiana) and in the Senate by Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Angus King, Jr. (I-Maine), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Maria Cantwell (D-Washington) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island). The medal will be displayed in the American Merchant Marine Museum at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in New York. Duplicates then will be struck and made available to the public. The SIU and the Transportation Institute, alongside a number of other backers, took lead roles in obtaining co-sponsors for both the House and Senate bills. More than 1,200 SIU members lost their lives in wartime service during World War II. “Throughout the Second World War, our armed forces relied on the U.S. Merchant Marine to ferry supplies, cargo and personnel into both theaters of operation, and they paid a heavy price in service to their country,” said Garamendi. “The U.S. Merchant Marine suffered the highest per-capita casualty rate in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II. An estimated 8,300 mariners lost their lives, and another 12,000 were wounded, to make sure our service members could keep fighting. Yet, these mariners who put their lives on the line were not even given veteran status until 1988.” He added, “I had the opportunity to meet with three World War II Merchant Mariners in my office. These mariners put their lives on the line for this country, braving German and Japanese submarines in their Liberty ships as they delivered critical supplies to our service members in the European and Pacific theaters. Unfortunately, their sacrifice is commonly overlooked. A Congressional Gold Medal would give them the recognition they deserve, and I’m pleased that this bill is poised to be signed into law to give these veterans and their families the honor and respect they are SIU Headquarters Gets State-Ordered Change of Address dress despite not having physically relocated their headquarters operations. As of April 22, and because of Maryland State Government-ordered action, the street name changed from Auth Way to Capital Gateway Drive. The numerical portion of the address, as well as all phone and fax numbers for the building, remain unchanged. The new address thus became: As previously announced in the Seafarers LOG, the union and the Seafarers Plans now have a new ad- 8 Seafarers LOG owed. Thank you to Senator Murkowski for championing this legislation in the Senate and for her partnership.” “Despite their loyalty and patriotic services and commitment to the United States, our World War II Merchant Mariners didn’t receive their veteran status until nearly 40 years after the war had ended,” Murkowski said. “The merchant mariners provided crucial services during World War II by transporting soldiers, tanks, airplanes, ammunition, fuel and food to aid soldiers on the front lines. This legislation recognizes the unsung heroes of the World War II conflict, for their loyalty and bravery, as they risked their lives to keep the Allied troops properly equipped. I’m thankful my Senate colleagues recognize the importance of honoring the brave merchant mariners for their pivotal role in our nation’s history and their efforts in defense of freedom.” There are approximately 4,000 World War II U.S. Merchant Mariners alive today, according to Murkowski’s office. AMMV Provides Answers To Growing List of ‘FAQs’ About Mariners’ Decoration Editor’s note: The American Merchant Marine Veterans organization developed the following list of frequently asked questions, which answers inquiries about the process for distribution of the recently approved Congressional Gold Medal for WWII Merchant Mariners. It was provided for publication by the American Maritime Partnership. Q: What does “collective medal” mean? A: It means that one Gold Medal will be presented collectively to the entire group of WWII U.S. Merchant Mariners (USMM) who are entitled to receive it. This medal will be housed in the Ameri5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, Maryland 20746. As members and most other stakeholders are aware, the old address, (since 1982, when the SIU relocated from New York) was 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Maryland 20746. The union nor Seafarers Plans sought this address change. In fact, both petitioned responsible officials against it, but can Merchant Marine Museum in Kings Point, New York. The U.S. Mint and the American Merchant Marine Veterans organization (AMMV) will work together to design the final medal. Generally, the medal design process takes about 6-8 months. Q: Who is eligible to receive the Congressional Gold Medal? A: Any Merchant Marine Veteran who served Honorably at any time from December 7, 1941 to December 31, 1946. This includes all American merchant mariners in oceangoing service Continued on next page to no avail. Other organizations along the same street in Prince George’s County also are being forced to comply with the alteration. The street itself already had been named Capital Gateway Drive beyond the Seafarers building, which is next to a subway station. Mailings from headquarters are being sent to SIU pensioners and other interested parties, alerting them of this change. May 2020 �Labor Mourns Passing Of BCTGM President Durkee Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers (BCTGM) International President David B. Durkee passed away March 30 following an extended battle with cancer. He was 66 years old. Durkee was a 47-year member of the union, having started his career in his native Indiana. In announcing his passing, the union’s website stated, “There was no fight he wouldn’t lead, no adversary he wouldn’t confront, if the best interests of the BCTGM were at risk.” Durkee received the Paul Hall Award last year from the Maritime Port Council of Greater New York/New Jersey. He was a member of the AFL-CIO Executive Council and had served on the Maritime Trades Department executive board prior to his becoming BCTGM president. “David Durkee always stood up for his members,” recalled MTD/SIU President Michael Sacco. “He was a quiet, effective leader and will be greatly missed.” AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka said, “The entire labor movement is saddened by the death of Dave Durkee. We have lost a brother, a friend and a fierce defender of working families. Dave spent his life fighting for workers’ rights and advocating for a fair and just society. His dedication to our movement and our country leaves a lasting legacy…. It is a sad day for those of us who had the privilege of knowing Dave. We mourn his passing and will continue to fight like hell for the values he held dear.” United Mine Workers of America International President Cecil E. Roberts stated, “David Durkee was one of my heroes in the labor movement. He fought like a lion on behalf of his members, unafraid to take on giant international corporations with courage, conviction and determination to preserve their jobs, their pensions and their communities. His ability to analyze complex problems and develop innovative solutions was an inspira- David Durkee (right) is pictured last year with MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan. tion not just to me, but to all who worked with him.” The BCTGM further described Durkee as “an amazing and sometimes radical union activist but also an incredible husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. A devoted family man, he always said the fight was about more than the gains we could win FAQ: Merchant Mariners Of WWII Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2020 for present union members; the fight was to make a better world for his children and grandchildren. He will be greatly missed.” When he was honored by the port council, Durkee said the late Paul Hall (who served as SIU and MTD President from 1957 to 1980) stood for “strong and principled leadership … creativity, innovation and breaking new indicated, individual veterans desiring a medal may purchase them at a cost of about $54; family members of deceased mariners can purchase the CGM in their honor for the same price. Costs associated with the purchase of the bronze replica are beyond the scope of the government’s responsibility; however, a funding site possibly will be set up for donations so that each veteran will receive their medals free of cost. Continued from Page 8 during the period of armed conflict, December 7, 1941, to August 15, 1945, and who meet the following prerequisites: „�Was employed by the War Shipping Administration or Office of Defense Transportation (or their agents) as a merchant seaman documented by the U.S. Coast Guard or the Department of Commerce (Merchant Mariner’s Document/Certificate of Service), or as a civil servant employed by the U.S. Army Transport Service (later redesignated U.S. Army Transportation Corps, Water Division) or the Naval Transportation Service, and „�Served satisfactorily as a crew member during the period of armed conflict (December 7, 1941, to August 15, 1945) aboard merchant vessels in oceangoing—foreign, intercoastal, or coastwise—service (per 46 U.S.C. §§10301 and 10501) and further to include near foreign voyages between the United States and Canada, Mexico, or the West Indies via ocean routes, or public vessels in oceangoing service or foreign waters. Q: Will each eligible veteran receive a Congressional Gold Medal? A: No. Only one Congressional Gold Medal will be minted and housed at the Kings Point Merchant Marine Museum. Individual veterans desiring a medal must each apply for and purchase replica bronze medals at a cost of about $54 each. Family members of deceased mariners will be allowed to purchase a replica bronze medal on behalf of their family member. Q: Are veterans expected to pay for the bronze replica of the CGM? A: Yes. In accordance with the law, bronze replicas of the U.S. Merchant Marine CGM will be available for sale by mid-2021. These replicas and other CGMs are also available as the law allows for purchase via the U.S. Mint’s online catalog. As was previously May 2020 Q: Are families of deceased veterans eligible to receive a bronze replica of the CGM? A: Yes, the closest surviving relative of a deceased veteran may receive a bronze duplicate of the CGM on behalf of the veteran. It is the deceased veteran, however, (not the next of kin) who is the awardee of the CGM under Public Law 115-337 Q: How and when do I apply for this bronze replica? A: Currently, there is no time frame for when the application process or the medals will be complete. Usually, a veterans’ group, along with the government, will establish and implement a registration process. No such process exists yet. The AMMV will publish updated information on its website as it becomes available. Historically, individuals and groups approved for medals have received them approximately 8-10 months after earning them. As examples, the Filipino Scouts WWII were approved for the medal in December 2016 and were awarded their medals in October of 2017. The Chinese American WWII Veterans were approved for their medals in December 2018. They were slated to accept their medals in the fall of 2019; however, the ceremony has been changed to the Spring of 2020 (now cancelled) in Washington, D.C. Medal awards are normally a threeday program hosted by the government and include tours, dinners and ceremonies. Q: What if I cannot go to D.C. for the ceremony? A: To ensure that all veterans receive their medals, the plan is for several regional ceremonies to be conducted across the country. At this point, 12 regional ceremonies (covering almost every section of the nation) are in the works. Details will be made available as soon as possible. Q: What kind of information is required to qualify for the CGM? ground to improve the lives and standard of living of his members and their families … unflinching courage … an unyielding commitment to the highest values and standards of trade unionism. He was about labor solidarity and always being there for fellow union members and he never forgot where he came from.” A: The veteran’s military service can be verified by the following documentation: „�Submission of Honorable Discharge or Separation Papers (DD-214) „� Other forms of verification can be used, but these will not be made public until they are received from Congress. All documents must be scanned and uploaded. Veterans/family members should not mail in anything or send any original documents. Those who do not own or have access to scanners should visit any of the following sources to scan documents (once it is safe): university or college library; public library; retail outlets such as Kinko’s/FedEx, UPS Stores, Office Depot or Office Max; and neighbors or family members. Q: How do I get my relative’s DD-214? A: Three options are available through which family members may obtain their relatives’ DD-214: Option 1 – The easiest way is to contact your congressman. For those who don’t know who their congressperson is, visit www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative. Congressmen have access to all records and can get them more easily. Normally, congressmen are very accommodating in this regard. They may present medals directly to veterans or family members. Should this be the case, it’s a great idea to take photos or invite local media to attend the ceremony. Option 2 – For those who do not wish to go through their congressperson, DD-214s may be obtained through the mail. For those choosing this option, visit www.usmm.org/contact.htm1#contact2. This site contains all information required to obtain the needed form. Option 3 – Go to the U.S. Coast Guard website at www.dco.uscg.mil/Our-Organization/AssistantCommandant-for-Prevention-Policy-CG-5P/National-Maritime-Center-NMC/record_request. This site contains a wealth information on mariner records and how to obtain them. Q: Where can I direct additional questions? A: Contact the AMMV’s national headquarters: P.O. Box 2024 Darien, CT 06820-2024 Phone: (475) 470-9200 Email: ammermarvets@gmail.com Seafarers LOG 9 �SIU President Issues Pre-Balloting Report May 4, 2020 Pursuant to Article X, section 1(e) of our Constitution, I am submitting my Pre-Balloting Report. As everyone is aware, the existence of the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in the adoption of procedural changes by most organizations and businesses around the world. The SIU Executive Board, in an effort to protect the health and safety of the membership and staff, has suspended inperson membership meetings until it is deemed safe to resume them. My pre-balloting report, by constitution and practice, is generally read at the regular May membership meetings; however, at this time it appears unlikely that we will be able to hold in-person meetings in May. We will endeavor to get the information contained in my report to the membership by all means reasonably possible. The following is my report. The balloting for our General Election of Officers for the term 2021-2024 will commence on November 1, 2020 and continue through December 31, 2020. The election will be conducted under the provisions of our Constitution, as amended and effective March 15, 2013, and such other voting procedures as our Secretary-Treasurer may direct. I have, in consultation with our Executive Board and Port Representatives, made a careful appraisal of the needs of this union, its membership and its currently existing constitutional ports. We have carefully considered the changes that have taken place in the maritime industry over the last few years, with a view toward meeting the ever-changing demands. It is my recommendation, in accordance with our Constitution, that the following offices be placed on the ballot in the 2020 General Election of Officers for the term 2021–2024: „ 1 President „ 1 Executive Vice President „ 1 Secretary-Treasurer „ 1 Vice President in Charge of Contracts and Contract Enforcement „ 1 Vice President in Charge of the Atlantic Coast „ 1 Vice President in Charge of the Gulf Coast „ 1 Vice President in Charge of the West Coast „ 1 Vice President in Charge of the Southern Region, Great Lakes, and Inland Waters „ 1 Vice President in Charge of Government Services and Fishing Industries „ 1 Assistant Vice President in Charge of Contracts and Contract Enforcement „ 1 Assistant Vice President in Charge of the Atlantic Coast „ 1 Assistant Vice President in Charge of the Gulf Coast „ 1 Assistant Vice President in Charge of the West Coast „ 1 Assistant Vice President in Charge of the Southern Region, Great Lakes and Inland Waters „ 1 Assistant Vice President in Charge of Government Services and Fishing Industries „ 10 Port Agents There shall be one (1) Port Agent in each of the ten (10) constitutional ports; namely: New Jersey, 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, 2020 and close August 15, 2020. The foregoing constitutes your President’s PreBalloting Report and, subject to my further recommendation as to the depository to be made hereafter, I recommend its adoption. Fraternally submitted, Michael Sacco President Puerto Rico Rebuilds During Pandemic While the nation adjusts to new precautions stemming from the continuing outbreak of novel coronavirus (COVID-19), unions and their members are still hard at work helping the affected areas of Puerto Rico rebuild after a series of devastating earthquakes in January. Now, the union-led relief efforts are facing the added challenge of working to provide aid during this COVID-19 pandemic. SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo said, “Our situation in Puerto Rico, pertaining to COVID-19, is no different than the mainland. The Puerto Rican governement has established a curfew, from 7 p.m. till 5 a.m., with no exceptions unless one works in the healthcare, transportation, or security industries.” Crespo continued, “As far our local membership, so far no one has informed me that they are sick with the virus, thank God. I’m in contact with the membership that’s returning to their respective jobs, assisting them with documents, clinicals and whatever else is required to return to work, and none of them have contracted the virus.” He concluded, “In other words, the work continues.” SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo (left) pauses from unloading a cargo container of relief supplies to pose for a picture with other Seafarers. Historian Recalls Plight Of Mariners on High Seas During World War II Continued from Page 20 of the German Reich. We are not yielding and we do not propose to yield.” There were other incidents involving American ships prior to Pearl Harbor: the bombing of the Steel Seafarer in the Gulf of Suez; the sinking of the freighter Lehigh; the mysterious disappearance of the tanker Astral, and the sinking of the freighter Sagahodac only four days before the attack upon Honolulu. But it was in January 1942 that the merchant marine felt the full fury of the war at sea. And then, with a suddenness that found us totally unprepared, the U-boats struck – not in foreign waters nor on the convoy routes to Europe, but along the shores of our own Atlantic Coast. One of the first ships to feel this Nazi thrust in the western Atlantic was the SIU-manned City of Atlanta. U-Boat Lane There was a chill breeze and a long, glassy swell on the sea, as the SIU-manned Seatrain Texas came up the Carolina coast at full speed in the morning of January 19, 1942. Captain Albert Dalzell was on the bridge and every officer and unlicensed man aboard was on the alert, for Sparks had been receiving messages of ships being attacked by submarines. During the night there had been flashes of gunfire on the horizon and, though they supposed it was practice fire by the Navy or Coast Guard, they were taking no chances. The ship was holding as close to the shore as safe navigation would permit. The officer of the watch had just taken a bearing on Wimble Shoals buoy, when a call came from the lookout that there was wreckage on the water ahead. Captain Dalzell got his glasses and swept the sea in the direction toward which the lookout had pointed. There were small black specks bobbing on the long swells and, as he focused more clearly on the area, he saw a man’s hand wave from one of the bits of flotsam. It waved again, weakly. All he could see was the hand, for the man’s head and shoulders were too close to the water. Turning to the Mate, the Skipper ordered a boat prepared for lowering. The engine room telegraph jingled as speed was decreased, and the freighter ran swiftly up on the scattered wreckage now becoming more visible. They could see pieces of boards and shattered odds and ends of ship’s fittings strewn for a mile here and there across the undulating water, but careful scrutiny through the glasses revealed only five bodies amid the debris. One man was holding onto the frame of a wheelhouse door. As the Seatrain Texas came to a stop, the lifeboat was put quickly over the side in the well-coordinated movements of a veteran crew and was soon pulling through the water-soaked wreckage. The boat’s crew worked fast, for Captain Dalzell couldn’t endanger his vessel and her crew a minute longer than was necessary. For all they knew, a submarine was watching every movement they made. To Be Continued Overseas Shipholding Group Completes ATC Purchase Company Also Announces Plans to Build ATB Seafarers-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group, Inc. (OSG) recently announced that its subsidiaries have completed the purchase of three SIU-crewed, U.S.-flagged tankers – the Alaskan Explorer, Alaskan Legend, and Alaskan Navigator – from BP Oil Shipping Company USA and BP AMI Leasing Inc. OSG has also entered into a bareboat charter with BP for a fourth vessel, the Alaskan Frontier, as well as completing the acquisition of Alaska Tanker Company LLC (ATC), which still serves as 10 Seafarers LOG the operator of the vessels. As previously reported, all SIU jobs remain secure aboard the ships. The vessels purchased will continue to be operated by ATC under time charters with BP Exploration (Alaska), Inc., with firm charter periods lasting until 2022, 2025, and 2026. Each charter also provides for five one-year extension options. OSG President and CEO Sam Norton stated, “The swift completion of this series of transactions within 80 days of reaching definitive agreements is a testimony to both the commitment of and co-operation among OSG and ATC personnel. All involved worked extremely hard to bring about the successful outcome that we are announcing today, an outcome that once again reflects well on both organizations’ focus on excellence in execution of all aspects of work undertaken. I am gratified to be part of such a dedicated team of professionals and salute their achievement.” Norton continued, “We have long viewed consolidation among owners of Jones Act tankers as an opportunity for OSG to build on its industry-leading franchise in serving the distribution needs of domestic oil producers and refiners. The addition of ATC and its operated vessels to OSG’s platform is a notable achievement in this context, providing the opportunity for substantial additional revenue in the years to come and cementing a long-standing presence in the highly demanding and important Alaskan crude oil trade.” Anil Mathur, ATC’s outgoing president and CEO, and special advisor to OSG, stated, “These are indeed exciting times for ATC. Being part of the OSG family provides new additional opportunities for ATC personnel. I am also pleased that we are retaining the shipboard and the shore support personnel directly responsible for the operations integrity of the tankers. This best provides for continuity of ATC’s strong safety and environmental performance.” Meanwhile, OSG in late March announced that it has finalized plans to build an articulated tug-barge (ATB) at Gunderson Marine in Portland, Oregon. The new tonnage is slated for delivery later this year. May 2020 �New Maritime Strategy Supports Ensuring Viability Of Strong Merchant Marine Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from March 3-April 2. “Registered on the Beach” data is as of April 3. Total Registered Continued from Page 5 Port A All Groups B Total Shipped C A All Groups B Registered on Beach C Trip Reliefs A All Groups B C Goal 2: Ensure the Availability of a U.S. Maritime Workforce that Will Support the Sealift Resource Needs of the National Security Strategy Objectives for Goal 2: 2.1 Attract and equip mariners and other maritime workers with skills needed to support the Nation’s sealift and economic needs. 2.2 Develop an accurate roster of sealift-qualified mariner volunteers. 2.3 Foster innovation in maritime education and training…. 2.9 Support the training and education of unlicensed mariners (ratings) using domestic Centers of Maritime Excellence. 2.10 Incentivize the qualification of steam engineers to assure an adequate pool to support full RFF activation until full RRF recapitalization is achieved. 2.11 Engage with community colleges, K-12 schools, and non-SMA training institutions to promote the development of future mariners and other skilled maritime workers. 2.12 Work with interagency partners to improve credentialing processes for mariners, shipyard workers, port workers, and transitioning veterans. Before the report was finalized, the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) published a related document explaining the background of the maritime policy mandate (and offering candid looks at why the report was delayed). In the course of its own reporting, the GAO underscored the importance of the Jones Act, pointing out that one purpose of the nation’s freight cabotage law “is to provide the nation with a strong domestic maritime industry that can serve as a naval or military auxiliary in time of war or national emergency.” Modifying or repealing the law would cripple the industry, according the Jones Act supporters, and while the GAO didn’t phrase the point as strongly, it did acknowledge that such steps would “affect the reliability of the industry and have a negative effect on the U.S.-flag maritime industry and national security.” Later, the GAO indirectly quoted Defense officials who cited the need for more U.S.-flag tankers, partly because “access to allied foreign-flag petroleum tankers is increasingly uncertain in the current geo-political environment.” ATTENTION SEAFARERS Another New Ship SPAD Works For You Contribute To The Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD May 2020 Seafarers LOG 11 �Seafarers International Union Directory Inquiring Seafarer 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 This month’s question was answered March 26 by upgraders at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. Question: What are some of your thoughts about the pandemic? Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Lareesa Warren Chief Cook Honestly, being with the union, I think we lucked out being on this side, since we’re able to still have employment, whereas a lot of people with land jobs are having more of a struggle than we are. I feel a lot safer here at Piney Point than I would at home. Kate Hunt, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Capital Gateway Drive 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 Esperanza Crespo Chief Cook It’s dangerous. The whole world is suffering. Things are going fine at the school. We’re taking care of everything – washing our hands, maintaining distance from each other, things like that. I think it’s going to last a few more months, maybe even the whole year. 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 Robert Hunter Chief Cook So far, since I’ve been at the school, I feel they are taking proper precautions to make sure we are safe. This is something to take seriously, but we as a country should have had things in place to prevent it from happening. I agree with slowly winding down, not taking in more upgraders. The union has taken the measures they need to take to make sure we’re safe. HOUSTON 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 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 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 45353 St. George’s Avenue, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 12 Seafarers LOG Myles Otis Chief Cook I’m glad that we made it to the school right before this started. A lot of people left, but I’m glad we were able to stay to complete our program. The pandemic is definitely crazy – I have to check on family and friends every day. Being a chief cook, I’ve been staying clean as normal. That’s routine to me, but some people aren’t as sanitary. I’m still in good spirits. All I can do is pray for anybody who has it. Ronald Williams Chief Cook It wasn’t as serious in the beginning, but now the seriousness is disturbing. I believe we’ll get through it. The school is going great, and in fact, this is one of the places I prefer to be now that the pandemic is going on. There are no active cases here, and the chances of running across a case are very slim. I like my chances here more so than in any city. Seth Alonzo Chief Cook I know everyone is worried, but I’m trying to keep focused and stay openminded and not go crazy. I’m being patient, taking it one step at time. It’s not too busy at school, since there are mainly just chief cooks and some staff here. I’d probably say half a year from now, roughly, we’ll be through it. Pic From The Past The Hoosier Mariner, pictured in 1953, carried an SIU crew and initially was operated by Isthmian. According to the U.S. Maritime Administration, the vessel was one of the final ships designed by the U.S. Maritime Commission. “The Mariner-class (ships) did not go into production until after the U.S. government had reorganized the agency as the Maritime Administration under the Department of Commerce,” MARAD notes. The ships were “successors to the warera Victory ships and standard ‘C’ types.” The agency “built 29 Mariners for six of the larger U.S. shipping companies between 1952 and 1955.” Mariner-class ships were 564 feet long, had a capacity of 14,000 deadweight tons, and an operational speed of 20 knots. 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 May 2020 �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 JOEMAR ABAGAT Brother Joemar Abagat, 65, joined the Seafarers International Union in 1993, initially sailing on the Producer. He was a deck department member and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1996. Brother Abagat most recently sailed on the Liberty. He makes his home in San Diego. ROBERTA BLUM Sister Roberta Blum, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1980 when she sailed aboard the Voyager. She was a member of the steward department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Sister Blum’s final vessel was the Eugene Obregon. She makes her home in New Rochelle, New York. CHRISTOPHER BROERMAN Brother Christopher Broerman, 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1979, initially shipping on the Aleutian Developer. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 1988. Brother Broerman last sailed on the Tacoma in 2000. He resides in Bullhead City, Arizona. JAMES BURNS Brother James Burns, 65, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1979 when he sailed aboard the Penny. He worked in the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on several occasions. Brother Burns last shipped on the Maersk Missouri. He calls Newbury Port, Massachusetts, home. LEOPOLDO CALDERON Brother Leopoldo Calderon, 66, signed on with the Seafarers in 1999, when he sailed on the Silas Bent. He was a steward department member and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Calderon most recently sailed aboard the Maersk Denver. He resides in Richmond, Texas. FRANK CAMPOBASSO Brother Frank Campobasso, 67, started shipping with the union in 1973, initially sailing on the Brooklyn. He upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center and sailed in the deck department. Brother Campobasso’s final vessel was the Maersk Idaho. He lives in Tuckerton, New Jersey. BRIAN FOUNTAIN Brother Brian Fountain, 67, joined the union in 1980. He was a member of the deck department and first sailed aboard the Cantigny. Brother Fountain upgraded often at the Piney May 2020 Point school. He most recently shipped on the Florida and settled in Baltimore. DONALD GILBERT Brother Donald Gilbert, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1977 when he sailed aboard the Galveston. A deck department member, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1980. Brother Gilbert’s final vessel was the Overseas New Orleans. He makes his home in Huntsville, Alabama. CRESCENCIO GONZALEZ Brother Crescencio Gonzalez, 66, signed on with the union in 2005, first sailing on the Sirius. He upgraded on multiple occasions at the union-affiliated Piney Point school and was an engine department member. Brother Gonzalez’s last ship was the SBX. He resides in Miami. TINO GUITY Brother Tino Guity, 69, joined the union in 2005, initially sailing aboard the Chemical Pioneer. He worked in both the deck and engine departments and most recently sailed aboard the Maersk Kinloss. Brother Guity lives in Bronx, New York. CHARLES HORTON Brother Charles Horton, 65, began shipping with the union in 2006 when he sailed aboard the Pride of Aloha. He worked in the engine department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Horton last shipped on the SBX. He resides in Mount Vernon, Missouri. JIMMIE JOSEPH Brother Jimmie Joseph, 65, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 2002, first sailing on the Chemical Explorer. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Joseph’s last vessel was the Green Ridge. He settled in Kennard, Texas. ROBERT MENSCHING Brother Robert Mensching, 60, signed on with the SIU in 1988. A steward department member, he initially sailed aboard the Independence. Brother Mensching upgraded at the Piney Point school on several occasions. He most recently shipped aboard the American Liberty. He makes his home in Jacksonville, Florida. WILLIAM MOE Brother William Moe, 65, joined the union in 1982, first sailing aboard the Independence. He shipped in the steward department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on several occasions. Brother Moe most recently sailed aboard the Maunalei and settled in Henderson, Nevada. ROBERT MORRISON Brother Robert Morrison, 65, donned the SIU colors in 2005, initially shipping on the USNS Chesapeake. A deck department member, he upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Morrison last sailed aboard the Yorktown Express. He calls Grand Island, Florida, home. ARTIS PILGRIM Brother Artis Pilgrim, 57, started his career with the Seafarers in 1999 when he sailed on the Robert E. Lee. He was a steward department member and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Pilgrim’s final vessel was the Liberty Glory. He lives in Sugarland, Texas. ROBERT SMITH Brother Robert Smith, 65, joined the SIU in 1977, initially sailing aboard the Long Lines. He upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1979 and shipped in the deck department. Brother Smith last sailed on the Virgo and makes his home in West Elizabeth, Pennsylvania. BENNIE SPENCER Brother Bennie Spencer, 61, signed on with the union in 1978 when he shipped on the Cantigny. The deck department member upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions. Brother Spencer most recently sailed aboard the Gopher State. He lives in Chesapeake, Virginia. RUSTY STEWART Brother Rusty Stewart, 65, began his career with the SIU in 1972. An engine department member, he upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Stewart’s first vessel was the Merrimac; his last, the Liberty. He calls Poulsbo, Washington, home. DELSRAEL WILLIAMS Brother Delsrael Williams, 48, began sailing with the union in 1998, initially working on the Bellatrix. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Williams last sailed on the Overseas Texas City. He resides in Hammond, Louisiana. MICHAEL ZOABI Brother Michael Zoabi, 65, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1987. He was a steward department member and first sailed aboard the Independence. Brother Zoabi upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. He last sailed on the SBX and settled in Honolulu. G&H Towing. Sailing in the engine department, he remained with the same company for the duration of his career. Brother Cook makes his home in La Marque, Texas. LUIS GOMEZ Brother Luis Gomez, 66, began sailing with the SIU in 1976. He was first employed by Crowley Puerto Rico and shipped as a member of the deck department. Brother Gomez most recently sailed with Puerto Rico Towing and Barge. He resides in Puerto Rico. GREAT LAKES CHARLES ALLEN Brother Charles Allen, 66, joined the union in 1975, when he shipped on the Sam Laud. The deck department member upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school on several occasions. Brother Allen concluded his career aboard the Padre Island and resides in Kingston, Washington. DENNIS FITZPATRICK Brother Dennis Fitzpatrick, 64, donned the SIU colors in 1974, initially sailing aboard the J.A. King. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Fitzpatrick most recently shipped on the American Mariner and settled in Alpena, Michigan. INLAND DONALD BOND Brother Donald Bond, 59, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1990. He was first employed with McAllister Towing of Virginia and primarily sailed in the engine department. Brother Bond upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. He last worked for Penn Maritime and lives in Saucier, Mississippi. RILEY BUSH Brother Riley Bush, 62, joined the union in 1983. He first worked for HVIDE Marine and primarily sailed in the engine department. Brother Bush most recently shipped aboard the Zeus. He calls Jasper, Texas, home. HOWARD COOK Brother Howard Cook, 60, signed on with the SIU in 2000, working with BILLY HARROFF Brother Billy Harroff, 66, joined the SIU in 1978, first working for G&H Towing. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions and shipped in the engine department. Brother Harroff last sailed aboard the William Button in 1991. He settled in Mesquite, Texas. RICHARD HEATH Brother Richard Heath, 63, signed on with the union in 1981. A deck department member, he upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1996. Brother Heath was employed by Moran Towing of Texas for the duration of his career. He resides in Kerens, Texas. ROBERT KIEFFER Brother Robert Kieffer, 62, donned the SIU colors in 1980, initially sailing aboard the Sugar Island. An engine department member, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Kieffer’s final vessel was the Padre Island. He settled in Reno, Nevada. LAVERN MCDOWELL Brother Lavern McDowell, 66, joined the Seafarers in 1999 when he sailed aboard the Alaska. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2001. Brother McDowell last shipped with Foss Maritime. He makes his home in Mobile, Alabama. NMU CYNTHIA SASSE Sister Cynthia Sasse, 69, signed on with the union in 2001. She sailed with the NMU prior to the SIU/ NMU merger. Sister Sasse sailed in the steward department and last shipped aboard the Liberator. She is a Houston resident. Seafarers LOG 13 �Final Departures DEEP SEA NASAR ALFAQIH Pensioner Nasar Alfaqih, 86, died February 23. He signed on with the SIU in 1969 and first shipped on the Frank Denton. Brother Alfaqih was a member of the steward department. He concluded his career on the Express and became a pensioner in 1999. Brother Alfaqih resided in Hamtramck, Michigan. PABLO ALVAREZ Pensioner Pablo Alvarez, 71, passed away February 29. He joined the SIU in 1989. A steward department member, Brother Alvarez first sailed aboard the Independence. He last shipped on the Harriette and went on pension in 2010. Brother Alvarez was a Houston resident. SILVERIO ARANA Pensioner Silverio Arana, 89, died February 1. He began sailing with the union in 1985 when he shipped on the USNS Algol. Brother Arana was a member of the steward department. He concluded his career on the Robert E. Lee and retired in 2001. Brother Arana lived in Houston. MICHAEL BAUGHMAN Pensioner Michael Baughman, 70, passed away March 3. He began his career with the SIU in 1999, initially sailing aboard the Cape Jacob. Brother Baughman was an engine department member, and became a pensioner in 2014. He made his home in Grafton, West Virginia. Brother Boone was a steward department member and last sailed on the Robert E. Lee. He retired in 1991 and made his home in New Orleans. RAMON BORRERO Pensioner Ramon Borrero, 53, died March 23. He joined the Seafarers in 1987 when he sailed on the Libra. An engine department member, Brother Borrero concluded his career on the Isla Bella. He began collecting his pension in 2017 and resided in Puerto Rico. JIMMIE BROWN Pensioner Jimmie Brown, 80, passed away March 29. He embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1958 when he sailed with Ocean Cargo Ships Inc. An engine department member, Brother Brown last worked on the Consumer. He retired in 2011 and settled in Freeport, Florida. NORMAN DUBOIS Pensioner Norman Dubois, 95, died March 29. He started sailing with the SIU in 1953. Brother Dubois sailed in the deck department and concluded his career aboard the Sam Houston. He became a pensioner in 1986 and resided in Nazareth, Pennsylvania. WILLIAM FEAZEL Pensioner William Feazel, 74, passed away March 6. He signed on with the SIU in 2000 when he sailed aboard the USNS Effective. Brother Feazel worked in the engine department. He last sailed aboard the Paul Buck and went on pension in 2009. Brother Feazel lived in Virginia Beach, Virginia. LAVERNE BERASIS Pensioner Laverne Berasis, 80, died March 27. She joined the union in 1998, and her first vessel was the Independence. Sister Berasis was a steward department member and last shipped on the USNS Charlton. She began collecting her pension in 2011 and settled in Honolulu. RICHARD HILBERT Pensioner Richard Hilbert, 74, died March 12. He joined the Seafarers in 1990, first sailing on the Cape Clear. Brother Hilbert was a member of the deck department. He last shipped on the Honor, and began collecting his pension in 2010. Brother Hilbert was a resident of St. Petersburg, Florida. DANIEL BOONE Pensioner Daniel Boone, 93, passed away March 12. He donned the SIU colors in 1959, initially working for Isco Inc. OGDEN LAFAYE Pensioner Ogden Lafaye, 79, passed away February 8. He began his career with the union 14 Seafarers LOG in 1981, initially sailing aboard the Liberator. Brother Lafaye shipped in the engine department. He last sailed on the Motivator before going on pension in 2009. Brother Lafaye called Roseburg, Virginia, home. JULIO LOBO Brother Julio Lobo, 65, has passed away. He joined the SIU in 2001 and sailed in the steward department. Brother Lobo’s first vessel was the Energy Enterprise; his last, the Maersk Saratoga. He resided in New Bedford, Massachusetts, WILLIE MADISON Pensioner Willie Madison, 74, died February 22. He started sailing with the SIU in 1967, initially shipping on the Mayaguez. Brother Madison sailed in the steward department and concluded his career on the Lightning. He retired in 2015 and lived in Jacksonville, Florida. EFRAIN VELAZQUEZ Pensioner Efrain Velazquez, 83, passed away March 9. He joined the union in 1969 when he sailed aboard the Ames Victory. Brother Velazquez worked in both the steward and engine departments. He went on pension in 2001 after sailing on his final vessel, the Mayaguez. Brother Velazquez made his home in Deltona, Florida. GREAT LAKES MARVIN LARSON Pensioner Marvin Larson, 82, passed away March 7. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1991, initially sailing on the American Republic. Brother Larson was a steward department member and concluded his career on the Buffalo. He went on pension in 2002 and called Alpena, Michigan, home. INLAND FELIX AGUILAR Pensioner Felix Aguilar, 81, died February 29. He donned the SIU colors in 1978 when he worked for Crowley Puerto Rico. Brother Aguilar was a member of the deck department and continued to work for the same company for the duration of his career. He retired in 2001 and lived in Puerto Rico. LARRY JAMIESON Pensioner Larry Jamieson, 69, passed away February 21. He started sailing with the SIU in 1979, initially working for Crowley Towing & Transportation. Brother Jamieson primarily shipped in the steward department. He last sailed for Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning, and went on pension in 2011. He resided in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee. JAMES PRUITT Pensioner James Pruitt, 78, died March 7. Signing on with the SIU in 1969, he first worked for Steuart Transportation. Brother Pruitt was a member of the deck department. He last shipped with Express Marine, and became a pensioner in 2003. Brother Pruitt lived in Crisfield, Maryland. Towing of Virginia. Sailing in the deck department, Brother Roughton remained with the same company for his entire career. He began collecting his pension in 2003 and was a resident of Chesapeake, Virginia. NMU In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. NAME Canales, Esequiel Canu, Albert Derkits, Michael Funke, Fred Hamilton, Fred Jones, William Mendez, Rafael Pope, James Racine, Eustase AGE 98 96 94 87 84 94 90 90 97 DOD 03/15/2020 03/02/2020 03/07/2020 03/12/2020 03/01/2020 02/05/2020 10/19/2019 02/20/2020 03/18/2020 CHARLES ROUGHTON Pensioner Charles Roughton, 81, passed away February 22. He joined the SIU in 1962 when he worked for McAllister UNION PLUS CAN HELP COVID-19 has impacted all of us. Union Plus can help. Our Union Plus program partners have accommodations for members struggling during this public health crisis. Participants in our Union Plus Mortgage, Credit Card, Personal Loan, or Supplemental Insurance programs may be eligible for additional hardship assistance through the Union Plus Mortgage Assistance Program and Union Plus Hardship Help. Visit unionplus.org and follow Union Plus on Facebook at facebook.com/unionplus for ongoing program updates and resources. Be well and stay healthy, The Union Plus team For details visit unionplus.org 5/20 May 2020 �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. Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings MAERSK CHICAGO (Maersk Line, Limited), January 19 – Chairman Karl Mayhew, Secretary Memo Elfeky, Educational Director Darrell Goggins, Engine Delegate Syed Iqbal, Steward Delegate Leonardo Bagnol. Educational director reminded members to keep documents up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks for steward department for a job well done, including SA Leonardo Bagnol, who was nominated for January Safety Award. Daymen Rogelio Agustin and Mariano Lino were awarded the November and December Safety Awards, respectively. OVERSEAS MARTINEZ (Overseas Ship Management), January 26 – Chairman Anton Sulic, Secretary Mohsen Ali Al-Adani, Educational Director Anthony Hulsey, Deck Delegate Michael Ross, Engine Delegate Jr Lee Eludo, Steward Delegate Michael Ray. Chairman advised crew to leave clean rooms for relief members and to stay on top of documents. Secretary reminded members to return dishes to galley. Educational director encouraged crew to take advantage of the upgrading opportunities at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested more soda and snacks on board, a better selection of movies and a PlayStation 4 game console. New mattress support pads needed. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great meals. Next port: Portland, Oregon. JOHN U.D. PAGE (Sealift Inc.), February 5 – Chairman Eugene Perez, Secretary Raymond Gordon, Engine Delegate Nathan Bryant, Steward Delegate Toddrick Harold. Members discussed Wi-Fi access aboard ship. Chairman thanked crew for working together at shipyard. Secretary reiterated importance of cleanliness on ship. Educational director mentioned Culinary 2.0 courses and recommended upgrading at the Paul Hall Center. Crew requested company-provided coveralls and personal protective equipment for work conditions. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members were encouraged to donated to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activities Donation), the union’s voluntary political action fund. Next port: Jacksonville, Florida. MAERSK DETROIT (Maersk Line, Limited), February 7 – Chairman Terry Hester, Secretary Ronoldo Torres, Educational Director Trever Cohn, Deck Delegate John Walsh, Engine Delegate Abdulnaser Saeed, Steward Delegate Erik Loret. Chairman encouraged crew to read President’s Report in Seafarers LOG (available online and in print). Vote of thanks given to the steward department for good food. Educational director advised members to stay on top of documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested increase in vacation pay and TVs in each stateroom. Next port: Newark, New Jersey. USNS BRUCE C. HEEZEN (Ocean Shipholdings), February 9 – Secretary Sean Outlaw, Ed- ucational Director Randy Corey, Steward Delegate Lizzy Robinson. Cargo hoist installation taking place on ship. Members were encouraged to maintain a healthy work environment. Chairman reminded crew to continue working safely. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew went over President’s Report from LOG. Members requested eight hours off for every 30 hours worked or 16 days for 30. In the (hypothetical) event of harassment, crew was directed to use proper chain of command and have the ability to provide valid facts, dates, times, etc. MAERSK ATLANTA (Maersk Line, Limited), February 20 – Chairman Leroy Sierra, Secre- tary Oscar Gomez, Educational Director Jing Hui Huang, Steward Delegate Alfrancis Bauzon. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members expressed appreciation for Wi-Fi installation. New vacuum needed. Vote of thanks given to the steward department for a job well done. Crew gave special thanks to captain for his support and putting extra money in the pot. Teaming up for Military Exercise The SIU-crewed Baldomero Lopez looms large as Navy personnel see an improved lighterage system in action Feb. 13 in Mayport, Florida. The offload operations were part of an exercise described by the Navy as training “critical expeditionary capabilities and facilitates bridging the seam between operations on land and sea.” The Lopez is operated by Crowley. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Bryin J. Venegas) 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 May 2020 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Capital Gateway Drive 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 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 Seafarers LOG 15 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #858 – Graduated December 27 (above, in alphabetical order): Brandon Bradley, Eliezer Estremera, Joel Frederick, Stephen Fretwell, Steven Gray, Alexus Guillory, Joseph Horton, Cordera Looney, Julian Misla-Mendez, Taylor Rabb, Reinaldo Rivera, Johanns Rivera-Rivera, Kevin Santiago De Jesus, Kameron Sims, Melvin Singletary, Matthew Waiwaiole, Devon Watson and Herbert Weiss. Welding – Graduated January 31 (above, left): Hector Jose Ginel. With Ginel is his instructor, Chris Raley. Government Vessels (Apprentices) – Graduated January 10 (above, in alphabetical order): Edward Harnish, Kendall Harris, Robert Lange, Jamal Matthews, D’Artis Mitchell, Eric Amauris Rivas-Martinez and Juan Rafael SantiagoRobles. Government Vessels (Upgraders) – Graduated December 13 (above, in alphabetical order): Glennorris Alston III, Erik Bain, Marlon Brown, Johnathan Davis, Matthew Juan Domen, William Flores-Gueits, Cody Higgs, Joanna Hoyt, Ferdinand Gabonada Hullana, Nicholas Jackson, Christopher Janics, Austin Leamer, Michael McDonald, Alexandre Mitchell, Ian Nichols, Christian Perito, Walter Sleva, Mykola Smirnov, Krystal Vancil, Enrique Velez, Steve Voth, Antonio Watson and Gary Williams. 16 Seafarers LOG May 2020 �Paul Hall Center Classes BAPO – Graduated December 6: Javier Murillo (above, left) and Johnathan Davis. RFPNW – Graduated December 6: Hamlet Ferreras (above, left) and Jose Gonzalez. Tankship Familiarization LG – Graduated December 13 (above, in alphabetical order): Mohamed Abdul Alomari, Christopher Baxter, Manolo Velasquez Delos Santos, Leopoldo Estrada Martinez, Jose Gonzalez, Richard Huffman, Tina Knox, Joseph Eligino Lacaden, Nathaniel Miller, Waverly Moore, Jason Newsham, Renaudo Pierce, Abel Rios Jr., Chester Roberson Jr., Christopher Lim Sanchez, Jose Smith, Dennis Vale and Duane Washington. MSC Ship Reaction Force – Graduated January 29 (above, in alphabetical order): Michael Bell-Wright, Kees Elling, Joshua Hinton, Devin Hoerr, Michael Pockat II, Salvador Vela Jr., Davis Vickery, Aleksey Gavrilovich Vigovskiy and Samuel Watterson. Class instructors John Thomas and Matthew Rogers are at the far left and far right, respectively. May 2020 Seafarers LOG 17 �Paul Hall Center Classes Government Vessels – Graduated January 10 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Brandy Baker, Jorge Arturo Corrales Barrantes, Thomas Cyrus Jr., Archie Eldridge Jr., Marvette Gallop, Devon Gray, Carter Powell, Hermano Rony Sillon, Benjamin Stanley and Nadiyah Taylor. Basic Motor Plant – Graduated November 8 (above, in alphabetical order): Abdul-Ghaffar Abu-Bakr, Rodney Holmes, Donte Sawyer, Reginald White and Saddam Mohamed Yahia. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Graduated November 8 (above, in alphabetical order): Jose Gonzalez, Kurt Walker and Jonathan White. 18 Seafarers LOG Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Graduated December 13: Michael Covington (above). Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Graduated November 22 (above, in alphabetical order): Antonio Jose Hernandez, Anthony Pace, Gennadiy Yuryevich Skripochenko, Rebecca Soriano and Edward Williams. May 2020 �Paul Hall Center Classes Certified Chief Cook (Module 1) – Graduated January 10 (above, in alphabetical order): Howard Brooks Jr., Mashonda Corley, Steven Ariel Lopez Ferrer, Lebrena Simmons and Darius Williams. Certified Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated January 17 (above, in alphabetical order): Steven Eberspacher, Alberto Casintahan Insong, Fernando Javier Marques Ortiz and Michelle Taylor. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated January 31 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Earl Castain, Justo Rufino Lacayo, Simone Solomon and James Watson. Certified Chief Cook (Module 3) – Graduated February 7 (above, in alphabetical order): Howard Brooks Jr., Kristina Jones and Luis Sony Perez-Menendez Jr. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated February 7 (above, from left) Teresito Oflas Reyes, Edgar Villanueva Castillo and Marcelo Guevarra Param. Chief Steward – Graduated February 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Bryan Onill Alvarez, Johnson Ashun, Jesus Geovannie Ortiz-Rivera and Jayson Velez-Cruz. (Note: Not all are pictured.) May 2020 Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated February 14 (above, in alphabetical order): John Greubel, Christina Mateer and Norma West. Seafarers LOG 19 �VOLUME 82, NO. 5 MAY 2020 Text “Join” to 97779 To Sign Up for SIU Text Alerts O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Union Document Recalls SIU’s War Effort Editor’s note: Coinciding with enactment of the Merchant Mariners of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2020, the LOG is reprinting excerpts from a 1951 booklet titled “The Seafarers in World War II.” Penned by the late SIU historian John Bunker, the publication recapped SIU members’ service in the war. More than 1,200 SIU members lost their lives to wartime service in the U.S. Merchant Marine. Ready Then – Ready Now! As timely as the next call for duty is this brief story of the Seafarers in World War II. It’s a story of heroism and daring and a tremendous job ably done. Trained crews from the Seafarers International Union are ready now – just as they were in World War II – to sail the ships wherever the freights of war must go; to bring home those hundreds of vital materials indispensable to our industrial economy. Before any of the nation’s armed services were ready for all-out duty in World War II, the merchant marine and the men who manned it were on the front lines of global action. No executive manifestos, no formal enlistment, no testings of loyalty or pledges of devotion to their country’s service were required to put SIU crews into action or prove their willingness to face danger – and death. They helped to man the nation’s cargo carriers long before there were guns or convoys to protect them, inspired by that sense of patriotism and pride of profession which has characterized the maritime industry and its merchant seamen time and again throughout the nation’s history. As employees of a private industry which converted almost overnight to 100 percent war service, SIU crews did their jobs in World War II with an efficiency that saved the nation millions of dollars. They were paid at wage rates prevailing in shore-side industries for comparable skills and responsibilities, not to mention the great personal risk to which they were subjected in front line service. Throughout the war, SIU ships were crewed through the union’s hiring halls in an efficient system of manning which dispatched thousands of men to freighters, tugs, tankers and transports. The union also served as a practical means of recruiting personnel for the merchant service. Through a great expansion of facilities since the war, the SIU is well equipped to do the job of recruitment and manning even more completely in any future emergency. In these critical days when the nation’s armed forces are scattered over large parts of the world and we are becoming increasingly dependent on foreign lands for raw materials, the merchant marine is one of the country’s most vital assets. Historically resilient and tough of fiber, nurturing a race of men who are skillful and resourceful, the merchant marine is ever first to make available its men and facilities for the nation’s service. And the men of the Seafarers International Union are ready now as they were in 1942 to write another chapter of loy- The SIU-crewed Robin Moor is pictured in 1941 alty and able performance of duty into the annals of the American merchant service. The Robin Moor … Prelude To War This is the story of SIU ships in World War II – the thrilling saga of the cargo ships and the men who sailed them over the far-flung ocean tracks to write an epic chapter in American maritime history. Here is the story of the storm-swept, submarine-swept, bomb-packed road to Russia over the misty Arctic – the epic of the ships that sailed alone during the first hectic months after Pearl Harbor, when there were no coastal convoys and torpedoed tankers became faming pyres along our eastern seaboard; when the freight ships and the tankers went out unprotected and unarmed but never lacked for crews. Here, too, is the log of fighting freighters whose Oerlikon guns traced tales of high courage in a myriad of foreign skies. Wherever the freights of war were needed, these cargo carriers sailed them through. SIU ships freighted everything imaginable in the way of war goods and the necessities of life to our Allies, to our overseas garrisons, to the beachheads and the supply ports for the fighting fronts. Assorted Cargoes Ships left the States loaded deep with everything from cigarettes to Sherman tanks; with barbed wire, guns, powder, railroad cars, airplanes, dehydrated eggs, beans, grain, flour, bombs, trucks, clothing, oil, gasoline – and so many other items that a complete manifest could never be made of it all. In addition to supplying half the world with fuel, food and the tools of war, ships of the Seafarers International Union brought back to this, the world’s arsenal of democracy, the vital raw materials without which a war effort on such a tremendous scale would have been impossible. Little has been said about this homeward-bound traffic from foreign lands during the war, but it was just as important as the bombs, the grain and the cannon that were carried out of American ports in an endless stream for five warharried years. Our freighters and those of our Allies brought to this country manganese, burlap, mica, rubber, timber, bauxite, iron ore, sugar, jute, spices and hundreds of other industrial necessities, without which we would have found the fighting of a war not only most inconvenient but downright impossible. They also helped to carry what normal commerce there was between the United States and Caribbean, Central and South American countries, which depended upon us for the numerous requirements of daily existence. When the war at sea was finally through and bright lights shone through the open ports of ships at sea, on peaceful missions once again, the Seafarers International Union had paid a heavy price in ships and men. The merchant marine as a whole lost 6,000 seamen, dead or missing. A total of 1,554 America-flag ships were lost by torpedoing, bombing, mines and the varied other accidents of war. Of these, no less than 570 were lost in direct action with the enemy! Our merchant marine had its baptism of fire long before Pearl Harbor. The SS City of Rayville struck a mine and sank off Australia in 1940 to be followed by the Charles Pratt, a Standard Oil Company tanker, which was torpedoed off West Africa in December of the same year. Even before these actions, the SS City of Flint had made the headlines and caused an international furor when it was captured, while en route to Norway in October 1939, by the German pocket battleship Deutschland on the charge that it was carrying contraband. After the eventual release of this ship and her crew, it was still many months before Pearl Harbor. Then came the incident of the SIU-manned SS Robin Moor, bound for South Africa from New York, which was shelled and sunk by a German submarine, eliciting from President Roosevelt a historic pronouncement on freedom of the seas. Chief Officer Melvin Mundy was on the bridge of the Robin Moor at four o’clock in the morning of May 21, when he saw a light blinking on the horizon, signaling in international code the letters AAA or “what ship are you?” Mr. Mundy answered: “American steamship, Robin Moor.” Captain William W. Myers came on the bridge, and to the Moor’s question “Who are you?” the answer was signaled back “Submarine.” This was followed by the com- mand, “Don’t use your wireless.” A boat was then launched from the freighter, according to the U-boat’s orders, and pulled over to the submarine, where the Germans questioned First Mate Mundy about the vessel’s destination and cargo. The sub commander insisted that the Robin Moor carried contraband, despite Mr. Mundy’s assertions that the cargo included nothing more warlike than pleasure automobiles, engines, tin plate, and general merchandise for South African stores. Crew and passengers were given 20 minutes to dress and get into the boats, after which the sub put 33 shells into the ship, sinking her in 18 minutes and without any chance to dispatch an SOS. Until weeks later nothing was known of the freighter’s fate, for the submarine departed without reporting the incident and the 45 crew members and passengers were left adrift. Of the four lifeboats that got safely away from the ship, the first was picked up by a freighter 13 days later and the last was not found until it had sailed 700 miles, its occupants subsisting on a meager ration of biscuits and water. When the first survivors of the Robin Moor were landed and news of the sinking stirred the nation, President Roosevelt sent a special message to Congress. The date was June 20, 1941. Said the President: “I am under the necessity of bringing to the attention of the Congress the ruthless sinking by a German submarine of an American ship, the Robin Moor, in the South Atlantic Ocean (25 degrees and 40 minutes west, 6 degrees and 10 minutes north) while the vessel was on the high seas en route to Africa. ‘We are not Yielding’ “…. We must take it that notice has now been served upon us that no American ship or cargo on any of the seven seas can consider itself immune from the acts of piracy. Notice is served on us, in effect, that the German Reich proposes so to intimidate the United States that we would be dissuaded from carrying out our chosen policy of helping Britain to survive. “…. Were we to yield on this we would inevitably submit to world domination at the hands of the present leaders Continued on Page 10 � 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 2020 Description An account of the resource Headlines: MARITIME LABOR LEADERS URGE CONGRESS: PROTECT JONES ACT JONES ACT SUPPORT EVIDENT IN HEARING NEWS ARTICLE FURTHER EXPOSES PITFALLS OF RUNAWAY-FLAGS SIU MEMBERS DELIVER DESPITE PANDEMIC SIU PRESIDENT SENDS MESSAGE TO MEMBERSHIP PRESIDENT TRUMP SIGNS $2.2 TRILLION U.S. STIMULUS PACKAGE INTO LAW MARCH 29 DOT RELEASES NATIONAL MARITIME STRATEGY PLANS ADMINISTRATOR ISSUES SEAFARERS MONEY PURCHASE PENSION PLAN NOTICE SIU REGIONAL VP SENDS MESSAGE TO AMERICAN STEAMSHIP CREWS NEW LAW HONORS WWII MARINERS WITH GOLD MEDAL AMMV PROVIDES ANSWERS TO GROWING LIST OF 'FAQS' ABOUT MARINERS' DECORATION LABOR MOURNS PASSING OF BCTGM PRESIDENT DURKEE SIU PRESIDENT ISSUES PRE-BALLOTING REPORT PUERTO RICO REBUILDS DURING PANDEMIC OVERSEAS SHIPHOLDING GROUP COMPLETES ATC PURCHASE UNION DOCUMENT RECALLS SIU'S WAR EFFORT 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 5/1/2020 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. 82, No. 5 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/19623fce0b18772d05d6888410e90ee9.pdf 4263db1ac12b3247c4d61fafe5487b26 PDF Text Text APRIL 2020 VOLUME 82, NO. 4 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Seafarers Deliver for ‘Deep Freeze’ 3 SIU-Crewed Ships Support Vital Mission SIU members for decades have taken part in the yearly resupply mission to McMurdo Station, Antarctica, and 2020 is no different. Three Seafarers-crewed ships – including the Maersk Peary, pictured at right with the U.S. Coast Guard’s Polar Star – recently delivered critical cargoes to the scientific outpost. Page 24. (Coast Guard photo by Senior Chief Petty Officer NyxoLyno Cangemi) Puerto Rico Relief Efforts Continue As previously reported, the SIU is teaming up with other labor organizations, businesses and other supporters to deliver relief supplies in Puerto Rico. The commonwealth is still recovering from a series of earthquakes that began late last year. The Seafarers-crewed, Crowley-owned El Coqui is one of the Jones Act vessels delivering relief cargoes – and Crowley Maritime Chairman/CEO Tom Crowley (seventh from left) recently rode the vessel from Jacksonville, Florida, to Puerto Rico. Pictured from left are QE4 Christian Rosado, QEE Edwin Velez, AB John Diaz, Recertified Steward Juan Vallejo, Bosun David Bernstein, AB Victor Cortes, Tom Crowley and his wife, Christine, (front) AB Sonia Pabon, (rear) 2nd Mate Gustavo Hernandez, Chief Cook Jacob Parrilla, (front) QE2 Davon Brown and AB Ricky Martinez. Pages 3, 4. Honolulu-Area Members Pitch in for ‘Labor of Love’ Seafarers in Hawaii recently carried on the union’s long tradition of giving back to the community. In this case, members helped spruce up a local elementary school via the “Labor of Love” outreach sponsored by the state AFL-CIO. SIU participants included (photo at right, from left) Port Agent Hazel Galbiso, ACU Nadzeya Kuptsova, AB Andrei Tretyak, QMED Raymond Orosco, GUDE Neil Tupas, AB Antolin Avorque, Administrative Assistant Shureen Yatchmenoff, AB Jerry Dingal and Safety Director Amber Akana. In the photo at left, Orosco paints baseboards. Page 6. DHS Secretary Backs Jones Act Page 2 New Study: Maritime Crucial for U.S. Page 4 �President’s Report Hard-Earned Recognition Congratulations to the U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II on the recent passage of federal legislation that awards a Congressional Gold Medal in recognition of their heroism. The SIU proudly and actively supported this bill, which was years in the making, just as we worked for decades to ultimately help secure veterans’ status for those mariners (many of whom were Seafarers). Even though the indispensable contributions of our wartime mariners sometimes were overlooked by the history books, I think we’ve come a long way. Maritime unions, pro-maritime legislators, authors, and the American Merchant Marine Veterans, among others, have worked hard to put a spotlight on these most-deserving men who helped deliver the Allied victory. Our mariners are, in fact, veterans. They are included in the World War II Memorial in our nation’s capital and in various monuments across the country. In recent years, several excellent books have been published that reflect the extraorMichael Sacco dinary bravery of those who exclaimed, “Damn the submarine! We’re the men of the Merchant Marine!” And lest any newcomers to our industry mistakenly think that we’re just patting ourselves on the back, never forget this comment from Allied Commander of the Pacific during World War II Gen. Douglas MacArthur: “I hold no branch in higher esteem than the Merchant Marine.” Similarly, President Franklin D. Roosevelt said the U.S. Merchant Mariners of World War II “have delivered the goods when and where needed in every theater of operations and across every ocean in the biggest, the most difficult and dangerous job ever undertaken. As time goes on, there will be greater public understanding of our merchant fleet’s record during this war.” Enactment of the Merchant Mariners of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2020 has been a long time coming. I can think of no other group of maritime heroes who are more deserving of accolades. Election Day Approaches Election Day will be here before we know it, and it’s definitely not too soon for Seafarers to make sure you’re registered to vote. Go online or check with your union hall if you need assistance. Every vote counts, and that’s not a cliché. It’s the truth. Back when we were heading towards the winter holidays, someone forwarded me a message that said, you can save money on Christmas gifts this year by making it a point to talk about politics at Thanksgiving dinner. I laughed and shook my head at the same time. Civility can be in short supply when engaging in political action or political discussions, but it doesn’t have to be a lost art. I encourage everyone to remember that we all want what’s best for our great nation, and while there’s nothing wrong with strongly felt disagreement, we can all benefit from focusing on facts and maintaining respect for each other. Defending the Jones Act With the hundredth anniversary of the Jones Act approaching (June 5), expect more wild accusations about America’s freight cabotage law. Lots of money and other resources have gone into the misguided effort to weaken or repeal this vital law, which protects U.S. national, economic and homeland security. If you start to notice a renewed media blitz against the Jones Act, the timing is related to the centennial. Fortunately, the facts are on our side, which is why the Jones Act continues to enjoy strong bipartisan support and tremendous backing from our military leaders. We know better than to let down our guard, but I believe the Jones Act – which helps maintain around 650,000 American jobs – will be around for a long time to come. O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 82 Number 4 State Government Orders Address Change for Seafarers Headquarters The union and Seafarers Plans are not relocating their headquarters operations – but they’re getting a new address, effective April 20, 2020. Because of a government-ordered change, the new address is: 5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, Maryland 20746 The old address (since 1982, when the SIU relocated from New York) was 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Maryland 20746. All phone and fax num- bers for the building remain unchanged. The union and Seafarers Plans did not seek this change and, in fact, petitioned against it, to no avail. Other organizations along the same street in Prince George’s County also are being forced to comply with the alteration. The street itself already had been named Capital Gateway Drive beyond the Seafarers building, which is next to a subway station. Mailings will be sent from headquarters to Seafarers, pensioners and other interested parties, alerting them of this change. Acting DHS Secretary Backs Jones Act Acting Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Chad Wolf recently expressed his backing of America’s freight cabotage law, the Jones Act. His remarks came Feb. 26 during a hearing of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security. The hearing’s main subject was the Fiscal 2021 budget request for the DHS. U.S. Rep. Steven M. Palazzo (R-Mississippi) raised the subject of the Jones Act, which helps sustain approximately 650,000 American jobs. He described himself as “one of the most outspoken advocates in my 10 years of serving in Congress because I believe it to be truly important to our national security.” Asked for his view on the Jones Act, Wolf said he is “a supporter – strong supporter of that.” He mentioned that the law, which enjoys solid bipartisan support, helps protect U.S. interests. Palazzo followed up by saying, “I appreciate your comments. I know your predecessors were pretty much on the same note that the Jones Act is vitally important to protect America’s maritime industry and it is extremely important to our national security…. Admirals, generals have all agreed with your assessment as well.” The Jones Act requires that cargo moving between domestic ports is carried aboard ships that are crewed, built, flagged and owned American. It has served the nation’s best interests for nearly a century. Approximately 90 nations around the world maintain some form of cabotage law. April 2020 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2020 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 The SIU and Seafarers Plans will remain headquartered in the same building they’ve used since 1982, but the street name is changing. Budget Includes Request for Full MSP Funding Cargo Preference in the Crosshairs of Proposal for Fiscal Year 2021 The Trump Administration released its budget request for Fiscal Year 2021 on Feb. 10. The budget, which proposed a record $4.8 trillion for federal programs in the next fiscal year, included a request for full funding of the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP). This request is the first one made by the administration since the passage of last year’s National Defense Authorization Act, which extended the MSP for an additional 10 years, through 2035, and increased stipend level payments over the life of the program. Under the law, the fully authorized FY 2021 funding level for the MSP is $314 million, up $14 million from $300 million in FY 2020. It has been common, especially in years where the authorized MSP stipend level has gone up, for the administration to ask for less than full MSP funding. This is the second year in a row that the administration has asked for full MSP funding. At the same time, the president’s budget also requests significant cuts to cargo preference, primarily through the repeal of all of the in-kind food aid programs administered by the federal government. This is the third time the president’s budget has proposed cuts or repeals to in-kind food aid. Under existing law, 50% of all foreign food aid cargoes are carried by U.S.-flag vessels. Both the maritime and agriculture industries have strongly opposed any changes to these programs, and so far, Congress has not acted on administration proposals in this area. April 2020 �Puerto Rico Relief Efforts Continue Numerous Organizations Team Up for Ongoing Outreach The SIU hasn’t let up in its efforts to provide relief supplies to Puerto Rico residents recovering from a series of earthquakes. As previously reported, the union has teamed up with numerous other labor organizations, businesses including Jones Act vessel operators, and other supporters who are donating, transporting and distributing supplies in the commonwealth. During a news conference at the SIU hall in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on March 2, SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo stated, “As SIU President Michael Sacco has pointed out, our organization is committed to this relief effort for the long haul. We’ve already been working on it for months, and we’ll be here all the way.” Crespo added, “Thank you to our fellow unions and to all the companies that are joining together to get the job done. This truly is a team effort and it wouldn’t be possible without all of you. I also want to say a special thank you to the many members of the Seafarers International Union who’ve stepped up and volunteered their time and effort to help our fellow citizens. You guys and gals are the greatest, and your commitment absolutely is not taken for granted.” American Federation of Teachers (AFT) President Randi Weingarten also spoke at the press conference, where she thanked those involved in the relief effort and also pointed out that the needs remain significant. The aforementioned earthquakes included a 6.4-magnitude event on Jan. 7 that resulted in severe infrastructure damage. Schools initially were closed for three weeks. Some of the territory’s 295,000 students then began returning to class outside of the damaged areas, but upwards of 600 of the island’s 856 schools were still Unloading a container from Houston at the hall in San Juan Feb. 21 are (from left) AB Angel Pagan, QMED James Sanchez, Chief Cook Michael Caquias, AB Joseph Dupree, Administrative Asst. Maria Gomez, Apprentice Angel Galarza, Port Agent Amancio Crespo. closed as of early March. Some were awaiting safety inspections; others can’t reopen without major repairs. With that in mind, the labor-led relief effort has included a focus on event-style tents for use as temporary classrooms. Commitments have been secured for 120 such tents, mainly for use in Guayanilla, Guanica and the other heavily damaged municipalities. The efforts specifically involving temporary classroom facilities are being coordinated with local and state government Pictured aboard the El Coqui en route to Puerto Rico are (from left) Recertified Steward Juan Vallejo, Crowley Maritime Chairman/CEO Tom Crowley, Christine Crowley (Tom’s wife and a member of the company’s board of directors), SA Sonia Pabon and Chief Cook Jacob Parrilla. The Crowleys rode their company’s vessel for a voyage in support of relief operations. WWII Gold Medal Bill Heads to President’s Desk The Merchant Mariners of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2020 once again has been passed in Congress and at press time was headed to the president’s desk to be signed into law. Originally co-sponsored in the House by Rep. John Garamendi (D-California), Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska) and Rep. Susan W. Brooks (R-Indiana) and in the Senate by Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Sen. Angus King, Jr. (I-Maine), Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Sen. Maria Cantwell (DWashington) and Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island), the legislation authorizes the creation of a gold medal to honor the U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II. The medal would be displayed in the Ameri- April 2020 can Merchant Marine Museum at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in New York. Duplicates then would be struck and made available to the public. The SIU and the Transportation Institute, alongside a number of other backers, took lead roles in obtaining co-sponsors for both the House and Senate bills. More than 1,200 SIU members lost their lives in wartime service during World War II. Late last year, the House and Senate both passed the bill, but a very minor language amendment in the Senate version meant that the House had to take another vote. On March 3, the House once again approved the bill. “Throughout the Second World War, our armed forces relied on the U.S. Merchant personnel. Other relief items that either already have been donated or are in the works include various foods, school supplies, personal-size tents, portable battery-power lighting systems, folding tables and chairs, water filters, bottled water, mosquito nets and much more. All of the items have shipped on Jones Act vessels (pro bono). Among the organizations participating in the outreach are the SIU, the AFL-CIO, the Maritime Trades Department and its port councils, the AFT and its affiliates, AFSCME, the AMO, the ILA, the Teamsters, the Bakery Workers and its contracted employer Bimbo Bakeries, LIUNA, the UAW, the Steelworkers, Crowley Maritime, TOTE Maritime, SEACOR Holdings, National Shipping of America, and American Tent Co. (That’s a partial list, and any omissions are inadvertent.) The relief effort hasn’t been limited to donated items. During a joint assessment by the AFL-CIO, AFT and the Asociación de Maestros de Puerto Rico (AMPR, part of the AFT), it became known that many local unions (among others) reported the need for mental health services for members and their families. As noted in a summary of the relief plan, “Hurricane Maria, the subsequent flooding, and now the earthquakes Continued on Page 4 Marine to ferry supplies, cargo and personnel into both theaters of operation, and they paid a heavy price in service to their country,” said Garamendi. “The U.S. Merchant Marine suffered the highest per-capita casualty rate in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II. An estimated 8,300 mariners lost their lives, and another 12,000 were wounded, to make sure our service members could keep fighting. Yet, these mariners who put their lives on the line were not even given veteran status until 1988.” He added, “I had the opportunity to meet with three World War II Merchant Mariners in my office. These mariners put their lives on the line for this country, braving German and Japanese submarines in their Liberty ships as they delivered critical supplies to our service members in the European and Pacific theaters. Unfortunately, their sacrifice is commonly overlooked. A Congressional Gold Medal would give them the recognition they deserve, and I’m pleased that this bill is poised to be signed into law to give these veterans and their families the The SIU hiring hall in San Juan hosted a press conference March 2. Pictured shortly before the event are (from left) AFT Exec. VP Evelyn DeJesus, SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo and AFT President Randi Weingarten. honor and respect they are owed. Thank you to Senator Murkowski for championing this legislation in the Senate and for her partnership.” “Despite their loyalty and patriotic services and commitment to the United States, our World War II Merchant Mariners didn’t receive their veteran status until nearly 40 years after the war had ended,” Murkowski said. “The merchant mariners provided crucial services during World War II by transporting soldiers, tanks, airplanes, ammunition, fuel and food to aid soldiers on the front lines. This legislation recognizes the unsung heroes of the World War II conflict, for their loyalty and bravery, as they risked their lives to keep the Allied troops properly equipped. I’m thankful my Senate colleagues recognize the importance of honoring the brave merchant mariners for their pivotal role in our nation’s history and their efforts in defense of freedom.” There are approximately 4,000 World War II U.S. Merchant Mariners alive today, according to Murkowski’s office. Seafarers LOG 3 �Study Stresses Value of Jones Act, Maritime Industrial Base The Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments (CSBA) recently released a new study detailing the benefits of the American maritime industry to national security, titled “Strengthening the U.S. Defense Maritime Industrial Base.” As a first-time review of the impact of the U.S. domestic maritime industry to national security, this historic report found that the domestic fleet provides the largest source of merchant mariners for U.S. surge sealift operations, supports shipbuilders that also construct government vessels, ensures the maintenance of the U.S. waterways and shipping lanes, and helps reduce the potential of foreign mariners illegally entering the United States. At a launch event of the new study, U.S. Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby addressed the importance of sustaining a strong and readied defense maritime industrial base. “Implementing a national maritime strategy demands a national-level effort, and a national will to support our shipbuilding and repair sector,” he stated. “It begins with this kind of report from CSBA, so I thank you again for your contribution to the debate and to the security of our great nation. Together, we will continue to educate our nation on the importance of maritime policy. It’s critical to our economic and national security in the face of an increasingly contentious world.” Key findings include the Jones Act remains an important element of America’s de- fense maritime industrial base. As stated in the study, “The U.S. maritime industry is essential to American prosperity and security.” The study also describes American mariners as crucial to national security. The CSBA drilled down on the importance of domestic mariners in a contingency, finding, “The 3,830 mariners that operate large, ocean-going ships in the domestic fleet constitute about 29 percent of the overall number MARAD estimates would be needed to operate U.S. surge sealift during wartime or another contingency.” That 29 percent is the largest single commercial source of mariners and was demonstrated during Operation Desert Storm when “the crews of 13 foreign ships refused to go into a war zone and deliver their cargo. Not a single American crew refused.” Additionally, the study confirmed that the Jones Act helps maintain shipyards and ship repair yards, which are crucial to national security. The CSBA said, “The U.S. shipbuilding and repair industry is a major component of the defense maritime industrial base,” and “without the Jones Act’s requirements … it is likely the U.S. government would have few, if any, shipyards available to episodically recapitalize its smaller vessels.” American vessels also help maintain U.S. waterways and keep America secure. The CSBA emphasized the role that American dredgers and salvage operators play, highlighting the importance of not having to depend “on foreign companies to dredge its dozens of naval facilities, potentially opening up opportunities for sabotage or the depositing of underwater surveillance equipment.” Moreover, the Jones Act helps reduce illegal entry into the United States. The CSBA noted that “without the Jones Act’s requirements, foreign companies could buy domestic carriers that operate smaller vessels and barges that ply U.S. rivers and intercostal waterways.” The study further concluded that the Jones Act makes America more secure amidst a growing threat from China. Notably, the study’s executive summary stated, “To effectively compete, the United States will need to break with an approach that assumes the commercial and national security requirements of the maritime industry are largely distinct. Instead, the United States should adopt a new approach that recognizes the inherent linkage between the two and fosters a healthier commercial industry that can support U.S. national security. CSBA’s report identifies viable, cost-effective initiatives the nation can adopt to address challenges, including the strategic sealift gap, and cultivate a vibrant maritime industrial base that spurs innovation and enhances American prosperity and security.” As part of the study, the CSBA also established the phrase “Defense Maritime Industrial Base” (DMIB) – including the U.S.-flag deep sea fleet, the Jones Act fleet, mariners, shipyards, repair yards, dredgers, the mari- time logistics infrastructure and more – that collectively encompass all the parts of the American maritime industry that contribute to national security. This reflects the views of leaders in the maritime industry, with each smaller component of the DMIB helping to ensure and maintain a strong U.S.-flag fleet. In the report, the CSBA urges the government to release a comprehensive national maritime strategy that helps grow the maritime industrial base. It also advocates for the expansion of the Maritime Security Program. Additionally, the CSBA suggests that the U.S. government should assist domestic shipbuilding and repair yards by providing multi-ship maintenance contracts, as well as loan guarantees and grants, to help promote stability and predictability for that part of the industry. The CSBA summarized by saying, “The U.S. maritime industry is essential to American prosperity and security. Since their nation’s founding, Americans have gone to sea for trade, to harvest resources from the oceans, and to advance the country’s interests. By building and repairing ships, training mariners, operating shipping networks, and sustaining ports and waterways, the U.S. maritime industry makes possible the economic benefits of access to the sea.” The CSBA is self-described as “the world’s premier center for understanding future international competition and conflict.” The study was co-authored by Bryan Clark, Timothy A. Walton, and Adam Lemon. Relief Coalition Aids Puerto Rico Continued from Page 3 have left many Puerto Ricans deeply scarred and traumatized.” Teams of licensed mental-health professionals started heading to the commonwealth last month. Meanwhile, SIU hiring halls in Houston, Philadelphia, Jacksonville and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, continue serving as staging areas for donated cargoes. In Puerto Rico, numerous SIU members have helped unload and then distribute the items to needy areas. In many cases, Seafarers are using their own personal vehicles, because larger ones cannot traverse the damaged roads in the southern parts of the territory. SIU Port Agent Ashley Nelson (center), GUDE Erris Jackson (right) and GUDE Dennis Morallo load relief cargo in Jacksonville in mid-February. SA Esperanza Crespo (left) and AB Joseph Dupree help move relief items from a container to a temporary storage area at the hiring hall in San Juan. QMED/Electrician Jesus Martinez (foreground in photo at left) delivers a portable stove, chairs, cots and tents to a family recovering from the earthquake. In photo above, Seafarers Bosun Rafael Franco, Steward Fernando Marquez, QMED/Electrician Jesus Martinez, Bosun Noel Otero, Bosun Abel Vasquez and QMED James Sanchez haul boxes of supplies to their respective vehicles before heading out to distribute the items to those in need. 4 Seafarers LOG April 2020 �Former Congressman Defends U.S. Shipbuilding Former U.S. Congressman Ernest Istook, a staunch defender of the maritime industry, recently penned an editorial in which he advocated for the importance of domestic shipbuilding and the U.S.-flag fleet. Istook, a Republican from Oklahoma, began by writing, “Three fleets of ships are vital to America’s national and economic security. The first fleet is the U.S. Navy, the mightiest ever assembled. It would be unthinkable to build these ships anywhere but in our own shipyards, dotted around our coasts from Groton to Newport News, to Pascagoula, San Diego, and others. “The second fleet is the ocean-going vessels that carry 90% of the world’s trade aboard container ships, tankers, grain carriers and more,” he continued. “However, these 41,000 ships are rarely built, owned, or crewed by Americans. Instead, China and other Asian nations use government resources and subsidies to dominate this fleet. The third fleet seems almost invisible, but is the 40,000 vessels engaged in domestic trade within America’s borders that sail between our ports. Ore carriers on the Great Lakes, giant barges plying the Mississippi and other rivers, goods moving along inland waterways, and powerful tugboats within our harbors are examples. Like our Navy, these are American-built, owned and crewed.” Focusing on the Jones Act fleet, he added, “This third fleet is challenged because some interests want to turn it over to foreign control, claiming we would save money if we let other nations dominate it like they do the ocean-going maritime fleet. Those countries are using subsidies by their governments to expand their power. In the case of China, it’s part of a multi-year global plan to enlarge economic and military power across the oceans of the world. Standing in their way is an American law that turns 100 years old in 2020. This is the Jones Act, which dominates thanks to subsidies and use of state-run enterprises, part of their plan to dominate the strategic area of ocean trade. Their success is reflected in the fact that in 2019 China passed Japan to become the world’s number two economic power, second only to the USA.” Istook pointed out that China’s gains are due to anything but free enterprise. “At the heart of foreign shipbuilding and operations are massive subsidies,” he explained. “Years ago, China announced its Belt and Road Initiative (also known as “Repealing the Jones Act would be surrendering to nations that want to monopolize control of global trade.” - Former U.S. Rep. Ernest Istook (R-Oklahoma ) essentially says that commercial vessels traveling routes from one U.S. port to another must be American built, owned and crewed.” He continued, “The principle extends beyond ships. Foreign air carriers can fly between U.S. airports and those in other countries but cannot fly purely domestic routes. Foreign trucks face restrictions on operating within our borders.... The same thing is happening in shipbuilding. China the New Silk Road), spending billions each year not only to subsidize building of cargo ships but also to control port facilities all over the globe. That takeover already includes ports on both ends of the Panama Canal, in the Mediterranean near the Suez Canal, elsewhere in Europe, in South America, in Africa, the Middle East, the Indian Ocean and of course the South China Sea – covering the major global shipping lanes.” The Congressman emphasized this global disparity, writing, “The success of their shipbuilding subsidies is shown by the fact that of the 2,995 new oceangoing vessels now under construction (as tracked by the shipbrokers BRS Group), China is building 1,291 of them, Japan 697 and South Korea 475. The United States? Only eight. Of the current international fleet, our Bureau of Transportation Statistics reports that a mere 182 of over 41,000 ocean-going cargo ships are American (0.4%). The vast majority are from China or other highly subsidized shipyards in South Korea or Japan.” In conclusion, he wrote, “Imagine if America’s domestic fleet were reduced to similar ratios of foreign control. Yet some American interests are blatantly calling to end the Jones Act and open our waters to foreign powers. These promoters claim that we will save money but they ignore the larger implications of American security and jobs. During the Trump years America has realized the benefits of promoting our self-interest, as reflected in our booming economy. Repeal or gutting of the Jones Act would be a step backwards. Repealing the Jones Act would be surrendering to nations that want to monopolize control of global trade. Those interests already dominate one of the three fleets that are vital to America. We should not let them make it two out of three.” Seafarers Mourn Passing of Frank Pecquex Retired MTD Official Also Spent Many Years with SIU Frank Pecquex, retired executive secretary-treasurer of the Maritime Trades Department (MTD) and former SIU legislative director, passed away Feb. 15 in northern Virginia, following a decadeslong battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was 75 years old. “Frank was a devoted union man,” said SIU and MTD President Michael Sacco. “His whole career was spent in the labor movement, and he worked hard to improve the lives of others. He will truly be missed.” A New York native, Pecquex served as MTD executive secretary-treasurer from 1993 until his retirement in 2011 – longer than anyone else in the department’s 74-year history. An Army reservist during the Vietnam era, Pecquex began his long career within organized labor as a teenager working at an A&P supermarket bakery, joining the (now) Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union. In 1964, he was a member of the Amalgamated Transit Union as a ticket-taker for Greyhound at the World’s Fair in New York City. He graduated from St. John’s University in Queens, New York, with a master’s in history. (He remained a loyal alumnus throughout his life.) Pecquex’s association with maritime started in October 1967 when he was hired by the SIU, working as a researcher in the union’s old Brooklyn headquarters. Later, he did administrative work and organizing before switching to the union’s manpower department. While there, he formulated a plan to encourage Pecquex (right), then serving as legislative director for the SIU and MTD, listens to a speaker at a 1985 meeting. He’s seated next to MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Jean Ingrao. April 2020 and facilitate continuing education and upgrading for the members. One other thing happened while he worked at the Brooklyn hall – he met his future wife, Linda, who was a secretary for then SIU (and MTD) President Paul Hall. The couple married in 1973. In 1980, the union transferred him to Washington, D.C., to work for its legislative team. Five years later, Pecquex became the legislative director for both the SIU and the MTD. In 1991, he was promoted to MTD administrator. He became the executive secretary-treasurer upon the retirement of Jean Ingrao. Among many other accomplishments, he spearheaded the department’s transformation of its monthly printed newsletter to an online website. “I worked directly with Frank for 11 years at the MTD, after knowing him since 1989 when I began working in the SIU communications office,” stated current Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan. “He remembered that the money within the department came from members’ dues. He made sure none of us forgot who we worked for. “I smile recalling his love for the New York baseball teams, the New York football teams and his St. John’s Redmen,” Duncan continued. “He knew the school had updated its nickname to Red Storm, but they were always his Redmen.” SIU Assistant Vice President Nick Celona stated, “I first met Frank in 1989, and right away we connected. He was a true believer in the trade unionist way of life, and he was dedicated to the MTD and the SIU.” Others who worked with Pecquex described him as kind, articulate, tireless and a devoted family man. During an interview for his retirement article in the LOG in 2011, Pecquex recalled, “In retrospect, I’m amazed that Frank Pecquex addresses delegates and guests at the 2009 MTD convention in Pittsburgh. at whatever level I toiled over the years, the union’s leadership had a singular purpose: to protect and expand its members’ job security. 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.” Besides his wife of 46 years, Linda, he is survived by his three children – Genevieve, Andrew and Courtney – and three grandchildren: Katherine, Victoria and James. Seafarers LOG 5 �From left to right: SIU Administrative Assistant Shureen Yatchmenoff, ACU Nadzeya Kuptsova, AB Andrei Tretyak, AB Antolin Avorque, QMED Raymond Orosco, SIU Safety Director Amber Akana, GUDE Neil AB Andrei Tretyak (left) and ACU Nadzeya Kuptsova help paint the exteTupas, AB Jerry Dingal and SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso. rior of the school. SIU Members Undertake ‘Labor of Love’ Seafarers Pitch In, Give Back to Community in Hawaii SIU members in Hawaii continued the union’s long tradition of helping out in the community by assisting with the “Labor of Love” project to benefit a local elementary school. On Jan. 25, SIU personnel were among the hundreds of volunteers from unions and other groups that pitched in to help complete the project, hosted by the Hawaii State AFL-CIO through their Labor Community Services Program, at Kalihi Elementary School in Honolulu. In a message shared on social media, the school’s administration said, “Huge Mahalo to everyone who came out to support the Hawaii State AFL-CIO Labor of Love project at Kalihi Elementary this past weekend! With the help of over 400 volunteers from over 20 Labor Unions and various other organizations, we were able to make some transformative changes to our school. These improvements included painting the school our school colors, installing school logos, installing fans in the cafeteria, creating a peace garden, installing AC in three classrooms, and installing a dishwasher in the kitchen.” The SIU was represented during the effort by Port Agent Hazel Galbiso, Safety Director Amber Akana, Administrative Assistant Shureen Yatchmenoff, ABs Antolin Avorque, Jerry Dingal and Andrei Tretyak, QMED Raymond Orosco, GUDE Neil Tupas and ACU Nadzeya Kuptsova. Galbiso said, “This was another opportunity for Seafarers to humbly give back to our community, and we were happy to help out Kalihi Elementary School.” “I think it was a very good project, and I think we should help out with more projects like this,” said Tupas. “This project was pretty special, with many unions and local organizations coming together and helping out. And the fact that we got to help out in our local community makes it even more worthwhile to me. I enjoyed helping out the school, and getting to know new people in both my union and the local Hawaiian government.” “I’m never speechless,” said Hawaii State AFL-CIO President Randy Perreira. “But I’m close to speechless at the outpouring of volunteerism. It’s a day that we choose to give back and do our thing, not only for the school, but the community as well. This year we’re very fortunate. Through everyone’s generosity, we’re providing over $130,000 in people power, equipment and supplies for the school, including some cash that they can use for their benefit.” This year’s iteration marked the sixth time the state AFL-CIO has sponsored the project, and each one has Safety Director Amber Akana (background) and GUDE Neil benefitted a school in Hawaii. Tupas work in the hallway. Meeting with Governor Seafarer Shares Passport-Renewal Reminder SIU New Orleans Port Agent Chris Westbrook (right) is pictured March 1 at the governor’s mansion with Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards (D). The occasion was a reception for area labor leaders. QMED/Electrician Andrew Van Bourg recently had an experience involving his passport expiration date that he hopes other members can learn from and avoid in the future. Van Bourg was sailing aboard the USNS 1st Jack Lummus, and was set to head home from a U.K.-controlled military base. He explained, “When I went home at the end of September, I was at the airport and the air crew refused to fly me home because my passport, though valid, was only valid for another two-and-a-half months. There is a rule here (Diego Garcia) that your passport must have 13 months of validity so that you can get on the plane, which is normally the only way to get home.” (The complication stems in part from there being multiple foreign stops between the base and the United States.) He added, “Not sure where this rule comes from or who imposes it, but it’s real and we have to comply. Captain had to jump through a number of administrative hoops to get me home. Just now another crew member is going through administrative difficulty due to the same rule.” As a general rule, international travelers should ensure that their passports have at least six months of validity left when leaving the United States. While the so-called “six-month rule” is not a requirement of the U.S. government, it is a requirement that many foreign countries enforce. Roughly 75 different countries will not permit a traveler to enter the country unless that person’s passport has more than six months of remaining validity. (Passports are valid for 10 years.) 6 Seafarers LOG According to the State Department, “Europe’s 26 Schengen countries strictly enforce the sixmonth validity rule. If you are transiting through Canada or the UK – which do not have that requirement – your passport must be valid at least six months, or airlines may not let you board your onward flight to Europe.” The Schengen Agreement, as explained by the State Department, is a treaty creating Europe’s Schengen Area, which encompasses 26 European countries, where internal border checks have largely been abolished for short-term tourism, a business trip, or transit to a non-Schengen destination. Those countries are: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. Van Bourg urged other mariners to keep a close eye on their passport expiration date, and remember to account for the length of the job when planning for a possible return flight from another country. For example, if a member has at least 13 months before the passport expires, that would cover a six-month voyage, allow time before flying out and still leave six-plus months of validity. Similarly, Seafarers regularly are encouraged to make sure their other core shipping documents (including MMC, TWIC and medical certificate) are valid for at least six months when shipping out. April 2020 �Union, AMA-Represented Companies Sign Off On Array of Coronavirus Protective Protocols The SIU and the American Maritime Association (AMA, representing companies that are signatory to the standard freightship and tanker agreements) recently signed off on a number of coronavirus protection protocols that are listed below. These measures are for SIU-crewed vessels calling on ports in China. Implementation in other ports will be handled case-by-case and will involve discussions between the union and the AMA. Additionally, the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is utilizing a health questionnaire with all potentially incoming students in order to safeguard the wellbeing of everyone concerned. It’s a one-page document that’s being sent to students when they’re scheduled for any class. The SIU will continue to help publicize the latest U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Bulletins concerning coronavirus along with any other potentially useful alerts and tips. Meanwhile, members can find comprehensive information and updates on the following websites: World Health Organization https://www.who.int/ emergencies/diseases/ novel-coronavirus-2019 U.S. Centers for Disease Control https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html Again, the following procedures have been agreed to by the union, the AMA and its member companies, and they apply to vessels calling on ports in China. „�All procedures will be logged by the Master. „�Unlicensed crew members will be restricted to the ship and the Master will retain all passports. „�There shall be no routine crew changes. „�All exterior doors will be locked except for one inshore Notice/Reminder SHBP Offers Tobacco Cessation Benefits door to allow access to the house. „�The gangway will be flown off the dock to prevent uncontrolled access of people to/from the vessel. The gangway watch will allow access to critical personnel only. „�The gangway watch will control access to the unlocked access door for the purpose of restricting access inside the house to ship’s crew and critical shore staff only. „� No vendors or non-essential personnel will be granted access to the vessel. „�All visitors must wear gloves and a mask from the point of approaching the gangway. „� All visitors will be limited to access to one interior room on the main deck. „�The access room and any other contact points will be sanitized upon departure from the port. „� All crew members are to wear their PPE (N95 masks, nitrite gloves, safety goggles) while in contact with people from shore. „� Note the importance of eye protection as the virus can be contracted through the eyes. „�All crew members that come in contact with port visitors are to sanitize their safety goggles and wash their clothes immediately after the visit. „� All crew members are to frequently wash their hands and use hand sanitizers. „�Ship’s crew will remain in interior spaces of the vessel as much as possible. „�Hand sanitizer stations will be set up on deck and at the entrance to the house and the interior access room. „� If you think that you may have been exposed to the virus, contact the vessel’s master immediately. The advantages of quitting smoking are well known, but quitting is difficult. If you are thinking of quitting, the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) has a benefit to help you. The Plan offers tobacco cessation benefits, in partnership with CIGNA, to assist you in your effort to stop smoking or using other tobacco products. This program is available to all eligible members, their spouses, and their children over age 18. The program includes nicotine replacement, as well as coaching services, and other online tools and resources. Anyone who enrolls in the program will receive an eight-week supply of nicotine patches or 12 weeks of nicotine gum. To enroll, contact CIGNA/CareAllies at 1-866-4177848. Tobacco is the leading cause of preventable disease and death in the U.S. The benefits of quitting smoking include reduced risk of cancer, lung disease, stroke, heart disease, eye disease and osteoporosis. Smoking not only harms the smoker, but exposure to secondhand smoke increases health risk to non-smokers as well. Each year, thousands of young children and babies become ill because they live in the home of a smoker. More information about the risks of tobacco and the benefits of quitting are available at www.smokefree.gov. If you or a member of your family are trying to stop smoking or using tobacco, we encourage you to take advantage of this benefit, which was introduced in 2016. If you have any questions about this benefit, please contact the Plan at 1-800-252-4674. Spotlight on Mariner Health Whooping Cough Could Affect Individuals Across Age Spectrum Editor’s note: This article was provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. Whooping cough (pertussis) is highly contagious. It is a respiratory tract infection caused by bacteria called Bordetella Pertussis. When someone coughs or sneezes, tiny germ droplets are sprayed into the air and can be inhaled into the lungs of someone standing nearby. It is usually marked by a severe hacking cough followed by a high-pitched intake of breath that some say sounds like “whoop.” Before the age of vaccine administrations, whooping cough was considered a childhood disease. In the United States, whooping cough primarily affects children too young to have completed their full series of vaccinations. This can also affect teenagers and adults that may not have completed the series of vaccines or whose immunity had failed. Deaths due to pertussis are rare but most commonly involve infants. This is why it is so important for pregnant women and other people that are in close contact with an infant to be vaccinated against whooping cough. When someone becomes infected with whooping cough, it usually takes about seven to 10 days for the signs and symptoms to appear. It can be mild at first and mimic symptoms of a common cold (runny nose, nasal congestion, red, watery April 2020 eyes, fever and cough). After a week or so, the symptoms can worsen. The person may develop thick mucus inside their airways, causing uncontrollable coughing. This can provoke vomiting, extreme fatigue, and possibly end with a highpitched whoop-like sound during their next breath of air. Sometimes, however, people do not develop the characteristic cough. Infants may just appear to be struggling to breathe with no cough at all. Remember that the whooping cough vaccine you received as a child eventually wears off. This may leave most teenagers and adults susceptible to the infection during an outbreak. Infants who are younger than 12 months and who are unvaccinated or have not received the full series of shots, are at the highest risk for developing this disease. The complications from developing pertussis are as follows for teenagers and adults: dehydration, bruised or cracked ribs, abdominal hernias, and broken blood vessels in the skin or the white of the eyes. Infants may be stricken with pneumonia, slowed or stopped breathing, dehydration or weight loss, and possibly seizures. To prevent this disease, get the pertussis vaccine. This can be given in combination with the tetanus and diphtheria shot s ordered by your doctor or health department. Healthy Recipe BBQ Chili-Glazed Salmon Servings 25 Ingredients and Seasonings 8 pounds salmon filet, trimmed fresh 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 ½ tablespoons Mrs. Dash 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce 2 cups barbecue sauce 3 tablespoons honey 1 teaspoon granulated garlic ¼ cup apple juice Preparation Cut the salmon into 4 oz. filets, season with the Mrs. Dash evenly on both sides. Grill the seasoned salmon 2 minutes on each side just to brown them. Place in well-oiled 2” pans. Mix together the bbq sauce, honey, apple juice, sriracha, and granulated garlic in a container big enough to hold it. Glaze the salmon with the sauce evenly. Bake in a 325-degree F oven for 10-15 minutes until the inside is just slightly pink. Garnish with lemon and chopped green onion or parsley. Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 198 calories; 6g fat (27.0% calories from fat); 29g protein; 5g carbohydrate; trace dietary fiber; 76mg cholesterol; 261 mg sodium. Exchanges: 0 grain (starch); 4 lean meat; 0 fruit; 0 fat; ½ other carbohydrates. Provided by Chef Robert “RJ” Johnson of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship Seafarers LOG 7 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU HONORING WWII MARINER – SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (right in photo above) presents a U.S. Congressional Commendation from Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) to The Hon. Judge Claude D. Perasso (Ret.) for his service as a mariner in World War II. The citation reads in part, “It’s only through the honorable and heroic service of veterans like Claude Perasso that victory was possible.” SEAFARER PUBLISHES POETRY – QMED Alvin Surrency last year published two books featuring his poetry. “Poetry is awesome but it is nothing without someone to share it with,” he noted. “People may see me on my phone and think I’m playing a game, but the majority of the time, I am writing.” Both books (“Full Circle” and “Intimate Triangle”) are available online. Surrency most recently sailed aboard the USNS Seay (U.S. Marine Management). SOLIDARITY IN KEYSTONE STATE – Seafarers turned out for a sizeable rally late last year in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, where demonstrators urged emergency funding to fix unsafe and unhealthy conditions in schools. They packed the state capitol rotunda as word arrived that a fourth school in the city had to temporarily close due to asbestos. Pictured from left in the group photo are AB Julian Beasley, SIU Philadelphia Port Agent Joe Baselice, AB Jeff Beasley and SIU Safety Director Andre MacCray. State Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler (D) is at the podium in the other photo. ABOARD GRAND CANYON STATE – Seafarers recently completed a 102-day mission aboard the Pacific Gulf Marine vessel. They shoved off from Alameda, California, and made stops in Korea, Diego Garcia, Kuwait and Dubai before returning to Alameda. Pictured from left are OS Qaid Alnaawi, QMED Jessie Ulibas, Chief Cook Brice Jackson, SA Nasser Alarqban, ABM Lawrence Tharp, ABM Saleem Mohamed, SA Marie Dailey, SIU Oakland Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli, ABM Nasser Kassim, Wiper Ahmed Hussain, ABM Ali Nasser, GUDE Sari Alkarnoon, Oiler Anthony Henry, QMED Fernando Ortega, SA Yousef Alarqaban and ABM Arnel Resurreccion. 8 Seafarers LOG April 2020 �AT THE ALGONAC HALL – Seafarers (photo above) are pictured at the February membership meeting, undeterred by the snowstorm outside. At top right, SIU Port Agent Todd Brdak (holding paperwork) reads a report. The remaining photos show Seafarers receiving their respective books, each pictured with SIU Safety Director Gerret Jarman (right in each photo). AB Abdulaziz Alfakih (immediate right) receives his Aseniority book; GUDE Mossa Mohamed (center right) gets his B-book; GUDE Zaid Mesleh (far right) picks up his B-book. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU UNOFFICIAL CROWLEY REUNION – A number of retired members who sailed with Crowley Towing and Transportation turned out for the winter holiday gathering at the hiring hall in Jacksonville, Florida. Pictured from left with SIU Port Agent Ashley Nelson (center) are retirees Capt. Mike Davis, Capt. Richard Fuller, Capt. Bobby Stearns, Chief Engineer Dennis Compton, Capt. Mike Getchell and Capt. Jim Daley. FULL BOOK IN OAKLAND – GUDE Emmanuel Nuez (right) picks up his full membership book at the hiring hall. He is pictured with Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli. A-BOOK IN WILMINGTON – QEE Jared Cabasug (right) receives his A-seniority book at the hall in California. He’s pictured with Patrolman Jesse Sunga. WELCOME ASHORE IN NEW ORLEANS – Newly retired Seafarer Gary Spell (right, with SIU Port Agent Chris Westbrook) picks up his first pension check at the hiring hall. Spell sailed with the SIU beginning in 1971. He started in the deep-sea division and finished his career with Crescent Towing, where he most recently sailed as a licensed engineer. April 2020 SAFETY AWARD WINNERS – Congratulations to ABs Mariano Lino (left) and Rogelio Agustin for earning the monthly safety award aboard the Maersk Chicago in consecutive months (November and December). Recertified Bosun Karl Mayhew reports that his fellow Seafarers received their awards from vessel master Capt. Shawn Hughes. WELCOME ASHORE IN MOBILE – Two longtime Seafarers recently picked up their first respective pension checks at the hiring hall. Michael Hurst (left in photo at left, with Port Agent Jimmy White) spent the past 30 years working with Crescent Towing, where he ended his tenure as a licensed engineer. AB Lavern McDowell (left in photo at right, with White) also spent decades sailing with the SIU, most recently aboard the Delta Mariner. SAILING TO LONE STAR STATE – The SIU-crewed ARC Independence (operated by TOTE) is pictured in early February at Pier 10 in Galveston, Texas. The ship reflagged under the Stars and Stripes late last year and is part of the U.S. Maritime Security Program. Seafarers LOG 9 �Degree Completion The Union Plus Bachelor’s Degree Completion Program offers students from working families the opportunity to continue their education beyond an associate’s degree. This complement to the Union Plus Free College Program allows union members and their eligible family members to complete a bachelor’s degree at a highly discounted cost. Find out more about this and other great Union Plus programs by visiting unionplus.org. CREDIT CARDS WIRELESS DISCOUNTS MORTGAGE PROGRAM CAR RENTAL Learn more at unionplus.org 4/20 10 Seafarers LOG April 2020 �School Still Offers Culinary 2.0 The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education continues to offer Culinary 2.0 classes designed to help students boost their skills while complying with a new rule that took effect at the beginning of this 2020. Completing the coursework also is intended to aid individual shipping opportunities. Shipping Rule 5.A.(6), which went into effect January 1, 2020, states, “Within each class of seniority in the Steward Department, priority shall be given to those seamen who possess an advanced Culinary 2.0 certificate from the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, in the event such program is being offered and that the seaman is registered in Group I, Steward Department.” While every new member of the steward department who completes their apprenticeship at the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship will have successfully passed Culinary 2.0, it’s important to remem- ber that those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards must also take the coursework in order to exercise preference and priority beginning next year (unless they have received training after January 1, 2017 at the Piney Point, Maryland-based campus). For those seamen currently employed as permanent stewards aboard commercial vessels, they must attend Culinary 2.0 in order to maintain their current employment status. For those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards, there are two new revalidation courses that have been designed to ensure a consistent level of culinary training and efficiency: Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 and Orientation/ Assessment Chief Cook 2.0. The courses are being offered regularly, but spaces are limited, so members are encouraged to plan ahead and enroll as soon as possible. For more information, contact your port agent and/ or the school’s admissions office. April & May Membership Meetings Piney Point..........................................Monday: April 6, May 4 Algonac..................................................Friday: April 10, May 8 Baltimore.................................................Thursday: April 9, May 7 Guam...................................................Thursday: April 23, May 21 Honolulu..................................................Friday: April 17, May 15 Houston..................................................Monday: April 13, May 11 Jacksonville...........................................Thursday: April 9, May 7 Joliet....................................................Thursday: April 16, May 14 Mobile.............................................Wednesday: April 15, May 13 New Orleans.............................................Tuesday: April 14, May 12 Jersey City.............................................Tuesday: April 7, May 5 Norfolk..................................................Thursday: April 9, May 7 Oakland..............................................Thursday: April 16, May 14 Philadelphia.....................................Wednesday: April 8, May 6 Port Everglades....................................Thursday: April 16, May 14 San Juan............................................Thursday: April 9, May 7 St. Louis...............................................Friday: April 17, May 15 Tacoma...................................................Friday: April 24, May 22 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from Feb. 4-Mar. 3. “Registered on the Beach” data is as of March 4. Total Registered Port All Groups A B Total Shipped C C 2 1 0 3 0 2 0 2 4 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 1 1 3 2 25 ATTENTION SEAFARERS Another New Ship SPAD Works For You Contribute To The Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD April 2020 Trip Reliefs A All Groups B C 5 0 2 9 0 7 2 16 14 12 0 4 8 2 0 0 3 7 1 5 97 58 3 10 38 6 19 16 77 48 63 8 20 39 29 8 4 13 37 5 49 550 21 4 0 20 1 7 3 29 40 21 7 8 15 12 3 6 1 16 0 19 233 2 4 1 6 0 3 0 8 8 7 0 4 9 3 6 2 1 6 2 5 77 3 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 4 1 0 0 0 3 1 0 15 0 0 1 3 0 1 5 4 10 4 0 0 4 1 1 1 0 4 0 1 40 10 1 3 16 1 6 10 24 26 26 5 2 18 16 3 1 8 15 3 22 216 2 1 2 17 2 5 2 19 24 12 2 6 27 8 4 4 6 10 0 11 164 2 0 0 2 0 0 1 3 2 2 1 0 6 4 1 0 0 5 0 4 33 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 15 3 6 17 2 14 7 41 21 34 4 9 23 9 7 1 6 25 4 28 276 9 3 0 12 1 4 4 17 21 12 3 2 11 7 3 1 4 2 0 11 127 3 4 0 4 0 2 0 5 5 5 0 2 6 1 2 2 1 4 3 3 52 Deck Department 8 5 2 0 2 1 20 2 0 0 10 5 7 2 44 16 27 20 23 8 0 1 8 3 20 8 11 3 3 1 1 4 5 3 21 2 3 0 19 4 234 88 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 4 1 2 8 0 5 4 13 20 13 2 1 9 6 0 3 8 11 3 10 123 1 0 3 14 1 2 3 17 13 6 0 2 17 6 4 3 1 5 1 4 103 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 6 2 1 0 0 1 0 2 17 Engine Department 2 1 1 0 0 3 11 5 0 1 4 1 5 5 8 5 21 7 4 3 1 0 1 2 12 10 5 2 0 2 3 2 2 2 10 4 1 1 7 3 98 59 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 4 0 1 6 0 3 9 23 15 10 1 3 11 10 3 1 2 10 3 21 136 1 0 3 4 1 0 0 3 7 3 0 3 3 4 0 2 2 1 0 4 41 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 2 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 14 Steward Department 0 1 0 1 0 0 9 3 0 1 4 0 5 1 19 5 15 3 6 0 0 1 2 3 7 7 4 3 2 0 2 2 2 1 2 0 3 0 10 8 92 40 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 8 0 2 1 5 2 4 0 1 3 2 0 1 0 1 0 8 38 14 1 2 16 2 6 16 33 24 17 2 7 22 28 5 3 3 20 3 36 260 1 2 3 5 3 1 3 9 15 4 0 6 11 6 0 3 3 2 0 9 86 0 0 0 3 0 0 1 2 2 0 1 0 6 0 0 0 0 2 0 3 20 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 4 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 1 1 0 1 1 2 0 0 1 4 0 1 19 10 1 1 3 0 4 2 12 24 13 0 0 12 10 1 1 0 10 1 16 121 9 1 0 3 2 2 4 6 15 7 0 0 22 7 0 9 1 2 2 12 104 Entry Department 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 3 1 1 5 12 1 13 0 8 0 0 0 0 0 12 1 6 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 11 0 0 1 13 11 86 0 0 1 2 2 1 2 3 9 2 0 0 19 3 0 7 0 3 1 2 57 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 6 1 0 0 2 1 0 2 0 1 0 4 19 1 0 0 0 0 2 1 2 0 4 0 1 1 3 1 0 1 7 0 7 31 25 0 2 9 0 1 7 23 50 19 1 0 22 29 2 0 0 17 1 49 257 26 2 1 7 2 3 5 12 54 13 3 1 37 11 1 2 3 14 2 38 237 GRAND TOTAL: 554 392 187 102 194 1,057 740 367 Wilmington................................................Monday: April 20, May 18 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m Registered on Beach All Groups A B 435 273 Seafarers LOG 11 �The Midnight Sun docks in Tacoma, Washington. The new fueling station is part of the conversion project. The vessel is 840 feet long. LNG Conversion Project Continues SIU-Crewed Midnight Sun Completes First Shipyard Period T he Seafarers-crewed Midnight Sun is one step closer to running on liquefied natural gas (LNG). The TOTE Maritime Alaska vessel earlier this year completed a shipyard period during which it was equipped with a new aft deck, two 1,100 cubic meter LNG tanks and supporting infrastructure. Both of TOTE’s Orca-class ships – the Midnight Sun and the North Star – are converting to LNG propulsion through a lengthy but carefully planned process aimed at keeping them sailing as often as possible. It’s a four-year project, and a lot of the work is done while the vessels are in operation. The Midnight Sun currently is powered by four diesel engines. It sails between Tacoma, Washington, and Anchorage, Alaska twice a week. The next phase of its conversion will involve mechanical changes on two engines while the ship is in service, followed by a second shipyard period when the remaining engines are switched. The changes are slated for completion in 2022. According to Gianpaolo Benedetti, senior technical advisor for the seven-year-old Society for Gas as Marine Fuel, the size of the worldwide LNG-powered fleet is modest, but quickly growing. There are fewer than 200 deep-draft commercial vessels using LNG as a fuel, but more than 200 are on order, he said at a recent conference. TOTE said the conversions of its Orca-class ships “will drastically reduce air emissions … virtually eliminating sulfur oxides and particulate matter while drastically reducing nitrogen oxides and carbon dioxide. Reduced emissions will result in a healthier environment for Tacoma, Puget Sound and Anchorage, the communities in which TOTE Maritime operates.” The Midnight Sun’s first shipyard phase began in December. Work was performed at Seaspan Shipyards in Victoria, British Columbia. (The North Star completed its initial shipyard period in 2019 and should be fully converted in 2021.) Lee Peterson, who oversees the conversion project for TOTE, recently stated, “There was a desire and a need to keep these ships in operation as much as possible while we are doing this.” He said the vessels are “vital lifelines” to Alaska, and “that’s the reason we are doing this over such a long period of time.” The Jones Act vessels transport a wide range of cargoes, including cars, groceries, military vehicles, consumer electronics and much more. They were built in 2003 at General Dynamics NASSCO in San Diego (a union yard). SIU Tacoma Port Agent Warren Asp, who provided the photos accompanying this story, serviced the ship Feb. 14 as it reentered service. “It was fun because we never get to see these ships empty like this, and they’re typically not in port for any more than nine or 10 hours,” he said. GUDEs Walid Saleh and Adrees Ahmed 12 Seafarers LOG The project includes a new aft deck, two 1,100 cubic meter LNG tanks and supporting infrastructure, as pictured above. The Midnight Sun’s conversion (photo below) to LNG fuel is slated for completion in 2022. Recertified Bosun Darryl Smith. AB Bakr Elbana OMUs Sotero Berame and Rolando Bundang April 2020 April 2020 Chief Cook Edwin Sebastian (left) helps make sure his shipmates are well-fed. Seafarers LOG 13 �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 Kate Hunt, 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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by students in the certified chief cook class at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Question: What are some things you like about your job? Nakeya White Chief Cook I enjoy the fast-paced environment, and I love to cook and travel the world. I also enjoy meeting and cooking for people from multiple cultures and in different environments. I enjoy that we make great money and you’re able to widen your horizon on cooking and build your skill set. Kristina Jones Chief Cook The number one thing I love is being able to travel. The job is very flexible – you’re able to see the world and meet new people. I cook for my family, so I was able to apply basic cooking skills and maximize them in a professional way. There’s a lot of room for growth in this industry and the people that you meet are wonderful, on the ships and in the ports. Alex Emrick Chief Cook Just the camaraderie between fellow sailors. Positivity, learning experiences I go through on a dayto-day basis. Cooking on a ship is not an ordinary job…. The people that work in this industry, I’ll never meet on land. They’re characters. The money is good, too, and I love cooking, but the people are what keeps me coming back. Howard Brooks Chief Cook What I love about my job is being able to travel, run the steward department, upgrade, make a whole lot of money and do in life what I choose to do when I want to do it. It’s more than what I expected – I see parts of the world I’d never heard of and that people couldn’t imagine. I’ve been able to take vacations in other countries I hadn’t seen on a map. I love everything about it. Carlos Colon De Jesus Chief Cook Travel, meeting new people and of course the money. That’s why I’m here. And I love cooking. But the number one reason I stick with it is the money. I have a wife and a daughter who’s 11 months old, and the money I earn at sea covers everything. Seth Alonzo Chief Cook You’re always learning, through new experiences and classes at the school. For me, it’s all about getting out of your comfort zone and trying new things. I also really enjoy the social aspect, and the camaraderie of the kitchen. I had never worked on a ship before this job, so this is all new to me. Pic From The Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 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 45353 St. George’s Avenue, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (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 snapshot from the LOG’s archives was taken at the Maritime Trades Department winter meeting in 1985, in Florida. Pictured from left are OPEIU President John Kelly, SIU President Frank Drozak and MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Jean Ingrao. 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 14 Seafarers LOG April 2019 �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 recently worked on the Overseas Nikiski. He settled in Reno, Nevada. NABASSIN ADEDOUAWONGOBOU Brother Nabassin Adedouawongobou, 65, joined the Seafarers International Union in 1998, initially sailing on the Global Mariner. He was a deck department member and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2010. Brother Adedouawongobou last sailed on the Maersk Kentucky. He lives in Bronx, New York. TODD EASLEY Brother Todd Easley, 65, began shipping with the union in 1999 when he sailed aboard the USNS Kane. He worked in the steward department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Easley most recently sailed on the William R. Button. He resides in Loganville, Georgia. JOSE GAMBOA Brother Jose Gamboa, 67, signed on with the SIU in 1994, initially sailing aboard the Independence. He upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school and sailed in all three departments. Brother Gamboa’s final vessel was the Horizon Anchorage. He makes his home in Lancaster, California. RAYMOND GARCIA Brother Raymond Garcia, 62, started his career with the Seafarers in 1982 when he shipped on the Independence. He was a steward department member and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on several occasions. Brother Garcia most recently sailed aboard the Horizon Enterprise. He lives in Novato, California. STEPHEN GRIER Brother Stephen Grier, 65, joined the union in 1990, initially sailing aboard the Overseas Boston. He shipped in the deck department and concluded his career on the Horizon Anchorage. Brother Grier calls Everett, Washington, home. JOEL MILLER Brother Joel Miller, 65, joined the SIU in 1973 when he sailed on the Houston. He upgraded often at the Piney Point school and primarily worked in the deck department. Brother Miller’s last vessel was the Lightning. He lives in West Covina, California. TEOFILO MOJARES Brother Teofilo Mojares, 66, began shipping with the union in 2011, initially sailing on the Keystone State. Brother Mojares was a deck department member and most recently shipped aboard the Pride of America. He is a resident of Lakewood, Washington. PHILEMON QUITORIANO Brother Philemon Quitoriano, 68, signed on with the SIU in 1992. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Quitoriano’s first vessel was the Independence; his last, the Horizon Reliance. He lives in Rancho Santa Margarita, California. Brother Rupert Henry, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 2005 when he sailed on the Pride of Aloha. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on several occasions and sailed in both the deck and steward departments. Brother Henry most recently sailed aboard a Patriot ship. He lives in Tacoma, Washington. BRIAN MCELENEY Brother Brian McEleney, 61, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1981, initially sailing aboard the Independence. A steward department member, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions. Brother McEleney most April 2020 Brother Mark MacRury, 61, became a member of the SIU in 1978 when he worked for H&M Lake Transport. He sailed in all three departments and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother MacRury last shipped on the Burns Harbor. He resides in Hale, Michigan. JOEL MARKLE Brother Joel Markle, 65, signed on with the union in 1980, initially sailing on the Paul Thayer. He was a steward department member and upgraded at the Piney Point school on several occasions. Brother Markle last sailed aboard the USNS Curtiss. He settled in Kinde, Michigan. INLAND Brother Daniel Seagle, 60, donned the SIU colors in 1979, initially sailing aboard the Oakland. He was a deck department member and upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Seagle most recently sailed on the Horizon Anchorage. He calls Lake Stevens, Washington, home. Brother Richard Wilson, 67, began sailing with the SIU in 1989 when he shipped out aboard the Frances Hammer. He upgraded at the Piney Point school on several occasions and was a member of the deck department. Brother Wilson’s final vessel was the Sunshine State. He lives in Mahaffey, Pennsylvania. GREAT LAKES MARTIN HOCHSTAFL Brother Martin Hochstafl, 65, joined the union in 2000, when he shipped on the John Boland. The engine department member upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 2007. Brother Hochstafl concluded his career aboard the Burns Harbor. He resides in Ashland, Wisconsin. the Piney Point school in 1969. He makes his home in Belle Chasse, Louisiana. DONALD DOUGLAS Brother Donald Douglas, 62, became a member of the SIU in 1979, initially working with Allied Transportation. The deck department member upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Douglas was most recently employed by Penn Maritime. He resides in Charles City, Virginia. KEITH RUBIO Brother Keith Rubio, 62, joined the SIU in 1976. A deck department member, he sailed with Crescent Towing and Salvage for his entire career. Brother Rubio makes his home in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. GARY SPELL MICHAEL HURST Brother Michael Hurst, 64, signed on with the SIU in 1977 when he worked for Gulf Marine. He upgraded at the Piney Point school on several occasions. Brother Hurst sailed in both the deck and engine departments. He last worked for Crescent Towing and Salvage and lives in Irvington, Alabama. Brother Gary Spell, 65, started sailing with the union in 1971, initially working aboard the La Salle. He upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school within his first year. Brother Spell was an engine department member. He most recently worked for Crescent Towing and Salvage and resides in Perkinston, Mississippi. RICHARD ALLEN Brother Richard Allen, 63, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1993. He was first employed with HVIDE Marine and primarily sailed in the engine department. Brother Allen last worked for Seabulk Towing, aboard the Samson. He lives in Nederland, Texas. DANIEL SEAGLE RICHARD WILSON RUPERT HENRY MARK MACRURY JOSE ALVAREZ Brother Jose Alvarez, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1978 when he sailed aboard the Achilles. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1985. Brother Alvarez was last employed with Crowley Puerto Rico Services. He makes his home in Bayamon, Puerto Rico. ADDISON BELL Brother Addison Bell, 68, donned the SIU colors in 1989, initially working for Luedtke Engineering. He sailed in the deck department and concluded his career working for OLS Transport. Brother Bell resides in Hubbell, Michigan. BERTRAND CAMUS Brother Bertrand Camus, 67, joined the union in 1977. He worked for Crescent Towing and Salvage for the duration of his career. Brother Camus primarily sailed in the engine department, and upgraded at WILLIAM MULHOLLAND Brother William Mulholland, 55, started his career with the union in 1990 when he worked for American Overseas Marine. He was a deck department member and was most recently employed with Crowley. Brother Mulholland is a resident of Sewell, New Jersey. JOHN NONDORF Brother John Nondorf, 62, began his career with the Seafarers in 1977, initially working with National Marine Service. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in 1983. Brother Nondorf last worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation. He makes his home in Jefferson City, Missouri. DAVID PARADELAS Brother David Paradelas, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1991, initially sailing board the Sugar Island. He was a deck department member and sailed with Great Lakes Dredge and Dock for the duration of his career. Brother Paradelas resides in Belleview, Florida. MIGUEL RODRIGUEZ RAMOS Brother Miguel Rodriguez Ramos, 62, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1977 when he sailed aboard the Humacao. He shipped in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Rodriguez Ramos worked for Crowley Puerto Rico Services for most of his career. He lives in San Juan, Puerto Rico. CHARLES TAYLOR Brother Charles Taylor, 62, became a member of the SIU in 1978 when he worked for HVIDE Marine. He was a deck department member and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Taylor most recently sailed aboard the Samson. He lives in Groves, Texas. GARY WATERS Brother Gary Waters, 65, began his career with the SIU in 1978. He first worked for IBC Company, and sailed in the deck department. Brother Waters was last employed by Interstate Oil. He lives in Cochranville, Pennsylvania. CHARLES WISLER Brother Charles Wisler, 62, signed on with the union in 2008 and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center within his first year. Brother Wisler was a deck department member and was employed by Crowley for his entire career. He is a resident of Philadelphia. MARK WYN Brother Mark Wyn, 65, joined the SIU in 2004, initially sailing aboard the Coast Range. He upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school and was a member of the deck department. Brother Wyn last sailed with G&H Towing. He calls Corpus Christi, Texas, home. Seafarers LOG 15 �Final Departures DEEP SEA BERNARD BOLES Pensioner Bernard Boles, 95, passed away January 18. He joined the SIU in 1943. An engine department member, Brother Boles first sailed aboard the Devils Lake. He last shipped on the Del Viento and went on pension in 1982. Brother Boles was a resident of Wheeling, West Virginia. STEVEN DUDLEY Pensioner Steven Dudley, 71, died January 21. He began his career with the SIU in 2001, initially sailing aboard the John Paul Bobo. Brother Dudley was a deck department member and last shipped on the Horizon Kodiak. He became a pensioner in 2019 and settled in Gig Harbor, Washington. DUDLEY JAMES Pensioner Dudley James, 70, passed away January 21. He signed on with the SIU in 1992 when he sailed on the Independence. Brother James worked in the deck department. He last sailed aboard the Maersk Kentucky and went on pension in 2015. He made his home in Guyana. MARJORIE MACK Pensioner Marjorie Mack, 74, died February 3. She began her career with the union in 1991, initially sailing aboard the Sealift Arabian Sea. Sister Mack shipped in the steward department. She last sailed on the President Polk before going on pension in 2010. Sister Mack called Norfolk, Virginia, home. ROBERT STAFFORD Brother Robert Stafford, 68, passed away January 2. He embarked on his career with the SIU in 2000 when he shipped aboard the USNS Petersburg. Brother Stafford sailed as an engine department member. He last shipped on the Maersk Seletar, and resided in the Philippines. RAMLI SULAIMAN Pensioner Ramli Sulaiman, 80, died January 25. He became a member of the SIU in 1991 when he shipped aboard the Hawaii. Brother Sulaiman primarily sailed in the engine department and last shipped on the Alliance Norfolk. He retired in 2009 and was a resident of New York. GREAT LAKES WILLIAM PADGETT Pensioner William Padgett, 74, passed away February 15. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1976, initially sailing on the Merle McCurdy. Brother Padgett was a deck department member and concluded his career on the Indiana Harbor. He went on pension in 2012 and called Superior, Wisconsin, home. PHILIP PIFER Pensioner Philip Pifer, 67, passed away January 29. He joined the union in 1972 and first sailed aboard the Columbia. Brother Pifer worked in the deck department and last sailed on the Alpena. He went on pension in 2009 and resided in St. Clair Shores, Michigan. INLAND WILLIAM AMAN Pensioner William Aman, 67, died February 29. He donned the SIU colors in 1998 when he worked on the Manhattan Island. Brother Aman was a member of the engine department and most recently sailed on the Sugar Island. He started collecting his pension in 2014 and lived in LaBelle, Florida. JOHN COOK Brother John Cook, 59, passed away November 7. Born in Houston, he started sailing with the SIU in 2005. Brother Cook was a deck department member and worked for OSG Ship Management for the duration of his career. He resided in Ingleside, Texas. WILLIAM HYNSON Pensioner William Hynson, 90, died February 5. Signing on with the SIU in 1967, he first worked for Berg Towing. Brother Hynson was a member of the deck department. He last shipped with Interstate Oil and became a pensioner in 1995. Brother Hynson lived in Rock Hall, Maryland. LINLEY MCDONALD Pensioner Linley McDonald, 78, passed away February 4. He joined the SIU in 1970 when he worked for National Marine Ser- vice. Sailing in the deck department, Brother McDonald remained with the same company for his entire career. He began collecting his pension in 2006 and was a resident of Kenedy, Texas. RICHARD NICHOLAS Pensioner Richard Nicholas, 70, died January 3. He started shipping with the union in 1990 when he sailed aboard the Frances Hammer. Brother Nicholas was a deck department member. He last shipped on the Dodge Island, and became a pensioner in 2011. Brother Nicholas lived in Bay Minette, Alabama. JAMES WALTON Pensioner James Walton, 92, passed away March 1. Signing on with the SIU in 1951, he first sailed on the Pan Atlantic. Brother Walton shipped in the deck department and was last employed by McAllister Towing. He retired in 1989 and made his home in Philadelphia. NMU NATHANIEL BROWN Pensioner Nathaniel Brown, 88, died January 18. He was an NMU member prior to the 2001 merger with the Seafarers International Union. Brother Brown became a pensioner in 1987 and resided in Norfolk, Virginia, his home state. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. NAME Brinkley, Calvin De Jesus, Jose Foster, David French, James Howard, Herbert Isenhour, Henry Velez, Rafael AGE 78 84 87 93 95 92 81 DOD 02/01/2020 12/20/2019 02/17/2020 02/17/2020 01/08/2020 01/14/2020 02/21/2020 MICHAEL YARBROUGH Pensioner Michael Yarbrough, 65, died December 20. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1979, initially working for Dravo Basic Materials. A deck department member, Brother Yarbrough concluded his career working for Crescent Towing and Salvage. He retired in 2015 and made his home in Gulf Shores, Alabama. ROBERT MULL Pensioner Robert Mull, 86, passed away February 3. He joined the SIU in 1960 when he sailed on the Sentry. Brother Mull was a deck department member and last worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation. He made his home in Newton, North Carolina. RODOLFO ORLANDA Pensioner Rodolfo Orlanda, 80, died January 24. He started sailing with the SIU in 1987, initially shipping on the USNS Stalwart. Brother Orlanda sailed in the deck department and concluded his career on the Samuel L. Cobb. He retired in 2005 and lived in the Philippines. VINCENT SANCHEZ Pensioner Vincent Sanchez, 84, died February 25. He signed on with the union in 1956, sailing first on the Fairland. Brother Sanchez was a member of the steward department and last shipped on the Liberty Wave in 1996. He went on pension the same year and called Slidell, Louisiana, home. 16 Seafarers LOG With Seafarers Aboard the Alpena Pictured aboard the Alpena (Inland Lakes Management) are (group photo, from left) Second Mate Scott Murray, Conveyorman Josh Macnicol, SIU Safety Director Gerret Jarman and AB Thomas Martin III. Murray is receiving his probationary book, while Macnicol is receiving his A-book. Jarman noted that he and Macnicol are not related. Photos were taken last month in Cleveland. April 2020 �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. Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings MAERSK KENSINGTON (Maersk Line, Limited), December 27 – Chairman Basil D’Souza, Secretary Johnny Sawyer, Educational Director Ralph Garner. Bagless vacuum cleaners needed aboard ship. Chairman thanked crew for staying safe and encouraged members to donate to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation, the union’s voluntary political action fund). Members discussed pension and vacation benefits. A good trip was reported by secretary. More cereal and snacks needed for crew. Educational director reminded members to keep up with documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested adjustments to pension and vacation pay/accrual. Crew discussed ways to word contract to avoid loopholes and make it easily understood. Members requested longer-lasting stores and discussed budget allowance. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food. Next port: New York. LIBERTY PEACE (North Star Shipping), December 29 – Chairman George Perry, Secretary Michael Todman, Engine Delegate Luis Fernandez, Steward Delegate Beverly Williams. Chairman announced payoff in Freeport, Texas. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Ship not receiving new DVDs or books. Bosun reviewed SHBP benefits. Members requested increases to benefits. OVERSEAS NIKISKI (Overseas Ship Management), December 31– Chairman Charles Hill, Secretary Richard Sanderson, Educational Director Kyle Miller, Engine Delegate Larry Rawlins, Steward Delegate Francisco Zuniga Arzu. Crew still waiting for new mattresses. They discussed current restriction to ship and asked for assistance. Secretary suggested signing up for Seafarers 401(k) and went over improved dental benefits. Educational director urged members to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. OCEAN GRAND (Crowley), January 5 – Chairman Reny Arzu, Secretary Abel Reyna, Educational Director Devin Zug, Engine Delegate Dennis Blake, Steward Delegate Charles Mitchell. Dayman requested by bosun. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested extra help in engine department. Members asked for better linen sheets, blankets, towels and pillows. MAERSK KINLOSS (Maersk Line, Limited), January 5 – Chairman Rufino Giray, Secretary Caezar Mercado, Educational Director Julian Avila. Chairman thanked steward department for great food, particularly during the holidays. Secretary reminded other steward department members to take Culinary 2.0 class. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested more transformers for each room and noted slow Wi-Fi service. Two new refrigerators in galley. GLOBAL SENTINEL (SubCom), January 9 – Chairman Lee Hardman, Secretary Frances-Brian Bautista, Educational Director Aaron Ellis. Crew discussed garbage separation. Chairman instructed crew to report issues as they arise and to clean up after themselves. Deck department working on stripping and waxing ship. Lounges are set up for Wi-Fi. Slop chest open when needed. Portland departure early February and Hawaii ETA first week of March. Secretary reminded members to place trash in garbage room and bag up dirty laundry upon departure. Educational director reported dead light in staterooms. He encouraged crew to upgrade whenever possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members were reminded about keeping laundry room stocked. PELICAN STATE (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning), January 12 – Chairman Sanjay Gupta, Secretary Gregory Lynch, Educational Director Christopher Kirchhofer, Deck Delegate Ahmed Mohammed Ghaleb, Engine Delegate Jose Bonita, Steward Delegate Carlos Diaz. Chairman talked about taking care of equipment. He discussed policies and procedures for handling garbage. Chairman informed members of available benefit plans pamphlets. Secretary went over new steward classes at Paul Hall Center. Educational director advised crew to be mindful of expiration dates and to renew any necessary documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked for updated status of Wi-Fi. Bosun thanked steward department for good food. Members asked about lack of heat in staterooms. MAERSK SELETAR (Maersk Line, Limited), January 13 – Chairman Hanapiah Ismail, Secretary Steven Dickson, Educational Director Charles Packer, Deck Delegate Gary Mann, Engine Delegate Lawrence Brooks, Steward Delegate Danilo Florendo. New gym equipment purchased. Chairman announced payoff at sea. He commended all members for a job well done and reminded them to leave clean rooms for oncoming crew. Secretary urged crew to update and renew documents well in advance. Educational director advised members to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center as often as possible to take advantage of advancement opportunities. He encouraged everyone to enroll in the Seafarers 401(k) plan and to donate to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew read president’s report from latest LOG and discussed progress made by SIU and the role that Piney Point plays in the maritime industry. Two refrigerators in crew quarters need replacement or repair. Vote of thanks given to deck department for keeping areas clean. Steward department thanked for a job well done. Members requested a streaming device for lounge. Crew asked about tour of duty completion bonus for reliefs that consecutively sail aboard Maersk ships. Washing machine needs repair or replacement. Members request increase in pension and vacation pay. Next port: Newark, New Jersey. CHEMICAL PIONEER (USS Transport), January 26 – Chairman Gerald Alford, Secretary Leslie Davis, Engine Delegate Tad Van. Chairman talked about SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund, and union loyalty after reading president’s report. Secretary reminded members to upgrade at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center. Crew asked captain to be more attentive to arrival time of reliefs and would like copies of contract. JEAN ANNE (Pasha), January 26 – Chairman Noel Camacho, Secretary Ismael Garayua, Educational Director Stanley Golden, Engine Delegate Yahya Mohamed, Steward Delegate Abrahem Elsawy. Chairman reminded crew to keep STCW documents up to date and renew six months in advance. Patrolman came aboard to review shipyard information. Secretary urged crew to keep ship sanitation up to standards. Educational director advised members to obtain documents on time and upgrade at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed union scholarship applications that can be found online. Members read president’s report and were shown how to find it online. Members asked for availability of cigarettes in slop chest. New computers to be installed. 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 April 2020 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 17 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Gap Closing Courses MSC Storekeeper Basic August 17 September 4 MSC Supply Configuration Management September 7 October 2 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck April 20 June 22 AB to Mate Modules May 8 July 10 Modules must be taken in order. Those who are not in the mates program cannot apply for these courses. Contact the Admissions Office for further details. Advanced Meteorology May 4 May 8 Advanced Shiphandling May 11 May 22 Advanced Stability April 27 May 1 ARPA August 3 Bosun Recertification ECDIS Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers May 4 May 15 BAPO May 18 June 12 Engineroom Resource Management August 24 August 28 FOWT April 20 May 15 Junior Engineer Program April 20 June 12 Machinist June 29 July 17 Marine Electrician June 29 July 31 Marine Refer Tech May 18 June 26 Pumpman July 20 July 24 Welding April 27 May 15 Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Operations Chief Cook June 15 July 10 Modules run every other week. Contact Admissions for exact date. Chief Steward May 4 July 13 June 12 August 21 August 7 Galley Operations May 18 June 12 July 20 August 3 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 May 25 October 12 May 29 October 16 April 27 May 11 May 1 May 15 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 July 20 August 10 July 24 August 14 April 13 April 20 April 17 April 24 GMDSS July 6 July 17 Basic Training Revalidation Lifeboat May 4 June 29 July 27 August 24 September 21 October 19 May 15 July 10 August 7 September 4 October 2 October 30 April 10 April 17 May 1 April 10 April 17 May 1 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation May 11 June 1 May 15 June 5 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting Leadership and Management Skills August 31 September 4 April 27 June 22 May 1 June 26 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office Government Vessels Radar Observer July 20 July 31 April 13 May 4 May 25 June 8 April 17 May 8 May 29 June 12 RFPNW May 18 June 12 Medical Care Provider 100 Ton Master August 17 September 4 April 20 June 29 April 24 July 3 Fast Rescue Boat 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 If yes, class # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? †Yes †�No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 18 Seafarers LOG Safety/Open Upgrading Courses 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, or 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. 4/20 April 2020 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #857 – Graduated November 29 (above, in alphabetical order): Charles Broadnax II, Jared Castriota, Kevin Cromer Jr., Cristian Curet-Lara, Edward Harnish, Kendall Harris, Oscar Krowicki, Robert Lange, Jamal Matthews, D’Aritis Mitchell, Aaron Moore Jr., Eric Amauris Rivas-Martinez, Juan Rafael Santiago-Robles and Micah Young. Water Survival (Upgraders) – Graduated November 11: Lamar Doctor (above, left) and Edward Molesky Jr. Government Vessels – Graduated November 22 (above, in alphabetical order): Briana Davis, Christoher Kluth, Dave Martin II, Yolanda Ortega-Velez and Emmanuel Outeiral. Welding – Graduated November 8: Clinton Cephas (above, left) and Abel Vazquez Torres (center). Instructor Chris Raley is at the right. April 2020 ECDIS – Graduated November 22: Michael Norman (above, center) and Jamie Norsworthy (right). Patrick Schoenberger, their instructor, is at the left. Seafarers LOG 19 �Paul Hall Center Classes UA to FOWT – Graduated November 8 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): William Alston III, Joshua Nino Bonita, Kevin Brown, Daveyon Burton, Micah Champion, Timothy Jones, Joshua Mann, Ivan Meza, Brandon Reed, Quinton Sashington and Harry Whitney IV. UA to AS-D – Graduated November 8 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Bradley Bagwell, Steven Bryant, Steven Ellis Jr., Luis Felipe Flores Ramos, Joshua Gail, Jovanni Capistrano Garcenila, Christian Miguel Mercado Nunez, Mykel Potter, Jamel Smith, Lucas Tiderman and John Wattam. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Junior Engineer (Basic Electricity) – Graduated November 22 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Rahsaan Alexander, David Cornelius, Raphael Henson, Sebastian Krowicki, Karl Morrow Jr., Raymond Manlangit Orosco, Matthew Palmer, Tyler Summersill, Bryan Velazquez, Derrick Walker II and Renita Walker. Class instructor Christopher Morgan is at the far right. Machinist – Graduated November 8 (above, in alphabetical order): Michael Banks, Raibonne Charles, Bobby Conner II, Justin Dangelo, Christopher Edwards, Terren Fields, Reynaldo Bermudez Lacayo, Edward Molesky Jr., Robert Neff, Teresa Rowland, Edward Williams and Igor Vasylovych Yakunkov. Instructor Keith Adamson is at the far right. 20 Seafarers LOG April 2020 �Paul Hall Center Classes Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Graduated November 15 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Saleh Abubakar Ahmed, Hisham Almraisi, Stanley Bailey, Breon Boyd, Ernest Carlos, Melgar Dadivas Daguio, Lamar Doctor, Brian Jackson, Kevin Johnson, Rasheed Lee, Marissa Gatbunton Lopez, Jerry Miraflor Maya Jr., Primus Nkemnyi, Jose Rigoberto Norales, Andres NunezRochez, John Rascon, Jonathan White and Saddam Mohamed Yahia. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Graduated November 22 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Michael Banks, Edwin Bunda, Rolando Dayao Calimlim, Jose Felipe Clotter, Briana Davis, Christopher Edwards, Jose Guerrero, Robert Haggerty, Vicki Haggerty, Kyjon Jones, Christopher Kluth, William Lima, Reginald Macon, Dave Martin II, Jason Newsham, Yolanda Ortega-Velez, Emmanuel Outeiral, Eric Reich, Teresa Rowland, Armilton Sawali, James Sieger and Tyrell Nasheed Thabit. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Pumpman – Graduated November 15 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Michael Banks, Raibonne Charles, Bobby Conner II, Justin Dangelo, Christopher Edwards, Terren Fields, Reynaldo Lacayo-Bermudez, Edward Molesky Jr., Robert Neff, Teresa Rowland, Edward Williams and Igor Vasylovych Yakunkov. Marine Electrician – Graduated November 15 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Christian Bryant, Laura Hollar, Reginald Hunter, Gajatri Normatova and Martin O’Brien. Sterling Cox, their instructor, is at the far left. April 2020 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes RFPNW (Phase III) – Graduated December 6 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Dominick Bach, Keegan Brown, Campbell Busbey, Juan Carlos Chevalier, Leonard DeLeon, Evan Dize, Susha Dore, Dakota Guthrie, Mark McCarthy, Steven McKelvey, Lydia Robinson, Joseph Stiklickas, Trevion Williams and Daniel Wood. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the deck departments of SIU-contracted vessels. BAPO (Phase III) – Graduated December 6 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Freeman Adamson, Caleb Andresen, Oswaldo Jose Barrera, Thomas Bateman, Erl Jan Encina, Liam Flanagan, Frankinns Joseph, Thomas Koncul, Cristian Efrain Lalin, Tyler Maddox, Timothy McDonald, Shawn McDowell, David Palumbo, Corey Reseburg, Benjamin Scott, Randy Jahid Slue, Calvetta Taylor, Tara Trillo, Joseph Vaccarino, Kamaul Wells and Joel Williams. Class instructor John Wiegman III is third from left in the front row. Each plans to work in the engine department of union-contracted vessels upon the completion of their training. Galley Ops (Phase III) – Graduated December 6 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Arielle Collier, Quandell Freeman, Kevin Johnson Jr., Paul Pedro Mena, Samuel Ortiz Reyes, Emir Omar Quinones Torres, Jarek Stephan Ramos Santos, Cody Rawlings and Anthony Simpkins. Once their training is completed, each plans to work in the steward department of SIU-crewed vessels. 22 Seafarers LOG April 2020 �Paul Hall Center Classes Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated November 8 (above, in alphabetical order): Saleh Abubakar Ahmed, Christopher Coston, Theophil Igielski and Helida Sambula Lorenzo. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated November 22 (above, in alphabetical order): Mohammad Badawy Abou Abdou, Samuel Harris, Joel Aliaga Molinos, George Monseur and Donald Williams. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated December 13 (above, in alphabetical order): Freddie Costales Castro, Arnell George, Yolanda Martinez, Lissette Ramirez and Richard Salazar Torres. Certified Chief Cook (Module 2) – Graduated November 15 (above, from left): Kyjon Jones and Craig Sorrell. Chief Steward – Graduated December 6 (above, from left): Matthew Conyac, Robeson Carrier and Quentin Hood. Galley Operations – Graduated December 6 (above, in alphabetical order): Salahi Saleh Abdullah Al Salahi, Crystal Cobbs, Ali Nagi Mohamed and James St. Amand. Certified Chief Cook (Module 5) – Graduated December 27 (above, in alphabetical order): Kent Arroyo, Brian Kluth Jr., Edward Lamb Jr., and Eugene Williams Jr. April 2020 Chief Steward 2.0 - Graduated December 6 (above, in alphabetical order): Anthony Jacobson, Lorraine Keelen, Philip Paquette, Mohamed Musa Shibly and Thessolonian Smith. Seafarers LOG 23 �VOLUME 82, NO. 4 APRIL 2020 Text “Join” to 97779 To Sign Up for SIU Text Alerts O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Seafarers Deliver In ‘Deep Freeze’ The crew of the tanker Maersk Peary mark their arrival at McMurdo Station, Antarctica. (All photos on this page by Sarah Burford) S eafarers continue to answer the call from McMurdo Station in Antarctica every year, and Operation Deep Freeze 2020 proved to be no exception. Three SIU-crewed ships made the annual journey, aided by the U.S. Coast Guard icebreaker Polar Star. The first vessel to arrive was the containership MV Ocean Giant, operated by Waterman Steamship, carrying more than 6,000 tons of supplies such as frozen and dry food stores, building materials, vehicles, electronic equipment and parts. These supplies account for nearly 80 percent of the items needed for the continued year-round manning of the scientific research station. The Ocean Giant also delivered a Marine Causeway System, a 65-ton pier that was assembled and installed to be used this year instead of the longstanding ice pier at McMurdo Station, which sustained damage over the The SLNC Magothy is one of three Seafarers-crewed vessels that participated in this year’s Operation Deep Freeze. The SIU-crewed Maersk Peary (right) conducts an at-sea fuel transfer with the U.S. Coast Guard ice-breaker Polar Star en route to McMurdo Station, Antarctica. previous year and was unusable for offload. Once the supplies were delivered, the vessel was loaded with containers of backload, as well as ice-core samples for scientific study and returned to Port Hueneme, California. The MT Maersk Peary, operated by Maersk Line, Limited, arrived second. Once there, the 590-foot tanker offloaded nearly eight million gallons of diesel and jet fuel, which will supply the station for a full year. After the Peary began the return voyage, the SLNC Magothy, operated by Argent Marine, arrived, carrying 5,000 metric tons of construction materials and equipment to be used in an expansion project at McMurdo Station. The Magothy then backloaded the temporary pier and returned to the U.S. SIU members sailing aboard the Ocean Giant included Bosun James Minckler, ABs Jamila King, William Kovacs and Somitya Rana, QE4s Rahsaan Alexander, Jared Latta and Sebastian Krowicki, Electrician Vladimir Loutaev, GUDE Brianna Ashley, Steward/Baker Joshua Bingham, ACU Tuliga Fuega and Apprentice Charles Fischer Jr. The SIU crew of the Maersk Peary included Recertified Bosun Ronald Paradise, ABs Lloyd La Beach, Travis Golightly, Nicholas Hoffman, David Kennedy and June Kirk Margaja, QE4 Rene Hallasgo, Pumpman Rickey Yancey, Wiper Johnny Matthews, Recertified Steward Tony Spain, Chief Cook John Chaney and Steward Assistant Dave Martin. The Seafarers aboard the SLNC Magothy included Recertified Bosun Abdul Hassan, ABs Jerry Gemeniano and Ronald Wikstrom, Oilers Keith Carswell and Jarvis Carter, Steward Baker Tamara Houston and ACU Abdulla Quraish. All three vessels were charted by the U.S. Military Sealift Command. This season, delays in schedules gave the Peary the chance to do an at-sea fuel transfer with the Polar Star on the way to Antarctica. “The slow trudging, wedged together in the ice with Polar Star provided an opportunity to perform a lightering operation,” said the Peary’s Capt. E.M. Hatton. “With only one pump running, we discharged 534,000 gallons of fuel over two days. The operation provided a dress rehearsal for the larger discharge to follow.” Operation Deep Freeze is a joint service, ongoing Defense Support to Civilian Authorities activity in support of the National Science Foundation (NSF), lead agency for the United States Antarctic Program. SIU members have participated in the annual mobilization for decades. The Seafarers-crewed Ocean Giant conducts cargo offloads at McMurdo Station, Antarctica in mid-January. � 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 2020 Description An account of the resource Headlines: STATE GOVERNMENT ORDERS ADDRESS CHANGE FOR SEAFARERS HEADQUARTERS ACTING DHS SECRETARY BACKS JONES ACT PUERTO RICO RELIEF EFFORTS CONTINUE STUDY STRESSES VALUE OF JONES ACT, MARITIME INDUSTRIAL BASE FORMER CONGRESSMAN DEFENDS U.S. SHIPBUILDING SEAFARERS MOURN PASSING OF FRANK PECQUEX UNION, AMA-REPRESENTED COMPANIES SIGN OFF ON ARRAY OF CORONAVIRUS PROTECTIVE PROTOCOLS WHOOPING COUGH COULD AFFECT INDIVIDUALS ACROSS AGE SPECTRUM LNG CONVERSION PROJECTS CONTINUES SEAFARERS DELIVER IN 'DEEP FREEZE' Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 4/1/2020 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 VOLUME 82, NO. 4 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/7ce2c4853add666aeded0aa5410219b4.pdf 5aac2007c75d86357bd76cbbc3a6b46f PDF Text Text FEBRUARY 2020 VOLUME 82, NO. 2 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Matson ConRo Lurline Joins Jones Act Fleet Seafarers are sailing aboard the new combination container roll-on/roll-off vessel Lurline, a union-built ship which was delivered to Matson Dec. 26. The SIU represents steward department mariners on the Lurline, which is sailing in the Jones Act trade. Page 3. (Photo courtesy General Dynamics NASSCO) Relief Supplies Donated, Shipped to Puerto Rico Initial relief supplies for Puerto Rico were loaded aboard the SIU-crewed Crowley vessel Taino on Jan. 14 in Jacksonville, Florida. Donations came in through the hiring hall, while Crowley donated use and transport of the 20-foot container. The relief items, including pallets of water, were delivered later in the week as the territory dealt with damage from recent earthquakes. As noted by SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins, “This is a team effort between the union, Crowley and the Greater South Florida Maritime Trades Council (part of the Maritime Trades Department).” Pictured aboard the Taino are (from left) Recertified Bosun Donley Johnson, ABM Juan Negron, QMED Sherrod Frazier, SIU Jacksonville Port Agent Ashley Nelson, AB Sonny Perez, QEE Carlos Parrilla and ABM Arthur Patterson. Rescues at Sea Pages 2, 5 Bisso Pact Approved Page 4 Tax Tips for 2020 Pages 13-16 �President’s Report Generosity of Seafarers Continues Our members individually and our union as a whole regularly step up to assist others, and such behavior once again proved evident during the holidays and into the early part of the new year. Most recently, Seafarers teamed up with one of our contracted operators (Crowley Maritime) and the Greater South Florida Maritime Trades Council (part of the Maritime Trades Department) for donations and shipments of relief supplies to Puerto Rico. This will not be a one-time outreach by the SIU as the territory recovers from yet another natural disaster (in this case, earthquakes). As we showed following Hurricane Maria in 2017, we will do everything possible to help our Puerto Rican brothers and sisters rebuild and recover. Leading up to Christmas, the SIU also participated in traditional community outreach from coast to coast. As reported elsewhere in this edition, those activities included toy drives in Tacoma, Washington; Jersey City, New Jersey; and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The Tacoma project directly benefits U.S. military families, and it’s something we’ve done since 2007. All of those efforts are done from the heart. We are part of the community wherever we live and work, and we’re Michael Sacco happy to provide a boost to others, whether it involves a simple donation or something far more complex, like our annual participation in “Paint Tacoma Beautiful” during the summer. It’s who we are. New Tonnage Something else that hasn’t changed is the influx of new tonnage to the American-flag fleet. At press time, the SIU welcomed the reflagging of the tanker Maersk Misaki under the Stars and Stripes. A few weeks earlier, Matson took delivery of its brand new union-built ConRo Lurline. These developments followed the flag-ins of the Marine Personnel and Provisioning containership Rio Grande Express and three car carriers operated by TOTE for American Roll-on/Roll-Off Carrier. And in case you missed our “decade in review” coverage, it’s worth repeating that in the past 10 years, the SIU welcomed well over 100 new ships, tugs, ferries and other vessels. Some were brand new, some were flag-ins, and they landed in different segments of our fleet (deep sea, inland, Great Lakes). But they all signify jobs and job security for SIU members. Election Day Whether you can’t get enough political news or you’ve tried to unplug or you’re somewhere in between, you undoubtedly know that 2020 is an election year. As always, the race for the White House will get most of the headlines, but there are also 35 Senate seats up for grabs (counting two special elections), and of course all of the positions in the House are on the ballot every two years. States will conduct legislative elections and 11 of them will elect governors. And then there are all sorts of local races. As always, I encourage all Seafarers to support pro-maritime, pro-worker candidates, regardless of political party. Make sure you’re registered to vote, attend your union meetings, and keep an eye on the LOG and on our website. At minimum, we’ll have information about SIU-backed candidates available at the hiring halls. (This is also an election year for the SIU, and I encourage you to exercise your right to cast a ballot. Future editions of the LOG will contain voting procedures and eligibility rules.) You all understand that our industry is heavily regulated, and we depend on political backing for survival. With that in mind, if you can spare the time, please pitch in however possible – block walks, phone banks, handing out leaflets, etc. If you haven’t heard from your hall as Election Day nears, check with them. It’s also important to contribute to SPAD, the SIU’s voluntary political action fund. SPAD helps us help you. Fourth Arm of Defense Ready Although tensions in the Middle East have de-escalated as of this writing, I know that all of our crews sailing overseas are staying alert and ready while maintaining their usual professionalism. This is particularly important in light of a mid-January safety bulletin from the U.S. Maritime Administration for commercial ships in the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Oman, Arabian Sea, Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean. We are working with our contracted operators and with the Military Sealift Command to help ensure prompt communications, maximum safety and full preparedness in any circumstance. Meanwhile, I salute our Seafarers for staying focused on the tasks at hand. O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 82 Number 2 February 2020 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2020 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. The Maersk Kinloss deck crew includes, from left to right: AB Khaled Mohamed, AB John Worae, AB Tino Guity, Recertified Bosun Rufino Giray and AB Celso Zuniga Sr. Maersk Kinloss Rescues 3 Though not meant as a holiday gift, the selflessness of the SIU-crewed Maersk Kinloss was gratefully received by three adrift individuals one week before Christmas. On Dec. 18, the Kinloss rescued three fishermen who had been adrift in what appeared to be a large plastic septic tank. They had been clinging to life for almost three weeks in the Arabian Sea following the loss of their fishing boat. The rescue began after dinner, a few hours before the crew was set to maneuver into Salalah, Oman. The bridge crew spotted the floating tank after one of the stranded fishermen managed to attract their attention with a flashlight. The crew of the Kinloss mobilized to rescue the fishermen before their makeshift vessel capsized. “I got called by the captain and got down to the gangway,” said Recertified Bosun Rufino Giray. “We saw the plastic canister they were riding.... I rigged the port-side ladder and was in the front of the line to pick them up.” The SIU members aboard the Kinloss included Bosun Giray, ABs David Fridstrom, Tino Guity, Khaled Mohamed, Miguelito Salada, John Worae and Celso Zuniga, QE4 Cirico Geonanga, QEE Julian Avila, GUDE Solomon Godwin, Steward/Baker Caezar Mercado, Chief Cook Gertrudis Arzu and SA Melvin Ellis. The containership’s owner and operating company, SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL), informed U.S. Navy Central Command it had rescued the men, who’d been stranded at sea for weeks, according to a Navy news release. “The rescue,” the statement reads, “is an example of professional mariners rendering assistance to others in distress at sea, a responsibility and mis- sion that we in the U.S. Navy share and take very seriously.” The vessel’s captain noted that the crew of the Kinloss had just practiced a man-overboard/Williamson turn as part of a drill two days before. That refresher came in handy and the crew managed to maneuver the vessel within a few meters of the floating tank as several engineers joined the rescue team on deck. A life ring was deployed and the fishermen were able to climb the pilot ladder with some assistance. The tank capsized during the rescue, but all three fishermen were successfully rescued. They were medically treated, clothed and fed, and later transferred to the Omani Coast Guard MLL Vice President of Labor and Marine Standards Ed Hanley stated, “Rendering assistance to save lives if possible is not only international law and custom of the sea, but it is also the right thing to do. “Sadly, the Iranians said that in the course of being adrift over 19 days, several other ships had stopped, provided them with food and water, but refused to take them aboard. Whether this was to avoid the cost of delays associated with rescue efforts or for other reasons, we can never know.” Giray concluded, “Helping other people at sea when they get stranded is important. When I saw their faces, they knelt down on deck and were obviously really happy they were still alive. Nineteen days at sea in those conditions is not fun at all.... The ABs that I was working with, they’re professional and they were a big help.” He also credited the training he received at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education as being a key component to the success of the rescue. SIU Jobs Secure in ATC Sale Seafarers-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG) in late December announced an agreement to purchase three U.S.-flagged crude oil carrier vessels operated by Alaska Tanker Company LLC (ATC). OSG is a founding member of ATC with an existing 37.5% ownership interest. As part of the above transaction, OSG will also acquire the remaining 62.5% interest of ATC that it does not own. Completion of the transaction is subject to approval of the U.S. Maritime Administration, U.S. Coast Guard and other regulatory agencies. ATC is an SIU-contracted business and all SIU shipboard jobs will be maintained as ATC becomes a wholly owned subsidiary of OSG. The three operating vessels affected, all of which sail in the Jones Act trade, are the Alaskan Legend, Alaskan Navigator and Alaskan Explorer (pictured late last year at the end of a scheduled shipyard period in Singapore). A fourth vessel, the Alaska Frontier, currently in lay-up in Malaysia, is not included in the transaction announced in December. Reversed to White Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG February 2020 �Congress Extends U.S. Maritime Security Program 2019 Ends with Flurry of Legislative Victories for Industry Before members of Congress left Washington late last year to head home for the holidays, the House and Senate both passed major spending bills, which were signed by President Trump, that contain significant wins for the U.S.-flag maritime industry. Within the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2020 was an SIU-backed component extending the Maritime Security Program (MSP) by 10 years, through fiscal year 2035. Additionally, the MSP stipend was boosted to $5.3 million per vessel beginning in 2022, followed by gradual increases to $6.8 million in 2032. Enacted in 1996, the MSP ensures that the Defense Department has access to a fleet of U.S.-crewed, U.S.-flagged, militarily useful vessels in times of war or national emergency. In exchange, U.S.-flag companies whose ships are enrolled in the program receive an annual stipend. The MSP and its related Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement have saved the federal government billions of dollars that would be needed to replicate its efforts. Sixty ships currently are included in the MSP, and Congress still must approve the stipends annually. Moreover, the NDAA authorized an MSP-like cable ship program beginning in fiscal year 2021. It provides a $5 million per-vessel stipend for two privately owned cable installation vessels. A program involving U.S.-flag tankers also may be on the horizon thanks to the recently enacted legislation. The Defense bill mandates a report on American-flag tanker vessel capacity from the Secretary of Defense. The report will be created in conjunction with the Secretary of Transportation. Also within the NDAA is language aimed at making the transition from the U.S. Coast Guard to the U.S. Merchant Marine easier. It includes a study on the availability of Jones Act vessels for offshore wind farm work. A second and much larger appro- “What we and the rest of maritime labor were able to accomplish in 2019 is nothing short of incredible. In a year where everyone has been complaining about gridlock, and with Democrats and Republicans fighting on almost every issue, we were able to get significant victories that provide job security and stability for our membership and keep America safe ... ” - Brian Schoeneman, SIU Political and Legislative Director priations bill (which covers the federal government through September 2020) reauthorized the U.S. Export-Import Bank for seven years. Cargo generated by Ex-Im Bank funds must be moved overseas on U.S.-crewed, U.S.-flagged vessels. It permitted the bank’s board to authorize loans in the event it lacks a quorum. The package also included $1.7 billion for the Food for Peace Program (PL 480). Fifty percent of the cargo must be moved aboard U.S.-crewed, U.S.-flagged vessels. The fiscal year 2020 bill contained New Jobs Aboard M/V Winters Seafarers are sailing aboard Sealift Inc.’s cargo ship M/V Maj. Richard Winters, which entered the fleet last year. Sealift purchased the vessel and reflagged it in Port Arthur, Texas. The 350-foot-long ship is sailing in North Atlantic trades. Pictured from left to right outside the vessel (photo above) are SIU Houston Safety Director Kevin Sykes and AB Elvin Ruiz. Pictured from left in the photo below are SIU Houston Port Agent Joe Zavala, OMU Vincent Hall, Sykes, Ruiz, OMU Thomas Zamora and Steward/Baker Lonnie Myers. February 2020 more than $75 million for the construction of a new larger lock within the Soo Locks system between Lake Superior and the rest of the Great Lakes. Presently, only one of the three operational locks – the Poe Lock – can handle the longest thousand-footers that ply the Lakes. Maritime and business experts have conjectured for years that if the Poe Lock (built in 1968) ever became disabled for an extended time during the sailing season, it could lead to an economic disaster for that U.S.-Canadian area. The Lake Carriers’ Association, which represents the U.S.-flag Great Lakes fleet, reported the Soo Locks is responsible for 87,000 American jobs, paying $6.4 billion in salaries and generating $17.4 billion in economic activity in the U.S. Complementing the new resources will be $52 million provided by the state of Michigan in 2018 as well as $32 million from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 2019 discretionary work funds. Jim Weakley, president of the asso- ciation, stated, “These funds will lay the groundwork for the next big step – the construction of the lock chamber. With continued efficient funding, the construction of the new lock could be complete in as little as seven years.” Congress authorized construction of a new lock in 1986, but funding was never granted. In 2015, the Department of Homeland Security pointed out a 2007 Army Corps of Engineers study stating there was no need for a second Poe-sized lock contained flawed data. In addition, the appropriations legislation had good news for many unions. It repealed the so-called “Cadillac” tax on quality health care coverage that could have adversely affected millions of union members and their families. It also provided funding for the American Miners Act that secures the pensions and health care for thousands of Mine Workers and their families. “What we and the rest of maritime labor were able to accomplish in 2019 is nothing short of incredible,” said Brian Schoeneman, the SIU’s Political and Legislative Director. “In a year where everyone has been complaining about gridlock, and with Democrats and Republicans fighting on almost every issue, we were able to get significant victories that provide job security and stability for our membership and keep America safe. These wins demonstrate that the SIU’s bipartisan approach, made possible through the membership’s support for SPAD, can get things done even in the toughest political environments.” ConRo Lurline Joins Matson’s SIU Fleet The period between Christmas and New Year’s Day typically is slow in many workplaces, but not for Seafarers who are sailing aboard Matson’s newest ship. The combination container roll-on/roll-off (ConRo) vessel Lurline was delivered Dec. 26, and SIU members climbed the gangway a day later. The union represents steward department mariners on the Lurline, which is sailing in the Jones Act trade. “What better way to kick off 2020 than with new jobs on a new ship?” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “As always, I am fully confident that the members aboard the Lurline will rise to the occasion and will do a typically outstanding job.” Built buy union workers in San Diego at General Dynamics NASSCO, the Lurline is 870 feet long and has a beam of 114 feet. The ship has a deep draft of 38 feet and weighs in at more than 50,000 metric tons. It is one of Matson’s fastest vessels, with a top speed of 23 knots, helping ensure on-time deliveries in Hawaii from the company’s three West Coast terminals in Seattle, Oakland and Long Beach, California. Recertified Steward Stephen Valencia said from aboard the vessel, “Things are going very well. We have a three-person steward department. The galley is very modern and functional, and the vessel overall is one of the most modern ships in the American fleet. Matson went all-out.” Valencia particularly complimented the living quarters. “The staterooms are the finest and most comfortable I’ve seen on a ship,” he said. “You have your own room, your own TV, your own bathroom. When I first started sailing (in 1974), there were four guys to a room and the bathroom was down the hall.” Billed as the largest American-built ConRo, it’s the sixth Matson vessel named Lurline, dating to 1887. NASSCO also is building a second ConRo for Matson; that ship is expected to enter service in the third quarter of this year. “We are proud to deliver the lead ship of the Kanaloa Class,” said Dave Carver, president of General Dynamics NASSCO. “It is an honor for our design and production teams to work on the latest Jones Act vessels that will support our customers and the communities they serve.” According to Matson, “Both new Kanaloa Class vessels will have an enclosed garage with room for approximately 500 vehicles, plus ample space for rolling stock and breakbulk cargo. They will also feature stateof-the-art green technology, including a fuel-efficient hull design, environmentally safe double hull fuel tanks, fresh water ballast systems and the first Tier 3 dual fuel engines to be deployed in containerships serving West Coast ports. Both new vessels will enter service fully compliant with new International Maritime Organization (IMO) emission regulations going into effect January 1, 2020.” Under the latest IMO requirements for engine manufacturers, Tier 3 engines reduce the levels of particulate emissions by 40 percent and nitrogen oxide emissions by 20 percent, as compared to Tier 2 standards. The Jones Act requires that cargo moving between domestic ports is carried aboard ships that are crewed, built, flagged and owned American. The century-old law, which has extensive bipartisan support, helps protect U.S. national, economic and homeland security. A newer study by PricewaterhouseCoopers found that the nation’s freight cabotage law helps sustain nearly 650,000 American jobs while contributing $154 billion to the nation’s economic growth annually. The new ship is pictured during its christening last summer. The Lurline was delivered to Matson on Dec. 26. Seafarers LOG 3 �Gathering at the conclusion of negotiations are (from left) Seafarer Kevin Wells, Bisso Operations Manager Timothy Michel, Seafarer Jacob Toler, Bisso President Matthew Holzhalb, Bisso CFO Casey Willis, Bisso VP Mike Vitt, SIU New Orleans Port Agent Chris Westbrook and Seafarers Todd Rabalais and Nick Narvaez. Bisso Crews Ratify Three-Year Contract SIU boatmen employed by E.N. Bisso & Son have approved a new three-year contract highlighted by annual wage increases. Negotiations took place Nov. 19-20 in Kenner, Louisiana, followed by ratification on the boats Nov. 20-29. The pact was approved by an overwhelming majority, according to SIU New Orleans Port Agent Chris Westbrook, who headed up the union’s negotiating committee. Rounding out the SIU bargaining group were Engineer Todd Rabalais, Wheelman Nick Narvaez, Deckhand Jacob Toler and Engineer Kevin Wells. The contract covers 70 Seafarers who operate the company’s 13 boats in ship-docking and offshore towing. The agreement maintains health benefits at the top level (Core Plus), adds a holiday, and boosts vacation days for longer-tenured employees. It also increases incentive pay with certain manning scales. Wells stated, “Negotiations went well and everybody is pleased with the outcome. As far as the SIU and E.N. Bisso, I’m pretty sure we’re going to have a bright future together – move forward and continue to get better.” He added, “Bisso was willing to listen; it wasn’t a fight. They understand what we needed, and their willingness to work with the SIU and the employees were the best parts of the experience. The future looks bright, and also, hats off to Chris. He worked hard and did an excellent job.” Narvaez said the contract’s highlights included getting an extra holiday and increased pay for wheelmen. He described the negotiating sessions as “cordial, professional. Everything went okay.” Westbrook credited the committee for its work. “We set out with some specific objectives and were able to attain them,” he said. “We collected suggestion forms from the members along with delegate election sheets, and put a clear proposal forward. This was really a fantastic committee; they did a tremendous job putting the issues on the table and making valid points.” Westbrook continued, “The contract shows that the company really appreciates the value of tenure and the stability of the workforce. They used to have a lot of turnover, but they’re now on par with our other inland companies in terms of employee retention. Bisso did a great job stepping up to the plate to really show they value the employees and they want to retain and attract qualified, professional mariners. You’ve got to applaud them for that.” Pictured from left are members Kevin Wells, Dickie Valois and Farryl Wiggins, SIU New Orleans Port Agent Chris Westbrook and members Matthew Holmes, Jacob Toler, Cale Carlson and Zach Norris. Retired Port Agent Bensman Passes Away at 90 Retired Port Agent Donald Bensman 4 Seafarers LOG When Donald Bensman retired from sailing in late 1992, the former SIU port agent and organizer offered two messages to new members of the union. First, he said, don’t take for granted all the benefits of union representation. And second, remember the importance of the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Bensman passed away Dec. 5 at a medical rehabilitation center in Maumee, Ohio. He was 90. “He worked hard to try to make other people’s lives better,” said his son, Jonathan. “He would help anybody at any time.” Bensman remained politically active following his retirement, especially in the Lucas County, Ohio, Democratic Party. “He paid attention to everything from the local precincts to the White House,” U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio) told the Toledo Blade. “Donald was an extraordinary labor leader and patriot. He knew the Great Lakes and championed their cause throughout his life. He tried to make a difference in the lives of working men and women across our region.” Bensman entered the maritime industry at age 15 – he started sailing on the Great Lakes in 1945. His career spanned nearly half a century, only interrupted by service in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, and included substantial time both as an engine department mariner and as a union representative. Bensman was part of the SIU’s early organizing efforts on the Lakes; he helped bring American Steamship Company, Reiss, and Kinsman Marine Transport (among others) under the SIU umbrella. He became the union’s port agent in Duluth, Minnesota, in 1962 and helped establish AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Port Councils in the Cleveland, Detroit, and Toledo, Ohio, metro areas. He returned to sailing in the mid-1970s; his last vessel was the Paul Thayer. When Bensman visited SIU headquarters upon his retirement, he reflected on the progress made by maritime unions throughout the years. “A lot of people forget how rotten the companies were back then (before significant numbers of mariners gained union representation),” he said. “A lot of new members don’t understand that and don’t know what we fought for.” For example, Bensman said the pre-union era was one of firings on the spot for little or no reason. No seaman had a right to a grievance procedure or fair hearing. He also said it was a period of almost legalized blackballing. During that same interview, he was asked what advice he would give to a person entering the union. He replied, “Get an education. The greatest legacy (the late SIU President) Paul Hall and others left this union is the school in Piney Point. That is the only reason we are alive as a union – because we have stayed up-to-date in technology advances and we train people to stay that way.” Bensman was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Patsy, in 2012. Survivors include two children, a brother and two grandchildren. February 2020 �Maersk Columbus Crew Helps Save 11 The SIU-crewed Maersk Columbus recently played a vital role in a successful search-and-rescue mission off the coast of Spain. SIU members teamed up with mariners from the MEBA and MM&P to assist 11 Algerian individuals (including a small child and an infant) who were in a small rubber boat, trying to sail to Spain. The mariners received a thank-you letter from the Spanish Maritime Safety Agency that read in part, “We would like to express our deepest appreciation for the assistance that your vessel, M/V Maersk Columbus provided to MCC Almeria to locate a small rubber boat with several persons on board…. The actions of [your] Master and the Crew are keeping with the highest traditions of Maritime Search and Rescue. We are pleased to convey our special thanks to you and your crew for a job well done.” Maersk Columbus vessel master Capt. John C. Finney provided the following recap: On November 30, 2019 at about 2000 hours, the Maersk Columbus received a radio call from RCC ALMERIA in Spain, asking if we could assist in a search for a small boat, with unknown persons aboard. All hands were mustered, and the ship turned about, to begin the search. Extra lookouts were posted and bridge wing search lights were manned. A SAR aircraft gave us a bearing from our position to the last suspected position of the small craft. With the engine room now fully manned, the Captain began slowing the ship as we came about onto the search course. The SAR aircraft was instrumental in locating the craft, as the craft had no lights showing, and the night was very dark. Suddenly, small flashing lights were seen off the ship’s port bow. The craft turned out to be a small black rubber boat, with 11 persons on board, including one small child and one infant. They had managed to use their cellphones as lights to attract our attention. First, the ship was slowed and maneuvered into hailing distance of the small boat. The Chief Mate, being fluent in Arabic, was sent down to main deck to try and establish communication with the people in the boat, and to get an accurate count of persons on board. We reported back to RCC ALMERIA our findings. The Chief Mate was able to determine that all persons were Algerian, and discovered that they had “lost their way” as they were attempting to cross the Med from Algeria to Many of the Maersk Columbus mariners are pictured above. Spain. The Mate could see that they had food, water, and fuel on board the small boat, and that the boat was not taking on water. At first, the RCC asked if we could launch our Rescue boat and take the persons on board. Due to the rough conditions, the Captain advised the RCC that launching the rescue boat would put more people at risk. The RCC advised that there was a Spanish patrol boat in the area, but it was involved in another rescue several miles to the north, and that it would be close to an hour before they could assist. The captain informed the RCC that we would remain on station alongside the small boat until the patrol arrived. The RCC concurred, and proceeded to keep the ship informed of the patrol boat’s ETA to our position. The ship’s crew kept search lights manned and on the small boat, and the Chief Mate stayed on deck to assure them that help was on the way. The Captain had the Mate tell them that we would not leave them, that we would stay as long as it took for the patrol boat to arrive. The Captain maneuvered the ship to create a lee off the port side, and instructed the Mate to tell the person in charge on the little boat to stay in the lee, and to stay right alongside the ship. The Spanish patrol boat arrived on scene at about 2120 hours, and proceeded to take all persons from the small boat on board the patrol boat. Once all persons were safely on board the patrol boat, RCC AMERIA was notified, and at about 2145 hours, we were released to continue on to our next port of call. MM&P members on board: Capt. John Finney, C/M Marwan Elsamny, 2/M Greg Danaher, 3/M Cassandra Clark. MEBA members on board: C/E Jon Schmidt, 1/E Frank Whelpley, 2/E Julianne Cona, 3/E Seth Kaye. SIU members on board: Recertified Bosun Ion Irimia, Daymen Eduardo Barlas and Sacarias Suazo, ABs Jerzy Marciniak, Marcos Santos Gamboa, and Jose Calix, Electrician Tousif Ahmed, QMED George Santiago, DEU Amado Laboriel-Reyes, Chief Steward Fernando Lopes, Chief Cook Adele Messina, and SA Angel Corchado. Submitted on behalf of the Officers and Crew of the MV MAERSK COLUMBUS. Respectfully, Capt. John C. Finney Master, MAERSK COLUMBUS The Algerians (photo at right) are shown alongside the SIU-crewed ship and being pulled to safety by a Spanish patrol boat (above). February 2020 Seafarers LOG 5 �Former DOL Deputy Lauds SIU, Paul Hall Center Seth Harris, former Acting U.S. Secretary and Deputy U.S. Secretary of Labor, gave testimony to the House Education and Labor Committee Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Investment in December 2019. During that testimony, Harris cited the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education as an example of what union training schools can do for the global workforce. As Harris said in his testimony, “The success of registered apprenticeships and other labor-management training and job placement programs do not just happen to include unions. They are successful because of unions.” He then offered a few reasons for this, including higher union member wages and workplace accountability when it comes to investments in training. “I can offer evidence based on my own experience working for the Seafarers Inter- national Union in the 1980s,” he continued. (Harris was a field representative for the SIU during that timeframe.) “The SIU is a union of merchant mariners. Young people from around the country, most of whom may not be prospects for traditional higher education, enroll in the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Maryland. The Lundeberg School is … financed by the companies whose employees it represents. He then described the apprentice program and the options for upgrading – “known in the workforce development world as upskilling or reskilling,” Harris said. “Many members plan their careers around upgrading opportunities at Piney Point. Then, with a new credential in hand, they know they can ship out in a higherskilled, better-paying job for another period of several months, and then return to Piney Point to earn another specialized credential.” Later in his testimony, he lauded the career paths available to Seafarers. “SIU members do not have to guess which skills and credentials to pursue,” Harris stated. “They know exactly what skills and credentials they need to make themselves more valuable to their employers. Their union and the employers with which it works have solved this problem. SIU members also do not navigate career pathways on their own. They had clear and well-established career pathways even before the phrase ‘career pathways’ had been coined. Those career pathways have been married to a skills acquisition curriculum. As a result, SIU members know exactly how they can climb career ladders by acquiring welldefined competencies and credentials.” He added, “Most fundamentally, if job training is about upward mobility, then it is a core and necessary part of unions’ mission. Simply, if we had more unions and union members, we have would have more workers able to access successful skills and knowledge acquisition programs to advance up well-defined and rational career ladders.” Harris also backed House legislation that aims to boost America’s working families: the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act. “The PRO Act would help to reverse the long-term decline in union density and give workers a free and fair choice to organize a union and bargain collectively with their employers about skills acquisition, career pathways, and many other issues,” Harris testified. “That is the promise of the National Labor Relations Act. The PRO Act will help us to achieve that promise.” U.S. Senate Passes Bill Honoring Maritime Briefs World War II Merchant Mariners The U.S. Senate – by unanimous consent – passed the Merchant Mariners Congressional Gold Medal Act with a minor language amendment on Dec. 19. Having been passed unanimously by the House of Representatives on Sept. 19, the bill now returns to the House for one more vote (expected to be a formality) before it is sent to the White House for the president’s signature. The legislation, sponsored in the House by Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) and in the Senate by Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), authorizes the creation of a gold medal to honor the U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II. The medal would be displayed in the American Merchant Marine Museum at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in New York. Duplicates then would be struck and made available to the public. The SIU and the Transportation Institute, alongside a number of other backers, took lead roles in obtaining co-sponsors for both the House and Senate bills. More than 1,200 SIU members lost their lives in wartime service during World War II. “Despite their loyalty and patriotic services and commitment to the United States, our World War II Mer- chant Mariners didn’t receive their veteran status until nearly 40 years after the war had ended,” Murkowski said. “The merchant mariners provided crucial services during World War II by transporting soldiers, tanks, airplanes, ammunition, fuel and food to aid soldiers on the front lines. This legislation recognizes the unsung heroes of the World War II conflict, for their loyalty and bravery, as they risked their lives to keep the Allied troops properly equipped. I’m thankful my Senate colleagues recognize the importance of honoring the brave merchant mariners for their pivotal role in our nation’s history and their efforts in defense of freedom.” The House version of the bill was initially co-sponsored by Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska) and Rep. Susan Brooks (R-Indiana). In the Senate, the bill was initially co-sponsored by Sen. Angus King, Jr. (I-Maine), Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Washington) and Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island). The bill eventually gathered 72 co-sponsors in the Senate and 302 in the House. “The time has come for our nation to provide a well-deserved thank you and honor the remaining U.S. Merchant Marine Veterans of World War II with a Congressional Gold Medal,” said Christian Yuhas, vice president of the American Merchant Marine Veterans (AMMV). The AMMV helped champion this bill, as well as similar legislation in the past. Yuhas continued, “This group of unsung heroes nobly served our country by operating the ships that transported critical supplies to front lines of the war, and in doing so suffered a casualty rate higher than any other branch of the military. In fact, one out of every 26 casualties during World War II was a volunteer merchant mariner. America would not be the great nation it is today without their valiant service of yesterday. I urge Congress to support this important bill and recognize this dwindling group of merchant marine veterans from World War II that have served our nation so admirably.” Despite seeing action and danger across the globe during the war, merchant mariners were excluded from any type of veterans’ status until 1988. Even then, mariners received a fraction of what others who served during World War II obtained. There are approximately 4,000 World War II U.S. Merchant Mariners alive today, according to Murkowski’s office. VERTREP in the Atlantic Sealif t Awarded Contract, SIU Retains Jobs SIU-contracted Sealift, Inc., has been awarded a new $7.9 million contract to continue operating the U.S. Army ammunition prepositioning vessel M/V LTC John U.D. Page. The contract can be extended through November 15, 2024. The ship is owned by Military Sealift Command, and will continue to employ SIU members in every department. Random Drug Testing Rate Set for 2020 The Coast Guard has set the minimum random drug testing rate for calendar year 2020 at 50 percent for covered crew members. The Coast Guard requires marine employers to establish random drug testing programs for covered crew members in accordance with 46 CFR 16.230. As stated by the Coast Guard, the purpose of setting a minimum random drug testing rate is to promote maritime safety by establishing an effective deterrent to drug misuse within the maritime workforce. Extension of Qualified Assessor Requirements The Coast Guard has issued an update to the requirements for Qualified Assessor (QA), and addressed the potentially inadequate amount of approved QAs available to sign off on Assessments of Competence for STCW endorsements. As stated in a recent news release, “The Coast Guard is aware that as a result of the limited number of approved QAs, there may be a hardship on mariners trying to complete STCW assessments after December 31, 2019. In consideration of this, the Coast Guard will continue to allow STCW assessments to be signed by an assessor who meets the requirements specified in NVIC 19-14 until December 31, 2021.” Additionally, mariners are encouraged to obtain approval as a QA in accordance with 46 CFR 10.405(a). T-AGOS Extension Requires Addit ional Medicine on Deployment In an SIU contract extension covering T-AGOS vessels, all crew are now required to carry enough of their prescribed drugs to last 60 days beyond the length of the deployment. As stated in the contract, “The Medical Department Representative (MDR) will review crew, embarked personnel medical records, and verify that all personnel have arrived with deployment plus sixtyday supply of all required prescription medications onboard ship at the time of assignment.... The member should also bring spare glasses or contact lens on the ship during assignments.” The USNS William McLean (foreground), crewed by CIVMARS from the SIU Government Services Division, delivers cargo to the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan via a Sea Hawk helicopter in the Atlantic. The vertical replenishment took place Dec. 31. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kathryn E. Macdonald) 6 Seafarers LOG USMMI Reaches Safety Milestone U.S Marine Management Inc. (USMMI), a subsidiary of SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited, has reported attaining a significant safety goal. It’s been one year since they last experienced a lost-time accident (LTA) aboard any of the vessels they own or operate for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. According to Maersk Line, Limited’s Contracting and Procurement Senior Director David Sloane, “This is evidence that our Safety Management System is effective and that our policies and procedures as implemented match our goal of ensuring that all of our mariners go home to their families injury-free after they complete their shipboard assignments.” February 2020 �Members Ring in Holidays at Halls The union’s tradition of hosting winter holiday events for members and their families at the hiring halls dates back almost to the SIU’s founding in 1938. The custom continued late last year at numerous halls, as did the SIU’s practice of contributing to their communities. For instance, members donated toys and other items in Jersey City, New Jersey, and in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to community Baltimore service organizations who in turn assist local families. (See related story, back page.) The photos on these two pages were taken at the following halls: Houston; Fort Lauderdale; Baltimore; Mobile, Alabama; Jersey City; and Jacksonville, Florida. Additional snapshots from these gatherings and others are available on the SIU’s Facebook page (@SeafarersInternational). Houston Safety Director Kevin Sykes (second from left) and guests Retired Recertified Steward Denis Burke, Patrolman J.B. Niday, Recertified Bosun Emanuel Gazzier SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez, Port Agent John Hoskins, VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi Fort Lauderdale AB Ahmed Mohamad Seafarers generously stepped up with these donations to LifeNet4Families, which aids citizens of Broward County, Florida. Administrative Assistant Brenda Janne (right) and granddaughter Mia QMED Tim Chestnut (foreground), AB Ahmed Mohamad February 2020 Loading the donated items are (from left) Pumpman Dan Coffey, Chief Cook Jorge Ellis and a LifeNet staff member. OMU Hipolita Roches (not pictured) also assisted. Jersey City Seafarers, officials, staff and guests gather near a few of the donations that were sent to LSA Family Health Service, a neighborhood-based nonprofit founded by The Little Sisters of the Assumption in 1958. For more holiday photos from union hiring halls, see next page. Seafarers LOG 7 �More Holiday Activities Photos from SIU Hiring Halls Jacksonville Port Agent Ashley Nelson (center) welcomes pensioner Leon Butler (right) and Leon’s wife, Elizabeth. Brother Butler is still going strong at age 92. Winners of the “ugly sweater” contest, from left: SA Nala Johnson (first place) and TOTE crewing specialists Ella Holman (second) and Shawn Conway (third). Chief Storekeeper Renee Clayton, Safety Director Joseph Koncul, Recertified Bosun Evan Bradley Personnel from the local Seafarers-contracted health clinic Mobile Port Agent Jimmy White (standing) welcomes guests. QMED Robert Pendarvis (left) and his son. 8 Seafarers LOG Port Agent Jimmy White (standing) chats with visitors. February 2020 �GRASSROOTS IN HOUSTON – Numerous Seafarers volunteered to support labor-backed candidates ahead of Election Day 2019. Among other activities, they worked phone banks, assisted people in getting to the polls, and helped with the Election Day operations themselves. A few of the SIU personnel are pictured in the group photo above. The snapshot at left includes (from left) SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner and SIU Asst. VP Mike Russo. Turner was reelected. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD SAGAMORE – This snapshot was taken Dec. 10 in Concord, California, shortly after the Sealift Inc. vessel returned from Korea. Pictured from left are Bosun Isaac Amissah, Steward Isabel Miranda, SIU Oakland Port Agent Nick Marrone II, Chief Cook Tkeyah Elliot, SA Ahmed Haridy, AB Moussa Hamdy, OS Rahsean Sharp, (rear) OS Angel Pagan, Oiler Antonio De Luna and Oiler Jeffrey Hamer. WITH MEMBERS IN JERSEY – Pictured from left are SIU Port Agent Ray Henderson and shore gang members Mike Penkwitz, Jimmy Niotis, George DiCanio and Gus Guerra. ABOARD CAPE HUDSON – Steward/Baker Joseph Hernandez focuses on the task at hand aboard the Matsonoperated vessel, on the West Coast. ABOARD HORIZON ENTERPRISE – Pictured on the Sunrise Operations vessel on the West Coast are OMU Benny Orosco, SIU Oakland Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli, AB Andrei Tretyak, Chief Cook Joseph Gallo, retiring Recertified Steward Raymond Garcia, oncoming Recertified Steward Fakhruddin Malahi, SA Steven Wasch, QEE Carlos Guzman and ABM Robert Goldson. NY WATERWAY EMPHASIZES SAFETY – Last November, Seafarers employed by NY Waterway completed an eight-hour class titled Vessel Personnel With Designated Security Duties (VPDSD). The course was run by an instructor from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. It took place at the company’s facilities in Weehawken, New Jersey. Approximately 150 Seafarers completed the class; many are pictured above. February 2020 Seafarers LOG 9 �CAPE VINCENT ACTIVATES – The photo at right was taken during the Patriot ship’s activation late last year, during a port of call stop in Souda Bay, Greece. Starting fourth from left are: Chief Cook Laura McBroom, Electrician Glenn Snow, Recertified Steward Rocky Dupraw, (front) SA Cathleen Dell, SA Kianda Caridine and MM&P Capt. Carbone. At the far right is 3/M Sergio Robles. Other personnel in the photo include security and intelligence team members. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD ALASKAN EXPLORER – Recertified Bosun Carlos Loureiro provided these photos of the ATC vessel, taken during and after a recent shipyard period in Singapore. Pictured in the photo at left (from left) in the galley are Chief Cook Roberto Martinez, the bosun and Chief Steward Justo Reyes. SA David Simon is in the individual shot at right, while the group photo below in the crew mess includes AB Bronislaw Kuchczynski, AB Hussein Mohsen, GUDE Mused Saleh, AB Domingo Cazon, AB Lenny Soriano and AB Charles Ford. ABOARD USNS WRIGHT – Pictured aboard the Crowley-operated ship in Philadelphia are (standing, from left) SIU Safety Director Andre MacCray, Chief Cook Kenneth Kelly, Bosun Tom Moore, SIU Port Agent Joe Baselice, GUDE Martin Arcenio, GVA Dennis Saggese and (front) QEE Gary Torres. FULL BOOK ON THE LAKES – Inland member Taylor Walkowiak (right) receives his full book aboard the ITB Clyde S. VanEnkevort. He’s pictured with SIU Algonac Safety Director Gerret Jarman in Toledo, Ohio. ABOARD USNS MENDONCA – Seafarers and AMO officers team up for lifeboat inspections aboard the U.S. Marine Management ship in Newport News, Virginia. Boats were lowered, and crew members then entered them and conducted on/offload releases and exercised the engines. One participant said temperatures were in the thirties, and the testing was “cold but successful.” Pictured are Chief Mate Jonathan Leck, Third Mate John Joseph Arnold, Third Mate Terrance Franklin, AB Antonio Jones and AB Walter Bonifacio. ABOARD USNS BOWDITCH – Members pause from enjoying a cookout aboard the Ocean Shipholdings-operated vessel. Thanks to AB Melvin Kennedy for the photo. 10 Seafarers LOG February 2020 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD USNS MENDONCA – Vessel master Capt. Jennifer L. Senner commended the work of (photo above, from left) Chief Steward Eileen Mendiola and Chief Cook Garry Brandon, who put out an exceptionally good Christmas spread (a few days early) aboard the U.S. Marine Management ship. “They did a fantastic job,” noted Senner. HEAVENLY DESSERTS – Chief Steward Michael Sanders and some of his culinary delights are pictured aboard the USNS Maury (Ocean Shipholding). Sanders (Piney Point Apprentice Class 673) sails from the port of St. Louis, and his father (Michael, now retired) sailed as an SIU tugboat captain. He says he’s learned a lot about his trade by upgrading back at the Paul Hall Center and eventually hopes to open and operate his own restaurant/bar. With Seafarers Aboard USNS William Button – The deck gang (photo at immediate left) is pictured on Christmas Day aboard the Crowley-operated ship. That’s Recertified Bosun Greg Jackson at front left, who noted, “We went into the New Year with great food. Thanks to the steward department for a good spread.” He and Chief Steward Edwin Bonefont also commended SA Latara Rengifo (that’s her in the photo directly below) for a job well done and for her interest in upgrading. Pictured from left in the group photo at bottom left are Chief Cook James Martin, Bonefont, SA Kenisha Neal, SA Jasmine Donahue, Rengifo and SA Jcorei Williams. February 2020 Seafarers LOG 11 �U.S. Coast Guard Announces Regional Exam Center Changes Editor’s note: The U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center (NMC) on Jan. 15 issued the following notice. It’s available on the NMC website and in the Labor/Maritime News section of the SIU website. The online version of the announcement contains related links. 2020 Mariner Examination Process Updates In an effort to provide consistent, quality customer service to all mariners, the National Maritime Center (NMC) is implementing the following changes at all Regional Examination Centers (RECs). These changes take effect Monday, April 6, 2020: n Walk-in services for examinations will no longer be offered. All examinations must be scheduled at least 2 business days in advance. After receiving a letter from the NMC indicating you are approved to test, schedule an examination appointment by: 1. Using the Schedule Exam/ REC Appointment link on the Examinations page of the NMC Website. 2. Calling the NMC Contact Center at 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662). 3. Contacting the NMC Contact Center by chat. n All RECs will have two examination periods daily, a 3 ½-hour a.m. (morning) session and a 3 ½-hour p.m. (afternoon) session with a minimum ½-hour break between sessions. See the REC webpage for specific hours. n Mariners who finish a module early may take additional mod- ules during an examination period but will not be given additional time to complete the extra modules. Requests for additional modules during a specific examination period are coordinated with the REC staff at the time of examination. n There will be no changes to the First Class Pilot examination process. n Appointments are highly recommended for all other services. See the REC webpage for facility access requirements. Should you have any questions or concerns visit the Examinations or Frequently Asked Questions webpages, or contact the NMC Customer Service Center by e-mailing IASKNMC@uscg.mil, by using the NMC online chat system,or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662). With Seafarers Aboard USNS Stockham Members are pictured aboard the Crowley-operated ship late last year in Yeosu, South Korea. 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 multiemployer pension plan (the “Plan”). It also includes 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 required by federal law. This notice is for the plan year beginning August 1, 2018 and ending July 31, 2019 (the “2018 Plan Year”). How Well Funded Is Your Plan The law requires the administrator of the Plan to tell you how well the Plan is funded, using a measure called the “funded percentage.” The Plan divides its assets by its liabilities on the Valuation Date for the plan year to get this percentage. In general, the higher the percentage, the better funded the plan. The Plan’s funded percentage for the 2018 Plan Year and each of the two preceding plan years is shown in the chart below. The chart also states the value of the Plan’s assets and liabilities for the same period. Valuation Date Funded Percentage Value of Assets Value of Liabilities 2018 Plan Year August 1, 2018 Over 100% $105,673,021 $97,021,217 2017 Plan Year August 1, 2017 Over 100% $104,556,811 $90,405,432 2016 Plan Year August 1, 2016 Over 100% $104,135,946 $91,445,010 Year-End Fair Market Value of Assets The asset values in the chart above are measured as of the Valuation Date. They also are “actuarial values.” Actuarial values differ from market values in that they do not fluctuate daily based on changes in the stock or other markets. Actuarial values smooth out those fluctuations and can allow for more predictable levels of future contributions. Despite the fluctuations, market values tend to show a clearer picture of a plan’s funded status at a given point in time. The asset values in the chart below are market values and are measured on the last day of each plan year. The chart also includes the year-end market value of the Plan’s assets for each of the two preceding plan years. The value of the Plan assets shown as of July 31, 2019 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 2018 annual report filed with the Department of Labor in May 2020. July 31, 2019 Fair Market Value of Assets $104,089,292 July 31, 2018 $105,757,360 July 31, 2017 $104,354,750 Endangered, Critical, or Critical and Declining Status Under federal pension law, a plan generally is in “endangered” status if its funded percentage is less than 80 percent. A plan is in “critical” status if the funded percentage is less than 65 percent (other factors may also apply). A plan is in “critical and declining” status if it is in critical status and is projected to become insolvent (run out of money to pay benefits) within 15 years (or within 20 years if a special rule applies). 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 or critical and declining status, the trustees of the plan are required to adopt a rehabilitation plan. Funding improvement and rehabilitation plans establish steps and benchmarks for pension plans to improve their funding status over a specified period of time. The plan sponsor of a plan in critical and declining status may apply for approval to amend the plan to reduce current and future payment obligations to participants and beneficiaries. The Plan was not in endangered, critical, or critical and declining status in the 2018 Plan Year. Participant Information The total number of participants and beneficiaries covered by the Plan on the valuation date was 2,180. Of this number, 854 were current employees, 1,006 were retired and receiving benefits, and 320 were retired or no longer working for the employer and have a right to future benefits. Funding & Investment Policies Every pension plan must have a procedure to establish a funding policy for plan objectives. A funding policy relates to how much money is needed to pay promised benefits. Plan benefits are funded by employer contributions and investment returns on those contributions. Commencing January 1, 2016, the shipping companies have agreed to make contributions to the Plan, and may agree through collective bargaining in the future to make additional contributions as necessary to satisfy the minimum funding standards of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”) and the Internal Revenue Code (“Code”). The Plan’s funding policy is to continue to fund Plan benefits in this manner in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA and the Code. Pension plans also have investment policies. These generally are written guidelines or general instructions for making 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 2018 Plan Year. These allocations are percentages of total assets: Asset Allocations Percentage 1. Cash (Interest bearing and non-interest bearing) 4.1% 12 Seafarers LOG 2. U.S. Government securities 3. Corporate debt instruments 4. Corporate stocks (other than employer securities): 5. Real estate (other than employer real property): 6. Value of interest in registered investment companies (e.g., mutual funds) 7. Other 0.9% 0.3% 19.1% 9.0% 62.2% 4.4% Right to Request a Copy of the Annual Report Pension plans must file annual reports with the U.S. Department of Labor. The report is called the “Form 5500.” These reports contain financial and other information. You may obtain an electronic copy of your Plan’s annual report by going to www.efast.dol.gov and using the search tool. Annual reports also 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, Ms. Michelle Chang, at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107. Annual reports for the 2016 Plan Year and earlier plan years are available now. The annual report for the 2017 Plan Year will be available when it is filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration in May 2019. Annual reports do not contain personal information, such as the amount of your accrued benefit. You may contact the plan administrator at (415) 764-4993 or the address above if you want information about your accrued benefits. Summary of Rules Governing Insolvent Plans Federal law has a number of special rules that apply to financially troubled multiemployer plans that become insolvent, either as ongoing plans or plans terminated by mass withdrawal. The plan administrator is required by law to include a summary of these rules in the annual funding notice. 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 Plan is not insolvent 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. There are separate insurance programs with different benefit guarantees and other provisions for single-employer plans and multiemployer plans. Your Plan is covered by PBGC’s multiemployer program. 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 $600, 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 ($600/10), which equals $60. The guaranteed amount for a $60 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 addition, the PBGC guarantees qualified preretirement survivor benefits (which are preretirement death benefits payable to the surviving spouse of a participant who dies before starting to receive benefit payments). In calculating a person’s monthly payment, the PBGC will disregard any benefit increases that were made under a 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 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. For additional information about the PBGC and the pension insurance program guarantees, go to the Multiemployer Page on PBGC’s website at www.pbgc.gov/prac/miltiemployer. Please contact your employer or fund administrator for specific information about your pension plan or pension benefit. PBGC does not have that information. See “Where to Get More Information about Your Plan,” below. 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) 7644993. For identification purposes, the official plan number is 001, the plan sponsor is the Board of Trustees of the SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, and the employer identification number or “EIN” is 94-6061923. February 2020 �Whats New for the 2020 Tax Filing Season Following are some of the changes that took effect in 2019 and 2020, along with provisions that remain in effect from 2018. Please check www.irs.gov before filing your return. Due date of return - File Form 1040 by April 15, 2020. Exemptions - For tax years 2018-2025, the deduction for the personal exemption is reduced to zero. Standard Deductions – The standard deduction for married couples filing a joint return has increased to $24,400 for 2019. The standard deduction for single individuals and married couples filing separate returns has increased to $12,200 for 2019. The standard deduction for heads of household increased to $18,350 for 2019. The additional standard deduction for people who have reached age 65 (or who are blind) is $1,300 for married taxpayers or $1,650 for unmarried taxpayers. Itemized Deductions – Before 2018, an individual’s itemized deductions were reduced by 3% of the amount adjusted gross income (AGI) exceeded certain threshold amounts. This phaseout of itemized deductions was eliminated by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (“TCJA”), and therefore does not apply to 2019. State Itemized Deductions - The TCJA modified or eliminated several popular itemized deductions. It is important to note that although the federal deductions have been adjusted, you may still qualify for deductions at the state level. Medical Care Itemized Deduction Threshold - Unreimbursed medical expenses may be claimed as an itemized deduction to the extent they exceed 7.5% of adjusted gross income. The Taxpayer Certainty and Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2019 extended this threshold, eliminating the initial increase to 10% of AGI 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 2019: n Credit of $6,557 if you have three or more qualifying children and you earn less than $50,162 ($55,952 if married filing jointly) n Credit of $5,828 if you have two qualifying children and you earn less than $46,703 ($52,493 if married filing jointly) n Credit of $3,526 if you have one qualifying child and you earn less than $41,094 ($46,884 if married filing jointly), or n Credit of $529 if you do not have a qualifying child and you earn less than $15,570 ($21,370 if married filing jointly) For tax years beginning after 2015 – a SSN is not valid for EIC purposes unless it was issued on or before the due date of the return. For Tax years beginning after 2017, you may be able to qualify for the EIC under the rules for taxpayers without a qualifying child if you have a qualifying child for the EIC who is claimed as a qualifying child by another taxpayer. Social Security and Medicare Taxes - The maximum amount of wages subject to the Social Security tax for 2019 is $132,900. There is no limit on the amount of wages subject to the Medicare tax. In 2019, 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, $125,000 for married filing separately, and $200,000 for all others. This additional assessment also applies to selfemployed workers. For 2020, the maximum amount of wages subject to Social Security tax is $137,700. Self-Employment Tax Rate and Deduction – The FICA portion of the selfemployment tax is 12.4% in 2019. The Medicare portion of the SE tax is 2.9% not including the 0.9% additional tax on the February 2020 amounts above the applicable thresholds as noted above. The SE tax rate for 2020 is 15.3%, and the deduction is equal to onehalf of self-employment tax. Capital Gains and Losses - Continuing from 2012, 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 2019, 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. Personal Casualty and Theft Loss Deduction: For years 2018-2025, the personal casualty and theft loss deduction is eliminated, except for personal casualty losses incurred in a federally declared disaster. The loss is reported on Form 4684 (Casualty and Theft Losses), Part A. A casualty loss equals the lesser of the adjusted basis in the property before the casualty, or the decrease in fair market value of the property as a result of the casualty. Qualified Dividend and Capital Gains Tax Rate – In 2019, the tax rate on longterm gains and qualified dividends is 20% for income that exceeds the following thresholds: n $488,850 for married filing jointly and surviving spouses n $461,700 for head of household n $244,425 for married filing separately n $434,550 for single The tax rate on long-term gains and qualified dividends is 15% for income that is within following range: n $78,751 - $488,850 for married filing jointly and surviving spouses n $52,751 - $461,700 for head of household n $39,376 - $244,425 for married filing separately n $39,376 - $434,550 for single The tax rate on long-term gains and qualified dividends is 0% for income that is below the following thresholds: n $78,750 for married filing jointly and surviving spouses n $52,750 for head of household n $39,375 for married filing separately n $39,375 for single In 2019, capital gain income will be subject to an additional 3.8% Medicare tax for income that exceeds the threshold amounts listed in the next section. Medicare Tax on Investment Income – In 2019, 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 (MAGI) exceeds the threshold amount. The threshold amounts for the additional Medicare tax are as follows: n $250,000 for married filing jointly and surviving spouses n $125,000 for married filing separately n $200,000 for all others 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 has increased to $14,080 per child with adjusted gross income phase out starting at $211,160. 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 2019 tax returns one or more adoption-related documents. Child Tax Credit - The maximum child tax credit for tax year 2019 is $2,000 per child. The child tax credit starts to be reduced when income reaches the following levels: n $200,000 for married couples filing separately n $200,000 for single, head of household, and qualifying widow(er) filers, and n $400,000 for married couples filing jointly The TCJA eliminated the exemption deduction for dependents for year 2019. Therefore, releasing the dependency exemption to the noncustodial parent does not entitle that parent to an exemption deduction; however, it does make the noncustodial parent eligible for the child tax credit with respect to the child. 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). Effective from 2016: Taxpayers cannot claim the Child Tax Credit for any tax year if the individual or a qualifying child did not have an individual SSN issued on or before the due date of the return for that tax year. For tax years beginning after 2015 – the Child Tax Credit is not allowed for (1) two tax years after a final determination of reckless or intentional disregard of rules and regulations or (2) 10 tax years after a final determination of fraud. If the Child Tax Credit is denied due to failure to supply required information to the IRS, no Child Tax Credit is allowed for any later tax year unless the taxpayer supplies the needed information. 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. Child and Dependent Care Credit - For 2019, there is a credit equal to the amount of qualified expenses multiplied by an applicable percentage determined by the taxpayer’s adjusted gross income. The maximum amount of qualified expenses to which the credit may be applied is $3,000 for cost to care for one child under the age of 13 or up to $6,000 for two or more children, so that the parents can either go to work or be in the process of looking for work. There must be earned income in order to take the credit (the credit amount has not changed). The American Opportunity Tax Credit - For tax year 2019, the maximum credit amount can be up to $2,500 and up to 40% 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 $90,000 for Single, Head of Household, and Qualifying Widow(er) n $180,000 for Married Filing Jointly Taxpayers cannot claim the American Opportunity Credit for any tax year if the individual or a student did not have a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) issued on or before the due date of the return for that tax year. For Tax years beginning after 2015, the American Opportunity Credit is not allowed for (1) two tax years after a final determination of reckless or inten- tional disregard of rules and regulations or (2) 10 tax years after a final determination of fraud. If the American Opportunity Credit is denied due to failure to supply required information to the IRS, no American Opportunity Credit is allowed for any later tax year unless the taxpayer supplies the needed information. Taxpayers must report the Employer Identification Number (EIN) of the educational institution to which payments were made. Lifetime Learning Credit - For tax year 2019, 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 your Modified AGI exceeds $58,000 ($116,000 if married filing joint return) and is completely eliminated if your Modified AGI exceeds $68,000 ($136,000 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. Form 1098-T Required to Claim Certain Education Incentives – Taxpayers must receive a form 1098-T, Tuition Statement, from educational institutions to claim the American opportunity credit, the Lifetime Learning tax credit or the above-theline deduction for qualified tuition and fees. Tuition and Fees Deductions – The Taxpayer Certainty and Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2019 extended this deduction through 2020. The deduction is not allowed for Married Filing Separately filers or for any taxpayer who qualifies as a dependent (whether or not claimed) on another taxpayer’s tax return. The tuition and fees deduction may not be claimed if an education credit is claimed for the same student in the same year [IRC Sec. 222 (c)(2)(A)]. Expanded Definition of Qualified Expenses for Qualified Tuition Programs - Qualified higher education expenses generally include tuition, fees, 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. 529 Plan Qualified Education Expenses – The TCJA changed the definition of qualified higher education expense. For purposes of the 529 plan rules, qualified higher education expenses now include expenses for tuition for attendance at an elementary or secondary public, private or religious school [IRC Secs. 529(c)(7) and 530(b)(3)(B)]. Cash distributions from all 529 plans are limited to $10,000 for elementary and secondary school tuition per tax year, per-student. [IRC Sec.529(e)(3) (A)]. Educator Expenses – The Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015 extended the above-the-line 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. For tax years beginning after 2015, eligible expenses also include expenses for professional development courses the educator takes related to the curriculum he/she teaches or to the student he/she teaches. State & Local Sales and Use Tax Deduction – For 2019, the itemized deduction for state and local taxes is limited to $10,000 ($5,000 for MFS) of the aggregate of (1) state and local property taxes and (2) state and local income, war profits and excess profits taxes (or sales taxes in lieu of income, etc. taxes) paid or accrued in the tax year Continued on next page Seafarers LOG 13 �2020 Tax Tips Continued from Page 13 Individual Retirement Accounts Education IRAs (Coverdell Education Savings Account) - Taxpayers can contribute a maximum of $2,000 cash each year to an Education IRA for a person under age 18. The dollar limit is phased out for married individuals filing jointly with modified adjusted gross income between $190,000 and $220,000, and between $95,000 and $110,000 for single filers. The contribution is not deductible. Traditional IRAs - For 2019, the contribution limit to a traditional IRA is the lesser of $6,000 or your compensation. For taxpayers age 50 or older as of year-end, an additional catch-up contribution of up to $1,000 is allowed. Thus, the 2019 contribution limit for these taxpayers is the lesser of $7,000 or your compensation. For the deduction, the Modified Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) phase-out range in 2019 is $64,000-$74,000 for single and head of household, $103,000-$123,000 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 $6,000 (increased to $7,000 for taxpayers age 50 or older at year end) 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 $122,000 and $137,000, for joint filers and qualifying widow(er) with an AGI between $193,000 and $203,000, 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. Special Charitable Contributions for Certain IRA Owners - The Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act of 2015 permanently extends the Qualified Charitable Distributions. It offers older owners of IRAs a different way to give to charity. An IRA owner age 70 and one-half or older can directly transfer, taxfree, 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 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 2019, you may have to file Form 8938 with your return. In addition, a separate FBAR document must be e-filed by April 15, 2020 if the aggregate value of the foreign accounts exceeds $10,000 in any time during the calendar year. Repayment of First-Time Homebuyer Credit - The first-time homebuyer 14 Seafarers LOG credit is not available for homes purchased in 2019. However, taxpayers who claimed the credit, which was available for homes purchased during 2008-2011, may have to repay (recapture) their credits. Mortgage Insurance Premiums – The deduction for mortgage insurance premiums (PMI) has now been extended by the Taxpayer Certainty and Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2019 through 2020. This allows a taxpayer whose income is below certain thresholds to deduct the cost of premiums on mortgage insurance purchased in connection with acquisition indebtedness on a taxpayer’s principal residence. The deduction is reduced by 10% for every $1,000 by which the taxpayer’s AGI exceeds $100,000. Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit – For property placed in service after December 31, 2016 and before January 1, 2022, the credit is available only for eligible solar electric property and solar water heating property. The credit is equal to 30 percent of the cost of eligible property placed in service in 2018 or 2019; 26 percent of the cost of the property placed in 2020; and 22 percent of the cost of property placed in service in 2021. Standard mileage rates - The standard mileage rate for 2019 is 58 cents per mile for business miles driven and was increased to 20 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. Foreign Earned Income Exclusion – For tax year 2019, the maximum foreign earned income exclusion amount is $105,900. This amount is up $2,000 from tax year 2018. The Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) Exemption – In 2019, the AMT exemption amounts increased to $111,700 for married filing jointly, $55,850 for married filing separately, and $71,700 for other filers. The AMT exemption begins to phase out at $1,020,600 for married filing jointly and $510,300 for other filers. Health Care Coverage – For 2019, you no longer need to either make a shared responsibility payment or file Form 8965 if you don’t have essential health care coverage for part or all of 2019. The “Full-year health care coverage or exempt” box has been removed from Form 1040. Premium Tax Credit – Individuals with low to moderate income who get health coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace may be eligible for this refundable credit. Individuals who are eligible for PTC need to meet the following requirements: n Purchased coverage in the Marketplace for someone in their tax family (taxpayer, spouse, if married filing jointly and dependents for which a personal exemption is claimed) for a month that person was not eligible for minimum essential coverage (other than coverage in the individual market). n Have household income at least 100%, but no more than 400% of the federal poverty line for taxpayer’s family size. Exception: In some cases, taxpayers with household income less than 100% of the federal poverty line can take the credit. n If married, individuals must file a joint return. Note: Exceptions apply to victims of domestic abuse or spousal abandonment and to individuals who are considered unmarried. n Cannot be claimed as a dependent by another person. Health Coverage Tax Credit (HCTC) – The Health care tax credit is a tax credit that pays a percentage of health insurance premiums for certain eligible taxpayers and their qualifying family members. The Health Coverage Tax credit is a separate tax credit with different eligibility rules than the premium tax credit. Affordable Care Act – Several very important provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) that affect individuals and businesses first became effective in 2015. The Employer Shared Responsibility provision of the Affordable Care Act requires employers with 50 or more full-time equivalent employees to either offer minimum essential coverage that is “affordable” and that provides “minimum value” to their full-time employees and their dependents, or potentially make an employer shared responsibility payment to the IRS. Transit Benefits – The Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015 extended transit benefits. These include van pool benefits, transit passes and qualified parking. For 2019, the monthly exclusion amount has increased to $265. Earned Income Credit and Additional Child Tax Credit – IRS Refund Claim – The IRS has additional time to review refund claims based on the Earned Income Credit or the refundable portion of the additional Child Tax Credit in order to reduce fraud and improper payments. No credit or refund for an overpayment shall be made to a taxpayer before February 15 following the close of the tax year, if the taxpayer claimed the Earned Income Credit or additional Child Tax Credit. Rollovers to SIMPLE IRAs – For rollover contributions made after December 18, 2015, distributions from employer sponsored retirement plans and traditional IRAs may be rolled over into a SIMPLE IRA, as long as the SIMPLE IRA has been open for at least two years. Tax Rates for 2019 – For 2019, there is a 37% bracket (for single individuals at $510,301, head of household at $510,301, married filing jointly at $612,351 and married filing separately at $306,176). Trusts and estates will hit the 37% bracket at $12,750. The rate for capital gains and qualified dividends is 20% if the income is in excess of the threshold amount: n $510,300 for single individuals n $510,300 for heads of household n $612,350 for married filing joint n $306,175 for married filing separately Exclusion of Cancellation of Indebtedness on Principal Residence – Cancellation of indebtedness income is generally includible in income. However, income from cancellation of debt on a qualified principal residence, of up to $2 million, may be excludable. This was extended by the Taxpayer Certainty and Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2019 for discharges of indebtedness before January 1, 2021. 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. What’s New for 2019 – Right before the year end, the House and Senate passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2020. The new Act provides several fixes to the Tax Cuts and Job Act. The Tax Cuts and Job Act (TCJA) - The Tax Cuts and Job Act (TCJA) was enacted on December 22, 2017. Described as the largest major tax reform in over three decades, the TCJA contains a host of tax provisions that impact individuals and businesses. See some additional changes in the tax provisions still in effect for 2019 below: n Miscellaneous Deductions - Jobrelated expenses, as well as other miscellaneous itemized deductions that were previously subject to the 2%-of-adjustedgross-income floor, are no longer deductible for tax year 2019. The eliminated deductions include expenses for tax preparation, union dues, and investment fees. n Kiddie Tax - The new kiddie tax in Sec. 1(j)(4) introduced by the TCJA was repealed by the Consolidated Appropria- tions Act, 2020. The taxable income of a child attributable to earned income is taxed under the rates for single individuals, and taxable income of a child attributable to net unearned income has been reverted back to being taxed at the parents’ tax rate. This change is effective for tax years that begin after December 31, 2019. n Mortgage Interest Deduction - The deduction for mortgage interest is limited to underlying indebtedness of up to $750,000 ($375,000 for MFS). The deduction for interest on home equity indebtedness is eliminated. The new lower limit doesn’t apply to any acquisition indebtedness incurred on or before December 15, 2017. n Charitable Contribution Deduction - The limitation under IRC Sec. 170(b) for cash contributions to public charities and certain private foundations is 60%. Contributions exceeding the limitation are generally allowed to be carried forward and deducted for up to five years, subject to the later year’s ceiling. n Gambling Losses - All deductions for expenses incurred in carrying out wagering transactions, and not just gambling losses, are deductible only to the extent of gambling winnings. n Deduction for Qualified Business Income - An individual generally may deduct 20% of qualified business income from a partnership, S corporation or sole proprietorship, as well as 20% of aggregate qualified REIT dividends and qualified publicly traded partnership income. The 20% deduction is not allowed in computing AGI, but rather is allowed as a deduction reducing taxable income. A limitation based on W-2 wages paid or capital investment is phased in for MFJ taxpayers with taxable income of $321,400 or more ($160,700 for other individuals). A disallowance of the deduction with respect to specified service trades or businesses also is phased in above these threshold amounts of taxable income. n Moving Expenses – Moving expenses are no longer deductible unless you are a member of the armed forces on active duty (and their spouse and dependents) who moved pursuant to a military order and incident to a permanent change of station. Additional Provisions Made by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2020: Individual Extenders n Medical and Dental Expense Deduction – AGI floor remains at 7.5% instead of increasing to 10% n Above-the-line deduction for Tuition and Fees n Mortgage Insurance Premiums (PMI) treated as deductible qualified residence interest n Qualified residence indebtedness exclusion from gross income The SECURE Act includes significant changes for IRAs, 401(k) plans, and introduces a new pooled multiple employer plan IRA Changes: n The starting age for individuals to begin taking Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) has been increased to 72 years old from 70 ½ years old. This is effective for individuals turning 72 years old January 1, 2020 or later n The 70 ½ age limit for contributions to an IRA has been eliminated for taxable years after December 31, 2019 n Non-spouse individuals who inherit an IRA after December 31, 2019 must withdraw the balance within 10 years, subject to certain exceptions. 401(k) Changes: n Long-term, part-time employees may now qualify to participate in elective deferral plans in plan years beginning after December 31, 2020 n Early withdrawal penalty exemption of $5,000 for qualified birth or adoption distributions in taxable years beginning after December 31, 2019 n Included in compensation for purposes of determining retirement plan Continued on next page February 2020 �2020 Tax Tips Continued from Page 14 contributions are taxable non-tuition fellowships/stipends and nontaxable “difficulty of care payments” earned by home healthcare workers in taxable years beginning after December 31, 2019 n Increased cap to encourage higher auto-enrollments in taxable years beginning after December 31, 2019 The Disaster Act, officially titled the “Taxpayer Certainty and Disaster Relief Act of 2019,” provides relief for taxpayers affected by disasters in 2018 through 30 days following the date of the enactment of the Disaster Act. New laws resulting from The Disaster Act are listed below. n Use of Retirement Funds – To allow for the re-contribution of retirement plan withdrawals for home purchases canceled due to eligible disasters and provide flexibility for loans from retirement plans for qualified hurricane relief, there is now an exception to the 10% early retirement plan withdrawal penalty for qualified disaster relief distributions. The amount cannot exceed $100,000 in qualified hurricane distributions cumulatively. (Disaster Act Sec. 202) n Employee Retention Credit – The newly created “2018 through 2019 qualified disaster employee retention credit” allows for a tax credit equal to 40% of wages (up to $6,000/employee) paid by disaster-affected employers to employees from a core disaster area. This credit applies to wages paid regardless of where the services associated with those wages were performed. The credit should be taken as a current year business credit under Code Sec. 38(b). (Disaster Act Sec. 203) Other Disaster-Related Tax Relief - Per the Disaster Act Sec. 204, other disaster-related tax relief items include the following n Temporary suspension of limitations on charitable contributions associated with qualified disaster relief n For personal casualty losses, The Disaster Act eliminates the current requirements that personal uncompensated casualty losses must exceed 10% of AGI to qualify for deduction. Also, the taxpayer is not required to itemize deductions to qualify for this relief n Taxpayers in designated disaster areas may use the immediately preceding year to determine the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit Automatic Extension of Filing Deadline – Any individual with a principal place of abode in a disaster area is granted an automatic 60-day extension with regard to any tax filing. This applies to federally declared disasters declared after the date of the enactment of the Disaster Act. (Disaster Act Sec. 205) Other Credits affected by The Taxpayer Certainty and Disaster Relief Act of 2019 n Alternative Fuel Refueling Property Credit – An individual taxpayer may claim a 30% credit for the cost of installing non-hydrogen alternative vehicle refueling property at the taxpayer’s principal residence. This credit has been extended to include property placed in service before January 1, 2021. n Nonbusiness Energy Property – A credit is allowed for 10% of the amounts paid/incurred by the taxpayer for qualified energy improvements of principal residences (windows, doors, skylights, and roofs). Taxpayers can take $50-$300 fixed dollar amount credits allowed for energyefficient property including furnaces, boilers, biomass stoves, heat pumps, water heaters, central air conditioners, and circulating fans, which are subject to a lifetime cap of $500. This credit has been extended through 2020. n Energy Efficient Homes Credit – An eligible contractor may claim a tax 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 Charitable contributions n Real estate and personal property tax receipts n Interest payment records for items such as a home mortgage or n 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. 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 February 2020 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 1-888872-9829 or 1-888-729-1040 or visit websites 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 21b, 21c and 21d on their Form 1040. Line 21b is for the bank’s routing number. Line 21c indicates the type of account, and line 21d 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, an individual that prepares his or her own return can access most commonly used Federal tax forms from the IRS website and website at: www.irs.gov. What Are Considered Deductions and Credits Personal Exemption Amount: The TCJA eliminated the exemption deduction for dependents for years 2018-2025. Therefore, releasing the de- credit of $1,000 or $2,000 for the construction or manufacture of a new energy efficient home that meets qualifying criteria. The credit is available on homes acquired before January 1, 2021. n Qualified Fuel Cell Motor Vehicles – Extended through 2020, a credit of between $4,000 and $40,000, depending on the weight of the vehicle, is available for the purchase of qualified fuel cell motor vehicles. Depending on fuel efficiency, other vehicles may qualify for an additional $1,000 to $4,000 credit. n 2-Wheeled Plug-In Electric Vehicle Credit – Capped at $2,500, the 10% credit for highway-capable, two-wheeled plugin electric vehicles has been extended for vehicles acquired prior to January 1, 2021. To qualify, battery capacity within the vehicle must be greater than or equal to 2.5 kilowatts/hour. n Your Online Account – In order for you to access your online account, you must authenticate your identity. To securely log in to your federal tax account, go to IRS.gov/Account. View the amount you owe, review 24 months of payment history, access online payment options, and create or modify an online payment agreement. You can also access your tax records online. n 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 agencies 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 webpendency exemption to the noncustodial parent does not entitle that parent to an exemption deduction; however, it does make the noncustodial parent eligible for the child tax credit with respect to the child. Standard Deduction: The standard deduction, or dollar amount that reduces the amount that is taxed, which increased for married couples filing jointly in 2019 at $24,400. The standard deduction for single individuals and married couples filing separate returns also increased in 2019 at $12,200. The standard deduction for heads of household increased to $18,350 for 2019. State & Local Sales and Use Tax Deduction – For 2019, the itemized deduction for state and local taxes is limited to $10,000 ($5,000 for MFS) of the aggregate of (1) state and local property taxes and (2) state and local income, war profits and excess profits taxes (or sales taxes in lieu of income, etc. taxes) paid or accrued in the tax year. Charitable Contribution Deduction: The limitation under IRC Sec. 170(b) for cash contributions to public charities and certain private foundations is 60% of an individual’s contribution base. The contribution base is an individual’s adjusted gross income (AGI), not including the charitable deduction or any net operating loss (NOL) carrybacks. The percentage limit depends on the aggregate contributions of the spouses if married filing jointly. Contributions exceeding the limitation are generally allowed to be carried forward and deducted for up to five years, subject to the later year’s ceiling. Personal Interest Deductions: For 2019, personal interest cannot be deducted. Personal interest includes interest on car loans, credit cards, personal loans and tax deficiencies. Interest on Secured Loans Deductible: Deduct all your home mortgage site 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 1-800366-4484 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. 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; Tokyo, Japan. 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 no longer deductible for 2018-2025. 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% of Adjusted Gross Income: The TCJA suspended the deduction for miscellaneous itemized deductions subject to the 2%-of-AGI limit for 2018-2025 [IRC Sec. 67(g)]. Therefore, these expenses are not deductible in 2019. Miscellaneous itemized deductions not subject to the 2%-of-AGI limit remain deductible on Schedule A. Continued on next page Seafarers LOG 15 �Tax Tips For Members Continued from Page 14 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. 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 2018, 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, securi- Where To Get Information General Information: 1-800-8291040 may be called for general information between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. your local time. Publications: Call 1-800-8293676 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. 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 website 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 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. Standard Deductions This is the standard deduction chart for most people. The additional standard deduction for people who have reached age 65 (or who are blind) is $1,300 for married taxpayers or $1,650 for unmarried taxpayers. Filing Status Standard Deducton Single and Married filing separate.......................................................$12,200 Married couples filing a joint return ...................................................$24,400 Heads of household .............................................................................$18,350. ties, 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 n Social Security benefits 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 15, 2020, 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 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, intercostal, interstate or non-contiguous trade shall be withheld pursuant to the provisions of the tax laws of any state, territory, possession or commonwealth, or a subdivision of any of them, but nothing in this section shall prohibit any such withholding of the wages of any seaman who is employed in the coastwise trade between ports in the same state if such withholding is pursuant to a voluntary agreement between such seaman and his employer.” The law, however, does not exempt seamen from paying state and local taxes. Mariners, just like any other citizens of any given state, must meet their obligations to the government of the area in which they live. Each state has a set of criteria to determine whether an individual is a resident of that state. A seaman should check with a state tax office if he or she is unsure about residency status. For example, in California during the early 1970s, a case before the California State Board of Equalization stated that a merchant seaman—despite the fact that he was on a ship for 210 days of the year—was a resident of the state for tax purposes. The board took into consideration the fact that the seaman owned a home in California and maintained a bank account in a California-based bank. Additionally, each state has established conditions under which non-residents of that state must pay a portion of state tax if such an individual earned income from a source based in that state. Many states allow a credit in the amount an individual must pay the state if that person has already paid taxes in another state. In 2000, President Clinton signed into law the bipartisan Transportation Worker Tax Fairness Act, a measure aimed at providing “equitable treatment with respect to state and local income taxes for certain individuals who perform duties on vessels.” The law, which took effect Nov. 9, 2000, stipulates that pilots and other mariners “who perform regularly assigned duties while engaged as a master, officer or crewman on a vessel operating on the navigable waters of more than one State” shall be subject to state income tax only in his or her residential state. If any questions arise regarding residency and state tax issues, mariners should telephone the taxpayer assistance office in the state in which they reside. SHBP Offers COBRA Continuation Coverage to Union Members The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) is notifying 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 16 Seafarers LOG 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 (800) 252-4674. February 2020 �School Still Offers Culinary 2.0 The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education continues to offer Culinary 2.0 classes designed to help students boost their skills while complying with a new rule that took effect at the beginning of 2020. Completing the coursework also is intended to aid individual shipping opportunities. Shipping Rule 5.A.(6), which went into effect January 1, 2020, states, “Within each class of seniority in the Steward Department, priority shall be given to those seamen who possess an advanced Culinary 2.0 certificate from the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, in the event such program is being offered and that the seaman is registered in Group I, Steward Department.” While every new member of the steward department who completes their apprenticeship at the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship will have successfully passed Culinary 2.0, it’s important to remem- ber that those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards must also take the coursework in order to exercise preference and priority beginning next year (unless they have received training after January 1, 2017 at the Piney Point, Maryland-based campus). For those seamen currently employed as permanent stewards aboard commercial vessels, they must attend Culinary 2.0 in order to maintain their current employment status. For those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards, there are two new revalidation courses that have been designed to ensure a consistent level of culinary training and efficiency: Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 and Orientation/ Assessment Chief Cook 2.0. The courses are being offered regularly, but spaces are limited, so members are encouraged to plan ahead and enroll as soon as possible. For more information, contact your port agent and/ or the school’s admissions office. February & March Membership Meetings Piney Point....................................Monday: February 3, March 2 Algonac...............................................Friday: February 7, March 6 Baltimore.....................................Thursday: February 6, March 5 Guam..........................................Thursday: February 20, March 19 Honolulu..........................................Friday: February 14, March 13 Houston............................................Monday: February 10, March 9 Jacksonville...............................Thursday: February 6, March 5 Joliet...........................................Thursday: February 13, March 12 Mobile...................................Wednesday: February 12, March 11 New Orleans..................................Tuesday: February 11, March 10 Jersey City.....................................Tuesday: February 4, March 3 Norfolk........................................Thursday: February 6, March 5 Oakland...................................Thursday: February 13, March 12 Philadelphia..........................Wednesday: February 5, March 4 Port Everglades..........................Thursday: February 13, March 12 San Juan....................................Thursday: February 6, March 5 St. Louis......................................Friday: February 14, March 13 Tacoma.......................................Friday: February 21, March 20 Wilmington.....................*Tuesday: February18, Monday: March 16 *Wilmington changes due to Presidents’ Day observance 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 February 2020 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from Dec. 16-Jan. 15. “Registered on the Beach” data is as of Jan. 15. Total Registered Total Shipped Port All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 30 1 5 27 8 10 10 49 35 30 4 12 23 14 4 3 9 18 0 30 322 7 1 2 10 0 3 0 15 18 14 1 5 13 7 3 5 5 13 0 7 129 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 3 1 1 16 1 0 8 14 14 13 1 2 14 7 2 3 3 11 0 10 124 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS All Groups A B Registered on Beach 0 1 1 4 0 0 0 4 4 2 0 1 3 3 3 0 0 3 1 3 33 Deck Department 6 5 1 0 1 1 16 9 7 0 11 2 5 0 30 16 27 15 25 8 2 0 10 0 11 14 8 3 0 5 0 3 5 4 18 7 2 1 22 7 207 100 C Trip Reliefs A All Groups B C 0 0 1 2 0 1 0 7 2 4 0 1 2 1 0 0 0 3 1 1 26 5 0 2 11 1 7 0 13 15 14 1 2 14 6 3 1 1 10 1 10 117 41 1 5 42 6 19 15 84 54 62 2 17 33 17 6 4 16 42 5 57 528 12 1 2 19 1 6 5 32 37 21 4 7 19 6 5 7 6 16 2 13 221 2 2 1 4 0 2 0 3 6 3 0 0 7 3 3 1 0 7 3 7 54 1 1 2 5 1 5 5 8 14 7 1 5 9 1 1 2 5 5 0 5 83 1 0 2 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 1 1 3 0 2 1 0 5 1 2 23 Engine Department 3 0 1 1 0 2 10 3 0 0 1 1 11 2 12 6 17 10 11 4 0 0 3 4 5 8 2 4 2 0 2 0 3 0 6 2 0 1 10 4 99 52 1 0 2 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 2 0 4 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 15 0 1 0 2 0 2 1 6 11 4 0 4 8 2 2 0 1 3 0 4 51 6 1 5 18 1 3 18 30 31 19 2 5 24 11 4 1 6 26 2 14 227 2 1 2 10 1 5 8 12 23 13 2 7 25 5 2 3 8 10 2 16 157 3 0 0 0 0 0 3 3 0 4 0 2 6 1 1 0 0 6 1 4 34 5 0 2 9 1 6 5 14 24 8 1 4 9 22 3 2 4 10 3 22 154 1 0 1 3 1 2 5 8 7 0 1 3 14 4 1 9 2 2 0 6 70 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 7 Steward Department 5 1 0 1 3 0 9 4 0 0 2 1 6 1 11 5 25 3 9 2 1 0 7 1 15 9 16 4 0 0 2 4 4 1 10 2 2 0 12 4 139 43 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 1 0 1 4 0 2 6 5 12 1 0 3 8 5 0 3 0 3 1 7 62 7 0 1 18 3 7 10 37 36 16 0 5 18 32 3 3 4 16 4 36 256 3 1 1 5 1 3 4 10 15 0 2 9 14 7 1 5 5 2 0 23 111 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 3 1 0 2 1 0 1 0 1 1 2 14 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 3 0 2 0 0 0 3 1 0 0 5 0 1 17 10 1 2 5 2 1 5 12 24 14 1 0 13 19 2 0 1 12 0 19 143 12 0 2 4 1 1 2 9 30 8 2 1 24 4 1 12 3 8 0 14 138 Entry Department 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 2 0 1 0 0 2 7 2 18 0 9 0 1 1 0 0 6 1 5 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 7 0 1 0 7 6 74 5 0 0 1 0 1 1 1 16 2 0 0 7 0 0 8 0 2 0 5 49 3 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 9 4 1 0 3 3 0 5 1 4 0 0 35 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 7 0 5 0 1 0 2 2 0 0 5 0 4 29 11 3 3 7 1 3 8 27 43 24 0 0 22 27 1 0 0 21 0 40 241 21 0 2 5 4 2 3 16 47 11 4 1 41 15 1 4 2 16 1 28 224 GRAND TOTAL: 617 425 201 95 265 1,040 730 326 451 269 Seafarers LOG 17 �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 Kate Hunt, 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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by members at the hiring hall in Mobile, Alabama. Question: Why did you decide to become a mariner? Curtis Snow Chief Cook I did it for the traveling, and the whole experience. The sailing, meeting new people and exploring the world. It’s everything I thought it would be, and I can’t wait to get out there and see more of the world. Charles Kennedy Pumpman I wanted to go see the world when I started, that was my main reason. And that turned into a full career. I’m set to retire soon, and it’s been a good career. I’ve met a lot of good people in the union, and I’m glad I joined the SIU. Nassor James AB I was in the Navy prior to this career, and during a vertical replenishment, the MSC ship pulled up, and I saw that the guys on board had beards. I asked them how they managed that, and they said that they were merchant mariners. I looked into it, and joined the SIU once I got out of the Navy. Arthur Patterson AB I wanted to travel, see the world a little bit. It’s a great opportunity for a guy from Detroit, where most of us go work at the auto plants. I’ve been doing this since 1993, and I’m grateful every day for the opportunity. 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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 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 Dana Naze Recertified Bosun I started out on harbor tugs in Mobile when I was 18 or 19. A lot of the guys I worked with had sailed deep sea, and told me all about it. I tried it out, and I fell in love with it. And I’ve been sailing deep sea for 33 years. Norman Lucas AB I just wanted to change my life. I was getting in trouble back in the days, and the union saved my life. When I joined the union, all my troubles started to go away. The union saved my life. Pics 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 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (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 Recertified Steward Ron Malozi submitted these photos and the write-up that follows. That’s him in the trainee uniform in Piney Point, looking at the camera. He’s also second from right (seated) in the group photo. Malozi started his career as a trainee in Class 379, in 1983. “The ship pictured was the S.S. Inger, a grain ship, and was my third vessel after leaving school. We started in Los Angeles, going east to Panama, then to Kenya to offload grain, then to Hawaii and back to L.A. We circled the globe on that trip and it took four months. When I was young, I wanted to leave my small town in Maryland and travel the globe. With the SIU, I’ve been all over Europe, parts of the Middle East, Africa, Japan, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Panama … and too many more places to list. I also worked four years for Trans World Airlines, as an international flight attendant, so my wish to travel truly was fulfilled. Thanks, SIU, for a great career and for the many great memories. I retired in 2002 after 20 years of service.” 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 18 Seafarers LOG February 2020 �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 MARIA AUSTRIA Sister Maria Austria, 65, joined the SIU in 1991, when she sailed on the Independence. She shipped in the steward department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Sister Austria last sailed on the China. She resides in San Bruno, California. GREGORIO BLANCO Brother Gregorio Blanco, 73, began his career with the Seafarers in 1977, initially sailing on the Walter Rice. He shipped in the engine department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Blanco most recently sailed on the Maersk Hartford. He calls Bronx, New York, home. LONNIE CARTER Brother Lonnie Carter, 63, donned the SIU colors in 1979 when he sailed aboard the Monticello. He worked in the engine department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Carter’s final vessel was the Horizon Reliance. He lives in Kansas City, Missouri. CIRILO CENTENO Brother Cirilo Centeno, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1989, initially shipping aboard the Independence. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Centeno most recently sailed on the USNS Regulus and makes his home in Houston. JAMES CLARK Brother James Clark, 79, signed on with the union in 1999 when he sailed on the USNS Bellatrix. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Clark last sailed on the Maersk Pittsburgh and lives in Boise, Idaho. QUINTIN HERRERA Brother Quintin Herrera, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1990 when he worked with Crowley Puerto Rico Services. February 2020 A deck department member, he upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Herrera’s last ship was the Philadelphia Express. He is a resident of Carolina, Puerto Rico. LEWIS JOHANSON Brother Lewis Johanson, 70, started sailing with the union in 1991, initially shipping aboard the USNS Harkness. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on several occasions. Brother Johanson last shipped on the Midnight Sun. He resides in Belfair, Washington. JOHN LAMPRECHT Brother John Lamprecht, 63, joined the union in 1974. His first vessel was the Explorer and he primarily sailed in the deck department. Brother Lamprecht upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school on several occasions. He last sailed aboard the Garden State before settling in La Caruna, Spain. RONALD LUPINACCI Brother Ronald Lupinacci, 75, started shipping with the SIU in 1990. He was a steward department member and first sailed aboard the Constellation. Brother Lupinacci upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. He last shipped on the Prestige New York and resides in Darlington, Pennsylvania. ROMUALD MARLINSKI Brother Romuald Marlinski, 71, signed on with the SIU in 2003 when he shipped on the Cape Decision. He upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school and sailed in the engine department. Brother Marlinski’s final vessel was the Honor. He lives in Willis, Texas. aboard the John Penn. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Pagan was last employed with Crowley Towing and Transportation. He resides in Riverside, California. EDWARD PORTER Brother Edward Porter, 62, began his SIU career in 1979, initially shipping on the H Atlantic. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions and primarily sailed in the steward department. Brother Porter’s final vessel was the Maersk Pittsburgh. He is a resident of Jacksonville, Florida. WILLIAM STOLTZ BRUCE BEAM Brother Bruce Bream, 68, joined the union in 2004. An engine department member, he upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 2008. Brother Beam worked for G&H Towing for the duration of his career. He lives in La Marque, Texas. JUAN CHEVALIER Brother Juan Chevalier, 68, signed on with the SIU in 1991. He began his career with Crowley Puerto Rico Services. A deck department member, Brother Chevalier upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 2001. He was last employed with Crowley Towing and Transportation and makes his home in Carolina, Puerto Rico. WILLIAM WATTERSON DANIEL ENGLUND Brother William Watterson, 65, began sailing with the union in 2000, first shipping aboard the American Merlin. An engine department member, he upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Watterson last sailed on the Stephen W. Pless and settled in Edenton, North Carolina. Brother Daniel Englund, 62, began his career with the SIU in 1999 when he sailed on the USNS Pathfinder. A deck department member, he upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Englund was most recently employed by Crowley Towing and Transportation. He resides in Casa Grande, Arizona. LEVINSON WINBORNE Brother Levinson Winborne, 65, joined the SIU in 1994. His first vessel was the USNS Audacious and he sailed in the steward department. Brother Winborne upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2004. He last sailed on the Decisive and makes his home in Spring, Texas. GREAT LAKES ANNA BRENNO Brother Eddy Newman, 64, began sailing with the union in 1990, first shipping on the USNS Desteiguer. He primarily sailed in the engine department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Newman most recently sailed on the Howard O. Lorenzen and makes his home in Las Vegas. Sister Anna Brenno, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1990 when she shipped aboard the Charles E. Wilson. She worked in the steward department and upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1996. Sister Brenno’s final vessel was the Sam Laud. She lives in Seymour, Tennessee. Brother Robert Pagan, 60, signed on with the SIU in 1977, sailing first INLAND Brother William Stoltz, 65, joined the union in 1978. His first vessel was the Cove Spirit and he sailed in the deck department. Brother Stoltz upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. He concluded his career on the Atlantic and resides in Crescent City, Florida. EDDY NEWMAN ROBERT PAGAN all three departments and upgraded at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in 2008. Brother King’s last vessel was the Bradshaw McKee. He lives in Vancouver, Washington. COURTNEY KING Brother Courtney King, 53, joined the SIU in 1988 and first shipped with OLS Transport. He sailed in JAMES GILLIAM Brother James Gilliam, 62, became an SIU member in 1980 when he worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation. Sailing in the deck department, Brother Gilliam continued to work for the same company for the duration of his career. He lives in California, Kentucky. CRAIG HEIGES Brother Craig Heiges, 63, embarked on his career with the SIU in 2002 when he sailed with Port Imperial Ferry. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2003. Brother Heiges remained with the same company for his entire career. He is a New York resident. HUBERT JOSEPH Brother Hubert Joseph, 63, began his career with the SIU in 2000 when he sailed aboard the Ascension. A deck department member, he upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Joseph last worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation. He resides in Santurce, Puerto Rico. EDWARD MELVIN Brother Edward Melvin, 63, signed on with the SIU in 2008. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Melvin worked for Penn Maritime for his entire career. He lives in St. Petersburg, Florida. GREGORY NEWMAN Brother Gregory Newman, 62, became a member of the SIU in 1978, initially working for Inland Tugs. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1982. Brother Newman last worked for Turecamo Maritime and settled in Holland, Pennsylvania. LESLIE O’HAIR Brother Leslie O’Hair, 57, began sailing with the union in 1996 when he shipped on the USNS Wyman. He upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center and sailed in the deck department. Brother O’Hair most recently worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation. He lives in Keystone Heights, Florida. NMU HENRY BARROW Brother Henry Barrow, 65, joined the SIU in 2001 during the NMU/ SIU Merger. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 2001. Brother Barrow concluded his career on the Cape Orlando. He lives in Oakland, California. Seafarers LOG 19 �Final Departures DEEP SEA RODOLFO ASOPARDO Pensioner Rodolfo Asopardo, 80, died December 9. He joined the SIU in 1967. He was a deck department member and first sailed aboard the Coastal California. Brother Asopardo’s final vessel was the Horizon Hawk. He went on pension in 2009 and was a San Francisco resident. CASEY BARBER Brother Casey Barber, 43, passed away December 18. He signed on with the SIU in 1996 when he sailed on the Cleveland. Brother Barber sailed in both the deck and engine departments. He last sailed aboard the Prudhoe Bay in 2000. He lived in Gig Harbor, Washington. JORGE CASTILLO Pensioner Jorge Castillo, 101, died December 19. He began his career with the SIU in 1960, initially sailing aboard the Evelyn. He was a deck department member and last shipped on the Green Island. Brother Castillo became a pensioner in 1983 and settled in Kenner, Louisiana. FERNANDO DOMENICALE Pensioner Fernando Domenicale, 85, passed away December 24. He became a member of the SIU in 2001 when he shipped aboard the Independence. Brother Domenicale sailed in the steward department and last shipped on the Overseas Philadelphia. He retired in 2009 and called Coral Springs, Florida, home. DON FILONI Pensioner Don Filoni, 73, died December 1. He joined the union in 1991, sailing first on the Matej Kocak. Working in the deck department, Brother Filoni concluded his career on the same vessel. He 20 Seafarers LOG went on pension in 2011 and was a resident of Welaka, Florida. DANIEL FOWERS Pensioner Daniel Fowers, 74, passed away December 29. He embarked on his career with the SIU in 1989 when he sailed on the Independence. Brother Fowers was an engine department member. He last shipped on the Overseas Cascade before retiring in 2014. Brother Fowers lived in Coos Bay, Oregon. GUADALUPE GARCIA Pensioner Guadalupe Garcia, 89, died December 5. He donned the SIU colors in 1978, initially sailing aboard the Santa Mercedes. Brother Garcia worked in the steward department and concluded his career on the Independence in 2001. He retired the same year and settled in Brownsville, Texas. JOHN HOLTSCHLAG Pensioner John Holtschlag, 77, passed away January 6. He started his career with the union in 1987 when he shipped on the Galveston. Brother Holtschlag was a steward department member and last sailed aboard the Thailand. He began collecting his pension in 2009 and resided in Springfield, Illinois. GORDON LINDEN Pensioner Gordon Linden, 78, died December 9. He signed on with the SIU in 1967 when he sailed on the Norberto Capay. Brother Linden sailed in the engine department. His final vessel was the Neches. Brother Linden became a pensioner in 2006 and lived in Watertown, South Dakota. FRITZ MCDUFFIE Pensioner Fritz McDuffie, 67, passed away December 28. He began sailing with the union in 1970, initially shipping on the Arizpa. A deck department member, Brother McDuffie concluded his career aboard the Stephen W. Pless. He retired in 2007 and made his home in Wilmer, Alabama. SAIAD MONASAR Pensioner Saiad Monasar, 65, died August 20. He joined the Seafarers in 1976 and first sailed aboard the Trader. Brother Mo- nasar was a steward department member. He last sailed aboard the Cape Jacob before becoming a pensioner in 2019. Brother Monasar lived in Bridgeview, Illinois. SORIN RASCOL Pensioner Sorin Rascol, 69, passed away November 24. He started his career with the SIU in 2000, initially sailing on the Global Sentinel. The deck department member’s last vessel was the Seabulk Pride. He retired in 2017 and resided in San Leon, Texas. ROOSEVELT SAMPSON Pensioner Roosevelt Sampson, 85, died November 5. He donned the SIU colors in 1979 when he shipped aboard the President Fillmore. Brother Sampson sailed in the steward department. He concluded his career on the President Roosevelt before going on pension in 1999. Brother Sampson called Yuba City, California, home. FREDERICK SHANNON Pensioner Frederick Shannon, 77, passed away November 30. He signed on with the union in 1998, initially sailing on the Franklin J. Phillips. Brother Shannon was a member of the deck department and most recently shipped on the Sirius. He retired in 2007 and lived in San Leon, Texas. RAYMOND TAYLOR Pensioner Raymond Taylor, 95, died December 6. He joined the SIU in 1951 when he sailed on the Del Oro. Brother Taylor sailed in the steward department. His final vessel was the Overseas Arctic. He became a pensioner in 1986 and lived in Gretna, Louisiana. WAYNE YEARGAIN Brother Wayne Yeargain, 59, passed away November 28. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 2012 when he shipped on the Mississippi Enterprise. The deck department member’s last vessel was the Overseas Martinez. Brother Yeargain resided in Pensacola, Florida. JOHN ZIMMERMAN Brother John Zimmerman, 56, died October 3. He joined the Seafarers in 2016 and initially sailed aboard the Dewayne T. Williams. Brother Zimmerman shipped in the engine department and most recently sailed on the Baldomero Lopez. He was a resident of Green Cove Springs, Florida. INLAND JAMES COCHRAN Pensioner James Cochran, 72, died December 30. He joined the SIU in 1991 and was a member of the deck department. Brother Cochran worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation throughout his entire career. He retired in 2009 and called Gibsonton, Florida, home. ROBERT DAWSEY Pensioner Robert Dawsey, 87, passed away November 4. He began his career with the Seafarers in 1987. He worked for McAllister Towing of Virginia for his entire career and sailed in the deck department. Brother Dawsey became a pensioner in 1999. He resided in Pearlington, Mississippi. LAWRENCE GUIDROZ Pensioner Lawrence Guidroz, 75, died December 22. He became a member of the SIU in 1968. Brother Guidroz sailed in the deck department. He worked for Dixie Carriers for his entire career before retiring in 2011. Brother Guidroz lived in Arnaudville, Louisiana. RICHARD LUDLAM Pensioner Richard Ludlam, 92, passed away December 12. He signed on with the union in 1962 when he worked for G&H Towing. Brother Ludlam sailed in the engine department and remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He went on pension in 1985 and settled in Houston. NMU RAPHAEL CHARLES Pensioner Raphael Charles, 86, died December 9. He was an NMU member before the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. Brother Charles began collecting his pension in 1995 and resided in Galveston, Texas. JOHN HERTON Pensioner John Herton, 96, passed away December 8. He sailed with the NMU prior to the 2001 merger with Seafarers International Union. Brother Herton retired in 1993 and lived in Brownsville, Texas. JOSE SANTOS Pensioner Jose Santos, 91, died November 23. He was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Brother Santos was a member of the NMU before the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. He became a pensioner in 1987 and lived in Port St. Lucie, Florida. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. NAME AGE Banks, Leith 88 Brandner, Raymond 93 Cheatham, Sterling 74 Dillon, Charles 92 Ebanks, Martin 94 Gaines, George 91 Gersie, William 86 Henry, Rudolph 90 Johnson, Cesar 86 Lewandowski, Charles 78 Mattingly, James 77 Mote, Charles 79 Oquendo, Jesus 78 Ortega, Ricardo 81 Robinson, Eustace 91 Ruiz, Jose 89 Vazquez, Juan 88 Veliotis, George 85 Wood, Neva 89 DOD 11/22/2019 01/03/2020 12/23/2019 12/18/2019 11/27/2019 12/22/2019 12/22/2019 08/17/2019 12/17/2019 12/08/2019 11/21/2019 12/11/2019 12/14/2019 04/30/2019 01/01/2020 12/27/2019 12/17/2019 11/27/2019 12/29/2019 Important Notice For All Seafarers We’ve improved our text messaging system for shipboard job-related notifications. If you’re not signed up and are interested, text WORK to 97779 and follow the prompts. February 2020 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings OVERSEAS CHINOOK (Overseas Ship Management, Inc.), November 11 – Chairman Arnaldo Fernandez, Secretary Jack Hart, Educational Director Darryl Bence, Deck Delegate Donald Bernard, Steward Delegate Rocel Alvarez. Crew reviewed minutes from prior meeting. Chairman announced payoff at sea. He thanked steward department for a job well done. Chairman commended deck department for working safely and for working long hours. Secretary thanked crew for keeping house and mess hall clean. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center and to be sure credentials are current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members expressed gratitude to union and headquarters for securing many jobs for Seafarers. Crew requested a raise in pension and medical benefits. ALASKAN EXPLORER (Alaska Tanker Company), November 3 – Chairman Jose Loureiro, Secretary Justo Reyes, Educational Director Tristan Brand, Deck Delegate Bronislaw Kuchczynski, Engine Delegate Kevin Kelly. New DirecTV satellite purchased. Chairman thanked crew for outstanding work at Singapore Shipyard. He reminded members to go through proper chain of command for unresolved issues. Secretary thanked crew for their cooperation. Educational director advised members to upgrade as often as possible and to make sure documents are up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members were encouraged to stay focused. New satellite to be 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. installed as soon as time permits. Steward department was commended for a job well done. Next port: Valdez, Alaska. ALASKAN NAVIGATOR (Alaska Tanker Company), November 10 – Chairman Gregory Hamilton, Secretary Albert Sison, Educational Director Rollin Crump, Deck Delegate Manuel Enrico, Engine Delegate Anne Scott, Steward Delegate Erik Ivey. Crew reviewed old business. They discussed filing for vacation benefits and also talked about steward department extra meal allowance. Vessel’s shipyard schedule to begin approximately two months earlier than planned. Chairman expects shipyard period to start around May 2020. Secretary gave thanks to deck department for stripping and waxing floors. He praised cook and SA for getting galley clean and up to standards. Educational director discussed his conversation with the union hall for clarification regarding online classes. Members need to sign up for additional classes in order to register for one-day BT class. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew was encouraged to read the October 2019 shipboard meeting report. Members requested raise in pension benefits as well as an increase in current optical plan and monthly vacation days. Crew was reminded to keep mess halls in orderly fashion. Steward department was praised for providing good food. Next port: Long Beach, California. SEABULK CHALLENGE (Seabulk), November 13 – Chairman Ghassan Saeed, Secretary Peter Crum, Educational Director Randolph Scott. No complaints aboard ship. Everyone is doing well. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chief steward explained menu and resolved misunderstanding among members. Next port: Houston. OREGON (Crowley), November 22 – Chairman Jesse Natividad, Secretary Joseph Emidy, Educational Director David Pope, Steward Delegate Wilson Peniston. Secretary encouraged members to donate to SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. He reminded crew of their personal responsibility to keep documents up to date. Educational director reiterated the importance of upgrading at the union-affiliated Piney Point school in order to achieve higher wages and more credentials. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew went over payoff procedures with last voucher. Members in need of new mattresses. Vote of thanks given to chief cook and SA for jobs well done. Next port: Alliance, Louisiana. TAINO (Crowley), November 24 – Chairman Wilfredo Velez, Secretary Kimberly Strate, Educational Director Lamont Robinson, Steward Delegate Martin Warren. Chairman reminded crew that USCG will be counting ROS time towards BT certification. Educational director warned members of the Real ID requirements by TSA and encouraged everyone to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed and summarized the president’s report from Seafar- ers LOG. Members asked about Wi-Fi availability aboard ship. Crew requested a paid time off benefit that would allow a minimum of two weeks bereavement for immediate family. Next port: Jacksonville, Florida. WEST VIRGINIA (Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning) November 28 – Chairman John Cedeno Jr., Secretary Milton Yournett, Educational Director Andre Mitchell, Deck Delegate Juberto Perez, Engine Delegate Dontrell Riddick, Steward Delegate Shantay Joquin. New pillows distributed to members. Chairman conducted 401K information session. All staterooms will be inspected by bosun before sign-off to help ensure clean and acceptable standards. Chairman discussed new vessels joining SIU-crewed fleet and explained tour of duty eligibilities. Secretary advised crew to keep credentials current. Educational director reminded members to go to the Paul Hall Center for all upgrading needs. Crew was given clarification on penalty pay for trash handling. With the help of SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins, issue has been addressed and corrected. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman spoke with captain to see if mattress covers can be ordered. Gym dry-erase board received and installed. Members requested a match in 401K contributions and an increase of paid vacation days. Next port: Garyville, Louisiana. HORIZON PACIFIC (Sunrise Operations), December 1 – Chairman Daniel Ticer, Secretary Kevin Dougherty, Educational Director Thomas Flynn, Deck Delegate Emmanuel Buyser, Engine Delegate Yahya Mohamed, Steward Delegate Stephen Martin. DirecTV and Wi-Fi now working in port. Chairman thanked crew for working safely and reminded them to contribute to SPAD, the SIU’s voluntary political action fund. Educational director informed crew of requirements for new PASHA ships coming out in the new year. Members will be required to have training for LNG, BT and refresher courses for firefighting. Several TVs and refrigerators purchased using ship fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun noted items from the Seafarers LOG including articles about ships reflagging to Stars and Stripes with SIU crews, the ROS. breakout and WWII veteran recognition. Members requested more flexibility with trip reliefs. Crew dryer in need of repair. Next port: Oakland, California. OVERSEAS TEXAS CITY (Overseas Ship Management), December 15 – Chairman Jovan Williams, Secretary Jeffrey Beasley, Educational Director James Rodweller. Chairman thanked crew for keeping ship clean and for their hard work during voyage, loading and discharge. He recommended that members upgrade at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. Educational director reminded crew to ensure documents are current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The ConstituConstitu tion 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 February 2020 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 21 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Advanced Refer Containers May 4 May 15 Title of Course BAPO March 23 April 17 Engineroom Resource Management August 24 August 28 FOWT February 24 March 20 Start Date Date of Completion Gap Closing Courses Start Date Date of Completion Engine Department Upgrading Courses MSC Storekeeper Basic February 24 March 13 Junior Engineer Program February 24 April 17 MSC Supply Configuration Management March 16 April 10 Machinist June 29 July 17 Marine Electrician June 29 July 31 Marine Refer Tech May 18 June 26 Pumpman July 20 July 24 Welding March 23 April 10 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck February 24 April 20 June 22 AB to Mate Modules March 13 May 8 July 10 Modules must be taken in order. Those who are not in the mates program cannot apply for these courses. Contact the Admissions Office for further details. Advanced Meteorology May 4 May 8 Advanced Shiphandling May 11 May 22 Advanced Stability April 27 May 1 ARPA March 16 August 3 March 20 August 7 Bosun Recertification July 20 August 3 Crane Familiarization March 9 March 13 ECDIS May 25 May 29 Fast Rescue Boat July 20 July 24 GMDSS February 17 July 6 February 28 July 17 Lifeboat March 9 April 6 May 4 March 20 April 17 May 15 Leadership and Management Skills August 31 September 4 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office Radar Observer March 2 July 20 March 13 July 31 RFPNW March 23 100 Ton Master August 17 Advanced Galley Operations Chief Cook February 17 March 13 Modules run every other week. Contact Admissions for exact date. Chief Steward March 16 April 24 Galley Operations March 23 April 17 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 February 24 March 9 February 28 March 13 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 February 10 March 2 February 14 March 6 Steward Recertification March 16 April 6 Safety/Open Upgrading Courses Basic Training March 2 March 6 Basic Training Revalidation February 7 February 7 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation February 10 February 14 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting February 10 February 14 Government Vessels March 2 March 6 Medical Care Provider April 20 April 24 Tank Ship - DL February 24 February 28 April 17 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL February 10 February 14 September 4 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG March 30 April 3 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 # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 22 Seafarers LOG Steward Department Courses 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, or 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. 2/20 February 2020 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #855 – Pictured in early October (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Cody Carroll, Nicholas Chiappini, Briana Davis, Joseph Howard, Christian Howe, Troy Ingram, Christopher Kluth, Austin Kost, Tavon Lauderdale, Dave Martin II, Yolanda Ortega-Velez, Emmanuel Outeiral, Isaac Pili, Marta Ruiz, John Sadia and Juan Vallejo. Important Notice To All 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. Water Survival (Upgraders) – Graduated September 6 (above, from left): Michael James Pompa Adeva and John Price. Also graduating, but not pictured, was Nicholas Banks. Welding – Graduated October 4 (above, in alphabetical order): Rudy Cesar, Justin Dangelo, Terren Fields, Robert Neff, Liam Richey and Reginald Watkins. Instructor Chris Raley is second from the right. UA to FOWT – Graduated September 13 (above, in alphabetical order): Lavontat Anderson, Gregory Kakra Attawora, Timothy Jones, Wayne Linnette IV, Marcus Lopez, Chanel Peters, Hyuk-Joong Kim Seeman, Bertram Solomon Jr., Denard Williams and Kevin Willis. (Note: Not all are pictured.) UA to Able Seaman-Deck – Graduated September 13 (above, in alphabetical order): Austen Amoroso, Joseph Crane, David Franz Pelczmann, Andrew Porpora, Somitya Rana and Cole Vose. Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Graduated September 20 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Reginald Addison, Gerald Archie, Christopher Bean, Bobby Ramirez Belches, Mark Buyes, Marcus Eli Carrasquillo, Daniel Fields, Charles Ford, Jerwin Francisco, Whitney Fulcher, Paul Narro, Jose Rigoberto Norales, Sherley Loraine Rivera-Aguila, Dennis Skretta, Antjuan Webb and Richard West. (Note: Not all are pictured.) February 2020 Seafarers LOG 23 �Paul Hall Center Classes Government Vessels – Graduated October 4 (above, in alphabetical order): Samuel Amisah, Diamond Anderson, Marcus Eli Carrasquillo, Jonny Diego, Fidel Alvarez Dipasupil, Adolfo Leonel Figueroa, Robert Goren, Eric Jett, Steven Kendrick, John Morrison, Paul Narro, Jaquel Nesmith, Annie Nodd, John Oshaughnessy, Jorge A. Salas Santos, Paul Sharo, Eddie Taylor, Jessie Turner and Richard West. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Graduated October 4 (above, in alphabetical order): Adrian Joseph, Felix P. Maldonado, Pedro Sadrac Maysonet-Gonzalez and Elvin Joel RijosPerez. GMDSS – Graduated September 13 (above, from left): Jessie Turner and Jorge A. Salas Santos. Instructor Patrick Schoenberger is at the far right. Medical Care Provider – Graduated October 4 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Jose Manuel Boza, Jared Cabasug, Marion Collins Jr., Sean Geddie, Henry Green, Brennon Hough, Deven McCoy, Edward Molesky Jr., and Michael John Estavillo Valdez. Instructor Michael Roberts is at the far left. Terrestrial and Coastal Navigation – Graduated September 13 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Chantell Dawson, Karleen Grenier, Brian Guiry, Christopher Hickey, Yuriy Prytchak, Chenequa Moet Rodriguez, Scott Salo and Dexter Madrona Turija. Class instructor Brian Moore is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 24 Seafarers LOG February 2020 �Paul Hall Center Classes RFPNW (Phase III) – Graduated October 11 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Jacob Booth, Christopher Collins, Victor Duplesis, Lucas Hayes, Kalae-Mitchal K. Huihui, Teva Kurth, Nakia Miller, Jonathan Pastor Torres, Marcelo Corbillon Villareal and Patrick Wheat. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the deck departments of SIUcontracted vessels. BAPO (Phase III) – Graduated October 11 (photo at right , in alphabetical order): Adam Salim Elmenani, Nikita Featherston, Taurean Harold, Yu-Jin Arthur Hendricks-Matsuda, Kenneth Kauffman, Johnny Matthews III, Ghadir A. Sarkis, Christopher Solomon and Kelly White. Each plans to work in the engine departments of union-contracted vessels when their training is completed. Galley Ops (Phase III) – Graduated October 11 (above, from left): David May and Michael Pena. Upon the completion of their training, both plan to work in the steward departments of SIU-crewed vessels. Tank Ship Familiarization DL – Graduated September 27 (above, in alphabetical order): Damon Anderson, Franklin Valencia Estupinan, Jerwin Francisco, Whitney Fulcher, John Morrison, Paul Narro, Dexter Madrona Turija, Antjuan Webb and Richard West. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Graduated October 18 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Jose Argueta, Justin Baehring, Iesha Bailey, Joey Bariatta Benosa, Austin Blake, Rudy Cesar, Kenneth Epps, Loretta James, Chris Marcani, Boby Lenin Morales Rochez, Keion Vines, Hunter Wickman, Edward Williams and Mark Wilson. February 2020 Seafarers LOG 25 �Paul Hall Center Classes Government Vessels – Graduated November 1 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Peter Azubike, Mark Kim Tiu Cordova, Marcel Okera Jubert, Edgardo Martinez Espada, Jerry Miraflor Maya Jr., Tomas Merel, Abdulnaser Kassem Saeed, James St. Amand and Brandon Urich. Government Vessels – Graduated November 1 – (above, from left): Christopher Henao, Shelonti Jones and Dale Mattingly Jr. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting Upgraders) – Graduated September 27 (above, from left): Amin Ali Quraish, Bernard Lawes Sr., and Diamond Anderson. ECDIS – Graduated September 27 (above, in alphabetical order): Karleen Grenier, Christopher Hickey, Mason Con Melland, Yuriy Prytchak and Scott Salo. (Note: Not all are pictured.) RFPNW – Graduated October 11 (above, in alphabetical order): Michael James Pompa Adeva, Lamar Doctor, Terrance Paige and Mikhail Semenovich Pinchevskiy. Junior Engineer (Plant Management II) – Graduated October 25 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Rahsaan Kwasi Alexander, David Cornelius, Raphael Henson, Sebastian Damian Krowicki, Karl Angelo Morrow Jr., Raymond Manlangit Orosco, Matthew Palmer, Tyler Summersill, Bryan Velazquez, Derrick Walker II and Renita Walker. Instructor Christopher Morgan is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 26 Seafarers LOG February 2020 �Paul Hall Center Classes Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated September 16 (above, in alphabetical order): Jioia Joyce Yvonne De Leon, Joseph Alexander Fabia Laureta, Zlatko Lucic and Nina Maria McFall. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated September 27 (above, in alphabetical order): Nadine Butler, Dante Fernandez Cruz, Sajid Foster, Timothy Laird, Eddie Taylor and Ronaldo Salazar Torres. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated August 30 (above, in alphabetical order): Harlan Alonzo, Jane Altieri, Alexander Paisaje Cordero, Mario Alcanse Firme Jr., and Abraham Marcelo Martinez Rochez. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated August 9 (above, from left): Jermin Matthews, Salvador Malasan De Guzman and Vincent Chavez. Certified Chief Cook (Module 1) – Graduated August 23 (above, in alphabetical order): George Nier Egbert, Ronald Glenn Jr., Annette Hicks, Yuriy Nikolayevich Klimov, Milan Marshall-Hampton and Alvin Watson. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated October 4 (above, in alphabetical order): Johnson Ashun, Bernard Lawes Sr., Mary Slade and Henry Wright Jr. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated September 20 (above, in alphabetical order): Brandy Clemons, Todd Gallagher, Juan Francisco Poblete and Barbara Smith. February 2020 Chief Steward – Graduated September 13 (above, from left): Joshua Heath, Detrell Lambey, and Jason Beckford. Also graduating, but not pictured, were: John Billington, Adele Williams and Derrick Williams. Seafarers LOG 27 �VOLUME 82, NO. 2 FEBRUARY 2020 Text “Join” to 97779 To Sign Up for SIU Text Alerts O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Representatives from the SIU, Santa’s Castle and Joint Base Lewis-McChord gather for a photo before the annual luncheon. ‘Feels Good to Give Back’ Tacoma-Area Seafarers Step Up Again for Santa’s Castle; Yearly Outreach Brightens Holidays for Military Personnel Chief Steward Ingra Maddox described the essence of the union’s yearly participation in Santa’s Castle as well as anyone. “It feels good to give back to the people that are protecting us,” said the Seafarer, who comes from a military family. “We’ve always got a ton of stuff for the children, and that’s what it’s all about: the children.” Since 2007, Tacoma-area Seafarers have donated holiday toys and other gifts to U.S. military families (primarily E-4 and below) from Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM), Washington, and from other bases. The gifts are sent through a private, nonprofit organization named Santa’s Castle. The union also hosts a holiday luncheon (typically in midto-late December) for military personnel, Seafarers, employees from the nonprofit group, and other guests. In 2019, SIU members, officials and staff as well as other contributors donated a little more than $9,000 in toys and additional gifts. The items were loaded into Santa’s Castle vans outside the hiring hall after the luncheon on Dec. 20. Anita Vargo, vice president of purchasing for Santa’s Castle, said, “The Seafarers are so amazing every year. They go above and beyond to help us and our soldiers. We look forward to being with them just to have lunch and get to know the men and women who work there. It’s really nice. We love those guys. They’re wonderful and the SIU is a great organization.” During remarks at the luncheon, SIU Assistant Vice President Joe Vincenzo said, “This program and this time of year are not about any one of us in particular. It’s about the gift of giving and being grateful for what we have.” A military veteran, Vincenzo also pointed out the long, mutually respectful relationship between the U.S. Merchant Marine and our armed forces. “The logistical support that the U.S. Merchant Marine gives to our military is as vital an asset to their ability to project and sustain power abroad as it is to our homeland, economic and national security,” he stated. “Our history is long and storied and each of us has it on our shoulders to carry on that tradition as you are here today. We are grateful for our military – the service that they perform each and every day. Today is our day to say thank you.” He added that since the union started participating in Santa’s Castle, Seafarers have chipped in with around $100,000 worth of items. Chief Cook Charlie Atkins volunteered to help set up and run the luncheon. Bosun Jozef Ignaczak (photo at left) and OMU Omer Shariff (right) help transport the donations from the hall. “The whole thing went great,” he said. “I do it every year when I’m home. As union members, we’re always trying to help anyone who needs it. I know this is for a good cause, and everyone was happy and smiling. Joe does a lot to make sure everybody’s on the same page. It was excellent.” Retired Recertified Steward Shawn Fujiwara said he has participated “from day one, and it’s a reflection of why I’m proud to be part of the SIU family and the Tacoma hall.” Always a good sport, Fujiwara wore an elf costume to the luncheon. He said this year’s event lived up to its lofty precedent. “It’s important to help Santa’s Castle and their mission to support our local military families who would not otherwise have as many gifts to share on Christmas,” he added. “I call it the magic of Christmas – giving from your heart and knowing it’ll brighten the spirits of children. Also, Joe Vincenzo is a powerhouse behind the scenes, making sure the Tacoma hall always gets revved up for this.” Seafarers contributed a little more than $9,000 worth of toys and other gifts for the latest iteration of Santa’s Castle. � 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 2020 Description An account of the resource Headlines: MAERSK KINLOSS RESCUES 3 CONGRESS EXTENDS U.S. MARITIME SECURITY PROGRAM CONRO LURLINE JOINS MATSON FLEET BISSO CREWS RATIFY THREE-YEAR CONTRACT RETIRED PORT AGENT BENSMAN PASSES AWAY MAERSK COLUMBUS CREW HELPS SAVE 11 FORMER DOL DEPUTY LAUDS SIU, PAUL HALL CENTER U.S. SENATE PASSES BILL HONORING WORLD WAR II MERCHANT MARINERS MEMBERS RING IN HOLIDAYS AT HALLS MORE HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES PHOTOS FROM SIU HIRING HALLS U.S. COAST GUARD ANNOUNCES REGIONAL EXAM CENTER CHANGES WHATS NEW FOR THE 2020 TAX FILING SEASON TAX TIPS FOR MEMBERS SHBP OFFERS COBRA CONTINUATION COVERAGE TO UNION MEMBERS SCHOOL STILL OFFERS CULINARY 2.0 TACOMA-AREA SEAFARERS STEP UP AGAIN FOR SANTA'S CASTLE 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 2/1/2020 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. 82, No. 2 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/8409739c0799ed05311fc0ff2f7d9742.pdf 7092441133a3db90d1fec2a0253e8ece PDF Text Text JANUARY 2020 VOLUME 82, NO. 1 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O New Year, New Tonnage, New Jobs SIU members are sailing aboard the Rio Grande Express (left), a containership that recently reflagged under the Stars and Stripes. The vessel is operated by Marine Personnel and Provisioning. It’s pictured passing Cuxhaven en route to Hamburg. Page 3. (Photo by Heiner Trappmann) The four photos directly below show Seafarers aboard another recent addition to the union-crewed fleet: the ARC Independence. The newly reflagged RO/RO is operated by TOTE for American Roll-on/Roll-off Carrier. Pictured from left to right in each photo are (starting directly below) ABs John Lawless and Dayani Landivar, (photo at far left) Oiler Artemio Milagrosa, (middle photo) OS Antonio Zorrilla, (back) Second Mate Andrew, Bosun Shawn Abdullah and OS Jerren Waller, and (remaining photo) SA Hakeem Ali, Chief Steward John Billington and Chief Cook Kevin Rivera. Another new ship, the USNS Newport, was christened late last year, as reported on Page 3. Thanksgiving Tradition Lives Up To Precedent At Oakland Hiring Hall The annual pre-Thanksgiving get-together at the hiring hall in Oakland, California, lived up to its sterling precedent late last year. Seafarers, pensioners, family members, dignitaries and other friends convened Nov. 26 for the event’s 29th iteration. In photo at far right, Seafarers and members of the color guard from the 4th Marine Division, 23rd Regiment are pictured at the hall (SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona is at right). In photo above, guests help themselves to the plentiful buffet. Page 5. Scholarship Info Page 10 SIU’s Decade in Review Pages 11-14 �President’s Report Building on Success As we launch into not just a new year but a new decade, I’m confident about the SIU’s future. Like always, we will change with the times – but we also will stick with the formula that’s brought us success. Some of those achievements are recapped in this month’s LOG, where we take a look back on the past 10 years. While we faced our share of challenges, we also had much to celebrate, including new tonnage and the corresponding jobs, new hiring halls, tremendous improvements at our affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, and waves of good contracts. That last element gets overlooked sometimes. It can be easy to take things for granted when they’re considered the norm, but a lot of work goes into securing collective bargaining agreements that provide good wages and maintain or improve excellent benefits. We also have demonMichael Sacco strated a sensible willingness to make sacrifices when the situation calls for it, but, thankfully, those instances have been rare. And that’s a credit to all concerned, from our rank-and-file members to our officials to our contracted companies. Stability is another important characteristic we’ve always enjoyed. Your support of my administration has helped the SIU build and maintain vital working relationships throughout our industry, on Capitol Hill, with our military, and at state and local levels of government. We tend to be restrained in our reporting of such matters, but the fact is, the SIU has played an important role in most if not all of the wins enjoyed by our industry these past 10 years. That’s a list that includes protecting the Jones Act from well-funded attacks, getting full funding for the Maritime Security Program, keeping cargo preference and the Export-Import Bank alive and in positions to expand, and working with every segment of the industry to preserve (and ultimately grow) the American-flag fleet. Grassroots action is always critical. You could say we’ve punched above our weight class, and again I point to our stability as a big reason why. Along those same lines, another huge key for us is the consistently outstanding work of our members. When we are fighting for pro-maritime laws, negotiating contracts or pushing for new tonnage, we always underscore your dependability. And that includes not only your day-to-day work, but your availability as America’s fourth arm of defense. When you answered the call for last year’s massive activations (thankfully, they were only part of a readiness exercise), you proved once again that your union and indeed your country can count on you. No reflection on our past nor any look at our future would be complete without mentioning the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education and its Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point. The school is what allows us to provide extremely well-trained crews for all kinds of vessels on the oceans, coasts, the Great Lakes and on our inland waterways. Very simply, our union and our industry would have no future without it. Piney Point also remains a gateway to career advancement and greater earnings for anyone who wants to take advantage of it. As we say in our industry, you can go as far as you want. I’m excited about the SIU’s future and the opportunities that lie ahead. I firmly believe and know that as long as we stick together and are willing to work for everything we earn, we’ll continue to sail full steam ahead with more positive gains. SIU-Contracted Companies Honored For Environmentally Safe Operations Numerous SIU-contracted companies were among the organizations recently honored for environmental safety by the Chamber of Shipping of America (CSA). The host organization on Nov. 13, 2019 presented Certificates of Environmental Achievement to 61 companies, representing 1,565 vessels, for a combined total number of 14,008 years without a reportable environmental incident. According to the CSA, “The average number of years operating without incident for ships and vessels that received awards is 8.95 years. Two hundred and CSA President Kathy Metcalf addresses the crowd. (Photo by Barry fifty-seven of the vessels have Champagne) logged 16 or more years of environmental excellence.” The yearly event took place gratulated the recipients and the the American public that we in industry as a whole for their ex- the maritime industry take our in Washington, D.C. SIU-contracted companies traordinary performance. Mr. D. stewardship of the marine enreceiving certificates included Lee Forsgren, Deputy Assistant vironment very seriously. Safe Alaska Tanker Company, Cres- Administrator, Office of Water, and environmentally responcent Towing, Crowley Mari- U.S. Environmental Protection sible operations is a culture time Corporation and several of Agency, also addressed the at- fully embraced by the mariits subsidiaries, Marine Trans- tendees and expressed his con- time industry as a whole and as port Management, E.N. Bisso gratulations to the participants evidenced by the performances & Son, Keystone Shipping, on their exceptional environ- of the award recipients recogMatson Navigation, OSG Ship mental performance. nized tonight.” CSA President Kathy J. Management, Patriot ConThe awards are open to all tract Services, American Ship Metcalf said, “These awards owners and operators of vesManagement, Seabulk Tank- celebrate the dedication to en- sels that operate on oceans or ers, Seabulk Towing, TOTE vironmental excellence of our inland waterways. The CSA Services and two affiliated seafarers and the company per- Board encourages all operators companies, and U.S. Shipping sonnel shore-side who oper- and owners to take advantage Corp. The U.S. Military Sealift ate our vessels to the highest of this opportunity to recognize Command and U.S. Maritime standards. In today’s world, it their crews and shore-side opAdministration also were rec- seems our industry only gets erating personnel and encourognized for the safety of their front-page news when spills or ages all operators and owners respective SIU-crewed vessels. other environmental problems to consider participating in Admiral Charles W. Ray, occur. It is encouraging to see next year’s program. ParticipaVice Commandant, United how many vessels go for years tion guidance is available on States Coast Guard, participated achieving environmental ex- CSA’s website which is located in the award ceremony and con- cellence. It should be clear to at (www.knowships.org). Safety Directors Attend Annual Team Training The union’s safety directors assembled for a series of classes and seminars Nov. 18-22 at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) in Piney Point, Maryland. Attending the annual week of training were Amber Akana (Honolulu), Ben Anderson (Tacoma, Washington), James Brown (New Orleans), Kathy Chester (Oakland), Gordon Godel (Wilmington, California), DeCarlo Harris (Baltimore), Anthony Houston (Norfolk, Virginia), Gerret Jarman (Algonac, Michigan), Joseph Koncul (Jacksonville, Florida), Andre MacCray (Philadelphia), Osvaldo Ramos (Jersey City, New Jersey) and Kevin Sykes (Houston). O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 82, Number 1 January 2020 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2020 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. SIU safety directors took notice of the major improvements in the school’s machine shop. Upgraders are pictured at the Piney Point facility. 2 Seafarers LOG The safety team met with SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker, PHC Acting Vice President Tom Orzechowski and Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen, among others, to discuss a variety of topics including regulatory and pollution compliance, shipboard safety, ongoing recruiting efforts, preventing sexual harassment and more. Anderson said, “Our week at the school was very productive. It was great to see the upgrades made to the campus, and furthermore, the apprentice side looks great. The engine room labs were awesome and were more of a hands-on/one-on-one learning experience. Overall, the campus looks amazing.” Sykes commented, “Having a clear line of communication with our members aboard vessels ensures that their concerns can and will be addressed.” “Good meetings for me,” Godel concluded. “These always reinforce current practices and bring in new ideas from my colleagues on how to work best and be consistent throughout the halls. As usual all of the sessions were informative, but my favorite topics were the new safety reporting forms and our path forward on recruiting and retention.” January 2020 �The vessel is shown in Houston in November. Containership Rio Grande Express Reflags U.S. Vessel’s Addition to Fleet Means New Jobs for SIU Members Before heading into the New Year, Seafarers closed out 2019 by welcoming a new containership into the union-contracted fleet. Seafarers in early November began sailing aboard the Rio Grande Express, an 853-foot vessel that’s operated by Marine Personnel and Provisioning for Hapag-Lloyd. Built in 2006 in Korea, the 4,248 TEU ship is sailing between northern Europe and U.S. ports on the East and Gulf Coasts. “This is an outright addition to the SIU fleet,” noted SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “As always, we welcome the new jobs and are confident that our crews will do an outstanding job.” The initial SIU crew aboard the Rio Grande Express included Recertified Bosun Glenn Christianson, ABs Anwar Martinez, Saleh Salah, Oscar Lacayo, Timothy Hess, Hernando Bansuelo and Ali Al Kassemi, QMEDs Sutthipong Ticer, Mashanda Carr and Mohammad Khan, GSTU Stalyn Mena, Steward/Baker Timothy Heffernan and Chief Cook Ali Bazzi. Heffernan said the ship presented some challenges when Seafarers first climbed the gangway, but the crew rose to the occasion. “The galley was filthy and we didn’t have a lot of equipment,” he recalled. “I won’t lie and paint a rosy picture (about the initial ex- perience), but morale is good and the food is good, if I may say so.” Speaking from Hamburg, he continued, “Within a few days, there was a 100 percent improvement in appearance. It really was amazing the way everybody stepped up. January 2020 SIU Houston Patrolman Kelly Krick serviced the vessel as it reflagged. “It reminds me of the Maersk K-Class vessels,” he said. “It’s a newer vessel with good living quarters. Everybody seemed pretty excited about the new opportunity.” Among those pictured aboard the ship are AB Anwar Martinez, QEE Sutthipong Ticer, GSTU Stalyn Mena, AB Saleh Salah, QMED Mashanda Carr, AB Oscar Lacayo, SIU Houston Patrolman Kelly Krick, AB Timothy Hess, AB Hernando Bansuelo, QMED Mohammad Khan, Recertified Bosun Glenn Christianson, AB Ali Al Kassemi, Chief Steward Timothy Heffernan and Chief Cook Ali Bazzi. USNS Newport Christened At Austal USA in Mobile On Nov. 9, the future USNS Newport was christened at Austal USA in Mobile, Alabama. Once in service, the vessel will be crewed by SIU Government Services Division members. “It’s an awesome day at Austal when we christen one of our amazing Navy ships,” said Austal USA President Craig Perciavalle. “Like the Navy’s other EPF (expeditionary fast transport) vessels, Newport is destined for great things with the support she’ll soon provide to the global fleet. “Excellent Navy-industry teamwork resulted in the achievement of this important milestone,” continued Perciavalle. “The team here is one of the best in the industry, as evidenced by the success of the EPF program, and we should be proud of how well we are directly supporting the strengthening of our Navy.” The principal speaker was Rear Adm. Shoshana Chatfield, president of the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island. The ship’s sponsor is Charlotte Marshall, a Newport native. “This ship honors the city of Newport, Rhode Island, and serves as a reminder of the contributions the community has and continues to make to our Navy,” said Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spen- We’ve made great progress but there’s more to do. We’re just waiting on supplies and then heading back to Houston. It’s generally a middle-aged to younger unlicensed crew and we’re all managing pretty well. So far, so good on shore time, too.” cer. “Newport is a Navy town where many officers begin their careers and then return later for strategic training. It is right that a fourth ship will bear the name Newport to continue our long relationship, and provide our commanders high-speed sealift mobility and agility in the fight to defend our nation.” EPF class ships are designed to transport 600 short tons of military cargo 1,200 nautical miles at an average speed of 35 knots. Each ship is capable of operating in shallow-draft ports and waterways, interfacing with roll-on/roll-off discharge facilities, and on/off-loading a combat-loaded Abrams main battle tank. Each EPF includes a flight deck for helicopter operations and an off-load ramp that will allow vehicles to quickly drive off the ship. If the name of the newest EPF seems familiar, it’s for good reason. According to the Navy, the first Newport (a gunboat) was commissioned Oct. 5, 1897. During the Spanish-American War, she received credit for assisting in the capture of nine Spanish vessels. The ship was decommissioned in 1898, but recommissioned in 1900 to serve as a training ship at the U.S. Naval Academy and at the Naval Training Station at Newport until decom- missioning in Boston in 1902. The second Newport (a frigate) was commissioned Sept. 8, 1944, decommissioned in September 1945 and loaned to the U.S.S.R. and returned to United States custody at Yokosuka, Japan, in November 1949. Recommissioned in July 1950, the Newport patrolled off Inchon, Korea. Decommissioned at Yokosuka in April 1952, she was loaned to Japan in 1953, and commissioned as Kaede. She was then reclassified and transferred to the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force outright in August 1962. The third Newport (a tank-landing ship) was commissioned on June 7, 1969. Assigned to the Amphibious Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet, the Newport alternated amphibious training operations along the East Coast of the United States with extended deployments to the Caribbean and Mediterranean. She was decommissioned in October 1992, and transferred to the government of Mexico in 2001. Vessel sponsor Charlotte Marshall does the honors during the christening. (Photo courtesy Austal USA) Seafarers LOG 3 �Union’s Career Pathways Receive Praise ‘Earning a Credential at Piney Point is Like Putting Money in the Bank’ When former U.S. Deputy Secretary of Labor Seth Harris received an invitation to deliver the keynote speech at a conference focused on identifying solid career paths, he quickly thought of the SIU. Harris, once an SIU field representative and now a Visiting Professor at the Cornell Institute for Public Affairs (as well as an attorney in the nation’s capital), spoke Nov. 8 to the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) in Chicago. CAEL is self-described as “a national nonprofit that works at all levels within the higher education, public and private sectors to make it easier for today’s students to get the education and training they need.” “I share CAEL’s deep commitment to linking learning with work and helping working-class and middle-class Americans to acquire the skills they need to get and keep good jobs,” Harris told the audience. “I also agree with your work-based-learning agenda. As the Labor Department said in 2014, work-based learning is a proven strategy for adults of all ages, whether it’s registered apprenticeship, on-the-job training, work experience, internships, or job shadowing.” Harris served four and one-half years as the Deputy U.S. Secretary of Labor and six months as Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor during the Obama administration. During his remarks in Chicago, he used (with permission) retired Recertified Bosun Ron Mena’s experience as an example of effective career training. (They first met in the 1980s, when Harris worked for the union.) “Ron began his seafaring career in the late-1970s.... Ron’s parents sent him off to Piney Point, Maryland, to attend the Seafarers Harry Lundberg School of Seamanship,” Harris recalled, explaining how the union-affiliated school operates. He then described the trainee program of that era, and recalled how Mena steadily progressed up the career ladder. “When I met Ron, he had graduated from his apprenticeship and already returned to Piney Point several times to upgrade – that’s the SIU’s phrase for what people in the world of workforce development now call upskilling or reskilling,” Harris said. “So, Ron was a highly rated AB only a few years into his career. “But what was remarkable about Ron was that he was a man with a plan,” he continued. “I remember Ron telling me in great detail how he was going to continue his career advancement. He knew that he could compete and win a particular job on board a particular ship. The job would last for six months. Ron had already identified the upgrading course he could take when he returned to Piney Point at the end of those six months. That course would allow him to earn a higher-level certification. Then, with his new credential in hand, Ron knew that he could ship out in a higherskilled, better-paying job for another period of several months, and then return to Piney Point to earn another specialized credential.” The plan worked. Mena retired from the SIU a year or so ago. “He now lives a very nice life in Florida after a successful and lucrative career in a tough business,” Harris stated. “I’m not saying that Ron’s career was all ups and no downs. Very few of us follow a straight line to success. But Ron thrived in an industry in which the number of jobs has declined rather dramatically since he shipped out for the first time in 1978. Because of the opportunities provided to him by Piney Point and the SIU, he succeeded in climbing the ladder as the ladder got narrower and narrower.” The bulk of Harris’s speech followed. He tackled what he called “the stackability conundrum.” “I view Ron’s story as an excellent – almost paradigmatic – illustration of stackability,” Harris said. “The stackability idea is quite simple. It begins with a recognition that not every high school graduate should immediately rush off to college, and not every college leads you to a bachelor’s degree, and not every college graduate should proceed directly to graduate school, or perhaps attend graduate school at all. “And while life is more difficult if you do it this way, some people can’t or just don’t graduate from high school,” he added. “All the data tell us that these folks, more than any others, need a pathway to credentials and degrees that will strengthen their ability to get good jobs at good wages. Stackability posits that there are career pathways leading to success that can begin with almost any credential that will help an adult to get a first job that produces an income. That income becomes the funding source for living expenses and, potentially, for additional training and credential attainment – a certificate, a registered apprenticeship, a license, a further degree.” Seth Harris addresses the conference in Chicago. He then explained that research concludes “not enough workers have access to this key so they can use it to open the right doors…. Rates of upward income mobility in the United States have fallen sharply since the beginning of World War II.” Harris expressed support for registered apprenticeship programs like the one in Piney Point, describing them as “a worthwhile investment for workers” when the training is likely to result in gainful employment. “Ron Mena made that investment when he entered Piney Point’s cadet program, and it paid off,” Harris said. “Earning a credential at Piney Point is like putting money in the bank.” He concluded with a series potential steps to bolster workforce training and employment – one of which is to recognize the value of union representation. “Unions make a huge difference in education and training,” Harris said. “The story I told you about Ron Mena didn’t just happen to include a union and its training program. Ron’s story happened because of the union and its training program. And there are good reasons why the most stable and successful registered apprenticeship programs are the product of labor-management partnerships. Unions raise wages and guarantee benefits. Unions bargain with employers about investments in job training and career ladder development. Unions build job training programs that succeed because, if they don’t succeed, their members will elect new leaders. “If job training is about upward mobility, then it is a core and necessary part of unions’ mission. Simply, if we had more unions and union members, we have would have more stories like Ron Mena’s. Aboard USNS Algol Seafarers from both the Algol and the USNS Capella are pictured in late October after a union meeting on the West Coast. The vessels are operated by Ocean Duchess Inc. 4 Seafarers LOG January 2020 �U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee (D-California) (center) is flanked by SIU VP Nick Marrone (left) and SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona. U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) speaks to the attendees. SIU VP Nick Marrone, U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-California), SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona Thanksgiving Tradition Thrives in Oakland The yearly pre-Thanksgiving gathering at the hiring hall in Oakland, California, lived up to its well-earned reputation as an uplifting event not to be missed. Guests packed the hall Nov. 26 (two days before the actual holiday) for the twenty-ninth straight year. They were treated to a traditional and generous menu, remarks by members of the United States Congress, and abundant fellowship. Attendees included Seafarers, pensioners and their families; military personnel from the U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Coast Guard; representatives of other labor organizations; shipping company executives; personnel from the local police and fire fighting communities; and others. “It was an exciting event as always, and around here it’s really known as the beginning of the holiday season,” said SIU Assistant Vice President Nick Celona, who once again worked closely with the committee that organized the gathering. “The guests seemed very happy and the speakers’ remarks were excellent,” he added. Celona also noted the outstanding volunteer work of SIU retiree Louella Sproul, who played a big role in setting up the hall. Members of the 4th Marine Division, 23rd Regiment Color Guard help formally launch the event. Retired Recertified Bosun Roger Reinke (wearing white Lundeberg Stetson, partially obscured) displays the U.S. Merchant Marine flag as part of the proceedings. SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona, Capt. Marie Byrd (commander of Coast Guard Sector San Francisco), SIU VP Nick Marrone SIU VP Nick Marrone, retired Recertified Steward Louella Sproul January 2020 Editor’s note: The photos on this page were provided by Charles Farrugia. SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (left) is pictured with U.S. Coast Guard District 11 personnel Commander RADM Peter Gautier, Lt. Commander Chris Klein, Command Master Chief Shane Hooker and Lt. Sam Ruby. Lt. Col. John Cunningham, SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona and James Bartha, Army Corps of Engineers Regional Contracting Chief, South Pacific Division Guests enjoy the festivities at the hall. “She’s been part of it from the beginning,” Celona noted. As usual, while the luncheon’s tone was cheerful and relaxed, remarks from the podium underscored the value of the U.S. Merchant Marine. In particular, speakers stressed the industry’s vital contributions to America’s national, economic and homeland security; its service as the fourth arm of defense; and its respectful partnership with our military. SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona, Crowley Maritime President/CEO Tom Crowley Jr., SIU VP Nick Marrone, AMO Representative William Barrere, Crowley Labor Relations Director Lee Egland The event’s enduring popularity is reflected by another strong turnout. Seafarers LOG 5 �PROMOTING MARITIME WITH MARYLAND CONGRESSMEN – SIU Baltimore Port Agent John Hoskins (shown in both photos) represented the union at the Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO convention, which took place Nov. 18-19 in Hanover, Maryland. He formally addressed the other attendees, updating them about the Jones Act and the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO. He also discussed maritime issues with longtime industry stalwart U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-Maryland) (right in photo at left) and U.S. Rep. David Trone (D-Maryland) (left in photo at right). HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE CORPS – SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (left) joins Col. Ross A. Parrish late last year in celebrating the U.S. Marine Corps birthday, in Lake Tahoe, California. Col. Parrish is the commanding officer of the 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Division. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU WELCOME ASHORE IN JERSEY – Longtime Seafarer Joseph Negron (right) picks up his first pension check at the hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. Port Agent Ray Henderson is at left. Negron joined the union in 1979. WELCOME ASHORE IN PHILLY – Recertified Bosun Tim Olvany (left) gets his first pension check at the hiring hall. Port Agent Joe Baselice is at right. Olvany started sailing with the SIU in 1981. WELCOME ASHORE IN HOUSTON – AB Winston Restauro (center) recently stopped by the Houston hall with his wife (right) to pick up his first pension check. SIU Asst. VP Mike Russo is at left. 6 Seafarers LOG WELCOME ASHORE IN MOBILE – Recertified Steward Tyler Laffitte (left) receives his first pension check from Port Agent Jimmy White at the hiring hall. Laffitte graduated from Trainee Class 332 and began sailing with the SIU in 1981. ABOARD LIBERTY ISLAND – SIU Mobile Port Agent Jimmy White (left) is pictured with Seafarers aboard the Great Lakes Dredge & Dock vessel. That’s the SIU-crewed Cape Race in the background. January 2020 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU SURPRISE GATHERING ABOARD MIDNIGHT SUN – Chief Cook Sal Ahmed reports that a surprise party was conducted for Recertified Steward Lewis Johanson on the TOTE ship, inspired by vessel master Capt. Karl Carr. Johanson chose the Midnight Sun for his last voyage, in mid-October. “He is beloved,” noted Ahmed. “We call him Papa Lewis. He’s a wonderful gentleman and a great worker. It was a happy and sad party.” Johanson received a cake and a life ring signed by the whole crew. Pictured from left to right are (above) Ahmed, SA Else David and Johanson, and (below) Ahmed, Johanson, David and Carr. ABOARD MISSISSIPPI ENTERPRISE – Some of the handiwork from the pumpkin-carving contest aboard the Waterman ship is on display. That’s Chief Cook Rhonda Williams at left and SA Billy Burgos-Burgos at right. ABOARD CAPE MOHICAN – Pictured after a union meeting aboard the Ocean Duchess ship are (above, from left): Bosun Anthony Pace, Chief Steward Salah Omar, GVA Mohamed Omar, QEE Lakhbir Pooni and GUDE Zaid Said. ABOARD AMERICAN FREEDOM – Pictured Nov. 19 aboard the Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning vessel in Martinez, California, are (above, from left): AB Harvey Carvajal, Chief Cook Bob Tuilaepa, AB Hussen Mohamed, QMED Pumpman Felix Garcia, Steward/Baker Delbra Singleton-Leslie, AB Ruben Hernandez, ACU Hayel Omer, SIU Oakland Port Agent Nick Marrone II and Recertified Bosun Joshua Mensah. ABOARD CAPE HUDSON – Chief Steward Joseph Hernandez (left) and SIU Oakland Port Agent Nick Marrone II are pictured on the Matson vessel Oct. 30 in San Francisco. January 2020 ABOARD CAPE HENRY – Chief Steward Khaled Taffi (left) greets fellow mariners on the Matson vessel late last year on the West Coast. Seafarers LOG 7 �USNS Comfort Completes Another Mission Vessel Returns to Home Port Following Successful Voyage The SIU-crewed U.S. Navy hospital ship USNS Comfort returned home to Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, on Nov. 15 following the five-month humanitarian mission Enduring Promise in South America, Central America and the Caribbean. The ship carried nearly 200 medical professionals as well as a crew of 800 (some of whom are CIVMARS from the SIU Government Services Division). The Navy said the Comfort provided medical, surgical, dental, and optometry services during its 12 mission stops to Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, Panama, Peru, Saint Lucia, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Trinidad and Tobago. “We saw more than 70,000 patients in the onshore medical sites. We did over 1,200 surgeries on board the ship,” said Capt. Patrick Amersbach, commanding officer for the USNS Comfort’s Medical Treatment Facility. The mission also included more than 60 subject matter expert exchanges and 40 community relations events. The mission’s final stop in Haiti was a personal request from the country’s U.S. ambassador, Michele Sison, according to the head of the U.S Southern Command, Adm. Craig Faller. The arrival of the Comfort came as violent demonstrations and barricades led several hospitals across the country to run out of medical supplies, and some were forced to temporarily close as protest- ers demanded the Haitian president’s resignation. “It shows the power of an outstretched hand, the power of what we can do when we work together,” Faller said. “Here in Haiti we’ve had the opportunity to see firsthand the impact that it has made, changing lives forever.” “Haiti is going through a tough time,” Sison said aboard the Comfort during the mission stop. “If you haven’t had the opportunity to get down to the Haitian Coast Guard Base Killick, which is the medical site ... I want to tell you what we all saw down there touches the heart. There were over 1,000 people at the gates yesterday. They told me upwards of 3,000 today at the medical site.” The hospital ship has one of the largest trauma facilities in the United States and is equipped with four X-ray machines, one CAT scan unit, a dental suite, an optometry lens laboratory, physical therapy center, pharmacy, angiography suite and two oxygen-producing plants. According to the Navy, the Comfort’s primary mission is to provide an afloat, mobile, acute surgical medical facility to the U.S. military that is flexible, capable, and uniquely adaptable to support expeditionary warfare. The Comfort’s secondary mission is to provide full hospital services to support U.S. disaster relief and humanitarian operations worldwide. A graphic created by the U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet details the completed mission. Spotlight on Mariner Health Benefits of Good Oral Hygiene Extend to Heart, Other Organs Editor’s note: This article was provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. Take care of your teeth and gums in order to help keep your heart and other organs healthy. Research suggests that poor oral hygiene can lead to bacteria in the blood that causes inflammation in the body. This inflammation increases the risk of atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeats) and can cause heart failure (the heart’s inability to pump blood and then relax so that the heart can refill with blood.) Gum disease (periodontitis) is associated with an increased risk of possibly developing heart disease due to bacteria that travels through the bloodstream. In fact, poor dental health in general increases the risk of a bacterial infection in the bloodstream, which can also affect the heart valves. Oral health can be particularly important if you have an artificial heart valve. Tooth loss and decay (bacteria) has been studied in individuals with coronary heart disease, pancreatitis, peptic ulcers, and esophageal problems. There is a very strong connection between diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and evidence that people with diabetes benefit from periodontal treatment. 8 Seafarers LOG Even though oral health isn’t commonly considered a key to heart disease prevention, it is very important to take care of your teeth and gums. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the following: • Drink fluoridated water and brush with fluoride toothpaste. • Practice good oral hygiene. Brush teeth thoroughly and floss between the teeth to remove dental plaque. • Visit your dentist on a regular basis, even if you have no natural teeth or have dentures. • Do not use any tobacco products. If you smoke, quit. • Limit alcoholic drinks. • If you have diabetes, work to maintain control of the disease. This will decrease risk for other complications, including gum disease. • If your medication causes dry mouth, ask your doctor for a different medication that may not cause this condition. If dry mouth cannot be avoided, drink plenty of water, chew sugarless gum, and avoid tobacco products and alcohol. • See your doctor or a dentist if you have sudden changes in taste and smell. • When acting as a caregiver, help older individuals brush and floss their teeth if they are not able to perform these activities independently. Healthy Recipe Salmon Vera Cruz Servings 25 Ingredients and Seasonings 5 1/3 cups olives, green cut in half 5 1/3 cups Mexican-style stewed tomatoes (1/2 inch cubes about 2-#10 cans) 1 3/4 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed 1 1/3 cups small capers, drained 1/3 cup cilantro, chopped 8 pounds salmon filet, fresh cut into 4 oz filets 3 tablespoons mrs dash seasoning 2 tablespoons olive oil 3 tablespoons parsley, chopped Preparation Combine the ripe olive slices, stewed tomatoes, lime juice, capers and cilantro in a bowl. Mix well. Place the salmon steaks in 2” hotel pans with non-stick spray. Season the salmon with the Mrs Dash seasoning; blend evenly. Top each steak with some of the olive mixture. Bake in preheated 350 degrees F oven for 15 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with an internal temp of 145 degrees F. Drizzle olive oil over the top of the salmon. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Nutritution Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 234 calories; 10g fat (38.4% calories from fat); 30g protein; 5g carbohydrate; 2g dietary fiber; 76mg cholesterol; 576mg sodium. Exchanges: 0 grain (starch); 4 lean meat; ½ vegetable; 0 fruit; 1 fat; 0 other carbohydrates. Editor’s note: The foregoing recipe was provided by Chef Robert “RJ” Johnson of the of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship. January 2020 �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. Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings MAERSK DENVER (Maersk Line, Limited), September 29 – Chairman Roy Madrio, Secretary Marcelo Param, Educational Director Anthony Kimbrell. Chairman reported a safe and smooth voyage. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Members reviewed ship fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew suggests a second electrician on board as ship sizes have increased and plenty of work available. Members request new refrigerator for the crew mess. MAERSK KENSINGTON (Maersk Line, Limited), October 13 – Chairman Hussein Mohamed, Secretary Philip Paquette, Educational Director Steven Miller, Engine Delegate Ryan Brandle, Steward Delegate Algie Mayfield Jr. New vacuum received and Wi-Fi hooked up. All crew are able to use satellite TV. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Members were reminded to keep documents updated. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requests increase in vacation days. Members thanked steward department for going above and beyond, serving outstanding meals every day. Crew discussed rules for days off and questioned consistency in rules from one ship to another. ABs on gangway would like heaters during cold weather. All members will get satellite TV in rooms soon. MAERSK KINLOSS (Maersk Line, Limited), October 18 – Chairman Hanapiah Ismail, Secretary Caezar Mercado, Educational Director Tijani Rashid, Deck Delegate Mark Carpenter. Chairman advised members to check and update all documents. Bosun thanked the steward department for good meals each day. He noted presentation of ship safety award. Steward department thanked everyone and reminded them about upcoming Real ID requirement. Educational director reminded crew to check documents and upgrade at the Piney Point school. Crew discussed ship fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members asked for TVs and DVD players in each room. Wi-Fi installed but waiting to be programed. Members request functional exam requirement be reduced to once per year. Crew requested printer in computer room and a new computer monitor in D-deck. Members would like vacation pay increase. Next port: Newark, New Jersey. MARJORIE C (PASHA), October 20 – Chairman Daniel Davenport, Secretary Jatniel Aguilera Santiago, Educational Director Michael Papaioannou, Deck Delegate Bill Cooley, Engine Delegate Oscar Cesena, Steward Delegate Reno Duque. Crew received new mattresses for staterooms and new dishwasher. Shipyard period scheduled for mid-March. Chairman to update crew with information as soon as it becomes available. It is undetermined whether full crew will be retained on board during the yard period. New booklets for Pension Plan, Money Purchase Plan, Vacation Maersk Columbus Helps Save 11 Around press time, the SIU-crewed Maersk Columbus played a vital role in a successful search-and-rescue mission off the coast of Spain. SIU members teamed up with mariners from the MEBA and MM&P to assist 11 Algerian individuals (including a child and an infant) who were in a small rubber boat, trying to sail to Spain. Details are available on the SIU website and on our social media pages (and also will be included in the next LOG). Many of the Maersk Columbus mariners are pictured in the photo at right. The SIU crew included Recertified Bosun Ion Irimia, Daymen Eduardo Barlas and Sacarias Suazo, ABs Jerzy Marciniak, Marcos Santos Gamboa, and Jose Calix, Electrician Tousif Ahmed, QMED George Santiago, DEU Amado Laboriel-Reyes, Chief Steward Fernando Lopes, Chief Cook Adele Messina, and SA Angel Corchado. The nighttime operation (in challenging weather) resulted in the Algerians safely boarding a Spanish patrol boat. Plan and Core-Plus/Core Benefit levels have been posted in crew lounge. Upgrading and vacation applications available there as well. Educational director advised crew of LNG endorsement needed in order to sail on new PASHA containerships. Endorsements can be obtained through classes at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate thanked GVAs for assistance with waxing passageways/ mess decks. Deck and engine department thanked for installing new dishwasher in galley and making improvements to ship’s gym. Crew requests the availability of Wi-Fi. Next port: San Diego. MAERSK SELETAR (Maersk Line, Limited), October 26 – Chairman Cleofe Bernardez Castro, Secretary Bernard Butts, Engine Delegate Lawrence Brooks. Chairman announced payoff scheduled for October 29. He discussed dental benefits for members and their families as well as ship fund balance. Secretary encouraged crew to continue to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education and be sure that credentials are up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members were instructed to write down and submit any issues to the bosun. They discussed new weights for gym. Steward department was thanked for a job well done. Members were urged to read about their benefits. They suggested increase in food budget for security team and also requested that ABs in double rooms be relocated to bigger quarters. MAERSK CHICAGO (Maersk Line, Limited), October 27 – Chairman reminded members to keep documents current and upgrade at the SIU-affiliated Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food. 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 January 2020 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 9 �ITF Inspectors Meet In Sri Lanka for Worldwide Inspectors Seminar More than 110 International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) inspectors gathered in Colombo, Sri Lanka, in late September for the Worldwide Inspectors Seminar (WWIS). The event, which now will take place every five years, gives the inspectors time to collaborate and network among themselves; and to develop new innovative strategies for achieving the ITF’s organizational objectives in the Flag of Convenience Campaign (FOC). The seminar was opened by President Conrad Oca of the Associated Marine Officers and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP) and first Vice Chair of the Seafarers’ Section, who welcomed the inspectors and referred them as “the ITF’s Police Force.” According to SIU ITF Coordinator Ricky Esopa, “ITF Inspectors are the ITF representatives working in ports all around the world in support of the FOC Campaign. Their role is to ensure that mariners of all nationalities receive the entitlements afforded to them: under their working agreement, the Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBA) they’re employed under, and those protected by international conventions that are signatory under the vessel flag. They pursue fairness and justice for those who are abandoned, mistreated and cheated by bad shipowners. “The mission the week of the seminar is to strengthen our goals and commitment in defending seafarers’ rights,” Esopa added. Attending the seminar for the first time was SIU ITF Inspector in the Charleston/ Savannah Region Corey Connor, who stated, “I found it to be incredibly informative and energizing. Not only as it pertains to our job as inspectors, but also putting the faces to the names of the brothers and sisters I have been working with around the world. I found myself leaving more informed and more empowered in my role to protect the seafarers and their rights.” The seminar, which was divided into four days of intense open plenary and workshop sessions, covered mariner issues in regards to their CBAs, Hours of Work and Rest Violations, Supply Chain Campaigning, Maritime Labor Convention (MLC) and Flag State implementation, Personal Injury cases, related crew member stress issues, and maritime advocacy in cases dealing with sexual assault aboard ships, along with numerous case studies. Besides ITF officials and inspectors, the seminar attracted representatives from seafarers and dockers unions from Algeria, Great Britain, Morocco, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Sweden, and Ukraine, along with special guests from Seafarers Rights International, the International Maritime Employers Council (IMEC), VShips group and International Registries. Seafarers Health and Benefit Plan Offers Scholarship Funds Each year, the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) makes scholarships available to qualified individuals who are looking to further their education. The 2020 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, collegelevel 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 obtain a scholarship program booklet. This package contains eligibility information, procedures for applying for the scholarships and an application form. Union members and their dependents now have three avenues through which they may obtain this booklet. First, as has been the case in the past, prospective applicants may request these booklets via mail by completing and mailing the form provided below. Secondly, they may obtain the booklets by visiting any SIU hall. Finally, applicants may obtain the booklet by by visiting www.seafarers.org, going to the ABOUT tab, navigating to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan menu (Participant Letters and Notices of Material Modifications section) and selecting Scholarship Application (PDF). Although the booklet is dated 2016, all information is still current for the 2020 SHBP Scholarships. 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, 2020. 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 2020. 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. Please send me the 2020 SHBP Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Attendees tackled a range of issues that are vital to mariners. Several participants are pictured above, but dozens more also attended. Name ................................................................................................................................................. Street Address ................................................................................................................................... City, State, Zip Code.......................................................................................................................... Telephone Number ( ) ................................................................................................................. This application is for: ❏ Self ❏ Dependent Mail this completed form to: Scholarship Program Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 1/20 Union Member Rights, Officer Responsibilities Under The Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act 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 „Voice in setting rates of dues, fees, and assessments „Protection of the right to sue „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. 10 Seafarers LOG Officer Elections: Union members have the right to: „Nominate candidates for office „Run for office „Cast a secret ballot „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 Certain Discipline: A union or any of its officials may not fine, expel, or otherwise discipline a member for exercising any LMRDA right. 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 LM2/3/4) with OLMS. „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: „Conduct elections for officers of national unions or intermediary districts at least every four years by secret ballot. „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. „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 January 2020 �Decade In Review SIU Builds for Future, Remembers Those Lost Throughout the past decade, the Seafarers International Union has earned numerous hard-fought victories, as well as worked through some devastating losses – including the deaths of 17 SIU members in a tragic accident at sea. In some ways, the decade mirrored prior ones. The union celebrated (and facilitated) new tonnage entering the American-flag fleet (see sidebar at bottom of page). The SIUaffiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, made substantial improvements in its curriculums, training tools and campus itself. Members approved abundant contracts that consistently boosted wages while maintaining industry-leading benefits. New hiring halls opened in Houston; Jersey City, New Jersey; and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Seafarers upheld the finest traditions of the Brotherhood of the Sea by participat- 2010 O ne of the top stories in the nation – not just in the maritime industry – was the Deepwater Horizon disaster, which began April 20 with a deadly oil-rig explosion in the Gulf of Mexico. SIU members, including CIVMARS from the union’s Government Services Division, assisted in the months-long cleanup, but the tragedy quickly took a bizarre and job-threatening turn when some news outlets and legislators wrongfully stated that a crucial maritime law called the Jones Act somehow was impeding operations. Following that initial round of erroneous claims and inaccurate reporting, the truth gradually emerged. Statements from industry groups, senators, congressmen and the head of the Deepwater Horizon Unified Command, Adm. Thad Allen, exposed the critics’ arguments as flawed at best, as did certain news articles. SIU President Michael Sacco was a forceful spokesman for the Jones Act throughout this ordeal. His comments were picked up by news outlets, and those remarks helped set the record straight. SIU members were among the first to mobilize for Haiti relief operations after that nation was struck by a 7.0-magnitude earthquake on Jan. 12. Within the first few days after the earthquake, several Seafarerscontracted ships were activated for the relief mission, and several others (already in full operating status) were assigned to it. More than a dozen Seafarers-crewed ships would sail in Operation Unified Response. When those vessels and others were sent to help the earthquake victims, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood stated, “It is another example of why our country’s merchant marine is so important. Sending these ships will help those on the front line of this effort save as many lives in Haiti as possible. These ships will add ing in numerous humanitarian relief efforts and by executing many rescues. They stood up as part of the nation’s fourth arm of defense by supporting our troops around the world. Rank-and-file members also joined with officials and staff for grassroots outreach supporting pro-maritime, pro-worker political candidates (regardless of party) and related legislation. Overall, under the leadership of SIU President Michael Sacco and the executive board, the union kept its membership numbers steady despite an overall decline of jobs elsewhere in the industry. Additionally, the Seafarers Plans improved various benefits while keeping its individual components fully funded. The following is a recap of some of the decade’s notable stories. crucial capabilities by supporting operations to move large volumes of people and cargo.” SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel was elected chair of the Seafarers’ Section of the International Transport Workers’ Federation, thereby becoming just the second American to hold the prestigious post. (The other was late SIU Executive Vice President John Fay.) On Capitol Hill, the first annual maritime industry “Sail-In” delivered key messages to members of both houses, on both sides of the aisle, about the need for a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez helped lead the SIU’s participation. 2010 2011 T he union continued its efforts, both in U.S. and international forums, to reduce and ultimately eliminate the scourge of maritime piracy. Political action was a key part of this ongoing struggle, as was the ongoing “Save Our Seafarers” campaign. 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. 2012 G arnering well-deserved attention, the new standard freightship and tanker contracts were ratified around mid-year. Those five-year pacts featured Continued on next page SIU Welcomed More than 100 New Ships, Tugs and Ferries W hile it’s no secret that the U.S. Merchant Marine fleet has ample room for growth, the past decade certainly featured plentiful additions for the SIU. A review of the past 10 years shows that rarely a single month passed without a new-tonnage announcement or an actual delivery. No fewer than 110 additions were made that directly involved SIU crews, whether in the deep sea, Great Lakes or inland fleets or in the SIU Government Services Division. In some cases, the vessels were new builds, while in other instances they were flag-ins. Similarly, some of the additions were outright gains; others were replacement tonnage. But they all added up to ongoing and future employment opportunities for the SIU. At least 29 SIU-crewed tankers were gained, along with at least 11 roll-on/roll-off vessels (RO/RO), nine articulated tug-barge units (ATB), and eight dry cargo/ammunition ships (abbreviated as T-AKE). The union also provided crews for new passenger ferries, tugboats, heavy-lift vessels, container ships, combination roll-on/roll-off – container ships (ConRos), joint high-speed vessels and more. Some of the new builds are powered by liquified natural gas (LNG), and many others are equipped for easy conversion to such propulsion. For example, the new SIU-contracted tankers included (but weren’t necessarily limited to) the Evergreen State, Empire State, Overseas Martinez, Overseas Anacortes, Overseas Chinook, Overseas Tampa, American Phoenix, Pennsylvania, Florida, Eagle Ford, Ohio, Lone Star State, Texas, Louisiana, West Virginia, Bay State, Independence, Constitution, Garden State, Magnolia State, American Endurance, January 2020 SLNC Goodwill, Palmetto State, American Freedom, American Pride, American Liberty, Oregon, Washington and California. The new or newly acquired RO/ROs included the Endurance, Alliance Charleston, Alliance Beaumont, Liberty Promise, Liberty, Liberty Passion, Liberty Peace, ARC Integrity, ARC Independence, ARC Resolve and Patriot. SIU CIVMARS welcomed the T-AKE ships USNS Charles Drew, USNS Matthew Perry, USNS Washington Chambers, USNS Roy Wheat, USNS Fred Stockham, USNS William McLean, USNS Cesar Chavez and USNS Medgar Evers. Among the new ATBs were the Achievement/650-8, Innovation/650-9, Vision/350, Freedom/ EMI-2400, Legacy/750-1, Ken Boothe Sr., Legend, Liberty/750-3, and Vision/650-10. Heavy-lift and general cargo ship additions included the Ocean Crescent, BBC Houston, Maersk Illinois, Maersk Texas, Ocean Grand, M/V Corsica, Ocean Glory, MV Carat, Ocean Giant, BBC Seattle and SLNC York. The list of new containerships included the Rio Grande Express, Maersk Chicago, Isla Bella, Perla del Caribe, Daniel K. Inouye, Kamokuiki, Kaimana Hila, and MV Capt. David I. Lyon, while the new ConRos included the Marjorie C, Lurline, El Coqui and Taino. The USNS Montford Point and USNS John Glenn kicked off a new class of military support ships known as expeditionary transfer docks (they originally were named mobile landing platforms). Though not identical, new ships that are part of that same class include the USNS Williams and USNS Puller (the latter of which was eventually commissioned by the Navy). Other gains included the joint high-speed vessels/ expeditionary fast transports USNS Spearhead, USNS Millinocket, USNS Trenton, USNS Brunswick, USNS Burlington, USNS Puerto Rico, USNS Carson City, USNS Yuma, USNS Guam and USNS Newport; the tugboats J.K. McLean, Handy-Three, Ocean Wave, Ocean Wind, MV Ahbra Franco, MV Robert Franco, Chloe K, Ocean Sky, Ocean Sun, Cleveland and Michigan; the NOAA vessel Ferdinand Hassler; several passenger ferries; and the unique USNS Wheeler, an offshore petroleum distribution system. SIU President Michael Sacco, in a message to Seafarers, noted, “When we crew up new vessels, it’s a credit to every rank-and-file member. Our companies wouldn’t build or flag-in new ships and tugs and passenger ferries if they didn’t have confidence in you.” Moreover, he has pointed out that without ongoing support for the Jones Act, cargo preference laws and the Maritime Security Program, American-flag ships would quickly all but disappear. That’s why the SIU is very politically active. “I’m grateful that the maritime industry in general and the SIU in particular can count many friends on both sides of the aisle, but between the regular turnover in Congress and the ongoing attacks on our industry, we can never let up when it comes to promoting the U.S. Merchant Marine,” Sacco stated. “You all know we work in a heavily regulated industry, and that’s precisely why we never stop speaking up for Seafarers and for the laws and programs that keep Old Glory flying on the rivers, coasts and high seas. Grassroots action is a foundation of every newtonnage story we report.” Seafarers LOG 11 �Decade In Review Union Builds for Future, Remembers Those Lost 2011 2012 annual wage hikes while maintaining medical and pension benefits and securing other gains. Many other SIU contracts were patterned after the standard agreements. 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. 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. 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 International Labor Organization ratified the Maritime Labor Convention, 2006 – a move long-advocated by the SIU. Seafarers also made many at-sea rescues and acts of bravery in 2013, culminating in several crews receiving recognition from United Seamen’s Service (USS) at its annual Admiral of the Ocean Seas event. The crews receiving awards included: the USNS Bowditch for rescuing the crew of a grounded ship near The Philippines; the Maersk Utah for rescuing 83 stranded Syrian refugees off the Italian coast; the Ocean Atlas for fending off a pirate attack in Africa; and the TS Kennedy, TS Empire State and SS Wright for aiding in the recovery of the New York-New Jersey region following Superstorm Sandy. Despite facing near constant political attacks on key maritime programs, the SIU was able to score some big wins in 2013. Those victories started in earnest on Dec. 20, 2012, when President Barack Obama signed the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2012. That law included several key passages pushed by the SIU, including provisions that increased transparency with Jones Act waivers and made the TWIC process easier for mariners. The union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education also had a busy 2013. The campus’ multi-stage restoration project took a big step forward with the unveiling of the school’s waterfront park. The park’s scenic lighthouse highlighted a nearby brick walkway that began filling up with engraved bricks donated by Seafarers and loved ones to commemorate those they cared about. 2013 T he SIU fought back against Washington budget cuts that threatened vital maritime programs. Attempts to gut the Maritime Security Program (MSP) and Food for Peace were met with strong opposition. The union once again showed its legislative might. 2014 12 Seafarers LOG 2014 2013 2015 U nfortunately, when reflecting on 2015, the biggest story was obvious but tragic: the sinking of the SIU-crewed El Faro, which claimed the lives of all 33 people aboard, including 17 Seafarers. While en route from Jacksonville, Florida, to Puerto Rico, the ship fell victim to Hurricane Joaquin on Oct. 1, sinking in 15,000 feet of water. Along with the 17 SIU members who perished, 11 members of the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers were on board, as were five Polish nationals. The SIU members on the El Faro were Bosun Roan Lightfoot, ABs Carey Hatch, Jackie Jones, Jack Jackson, Brookie Davis and Frank Hamm, QEE Sylvester Crawford, RE1 Louis Champa, OMUs Anthony Thomas, German Solar Cortes and Joe Hargrove, GUDEs Mariette Wright, James Porter and Roosevelt Clark, Steward/Baker Theodore Quammie, Chief Cook Lashawn Rivera and SA Lonnie Jordan. When contact with the ship was lost, the SIU hall in Jacksonville, Florida, quickly became the gathering place for family members and other loved ones, and it also served as a briefing center with representatives from the Coast Guard, National Transportation Safety Board and ship operator TOTE Services. SIU President Michael Sacco and Executive Vice President Augie Tellez spent several days with the families. Within a week of the sinking, the SIU established a memorial fund to benefit the families of the departed Seafarers. The union also received condolences from around the world, including messages from the White House and Congress, the AFL-CIO and the International I n a year with no shortage of important stories for the SIU, none gained more attention in 2014 than the international mission involving the Cape Ray, the Seafarers-crewed ship which helped neutralize and destroy Syrian chemical weapons in the Mediterranean Sea. The Keystone-operated Cape Ray returned to its home port in Portsmouth, Virginia, Sept. 17 at the conclusion of its successful mission of neutralizing and destroying 600 tons of Syrian chemical weapons. The vessel departed Hampton Roads Jan. 27 after the United Nations approved it as a chemical weapons destruction facility. As the unprecedented mission wound down, SIU crew members and others involved in the operation were praised by the White House, the Department of Defense, and the Department of Transportation. At a pier-side ceremony in Portsmouth, U.S. Maritime Administrator Chip Jaenichen presented each crew member with the Merchant Marine Medal for Outstanding Achievement and bestowed the Maritime Administration’s Professional Ship Award upon Keystone and the Cape Ray. Several SIU-crewed ships performed rescues. Those vessels included the Seafarers-crewed Liberty Grace, USNS Richard E. Byrd, and Manukai. Seafarers once again answered the call to duty as they mobilized for Operation United Assistance, sailing aboard the Cape Wrath and Cape Rise in the international fight against Ebola. The union completed an historic move in mid-June, relocating its New York-area operations to a new hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. 2015 January 2020 �Decade In Review Union Builds for Future, Remembers Those Lost 2015 2016 2016 Transport Workers’ Federation. Early in the year, the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education completed a multimillion-dollar upgrade featuring new simulators and modernized classrooms. The project also included major improvements in the training and recreation center hotel and auditorium at the Piney Point, Maryland, campus. In commemorating some of the milestones, the auditorium was named in memory of the late SIU Executive Vice President John Fay, while a new, multi-purpose building was named in memory of Thomas Crowley Sr., an industry pioneer. The SIU of Canada scored several major wins for mariner rights and cabotage laws and helped defeat an anti-cabotage political incumbent. were held to memorialize the deceased. At the Jacksonville hall, family members, union officials and union brothers and sisters gathered for the dedication of a lighthouse, adorned with 33 stars and shining its light towards the final resting place of the crew near the Bahamas. In Piney Point, members, officials and Paul Hall Center students gathered for a formal remembrance. SIU members were involved in their fair share of rescues at sea. In May, the Maersk Kentucky helped rescue 11 individuals while en route to Singapore, pulling the men from a sinking fishing boat and transporting them safely to Colombo, Sri Lanka. Three months later, the Ocean Glory rescued a lone fisherman from his wrecked vessel in the Bali Strait on their way to Banyuwangi, Indonesia. Finally, the CS Dependable rescued 14 fishermen off the coast of Mumbai, India, in September, delivering them to the Indian Coast Guard before continuing to their destination. Some union benefits also saw increases and additions in 2016. For the first time, members were able to choose to direct deposit their vacation checks, a frequent request from Seafarers. Additionally, the dental coverage increased substantially for mariners and their dependents, and a new smoking cessation program was launched to help members kick the habit. The Paul Hall Center was a busy place in 2016, receiving a visit from then-MSC Commander Rear Adm. T.K. Shannon as well as U.S. Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-Maryland). The school also hosted several special events, including the Paul Hall Center Advisory Board meeting, the annual Seafarers Waterfront Classic fishing tournament (benefiting the Wounded Warrior Anglers as well as the school) and the triennial SEATU convention. Additionally, the school saw several major milestones, such as the first class to complete the AB to Mate program, the creation of the Engine Assessment Program, and certainly the most visible addition to the campus: the arrival of the school’s new training ship, the Freedom Star. In response to changing STCW requirements, the school also added two new Basic Training courses, designed to help members stay compliant in the most efficient ways. On December 12, the union dedicated and opened the newly constructed Houston hiring hall, the SIU’s first newly constructed hall since 1981. Rank-and-file members, retirees, family members and a veritable Who’s Who of Texas politicians packed the hall at 625 North York Street for an uplifting dedication that culminated with Theresa Corgey, wife of SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, breaking a champagne bottle along the corner of an exterior wall. Louisiana. It made landfall in the Lone Star State as a Category 4 storm in late August and would strike again two different times within the same week, resulting in 82 deaths. Irma wasn’t far behind, hitting Florida on Sept. 10, also as a Category 4 hurricane. It is estimated to have caused almost $67 billion in damage and more than 100 fatalities (roughly a third of them in the U.S.). Irma was still a Category 5 storm when it hit the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) en route to the mainland. Maria then took center stage, doing more damage in the USVI (home to thousands of members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers) before striking Puerto Rico Sept. 20 as a Category 5 hurricane. As one reporter put it, “From a meteorological standpoint, Maria was nearly a worst-case scenario for the territory: The center of a huge, nearly Category 5 hurricane made a direct hit on Puerto Rico, lashing the island with wind and rain for longer than 30 hours.” There has been inconsistent reporting about the number of Maria-related fatalities, but around 3,000 deaths appear to have been directly related to the storm, according to data released by the island government. For the SIU, assistance in the wide-ranging recovery took many forms, including starting a disaster aid fund, delivering relief cargoes to Puerto Rico and the USVI, working with the national AFL-CIO and state labor federations to secure monetary and other support, and helping mobilize a Seafarers-crewed Navy hospital ship that 2016 T he year 2016 served as a solemn milestone, as the one-year anniversary of the loss of the El Faro was memorialized at sea and ashore, including during dedications at the Jacksonville, Florida, hiring hall and at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) located the El Faro’s voyage data recorder (VDR) on April 26, after which it was retrieved and analyzed by the NTSB’s investigators. Throughout the year, the NTSB conducted hearings in Jacksonville, during which maritime experts were questioned on various factors that could have contributed to the loss of the vessel. On the anniversary of the sinking, many ceremonies 2017 Continued on next page 2018 2017 H ad Mother Nature kept her temper in check, 2017 might be remembered as an especially productive and uplifting year for the SIU. But, she did no such thing. Starting with Hurricane Harvey in late August and continuing through Hurricane Irma and then Hurricane Maria in mid-September, parts of the U.S. and its territories endured a relentless pounding. Harvey is estimated to have caused nearly $200 billion in destruction, including in parts of Texas and January 2020 Seafarers LOG 13 �Decade In Review was deployed to Puerto Rico. The union also partnered with the American Federation of Teachers, Seafarerscontracted Tote Maritime and several other organizations for Operation Agua, a massive undertaking that delivered portable water purifiers throughout Puerto Rico. On the political front, maritime labor applauded the respective confirmations of Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao in late January and Rear Adm. Mark Buzby (USN, Ret.) as head of the Maritime Administration in late summer. Both are familiar allies for the U.S. Merchant Marine – Chao through prior work as Secretary of Labor and at the Maritime Administration and Federal Maritime Commission, Buzby as former commanding officer of the U.S. Military Sealift Command (2009-13). The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education celebrated its 50th year through a special edition of the Seafarers LOG, a video, and a luncheon that featured remarks by Secretary Chao, Crowley Maritime President and CEO Tom Crowley Jr., and President Sacco, who worked at the Piney Point, Maryland, facility in its earliest days. The school also received proclamations from U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer (DMaryland), whose district includes Piney Point; and from Maryland Governor Larry Hogan. 2018 E conomists from Boston-based Reeve & Associates and San Juan-based Estudios Técnicos, Inc. on July 18 released a joint report, “The Impact of the Jones Act on Puerto Rico,” that concluded the Jones Act has no impact on either retail prices or the cost of living in Puerto Rico. In addition, the report found that the state-of-the-art maritime technology, Puerto-Rico focused investments, and dedicated closed-loop service offered by Jones Act carriers provide a significant positive economic impact to the island, at freight rates lower or comparable to similar services to other Caribbean Islands. These findings factually shot down claims to the contrary from Jones Act opponents, who seemingly blame the time-tested law for every problem under the sun and whose main strategy apparently is to repeat lies loudly and often. Later in the year, Seafarers’ Rights International (SRI), an independent center for mariner advocacy and research, released its full report – “Cabotage Laws of the World” – on the findings of their global cabotage study. The study, commissioned by the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), provides the first independent analysis of maritime cabotage laws since the early 1990s. Based on extensive research involving 140 countries, the SRI report revealed that 91 countries representing 80 percent of the world’s coastal United Nations Maritime States have cabotage laws restricting foreign maritime activity in their domestic coastal trades. The union-affiliated Paul Hall Center and its Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship continued Union Builds for Future, Remembers Those Lost pressing ahead to set the standard for maritime training. Located in Piney Point, Maryland, the school introduced a new class for storekeepers and launched a totally revamped steward department curriculum – collectively dubbed Culinary 2.0 – that was a hit with the first students. On Nov. 8, the SIU officially opened the new hiring hall in San Juan, Puerto Rico, with an event that included food, drinks and a live band. The new facility, located at 659 Hillside Street in the Summit Hills neighborhood of San Juan, is immaculate, with all-new furniture in multiple member lounge areas, wheelchairaccessible restrooms, a modern galley and mess area, WiFi access and a second-floor conference room. Most importantly, it’s in a safe and secure neighborhood – a huge improvement from the previous hall. 2019 2019 T he crew of the MV Green Lake, including SIU members sailing aboard the Central Gulf Linesoperated vessel, sprang into action on New Year’s Eve, using their rescue training to save lives in the Pacific Ocean. The Green Lake was the first vessel to respond to a Coast Guard alert from the Panamanianflagged Sincerity Ace, a 2009-built car carrier sailing from Yokohama to Hawaii. The master had reported a serious vessel fire, ongoing firefighting efforts and the intent to abandon ship approximately 1,800 nautical miles northwest of Oahu. The crew and officers of the Green Lake spent the next 18 hours battling poor weather conditions as they rescued seven mariners and searched for the missing. In total, the crews of the merchant vessels that responded to the disaster rescued 16 members of the Sincerity Ace’s crew. The crew of the MV Green Lake would receive several awards and commendations, including the U.S. Maritime Administration’s Gallant Ship honor and one from the United Seamen’s Service. The SIU always answers the call, even when that call is a rapid activation of an unprecedented number of ships. TRANSCOM in mid-September launched the largest-ever sealift readiness exercise as part of its “Turbo Activation” series, ordering dozens of ships to sea. The SIU crewed up all 33 vessels, filling every unlicensed job. In a speech later that month, Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby spoke about the activations, pointing out that the mariners reporting during the massive activation were all “on leave or training just a few hours ago. Now, they have been called, and they have answered. Someone said they’re patriots? You’re damn right they’re patriots. They answered the call and they are there today on those ships, ready to take them to sea.” The SIU launched a new version of its website, www.seafarers.org, that’s easier to navigate from any device. As part of the project and like the main site itself, the member portal has been redesigned so it’s “fully responsive,” a tech industry term that basically means a site will look good and offer solid functionality whether the user is on a desktop, mobile device, tablet or laptop. Alongside the website, the SIU rolled out another new online resource: the Seafarers LOG Digital Archives database. The database, seafarerslog.org, hosts every copy of the Seafarers LOG from the first issue in 1939 to the present day. Members, researchers, and the general public are free to view nearly 1,500 digitized issues on the browser of their choice, or they may download the PDF files to their electronic devices. The Paul Hall Center added multiple new courses and facilities, including a state-of-the-art refrigerated container maintenance course and an all-new machine shop. The newly upgraded engineering shop features state-of-the-art trainer systems, real-world equipment and new lab environments that will give students the best opportunity for learning the various aspect of the engine department in a safe, controlled scenario. The union also answered the call of solidarity throughout the year, supporting our striking union brothers and sisters in the Teachers union, United Auto Workers, Communication Workers Association and grocery store workers. The SIU also provided aid for furloughed government employees through what would become the longest federal government shutdown in U.S. history. The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education made significant strides during the past 10 years. Highlights for the school included new simulators and classrooms, a revamped waterfront, a new machine shop and more. 14 Seafarers LOG January 2020 �School Still Offers Culinary 2.0 The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education continues to offer Culinary 2.0 classes designed to help students boost their skills while complying with a new rule that took effect at the beginning of this 2020. Completing the coursework also is intended to aid individual shipping opportunities. Shipping Rule 5.A.(6), which went into effect January 1, 2020, states, “Within each class of seniority in the Steward Department, priority shall be given to those seamen who possess an advanced Culinary 2.0 certificate from the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, in the event such program is being offered and that the seaman is registered in Group I, Steward Department.” While every new member of the steward department who completes their apprenticeship at the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship will have successfully passed Culinary 2.0, it’s important to remem- ber that those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards must also take the coursework in order to exercise preference and priority beginning next year (unless they have received training after January 1, 2017 at the Piney Point, Maryland-based campus). For those seamen currently employed as permanent stewards aboard commercial vessels, they must attend Culinary 2.0 in order to maintain their current employment status. For those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards, there are two new revalidation courses that have been designed to ensure a consistent level of culinary training and efficiency: Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 and Orientation/ Assessment Chief Cook 2.0. The courses are being offered regularly, but spaces are limited, so members are encouraged to plan ahead and enroll as soon as possible. For more information, contact your port agent and/ or the school’s admissions office. January & February Membership Meetings Piney Point................................Monday: January 6, February 3 Algonac.....................................Friday: January 10, February 7 Baltimore...............................Thursday: January 9, February 6 Guam....................................Thursday: January 23, February 20 Honolulu................................Friday: January 17, February 14 Houston......................................Monday: January 13, February 10 Jacksonville......................Thursday: January 9, February 6 Joliet.....................................Thursday: January 16, February 13 Mobile.............................Wednesday: January 15, February 12 New Orleans............................Tuesday: January 14, February 11 Jersey City...............................Tuesday: January 7, February 4 Norfolk..................................Thursday: January 9, February 6 Oakland.............................Thursday: January 16, February 13 Philadelphia...................Wednesday: January 8, February 5 Port Everglades..................Thursday: January 16, February 13 San Juan....................................Thursday: January 9, February 6 St. Louis......................................Friday: January 17, February 14 Tacoma................................Friday: January 24, February 21 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from Nov. 10-Dec. 9. “Registered on the Beach” data is as of Dec. 9. Total Registered Port A All Groups B Total Shipped C Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m Notice Please be advised that the permissible period of time during which a dues or agency fee check off authorization can be revoked has been changed. The new revocation period which is contained in newly printed authorization forms is as follows: “This assignment and authorization shall be irrevocable for a period of one (1) year from the date hereof, or until the termination date of the current collective bargaining agreement between the Union and the Employer, whichever is the shorter period, and shall be automatically irrevocably renewed for like periods unless, within the thirty (30) day period beginning fifteen (15) days before and ending fifteen (15) days following the end of any renewal period, I submit a written revocation signed by myself and sent by registered mail, return receipt requested, to the Union’s Secretary-Treasurer.” This is the new policy and procedure as adopted by the union for all individuals who have signed check off authorizations. January 2020 All Groups B C Trip Reliefs A All Groups B C 3 0 1 4 0 3 0 5 1 2 0 3 5 1 1 0 0 4 0 1 34 5 0 5 9 0 6 1 22 23 22 2 6 18 6 0 0 6 14 1 11 157 26 4 3 38 8 19 13 76 55 62 1 16 30 20 4 3 11 54 6 58 507 7 0 2 20 2 8 9 45 39 16 3 4 30 3 6 6 9 16 2 18 245 3 3 1 6 1 3 0 10 11 8 0 1 11 5 0 0 2 9 2 5 81 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 13 2 2 22 5 15 5 47 44 40 2 5 19 10 3 0 7 36 4 37 318 4 0 2 15 2 4 4 32 28 15 4 3 13 3 3 3 3 11 1 11 161 0 1 2 3 1 5 0 5 2 4 0 0 5 2 0 0 0 6 2 2 40 Deck Department 12 4 1 0 3 3 11 6 3 0 8 5 2 4 33 19 29 21 24 10 2 2 5 4 12 6 7 6 3 0 0 0 7 2 27 7 1 0 23 11 213 110 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 8 0 5 6 1 3 7 16 28 11 2 4 9 6 2 0 6 19 1 6 140 1 0 4 8 0 0 2 8 19 13 0 3 20 4 2 3 3 9 3 11 113 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 1 1 0 1 8 0 2 0 0 2 0 1 21 Engine Department 4 3 0 0 1 4 7 2 1 0 1 1 4 2 11 8 12 18 8 9 2 0 1 1 13 18 3 4 0 2 2 3 3 1 7 10 0 1 8 8 88 95 2 0 0 1 1 0 2 1 1 0 0 2 2 0 1 0 1 1 0 2 17 2 0 2 6 1 0 1 9 15 5 1 0 9 0 2 1 2 7 0 12 75 6 1 4 13 1 5 15 31 36 18 2 8 16 10 5 1 7 25 2 24 230 0 2 2 11 0 1 5 12 30 11 1 8 24 9 2 2 6 9 4 19 158 3 0 1 2 0 0 2 4 1 3 3 1 11 3 0 0 0 3 0 1 38 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 5 0 1 11 2 4 6 25 23 7 0 3 16 17 4 4 2 18 1 16 165 3 2 1 6 2 1 0 3 13 3 2 5 5 3 1 0 3 3 0 9 65 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 2 1 2 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 2 0 1 14 Steward Department 3 1 0 0 1 1 5 4 2 1 4 1 6 1 19 5 11 8 5 2 0 0 0 2 13 4 16 2 3 1 3 1 1 2 4 1 1 0 15 7 112 44 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 2 3 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 10 0 0 0 4 0 0 4 13 11 5 1 1 6 10 3 2 2 3 0 10 75 9 0 3 15 3 5 13 45 37 19 2 10 24 18 1 4 5 19 2 28 262 3 2 0 7 1 2 1 11 17 3 2 7 16 5 0 1 8 3 0 20 109 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 1 3 0 0 3 3 1 1 0 3 1 1 20 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 2 2 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 3 0 3 17 8 2 1 4 1 4 2 15 20 10 0 0 14 9 1 0 0 12 0 13 116 11 0 1 5 1 1 0 9 13 11 1 0 21 8 1 7 0 6 1 8 105 Entry Department 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 0 1 0 4 3 8 1 13 2 7 0 1 1 0 0 14 1 7 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 9 0 1 5 7 15 80 5 0 0 2 0 1 0 5 3 6 1 1 11 4 1 5 0 8 0 7 60 7 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 2 2 1 0 4 2 0 5 0 1 0 2 29 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 6 4 3 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 3 0 11 34 13 3 1 7 0 5 8 20 53 26 2 0 29 17 1 0 0 27 1 29 242 22 0 1 4 3 5 2 13 47 10 2 1 34 12 0 4 0 8 1 23 192 GRAND TOTAL: 640 455 180 121 336 1,033 754 331 Wilmington.....................*Tuesday: January 21, February18 *Wilmington changes due to Martin Luther King Day and Presidents’ Day observances A Registered on Beach 428 329 Seafarers LOG 15 �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 Kate Hunt, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was asked of Paul Hall Center apprentices who were in the program’s third phase, in Piney Point, Maryland. Question: What are some of your plans for the new year? Paul Mena Apprentice Catch a ship and continue to phase four. Then, by the end of next year, complete phase five and be a probationary B-book member. Randy Slue Apprentice To succeed and make it through and do whatever I’ve got to do to take care of my family. I just want to be able to make money and get some sea time. Trevion Williams Apprentice Complete phase three successfully – finish up strong and also start on a fourth-phase ship. I’m also planning to save a lot of money. Joseph Stiklickas Apprentice Finish this program, go out, sail, work my way up to captain and eventually retire on a ferry somewhere in New York. Joel Williams Apprentice Feed my hunger: knowledge, money, and to help out, too – help my family back home in Jacksonville, Florida. Timothy McDonald Apprentice Hopefully be on a ship. By then, I’ll finish the program and hopefully I won’t be sitting idle. My goal is to sail and finish my fifth phase by 2020 and sail eight to 10 months out of the year. 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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 Calvetta Taylor Apprentice Make money, be successful, work hard, gain knowledge. Go SIU! 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 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 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (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 From the December 1972 LOG: “In the Port of Houston, scores of Seafarers and their families turned out for the Thanksgiving Day dinner. In the photo above, Brother H.L. Moore (center) and his family take time out from enjoying a delicious meal to pose for the photographer.” The current Houston hall also hosted a Thanksgiving gathering in November 2019, a week before the actual holiday. 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 January 2020 �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 VICTOR BEATA Brother Victor Beata, 64, started sailing with the SIU in 1978, initially shipping aboard the Delta America. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Beata last shipped on the Yorktown Express. He resides in Raleigh, North Carolina. AMILCAR BERMUDEZ Brother Amilcar Bermudez, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1992 when he shipped on the Independence. He was a member of the steward department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center numerous times. Brother Bermudez most recently sailed on the St. Louis Express and makes his home in New Orleans. STANLEY CASTRO Brother Stanley Castro, 65, joined the SIU in 1992, first sailing aboard the Independence. He sailed in the engine department and frequently upgraded at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. Brother Castro’s last vessel was the Gem State. He lives in Tacoma, Washington. last sailed on the Kodiak and makes his home in Elkins, West Virginia. KENNETH GILSON Brother Kenneth Gilson, 65, became a member of the SIU in 1978 when he sailed on the Aleutian Developer. He primarily sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Gilson’s last vessel was the Liberty Sun. He settled in Jackson, Mississippi. CYNTHIA HARRIS Sister Cynthia Harris, 73, signed on with the union in 2001, sailing first on the Patriot. She primarily shipped in the engine department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Sister Harris last sailed with TOTE Services and resides in Sunrise, Florida. ARTHUR CROSS Brother Arthur Cross, 68, joined the SIU in 1999, initially sailing aboard the USNS Bowditch. He was a deck department member and upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Cross most recently sailed on the Liberty Pride. He makes his home in Milton, Florida. ALEJANDRO FLORES Brother Alejandro Flores Bernardez, 68, started his career with the SIU in 1995 when he sailed on the Independence. He sailed in the steward department and concluded his career on the Overseas Texas City. Brother Flores Bernardez resides in Houston. PATRICK GALLAGHER Brother Patrick Gallagher, 65, joined the union in 1972, initially sailing on the Summit. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Gallagher January 2020 MARK LAMAR Brother Mark Lamar, 67, joined the union in 1975, first sailing on a National Transport vessel. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Lamar last sailed on the El Faro in 2002. He makes his home in Everett, Pennsylvania. DAVID HOOD Brother David Hood, 65, joined the SIU in 1976, initially sailing aboard the Richard J. Reiss. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school on several occasions. Brother Hood last shipped on the Sea-Land Express in 1995. He makes his home in Olalla, Washington. BYRON COLEMAN Brother Byron Coleman, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1991 when he shipped on the USNS Titan. A deck department member, he upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Coleman’s final vessel was the Liberty Wave. He makes his home in Seattle. ber, he upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Kulyk concluded his career on the Horizon Producer. He lives in Brooklyn, New York. KENNETH LONG Brother Kenneth Long, 61, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1982 when he shipped on the Pacer. He worked in the steward department and upgraded at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center on several occasions. Brother Long’s final vessel was the Maersk Sentosa. He is a resident of Norfolk, Virginia. ROMEO MANANSALA Brother Romeo Manansala, 67, became a member of the SIU in 1989. The steward department member’s first vessel was the Independence. Brother Manansala most recently sailed aboard the Dependable. He calls Honolulu home. DANIEL MARCUS STEVEN KAYSER Brother Steven Kayser, 65, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1978. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Kayser’s first vessel was the Willamette; his last, the Bay Ridge. He resides in Flagstaff, Arizona. PETER KULYK Brother Peter Kulyk, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1977, initially sailing aboard the Richard J. Reiss. A deck department mem- LAWRENCE MCKAY Brother Lawrence McKay, 68, joined the SIU in 2001, initially sailing on the USNS Altair. He was a member of the steward department and last sailed on the USNS Brittin. Brother McKay makes his home in Douglasville, Georgia. Brother Daniel Marcus, 65, signed on with the union in 1972 when he shipped aboard the Merrimac. He upgraded often at the Piney Point school and worked in the deck department. Brother Marcus most recently sailed on the Pelican State. He lives in Towson, Maryland. DAVID MARTZ Brother David Martz, 63, began his career with the SIU in 1975, initially sailing on a National Transport vessel. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on numer- GREAT LAKES ZAID ALDERWISH Brother Zaid Alderwish, 65, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1990 when he sailed on the Independence. He shipped in all three departments and concluded his career on the American Mariner. Brother Alderwish lives in Detroit. INLAND VICTOR MONDECI MARIO BIAGINI Brother Victor Mondeci, 78, began sailing with the union in 1969, shipping first aboard the Reiss Brothers. He sailed in all three departments and upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2001. Brother Mondeci last shipped on the Fredericksburg in 2003. He is a New York resident. Brother Mario Biagini, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1976 when he worked for Mariner Towing. Sailing in the deck department, he upgraded at the Piney Point school within his first year of membership. Brother Biagini remained with the same company for the majority of his career and settled in Clearwater, Florida. JOSEPH NEGRON Brother Joseph Negron, 59, signed on with the Seafarers in 1979 when he shipped on an Alton Steamship vessel. He upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center and sailed in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Negron concluded his career on a Watco boat. He lives in Elizabeth, New Jersey. TIMOTHY OLVANY MICHELE HOPPER Sister Michele Hopper, 60, began her career with the Seafarers in 1988 when she sailed on the USNS Persistent. She was a member of the steward department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall center. Sister Hopper last shipped aboard the USNS Invincible and settled in Lewistown, Pennsylvania. ous occasions. Brother Martz last sailed on the USNS Denebola. He resides in Laurel, Delaware. Brother Timothy Olvany, 58, embarked on his SIU career in 1981, initially sailing on a Westchester Marine vessel. A deck department member, he upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Olvany’s final vessel was the Alliance St. Louis. He makes his home in Shamokin, Pennsylvania. RON “RJ” SAGADRACA Brother Ron “RJ” Sagadraca, 55, donned the SIU colors in 1989 when he shipped on the Independence. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on several occasions. Brother Sagadraca’s last vessel was the Cape Isabel. He settled in Buena Park, California. CALVIN GRIFFITH Brother Calvin Griffith, 66, donned the SIU colors in 1996, initially sailing aboard the USNS Capella. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Griffith last worked for OSG Ship Management and lives in Atlantic Beach, Florida. RODNEY NIX Brother Rodney Nix, 57, joined the union in 1981. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school within his first year of membership. Brother Nix worked for G&H Towing for his entire career. He calls Mineola, Texas, home. ANGELO PARFAIT Brother Angelo Parfait, 64, started sailing with the SIU in 1993, initially working for G&H Towing. He worked in the deck department and upgraded at the union-affiliated Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Parfait continued to work for the same company for the duration of his career. He calls League City, Texas, home. MICHAEL SMITH Brother Michael Smith, 66, began his career with the SIU in 1979 when he worked for Steuart Transportation. A deck department member, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Smith last worked for Express Marine. He resides in St. Mary’s City, Maryland. JAMES SEARS Brother James Sears, 65, started sailing with the SIU in 2004, shipping first on the Cape Rise. He primarily worked in the steward department and most recently shipped on the Ascension. Brother Sears is a resident of Portsmouth, Virginia. Important Notice For All Seafarers We’ve improved our text messaging system for shipboard jobrelated notifications. If you’re not signed up and are interested, text WORK to 97779 and follow the prompts. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA LARRY AMBROUS Pensioner Larry Ambrous, 71, died November 20. He began his career with the SIU in 1967, initially sailing aboard the Delaware. He was a deck department member and last shipped on the USNS Regulus. Brother Ambrous became a pensioner in 2010 and settled in Virginia Beach, Virginia. HERMAN GABRIEL Brother Herman Gabriel, 96, passed away September 28. He became a member of the SIU in 1979 when he shipped aboard the Santa Mariana. Brother Gabriel was a member of the steward department and last sailed on the President McKinley. He called Mililani, Hawaii, home. RANDY HAMPTON Brother Randy Hampton, 59, died October 18. He joined the union in 2017, sailing first on the Maersk Peary. Working in the steward department, Brother Hampton concluded his career on the same vessel. He was a resident of Virginia Beach, Virginia. JOSEPH KALATA Pensioner Joseph Kalata, 93, passed away November 21. He embarked on his career with the SIU in 1954 when he sailed with CSX Lines. Brother Kalata was a deck department member. He last shipped on the Carolina before retiring in 1991. Brother Kalata was a Baltimore resident. JOHN LITTLE Pensioner John Little, 87, died September 7. He signed on with the SIU in 1953 when he sailed on Calmar Steamship’s Penmar. Brother Little sailed in the deck department. His final vessel was the Overseas Arctic. He became a pensioner in 1993 and lived in Monticello, Kentucky. KENNETH MCLEOD Pensioner Kenneth McLeod, 92, passed away October 3. He began sailing with the union in 1951 and was an engine department member. Brother McLeod concluded his 18 Seafarers LOG career on the Tacoma and retired in 1987. He made his home in Penticton, British Columbia. HARVEY MCCLUNG Pensioner Harvey McClung, 79, died November 27. He joined the Seafarers in 1970 and first sailed aboard the Steel Executive. Brother McClung was a deck department member. He last sailed aboard the Resolve before becoming a pensioner in 2006. Brother McClung lived in Milton, Washington. final vessel was the Discovery. He became a pensioner in 2003 and lived in Haledon, New Jersey. ANGELO URTI Pensioner Angelo Urti, 76, passed away December 1. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1965 when he shipped on the York. The deck department member’s last vessel was the Matej Kocak. He went on pension in 2009 and made his home in Hammond, Louisiana. JOSE NAVA Pensioner Jose Nava, 94, passed away November 26. He started his career with the SIU in 1965, initially sailing on the Mt. Vernon Victory. The deck department member’s last vessel was the Falcon Duchess. He retired in 1991 and resided in Hayward, California. CALVIN WILLIAMS Brother Calvin Williams, 71, passed away October 5. He joined the Seafarers in 1989, initially sailing on the Independence. Brother Williams primarily shipped in the steward department and concluded his career on the President Truman. He was a resident of Alameda, California. ANTHONY RIPOLL Pensioner Anthony Ripoll, 85, died November 1. He donned the SIU colors in 1986 when he shipped aboard the USNS Pollux. Brother Ripoll sailed in the engine department. He concluded his career on the Stonewall Jackson before going on pension in 1999. Brother Ripoll called Kenner, Louisiana, home. LORNE EAGLE Pensioner Lorne Eagle, 102, died November 24. Signing on with the union in 1961, he first sailed with A.S. Wikstrom. Brother Eagle concluded his career with Peter Kiewit Sons before retiring in 1983. He resided in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. SERGIO ROJAS Pensioner Sergio Rojas, 83, passed away October 10. He signed on with the union in 1995, initially sailing on the Independence. Brother Rojas was a member of the engine department and most recently shipped on the Eugene A. Obregon. He retired in 2004 and lived in Houston. GREAT LAKES DAVID PLUNKETT Pensioner David Plunkett, 73, died October 6. He joined the SIU in 1993 and worked with Great Lakes Towing. Brother Plunkett remained with the same company for the majority of his career. He became a pensioner in 2008 and made his home in Milwaukee. INLAND ROBERT GATES Pensioner Robert Gates, 72, has passed away. He began his career with the Seafarers in 1998, initially working for Riverboat Services. An engine department member, Brother Gates last shipped on the Savannah. He retired in 2013 and resided in Chalmette, Louisiana. CLYDE GRAVES Pensioner Clyde Graves, 90, passed away October 30. He signed on with the union in 1983 when he worked for Crescent Towing and Salvage. Brother Graves worked in the deck department and remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He went on pension in 1992 and called Mobile, Alabama, home. THOMAS ROSTAN Pensioner Thomas Rostan, 73, died November 18. He became a member of the SIU in 1990, initially working for OLS Transport. A member of the deck department, Brother Rostan last worked for Penn Maritime. He retired in 2008 and lived in Largo, Florida. HOLLIS WILSON Pensioner Hollis Wilson, 78, passed away October 28. He donned the SIU colors in 1961, initially working for Alcoa Steam- ship. Brother Wilson shipped in the deck department and last worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation. He became a pensioner in 2000 and resided in Perkinston, Mississippi. NMU AUGUSTUS COOPER Pensioner Augustus Cooper, 78, died November 19. After joining the union during the 2001 SIU/NMU merger, his first SIU vessel was the Cape Edmont. Brother Cooper was a member of the engine department and concluded his career aboard the Cape Douglas. He made his home in Savannah, Georgia. CATARINO THOMAS Pensioner Catarino Thomas, 75, passed away October 13. Born in Honduras, he was an NMU member prior to the 2001 merger with Seafarers International Union. Brother Thomas sailed in the steward department and last sailed on the Maersk Vermont. He went on pension in 2009 and settled in Bronx, New York. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. NAME Acosta, Ventura Cichocki, Edward Gonzalez, Jose Hansil, Joseph Holmes, Warren Lopes, John McClelland, Robert Rogers, George Sanchez, Carlos Sanz, Herbert Scott, William Suarez, Louis AGE 80 80 102 88 92 90 93 97 85 96 84 90 DOD 10/04/2019 11/07/2019 10/25/2019 10/30/2019 11/14/2019 10/28/2019 11/03/2019 11/06/2019 09/18/2019 11/09/2019 09/28/2019 11/04/2019 With Seafarers in Oakland Pictured in late November aboard Matson’s Mahimahi (from left in photo at right) are Chief Cook John Bennett, ACU John Canson, Recertified Steward Frank Ramones and SIU Oakland Port Agent Nick Marrone II. NELSON SALA Pensioner Nelson Sala, 85, died November 28. He joined the SIU in 1964 when he sailed on a MooreMcCormack vessel. Brother Sala sailed in the deck department. His January 2020 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Advanced Refer Containers May 4 May 15 Title of Course BAPO March 23 April 17 Engineroom Resource Management August 24 August 28 FOWT February 24 March 20 Start Date Date of Completion Gap Closing Courses Start Date Date of Completion Engine Department Upgrading Courses MSC Storekeeper Basic February 24 March 13 Junior Engineer Program January 13 March 6 MSC Supply Configuration Management March 16 April 10 Machinist June 29 July 17 Marine Electrician June 29 July 31 Marine Refer Tech May 18 June 26 Pumpman July 20 July 24 Welding January 13 January 31 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck February 24 April 20 June 15 AB to Mate Modules March 13 May 8 July 10 Modules must be taken in order. Those who are not in the mates program cannot apply for these courses. Contact the Admissions Office for further details. Advanced Meteorology May 4 May 8 Advanced Shiphandling May 11 May 22 Advanced Stability April 27 May 1 ARPA March 16 August 3 March 20 August 7 Bosun Recertification July 20 August 3 Crane Familiarization March 9 March 13 ECDIS May 25 May 29 Fast Rescue Boat July 20 July 24 GMDSS February 17 July 6 February 28 July 17 January 13 February 10 March 9 Leadership and Management Skills August 31 Radar Renewal (one day) Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Operations Chief Cook February 17 March 13 Modules run every other week. Contact Admissions for exact date. Chief Steward March 16 April 24 Galley Operations January 27 February 21 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 January 13 February 3 January 17 February 7 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 January 27 January 31 Steward Recertification March 16 April 6 Safety/Open Upgrading Courses Basic Training March 2 March 6 Basic Training Revalidation January 17 January 17 January 24 February 21 March 20 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation February 10 February 14 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting February 10 February 14 September 4 Government Vessels January 20 January 24 Contact the PHC Admissions Office Medical Care Provider February 3 February 7 Radar Observer March 2 July 20 March 13 July 31 Tank Ship - DL February 24 February 28 RFPNW January 27 February 21 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL February 10 February 14 100 Ton Master August 17 September 4 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG February 3 February 7 Lifeboat 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 If yes, class # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? †Yes †�No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. January 2020 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, or 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. 1/20 Seafarers LOG 19 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #854 – Graduated Oct. 6 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): John Alicaway, Charles Fischer Jr., Christopher Henao, Shelonti Jones, Adrian Joseph, Dale Mattingly Jr., Mica Sexton, Quentin Stepney and Jacob Wisher. Important Notice To All 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. Water Survival (Upgraders) – Graduated August 9 (above, from left): Vernon Roberts and Alan Artman. Welding – Graduated August 8 (above, in alphabetical order): Jose Luis Borrero Rodriguez, David Cornelius, Pedro Antonio Rivera Hernandez and Tyler Summersill. Chris Raley, their instructor, is at the far right. RFPNW (Phase III) – Graduated August 16 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Ayen Negre Cabasag, Joshua Cutchin, Kendall Davis, Christopher Eke, Manuel Gerard Manzur Rosado, Abraham Quiner, Tyler Thompson, Oliver Vickers and Danielle Woodward. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the deck departments of SIU-contracted vessels. BAPO (Phase III) – Graduated August 16 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Brianna Ashley, Nicholas Banks, Darnel Bruno, Adam Salim Elmenani, Joshua Glancy, Travon Gordon, Ernest Grant Jr., Taylor Hall, Daryl Thomas Jr., Paul Valiente and Blake Washington. Once they complete their training, each plans to work in the engine departments of unioncrewed vessels. 20 Seafarers LOG January 2020 �Paul Hall Center Classes Junior Engineer (Basic Refrigeration & HVAC) – Graduated August 2 (above, in alphabetical order): Shawn Alexander, George Beaufils, Mashanda Carr, Bevan Cottone, Letwan Jackson, Mohamad Mahmoud Kammoun, Mark Loreto Mamangun Lagundi, Starling Priester, Dequan Rivera, James Sanchez, Isaiah Thomas and Stephen Venditti. Class Instructor William Dodd is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Marine Electrician – Graduated July 12 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Kirk Chambers, Hector Jose Ginel, Andrew Gronotte, Jing Hui Huang, Jon Mahannah, Gary Newbegin Jr., Nicholas Panagakos, Carlos Alberto Parrilla, Rodney Passapera-Barbosa, Philip Sharp, Anael Thomas and Edwin Velez. Instructor Sterling Cox is at the far right. UA to FOWT – Graduated July 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Frederic Salazar Agsalud, Jose Luis Borrero Rodriguez, Clark Quimada Castrodes, Robert Clark, Royce Cummings, Devon David, Nelito Monteiro, Christopher Redding and Pedro Antonio Rivera Hernandez. Pumpman – Graduated July 26 (above, in alphabetical order): Manolito Gener Garcia, Jeffrey Nicholson, Emanuel Paul, Ronaldo Jose Quinones Perez, Arturo Apig Reyes, David Sanchez-Flores, Mohamed Lamin Sheriff and Derrick Sullivan. Cargo Handling – Graduated July 26 (above, in alphabetical order): Chantell Dawson, Karleen Grenier, Brian Guiry, Christoher Hickey, Peter Malone, Yuriy Prytchak, Chenequa Moet Rodriguez and Scott Salo. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Leadership & Management Skills – Graduated July 5 (above, in alphabetical order): Leo Bonser Jr., Vorden Ferguson, Jason James, Lon Tige Maduro, Jamie Norsworthy and Charles Toliver. Instructor William Dodd is at the far left. Government Vessels – Graduated August 23 (above, in alphabetical order): Jamar Allen, Alan Artman, Gregory Baker, Robert Dunton, Michael Palle Durago, Emiliano Guevara, Gerald Hyman, Kevin Jenkins, Jonathan Jones, Erwin Moreno, Hussain Ali Nagi Ali, Gladys Perry, John Price, Vernon Roberts, Jose Rodriguez, Adam Hizam Saleh, Younis Hizam Faid Saleh, Ricky Enriquez Sencida, Clifford Simril and Louie Lunzaga Smith. (Note: Not all are pictured.) January 2020 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Government Vessels – Graduated August 30 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Adewale Isaac Adiat, Ahmed Mosad AlArashi, Michael Caquias Garcia, Matthew Ditullio, Joel Fahselt, Shayanna Freeman, Harold Harper, Morey Lewis, Eric Lyons, Jon Mahannah, Darryl McCoy, Martin O’Brien, Nicholas Panagakos, Harry Phillip, Larral Player, Jeremy Poertner, Zarya Ward, Paris Shyquana Wilbert and Jonathan Yates. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Engine Room Resource Management– Graduated June 28 (above, in alphabetical order): Leportre Lavon Jasper, Lon Tige Maduro and Charles Toliver. Instructor Wiliam Dodd is at the far left. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Graduated August 20 (above, in alphabetical order): Cherif Ben Ali, Lucia Solla Colon, Nicholas Hoffman, Richetta Jackson, Tina Knox, Daniel Miller and Jerry Guadalupe Morlett Jr. Electronic Navigation – Graduated August 16 (above, in alphabetical order): Chantell Dawson, Karleen Grenier, Brian Guiry, Christopher Hickey, Peter Malone, Yuriy Prytchak, Chenequa Moet Rodriguez, Scott Salo and Dexter Madrona Turija. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Fast Rescue Boat – Graduated August 23 (above, in alphabetical order): James Bumgarner, Joseph Eaton II, Dylan Flanagan, Gajatri Normatova, Chester Roberson Jr., Andrzej Tlalka and Joseph Park Toth. Medical Care Provider – Graduated August 30 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Tyrone Ellis, Lazaro Salvador Rivera Rodriguez, Chester Roberson Jr., Jorge A. Salas Santos, Andrzej Tlalka and Joseph Park Toth. Instructor John Thomas is at the far right. 22 Seafarers LOG January 2020 �Paul Hall Center Classes Marine Refrigeration Tech – Graduated August 23 (above, in alphabetical order): Alex-Stephen A. Amarra, Kirk Chambers, Hector Jose Ginel, Andrew Gronotte, Jing Hui Huang, Jon Mahannah, Gary Newbegin Jr., Nicholas Panagakos, Carlos Alberto Parrilla, Rodney Passapera-Barbosa, Philip Sharp and Edwin Velez. Class instructor Christopher Morgan is at the far left. Combined Basic & Advanced Firefighting – Graduated August 23 (above, in alphabetical order): Christopher Baxter, Tyrone Ellis, Joel Fahselt, Andre Graham, Harold Harper, Lazaro Salvador Rivera Rodriguez, Jorge A. Salas Santos and Javonne Simmons. Instructor Michael Roberts is at the far left. Junior Engineer (Basic Electricity) – Graduated August 8 (above, in alphabetical order): Shawn Alexander, George Beaufils, Mashanda Carr, Bevan Cottone, Letwan Jackson, Mohamad Mahmoud Kammoun, Mark Loreto Mamangun Lagundi, Starling Priester, Dequan Rivera, James Sanchez, Isaiah Thomas and Stephen Venditti. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BAPO – Graduated August 16 (above, in alphabetical order): Gregory Kakra Attawora, Sean Carter, Charles Digman, Whitney Fulcher, Eric Jackson, Luisito Silot Pipo and Nicholas Sampson. Galley Ops (Phase III) – Graduated August 16 (above, from left): J’corei Williams and Keauni Pullett. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the steward departments of SIU-contracted vessels. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated July 26 (above, in alphabetical order): Ricardo Giovanny Arauz Rochez, Adalberto Colon Rosa, Keyon Gregory, Noel Genisan Segovia and Olive Stewart-Paul. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated August 23 (above, from left): Jamie Otazu Austria Virginia Paglinawan Panoncillo and Joel Escarda Ababa. Galley Ops – Graduated August 16 (above, in alphabetical order): Glennorris Alston III, Armon Bailey, Celso Escobero, Candie Mauroner, Hussain Ali Nagi Ali, Bernard Martinez Nieves II, Ricky Enriquez Sencida and Johnathan Williams. January 2020 Advanced Galley Ops – Graduated July 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Nadine Butler, Vannessa Curd, Dorothea Fabrizius, Joshua Heath, Tyrane Savage and Jayson Velez-Cruz. (Note: Not all are pictured. Seafarers LOG 23 �VOLUME 82, NO. 1 JANUARY 2020 Text “Join” to 97779 To Sign Up for SIU Text Alerts O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O AB John Telles (center) with Capt. Nick St. Jean and 2nd Mate Roberto Rivera AB Victor Cortes Bosun John Diaz Crew Celebrates First Anniversary on El Coqui Safe Operations Highlight ConRo’s Initial Year of Service One year into service, the SIU-crewed El Coqui is going strong. The Crowley vessel is one of the world’s first combination container/roll-on roll-off (ConRo) ships powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). It joined the union-contracted fleet in 2018 and sails in the Jones Act trade between Puerto Rico and Jacksonville, Florida. When the El Coqui’s anniversary arrived last fall, Recertified Steward Juan Vallejo and the rest of the steward department marked the occasion with a scrumptious menu featuring lobster tails, Beef Wellington, shrimp cocktail, caviar and a special cake. “Everything is going well on the ship,” Vallejo noted. “It’s a brand-new ship, so it’s fantastic. We’re carrying a lot of cargo – we’re full all the way to San Juan. We carry around 500 cars and 900 containers on that run.” Built at VT Halter Marine Inc., the El Coqui is the first of two Commitment Class ships constructed for Crowley’s shipping and logistics services be- tween Jacksonville and San Juan. The second ship, the Taino, was delivered near the end of 2018. The new vessels are 720 feet in length, 26,500 deadweight tons (DWT), and can transport up to 2,400 twenty-foot-equivalent container units (TEUs) at a cruising speed of 22 knots. A Crowley official recently visited the El Coqui as part of a new safety initiative and came away impressed. Rod Jones, director of Operations Integrity, said, “Special compliment to the entire deck gang, who took time to visit with us on the bridge and walk me through the rigging and maintenance of the vessel’s gangway and pilot Jacobs ladder…. And lastly, big shout out to the steward and cook who provided me the best demonstration of the galley fire extinguishing procedure and equipment I’ve ever witnessed. Not only did they know the location of all equipment, they were thoroughly knowledgeable in both the operation and the procedure for extinguishing galley and deep-fat-fryer fires! Excellent.” Recertified Bosun Abel Vazquez and Capt. Gregory Rivera From left: Chief Cook Bryan Alvarez, SA Sonia Pabon, Recertified Steward Juan Vallejo AB Kemer Rojas Recertified Steward Juan Vallejo, Chief Cook Fernando Marques QEE Rodney Passapera � 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 2020 Description An account of the resource Headlines: SIU-CONTRACTED COMPANIES HONORED FOR ENVIRONMENTALLY SAFE OPERATIONS SAFETY DIRECTORS ATTEND ANNUAL TEAM MEETING CONTAINERSHIP RIO GRANDE EXPRESS REFLAGS U.S. USNS NEWPORT CHIRSTENED UNION'S CAREER PATHWAYS RECEIVE PRAISE THANKSGIVING TRADITION THRIVES IN OAKLAND USNS COMFORT COMPLETES ANOTHER MISSION BENEFITS OF GOOD ORAL HYGIENE EXTEND TO HEART, OTHER ORGANS ITF INSPECTORS MEET IN SRI LANKA FOR WORLDWIDE INSPECTORS SEMINAR SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFIT PLAN OFFERS SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS DECADE IN REVIEW CREW CELEBRATES FIRST ANNIVERSARY ON EL COQUI 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 1/1/2020 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. 82, No. 1 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/7772cdff0b89a2069d13794b5a43026a.pdf 9a3f12fda1b18bb7289f780b7bbb1061 PDF Text Text DECEMBER 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 12 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Happy Holidays Beck Notice Page 6 Scholarship Info Page 11 �President’s Report Standing Up for Cargo Preference The American maritime industry’s constant battle to uphold the Jones Act is vital, but it’s definitely not the only area in which we stand up for the U.S. Merchant Marine. Like the Jones Act and the U.S. Maritime Security Program, cargo preference laws are another staple of U.S.-flag shipping. With that in mind, the coalition USA Maritime (the SIU is an affiliate) in late October wrote to Congress and urged legislators to help ensure full enforcement. Specifically, USA Maritime contacted leaders of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation and asked them to back a section of the House-passed Coast Guard Authorization Act that calls for an independent audit of cargo preference enforcement. Such an audit is in order. USA Maritime suggested there are legitimate questions about whether some federal agencies may be skirting the law and using foreign-flag ships instead of American-flag vessels for preference cargoes. The coalition also Michael Sacco underscored the fact that enforcing cargo preference laws is crucial for “the national defense capability provided by a strong and active U.S.-flag Merchant Marine.” For those who may be new to our industry, cargo preference requires shippers to use U.S.-flag vessels to transport certain government-impelled, ocean-borne cargoes. Most of the time when we talk about cargo preference, we mean the 1954 Food for Peace initiative, specifically governing the shipment of agricultural goods and government aid programs. However, it also includes the Military Cargo Preference Act of 1904, which dictates that 100 percent of military cargoes are shipped under the Stars and Stripes. And, it includes Public Resolution 17 (enacted in 1934), which requires all cargo generated by the U.S. Export-Import Bank be shipped via U.S.-flag vessels unless granted a waiver by the U.S. Maritime Administration. Opponents (including enemies of American-flag shipping) of the programs, and those who truly do not understand the programs, have tried to turn them into cash giveaways, among other attacks. There is no doubt in my mind that such a move would harm not only the U.S. workforce, including our hard-working farmers, but also the intended recipients of the food. The bottom line is that food aid is vital for our industry. It’s a main source of cargo for our fleet, and it’s a primary source of shipboard jobs, too. Without American mariners, we can’t defend America. That’s reason enough to not only enforce but also boost cargo preference. For this month, I turn to the U.S. Maritime Administration for the last word on the subject. The agency points out: “Cargo Preference provides another critical benefit: a revenue base that will retain and encourage a privately owned and operated U.S.-flag Merchant Marine, which itself provides 1) essential sealift capability in wartime or other national emergencies, 2) a stream of skilled seafarers and 3) protection against total foreign entities attempting to dominate US. waterborne commerce.” Happy Holidays The winter holidays are still on the horizon as of this writing, but this is the time to extend my heartfelt best wishes to the entire SIU family for a safe and happy season. To our active members and retirees and your families, and to all of our staff and officials, here’s to an enjoyable time filled with whatever makes the holidays most gratifying for you. As usual, I also offer a respectful “season’s greetings” to our men and women in uniform and to my fellow military veterans. The SIU appreciates your service and we are proud to support you as America’s fourth arm of defense. You can count on us in the New Year and for every year that follows! O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 81 Number 12 December 2019 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2019 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. Transportation Secretary Chao Underscores Maritime Support U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao recently reiterated the department’s strong support of American maritime. Speaking Oct. 8 at the National Defense Transportation Association’s fall meeting in St. Louis, Secretary Chao noted the importance of the Jones Act, the U.S. Maritime Security Program, the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) and U.S. Merchant Mariners. She also commended the work of SIU President Michael Sacco, who attended the meeting (Oct. 7-10). DOT Secretary Elaine L. Chao addresses the NDTA meeting. (Photo courtesy DOT) Secretary Chao said in part: “The Maritime Security Program ensures that American-flagged vessels are available for service. All 60 Congressionally-funded operating agreements are in place. Planned vessel replacements through November should add 80,000 square feet of additional RO/RO capacity to the fleet. Congress is looking at potentially increasing the amount paid per ship, and establishing a sister program, called the Tanker Security Program, or TSP, that would involve 10 tankers. “In addition,” she continued, “the Ready Reserve Force has 46 vessels that can be activated for use when needed. Turbo-activation drills were recently conducted to ensure rapid deployment. The RRF provides nearly 50 percent of government-owned surge sealift capability. But there are concerns. For starters, the average age of these vessels is 44.5 years. Long-term, the Navy’s surge sealift recapitalization strategy, which includes a combination of targeted service life extensions, acquiring and converting used vessels, and building new sealift vessels in U.S. shipyards, should address these challenges.” She later turned to America’s freight cabotage law and stated, “Human capital is as important to a good transportation system as concrete and steel. A primary benefit of the Jones Act and other measures to maintain a U.S. Merchant Marine, is to ensure that the U.S. has skilled seafarers and Merchant mariners….” A complete copy of Secretary Chao’s prepared remarks is available on the DOT website and is linked in an Oct. 9 news post on the SIU website. IMB Piracy Report Shows Improvement The International Chamber of Commerce’s International Maritime Bureau (IMB) recently released their “Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships” report for the period Jan. 1-Sept. 30, 2019. The overall data shows that piracy numbers are down across the globe, with the total numbers for the period almost identical to the same period in 2017. The total number of incidents through the first three months of 2019 was 119, which breaks down as follows: 10 vessels fired upon, 10 attempted attacks, four hijacked vessels and 95 vessels boarded. The single largest concentration of attacks was in the waters near Nigeria, with 29 separate incidents, followed by Indonesia with 20. While the number of hostages taken in attacks has sharply fallen from last year’s report, that fall is due in part to an uptick in kidnappings, with 70 incidents of kidnapping occurring during the period. As stated in the report, “As a region, the Gulf of Guinea accounts for 86 percent of those crew taken hostage and for almost 82 percent of the crew kidnappings globally.” Bulk carriers remain the most popular target for pirates, and ships were most likely to be attacked while they were at anchor. Continuing a trend since 2016, small arms were the most common weapon used in attacks. According to the report, “In East Africa, no incidents have been reported for Somalia in 2019. IMB continues to urge masters however to maintain high levels of vigilance when transiting these waters and to follow the latest BMP recommendations. Elsewhere, the number of mainly low-level reports for Indonesia has dropped from 31 in 2018 to 20 in 2019.” There was also a death reported during the period, as stated in the report: “Pirates armed with machine guns in two speed boats approached an offshore support vessel underway. The Captain immediately notified the naval escort security boat which maneuvered to engage the attackers. One speed boat closed in from port side of the vessel and crossed the bow, while the other speed boat engaged fire with the security boat. Alarm raised, crew proceeded to the engine room and all power was shut down. The pirates boarded the vessel with the aid of an elongated ladder. They broke into the accommodation, vandalized the cabins and took crew belongings and vessel’s properties. The pirates then proceeded to the engine room, kidnapped five men and escaped. The remaining crews sailed the vessel under escort to a safe anchorage. One Nigerian Navy armed guard reported killed in the exchange of fire between the naval security boat and the pirates.” Launched in 1991, the IMB Piracy Reporting Center (PRC) is a 24-hour manned facility that provides the maritime industry, governments and response agencies with timely and transparent data on armed robbery incidents received directly from the master or owner of vessels. Navy Christens USNS Miguel Keith New jobs for members of the SIU Government Services Division are on the horizon following the Oct. 19 christening of the expeditionary sea base USNS Miguel Keith (right) at the General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard in San Diego. SIU CIVMARS will provide some of the shipboard manpower for the union-built ship, named in honor of Marine Corps Vietnam veteran and Medal of Honor recipient Lance Cpl. Miguel Keith. The vessel is expected to be delivered in the near future. (Photo courtesy General Dynamics NASSCO) Reversed to White Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG December 2019 �NY Waterway Crews Ratify Five-Year Contract SIU members employed by one of the nation’s most reliable passenger ferry companies now have the security of a new contract. Seafarers overwhelmingly approved a five-year agreement that features annual wage increases and other gains. Voting took place by mail-in ballot; results were tallied on Oct. 8. The pact covers approximately 125 members. Negotiating on behalf of the SIU were Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Port Agent Ray Henderson, Capt. Michael Muia, Capt. George Sullivan, Deckhand Nestor Martinez and Deckhand George Schumpp. Three bargaining sessions took place, all at the hiring hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. “It’s the best contract I’ve seen in a long time,” Henderson said. “The negotiations were pretty straightforward, and the committee took their time and studied the facts. They cared about their contract and getting the best possible agreement for their fellow members. “This is also a very good and fair agreement for the company,” Henderson continued. “I think they deserve credit for looking out for their employees.” Schumpp has served on several SIU negotiating teams, and he also was pleased with the new agreement. “It’s probably the best contract I’ve seen in the 31 years I’ve been here,” he stated. “The whole thing went very smooth and fast, very professional. We got a lot of good things out of this contract.” Muia made his debut as a member of the negotiating committee. “The contract is fair, I believe,” he said. “Overall, it went a little easier than I expected. I understand that in the past, things got a little heated, but there was nothing like that this time around.” Since 1986, SIU-crewed NY Waterway ferries have provided dependable transportation for commuters and other passengers in New York and New Jersey. They also have conducted emergency evacuations, bringing hundreds of thousands of New Jersey resi- emony, as did SIU President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez and Vice President Contracts George Tricker. The Seafarers-crewed, Central Gulf Linesoperated Green Lake saved seven people whose ship caught fire approximately 2,100 miles northwest of Oahu, Hawaii. Nine other individuals also were rescued during the 18hour undertaking; five were not recovered. The Green Lake’s officers are represented by the MM&P and MEBA, respectively. During last month’s event, Buzby stated, “Today, as we honor the crew of a great American ship, we again see the value of the Maritime Security Program to our country. The Green Lake was there to respond in the timehonored tradition of mariners coming to the aid of fellow mariners. This American-trained crew highlights the professionalism and valor of our nation’s mariners, whether conducting humanitarian aid missions or providing vital sustainment to the U.S. Armed Forces.” The Sincerity Ace was a car carrier whose crew of 21 abandoned ship. When the Green Lake arrived on the scene, it encountered what MARAD described as “a daunting task – locating Sincerity Ace crew members floating in unforgiving seas spread out across several miles. The Green Lake fought 17- to 20-foot waves and turbulent winds, making lifesaving attempts even more dangerous and challenging. The rescue effort lasted 18 hours, with the Green Lake’s entire deck crew working tirelessly to get the survivors on board.” The Gallant Ship Award dates back to an executive order issued by President Franklin D. Roosevelt during World War II to recognize excellence and bravery in merchant mariners. Between 1944 and 1994, only 41 ships received Gallant Ship status, with the last award presented in 1994. Pictured at the ceremony are (from left) SIU VP Contracts George Tricker, Chief Cook Jose Clotter, SIU President Michael Sacco and SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez. December 2019 aviation history. The ferries carry upwards of 32,000 or more passengers daily and maintain an ontime performance rate greater than 99 percent. The boats serve 20-plus routes between New Jersey and Manhattan. Pictured from left to right at the hiring hall in Jersey City, New Jersey, are members of the respective negotiating committees: Consultant Burt Trebour and VP Alan Warren for NY Waterway, and for the SIU, Capt. Michael Muia, Capt. George Sullivan, Deckhand Nestor Martinez, Deckhand George Schumpp, VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi and Port Agent Ray Henderson. SIU-Crewed Green Lake Receives MARAD’s Gallant Ship Award SIU members recently received a rare honor from the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD). Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby on Nov. 1 presented the agency’s Gallant Ship Citation Award and U.S. Merchant Marine Medals for Outstanding Achievement to the crew of the Green Lake. The ceremony took place at the Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House in New York City. In announcing the presentations, MARAD noted, “The awards were given for the crew’s unprecedented rescue efforts in response to the horrific fire aboard the foreign-flag vessel M/V Sincerity Ace in the northern Pacific Ocean on Dec. 31, 2018.” Chief Cook Jose Clotter attended the cer- dents home safely after 9/11, the 2003 blackout and other disasters. These ferries and crews also have saved more than 300 people from various accidents, including 143 people rescued from Flight 1549 in the Miracle on the Hudson, the most successful rescue in The award is presented “to any United States vessel or to any foreign vessel (merchant, Coast Guard, Navy, or other), the crew of that ship, or other individuals or organizations participating in outstanding or gallant action in marine disasters or other emergencies for the purpose of saving life or property.” Ships and crews receiving Gallant Ship status must have encountered substantial danger during rescue and lifesaving efforts while demonstrating efficiency, discipline, and expertise in conducting such operations. The Merchant Marine Medal for Outstanding Achievement is awarded to U.S. Merchant Mariners who have participated in an act or operation of humanitarian nature directly aiding an individual or group of individuals. As noted by Buzby, the Green Lake is part of the Maritime Security Program (MSP) fleet. The program helps maintain a fleet of militarily useful, civilian-crewed, privately operated ships that are available to the Department of Defense whenever needed. Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby (left) congratulates Chief Cook Jose Clotter, who was there on behalf of the entire SIU crew from the Green Lake. Seafarers LOG 3 �Union Membership Meeting Dates for 2020 Port Traditional Date January February Piney Point March Monday after first Sunday 6 3 2 Jersey City Tuesday after first Sunday 7 4 Philadelphia Wednesday after first Sunday 8 Baltimore Thursday after first Sunday Norfolk April May June July August September October November December 6 4 8 6 3 8 5 2 7 3 7 5 9 7 4 8 6 3 8 5 4 8 6 10 8 5 9 7 4 9 9 6 5 9 7 11 9 6 10 8 5 10 Thursday after first Sunday 9 6 5 9 7 11 9 6 10 8 5 10 Jacksonville Thursday after first Sunday 9 6 5 9 7 11 9 6 10 8 5 10 San Juan Thursday after first Sunday 9 6 5 9 7 11 9 6 10 8 5 10 Algonac Friday after first Sunday 10 7 6 10 8 12 10 7 11 9 6 11 Houston Monday after second Sunday 13 10 9 13 11 15 13 10 14 13 9 14 New Orleans Tuesday after second Sunday 14 11 10 14 12 16 14 11 15 13 10 15 Mobile Wednesday after second Sunday 15 12 11 15 13 17 15 12 16 14 12 16 Oakland Thursday after second Sunday 16 13 12 16 14 18 16 13 17 15 12 17 Port Everglades Thursday after second Sunday 16 13 12 16 14 18 16 13 17 15 12 17 Joliet Thursday after second Sunday 16 13 12 16 14 18 16 13 17 15 12 17 St. Louis Friday after second Sunday 17 14 13 17 15 19 17 14 18 16 13 18 Honolulu Friday after second Sunday 17 14 13 17 15 19 17 14 18 16 13 18 Wilmington Monday after third Sunday 21 18 16 20 18 22 20 17 21 19 16 21 Guam Thursday after third Sunday 23 20 19 23 21 25 23 20 24 22 19 24 Tacoma Friday after third Sunday 24 21 20 24 22 26 24 21 25 23 20 28 Dates appearing in bold indicate that meetings are being held on other than traditional meeting dates. The reasons for the changes at affected ports, respectively, are as follows: n Piney Point change created by Labor Day Observance n Houston change created by Columbus Day Observance n Wilmington changes created by Martin Luther King Day and Washington’s Birthday Observances n Mobile change created by Veterans Day Observance n Tacoma change created by Christmas Day Observance Meetings at each port start at 10:30 a.m. Spotlight on Mariner Health West Nile Virus Exhibits A Variety of Symptoms Editor’s note: The following article was provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. The West Nile virus is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. It is a virus capable of causing disease in humans, as well as infecting horses, many types of birds and other animals. Approximately 80% of people who become infected with the West Nile virus will have either no symptoms or only mild ones. However, on rare occasions, the virus can cause severe and sometimes fatal illnesses in others. The chances of a human getting the illness from a mosquito bite are low. Usually only two out of 10 will develop any symptoms if infected. The incubation period from the time of infection to the development of any symptoms is five to 15 days. Signs and symptoms can be as follows: Fever, headaches, skin rashes, body aches, swollen lymph nodes, stiff neck, sleepiness, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions and paralysis can occur. However, the symptoms are usually not severe enough to require medical attention. Many people can feel tired or weak, and those symptoms may last for several weeks. Typically, only one in 150 infections might lead to severe neurological infections, per the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). 4 Seafarers LOG The risk of West Nile is high during mosquito season and does not lower until the season is over. The blood supply in the United States is screened for this infection with every blood donation. If the virus is found in the blood supply, that particular bag will be disposed of. The diagnosis of this virus is by blood test or cerebrospinal fluid testing. There is no specific treatment for West Nile. Supportive therapy is directed towards the side effects that may ensue. Anti-inflammatory medications, intravenous fluids, and possibly intensive medical monitoring may be required in severe cases. Use of over-the-counter meds such as Motrin, Ibuprofen, Tylenol, and Advil can help to reduce some of the discomfort brought on by West Nile. There are no specific antibiotics or antiviral medications for this infection. The greatest risk is to pregnant women if they become infected with West Nile or Zika. The risk is low but still there. The CDC encourages women who are pregnant to take precautions to reduce their risk for any infection. Precautions potentially beneficial to all individuals include avoiding wooded areas, wearing protective clothing, staying indoors at dawn and dusk, and using repellents that contain DEET. Seek a doctor’s advice if you do not feel well and have been bitten by a mosquito. Healthy Recipe Grilled Rockfish with Mango Salsa Servings 25 Ingredients and Seasonings 10 pounds rockfish fillets, cut 6 oz each *marinate recipe 4 cups olive oil ¾ cup lemon juice ¾ cup fresh parsley, minced 12 cloves garlic, minced ¼ cup dried basil ¼ cup ground black pepper Kosher salt, to taste *salsa recipe 2 quarts mango, peeled and chopped 1 cup strawberries, small diced 4 cups red bell pepper, small diced 2 cups red onion, minced ¾ cup fresh cilantro, chopped ¾ cup jalapeno, minced 1 cup lime juice ½ cup lemon juice Salt and pepper to taste ¾ cup olive oil, used to grill the fish Preparation Preheat grill to med-high. Place all of the marinate ingredients together in large container, mix together well. Add all of the rockfish fillets to the marinate. Refrigerate for at least one hour. Prepare mango salsa: Add all the salsa ingredients together in a large bowl. Cover and set aside. Remove the rockfish from the marinate, discard any leftover marinate. Grill the fillets on a welloiled grill, until done and still flaky. Cook about 3-4 minutes on each side depending on thickness of the fish. Serve the rockfish with the mango salsa. Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 284 Calories; 9g fat (28.3% calories from fat); 35g protein; 16g carbohydrate; 3g dietary fiber; 87mg cholesterol; 153mg sodium. Exchanges: 0 grain (starch); 4 ½ lean meat; ½ vegetable; ½ fruit; 1 ½ fat. Editor’s note: The foregoing recipe was provided by Chef Robert “RJ” Johnson of the of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship. December 2019 �SIU Mourns Passing of Rep. Cummings The SIU is mourning the death of U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Maryland), a longtime backer of workers’ rights and an unwavering supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Cummings, who spoke at the 2007 convention of the Seafarers International Union of North America, passed away U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings was a ceaseless backer of workers’ rights and American mariners. Oct. 17 at age 68. His office reported that the congressman’s death was “due to complications concerning longstanding health challenges.” Born and raised in Baltimore, Cummings served in the U.S. Congress since 1996. Previously, he was a member of the Maryland General Assembly for 14 years. Cummings graduated from the University of Maryland School of Law and passed the state bar in 1976. “Elijah Cummings was a tremendous leader, a true friend and a first-class individual,” stated SIU President Michael Sacco. “He always – without fail – stood up for workers’ rights and for the American maritime industry. He was someone you were grateful to have on your side, and it would be a huge understatement to say he will be missed.” SIU Senior Political Consultant Terry Turner noted, “The Congressman had a portfolio centering on issues that went to the heart of America, yet had the time and effort to lift our maritime issues to the nation’s attention.” SIU Political and Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman offered this tribute online: “There are few members of Congress, on either side of the aisle, that I’ve worked as closely with over the last 20 years than Elijah Cummings. He served as both Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Transportation Committee’s Coast Guard subcommittee, which has jurisdiction over a lot of maritime law. He was as tough as they come, and even when I knew his questioning was friendly, my heart always beat a little faster when I was on the hotseat testifying before that Committee and the Chair recognized the Gentleman from Baltimore for five minutes’ worth of questioning…. Congress has lost another of its lions, and I will always thank him and his staff for what he did for my industry.” According to news reports, Cummings in recent years used a wheelchair to get around and braced himself with a walker when he stood. U.S. Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Maryland), 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, 2018 to December 31, 2018. 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 $184,235,622 as of December 31, 2018 compared to $153,601,785 as of January 1, 2018. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $30,633,837. 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 $116,645,953. This income included employer contributions of $120,600,694, employee contributions of $506,800, realized losses of $365,672 from the sale of assets, losses from investments of $4,642,014 and other income of $546,145. Plan expenses were $86,012,116. These expenses included $13,782,390 in administrative expenses and $72,229,726 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Congressman Cummings (left) addresses the 2007 SIUNA convention in Piney Point, Maryland, as Seafarers President Michael Sacco looks on. the senior member of the commonwealth’s congressional delegation, said Cummings’ passing “leaves an irreplaceable void in our hearts, in our Maryland and in our Congress. Quite possibly no elected official mattered so much to his constituents.” Cummings in 2012 introduced legislation aimed at repealing a provision added at the last minute to a highway bill that reduced the U.S.-flag vessel carriage of food aid cargoes overseas. He also was a strong advocate of anti-piracy measures. In 2011, he issued a National Maritime Day statement that read in part: “In my capacity as the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, I will continue to support the development of a comprehensive maritime policy that will protect the integrity of the Jones Act, that will support the Maritime Security Program, and that will pro- mote the growth of the U.S.-flagged fleet competing in our foreign trade.” The Maritime Trades Department’s Port Council of New York-New Jersey in 2008 honored Cummings with its Government Man of the Year Award. At that time, SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, who also serves as president of the port council, stated, “Very simply, Congressman Cummings speaks our language and supports our issues. He is a no-nonsense legislator who supports working families and in particular backs the men and women who work in the maritime trades…. Congressman Cummings is dedicated to the same things that motivate us in the labor movement: protecting workers’ rights, securing our homeland, ensuring health care coverage and educational opportunities for everyone, and the list goes on and on.” Celebrating New Tonnage As previously reported, Seafarers-contracted American Roll-on Roll-off Carrier (ARC) has flagged in three newer vessels, for a net gain of two SIU-crewed ships. Seafarers recently helped formalize the name change on one of those vessels, the ARC Integrity. Welcoming the development are (from left in photo at right) AB Jeremie Brooks, OS Manuel Manzur Rosado, OS Josh Cutchin and AB Phillip Borders. In the photo below, Brooks helps make it official. (Thanks to Recertified Bosun Shannon Smith for the photos.) 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 five 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. The charge to cover copying costs will be $7.75 for the full 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: 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 2019 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, 2018 to December 31, 2018. 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 $10,478,138. These expenses included $1,098,998 in administrative expenses and $9,379,140 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 15,512 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 $126,965,662 as of December 31, 2018 compared to $128,471,916 as of January 1, 2018. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $1,506,254. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had total income of $8,971,884, including employer contributions of $9,626,353, employee contributions of $167,170, losses of $680,756 from the sale of assets, losses from investments of $143,957 and other income of $3,074. The plan has a contract with The Prudential Insurance Company of America which allocates funds toward individual policies. 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; n Transactions in excess of five percent of the plan assets; n Insurance information including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers; and n 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. The charge to cover copying costs will be $7.75 for the full 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: 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, 2018 to December 31, 2018. 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 $23,993,376 as of December 31, 2018 compared to $24,346,823 as of January 1, 2018. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $353,447. 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 $69,336,761. This income included employer contributions of $70,632,511, realized losses of $21,136 from the sale of assets, losses from investments of $1,416,644 and other income of $142,030. Plan expenses were $69,690,208. These expenses included $6,366,405 in administrative expenses and $63,323,803 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; n Assets held for investment; and n 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. The charge to cover copying costs will be $16.75 for the full 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: 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, AGLIW 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, AGLIW 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, AGLIW. 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, AGLIW are 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 Summary Annual Report For Seafarers International Union AGLIW 401(k) Plan This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers International Union AGLIW 401(k) Plan, (Employer Identification No. 261527179, Plan No. 002) for the period January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2018. 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 $4,588,485. These expenses included $72,953 in administrative expenses, $4,366,089 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries and $149,443 in other expenses. A total of 13,299 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 $35,788,111 as of December 31, 2018 compared to $36,621,936 as of January 1, 2018. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $833,825. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had total income of $3,754,660, including employee contributions of $5,338,190, other contributions of $338,380, losses from investments of $1,921,923 and other income of $13. 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; n Schedule of delinquent participant contributions; and n Insurance information including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers. 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 The charge to cover copying costs will be $12.50 for the full 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: 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 2018 calendar year, the fee cost associated with this representation amounts to 80.08 percent of the dues amount. This means that the agency fee based upon the dues would be $400.40 (four hundred dollars forty cents) for the applicable year. An appropriate reduction also will be calculated for working dues. This amount applies to the 2020 calendar year. This means that any individual who wishes to elect to pay agency fees and submits a letter between December 1, 2019 and November 30, 2020 will have this calculation applied to their 2020 dues payments which may still be owed to the union. As noted below, however, to continue to receive the agency fee reduction effective January 2021, your objection must be received by December 1, 2020. 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, AGLIW, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. This report is based upon an audited financial report of the union’s expenses during 2018. 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, Secretary-Treasurer’s Office, Seafarers International Union, AGLIW, 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 2019 �The donated prints (above) now adorn one wall of the New Orleans Hall in Harvey, Louisiana. They were donated by FOWT Bert Hatten (pictured at right), a former SIU member who served on cargo ships sailing into the Pacific Theater from 1942-1945 WWII Seafarer Donates Collection, Shares Memories Not every mariner sails for their whole life, instead choosing to spend only a few years at sea before pursuing a new career. But when those years are the final days of World War II, they leave memories that last a lifetime. FOWT W. Bert Hatten, a former SIU member who served on cargo ships sailing into the Pacific Theater from 1942-1945, recently donated a collection of prints to the New Orleans hall in Harvey, Louisiana. The framed art depicts World War II-era merchant ships; the items were commissioned from artist Theodore C. Ewen by maritime underwriter Chubb & Son. Hatten, 92, was in the process of moving, and wanted the collection to have a proper home where others could view them. “The set is awesome, and it’s such an honor that Bert thought to donate them to the hall,” said SIU Port Agent Chris Westbrook. “It was great to talk to him on the phone, and hear some of his sea stories from that era. The prints are up on the wall, and the feedback I’ve received from the members who have seen them is really positive.” “I have very fond memories of my time in the SIU,” Hatten said. “As a youthful participant in the final stages of World War II, my first attraction to the SIU was, it offered me an opportunity to get into the action despite my youth, which caused my rejection by the Navy. Secondly, the SIU leadership in those days was strongly anti-communist, which was not the case with some others. Our leadership then included men like Harry Lundeberg and Paul Hall, both of whom were patriots and strong, honorable leaders. “After the war ended, I debated for a while between sailing and seeking another career,” Hatten added. He eventually made his decision, heading to college before becoming a reporter for a local paper in Louisiana (from where he’d primarily sailed from), and launched a decades-long career in the newspaper industry. After sailing, he worked as the managing editor of two newspapers, the Monroe Morning World and The News-Star World, before starting and running his own newspaper, The Ouachita Citizen, from 1965 to 1986. He also found time to serve as the mayor of West Monroe, Louisiana, from 1966-1978. After that, he worked as an insurance underwriter until retirement. It’s been nearly 75 years since the end of World War II, but Hatten still remembers where he was when the war ended. “While en route to Japan as part of a supply convoy in September of 1945, our ship passed the USS Indianapolis, which was headed the opposite direction,” he recalled. “At the time, it was only notable because I had a friend serving aboard that ship, but of course now I know that the Indianapolis had just delivered the atomic bomb to be loaded onto the Enola Gay. Of course, this was before it was sunk by a Japanese torpedo. When we arrived in Tokyo Bay, we anchored right next to the USS Missouri, which served as MacArthur’s flagship. So that’s where we were when the Japanese surrendered.” Hatten has three daughters, and currently lives with his youngest daughter in West Monroe. IBEW’s Demchuk Elected To Lead Baltimore PMC Peter Demchuk is now at the helm of the Maritime Trades Department’s (MTD) Baltimore Port Maritime Council (PMC). The IBEW Local 24 business manager succeeds Dion Guthrie, who stepped down Oct. 16 Hatten’s sister, Dee Carbo, views the collection in its new home. after 13 years as the PMC president. Demchuk and his fellow officers – Vice President Guthrie and SecretaryTreasurer John Hoskins (who is the SIU’s Baltimore port agent) – were sworn in by MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan at the council’s meeting in mid-October. The IBEW official told delegates he looks forward to his new position. He said Pictured from left are Baltimore PMC VP Dion Guthrie, Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO President Donna Edwards, Baltimore PMC President Peter Demchuk, Baltimore PMC Secretary-Treasurer/SIU Port Agent John Hoskins and MTD Executive SecretaryTreasurer Daniel Duncan. December 2019 he plans to work closely with the Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO (whose president, Donna Edwards, attended) and the Metro Baltimore AFL-CIO on projects affecting all union workers in the city and its surrounding communities. He looks forward to growing the port council, he said. Additionally, Demchuk outlined a program to promote the hard-working men and women within the Port of Baltimore community. He noted the advent of offshore wind turbines and wants to make sure union members from the maritime trades, metal trades and building trades are involved. In addition, he thanked Guthrie for his decades of service to the council. Delegates from AFSCME, the IBEW, MEBA, the SIU and UA took part in the October meeting. Besides the officers, delegates approved Richard Kile, Klaus Luhta, Bill Van Loo and Daniel Zellers as PMC trustees. The Baltimore PMC received its charter in 1952. The MTD is a constitutionally mandated department of the AFL-CIO and was formed in 1946. The MTD’s network of 21 port maritime councils has given maritime workers a strong grassroots presence in port and coastal cities all across the nation. Representing a wide array of workers, the councils have provided the department’s 23 affiliates (who collectively represent approximately five million members) a mechanism to pool their resources on a wide range of issues and projects. Seafarers LOG 7 �TALKING MARITIME WITH CONGRESSMAN – Maritime Trades Department Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan (left) is pictured with U.S. Rep. Anthony Brown (D-Maryland) in late September in the nation’s capital. The Washington Nationals baseball game in the background did not prevent them from discussing the importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine. ABOARD BELL SHIMADA – SIU VP Government Services Kate Hunt (back row, far left) and Asst. VP Joe Vincenzo (also in back, far right) meet with SIU Government Services Division members aboard the NOAA ship on the West Coast. PROMOTING MARITIME WITH CONGRESSWOMAN – SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins (right) is pictured with U.S. Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (D-Florida) at a recent labor gathering in the Sunshine State. They discussed the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, cargo preference laws and more. A-BOOK IN SAN JUAN – Bosun John Diaz (left) receives his A-seniority book. He’s pictured at the hiring hall, with SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo. “I’m excited to become an A-book member and extremely grateful to the SIU for the awesome career opportunities it has given me,” Diaz said. “May God bless the industry and may God bless the SIU. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU A-BOOK IN OAKLAND – AB Ahmed Kassem (left) picks up his A-seniority book at the hiring hall. He is pictured with Port Agent Nick Marrone II. ABOARD KAIMANA HILA – Pictured from left in the photo above are Chief Cook Alberto Insong, ACU Saleh Sewileh and Chief Steward Timothy Laird. The two snapshots at right show parts of the galley aboard the new Matson vessel. Thanks to SIU Wilmington Patrolman Jesse Sunga Jr. for the photos. ABOARD NATIONAL GLORY – Members gather for a union meeting aboard the Crowley vessel in mid-October in Houston. Pictured third from left is SIU Patrolman J.B. Niday. ABOARD OCEAN GLOBE – Enjoying a coffee break on the Waterman ship in Houston are (above, from left) Paul Hall Center Apprentice Luis Venegas, AB Frank Estupinan and GUDE Cale Irons. 8 Seafarers LOG December 2019 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU A-BOOK IN JERSEY CITY – QMED Michael Robinson (right) receives his A-seniority book. He’s pictured at the hiring hall with Port Agent Ray Henderson. WELCOME ASHORE IN FLORIDA – Chief Steward Evelyn Tayag (left), pictured at the Fort Lauderdale hall with Asst. VP Kris Hopkins, picks up her first pension check. FULL BOOKS IN PINEY POINT – SA Craig Sorrell (left in photo at immediate left) and AB Dexter Turija (left in photo above) recently received their respective full membership books at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. SIU Port Agent Victor Nunez is at right in both photos. ABOARD WEST VIRGINIA – Recertified Bosun John Cedeno submitted these snapshots from the Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning tanker. AB Juberto Perez (lower left) installs chafing gear. In photo directly below, ABs Victor Chevalier and Christopher Dickens repair chafing gear on mooring line. Pictured from left in the remaining photo are Pumpman Scott Fuller, Second Mate Daniel McCullough, Cedeno and Third Mate Parker Dale. FULL B-BOOK IN HONOLULU – ARE Raymond Orosco (right) receives his full B-book at the hiring hall. Congratulating him is Shureen Yatchmenoff, administrative assistant. December 2019 Seafarers LOG 9 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU GRASSROOTS ACTION IN HOUSTON – Seafarers recently volunteered their time to help spread the word about labor-backed candidates. A number of those SIU members are pictured during phone-banking (photo at immediate left) and in front of the hiring hall, shortly before block walking (photo above). Recertified Steward Verleshia Robinson (left in photo at immediate right, with Port Agent Joe Zavala) participated and also prepared food for fellow members. ANSWERING THE CALL – SIU members helped crew up 33 military support vessels earlier this year when the U.S. Transportation Command ordered a large-scale exercise. These photos were taken on one of the Ready Reserve Force ships that activated – the Cape Intrepid (operated by Ocean Duchess). Pictured from left in the galley (below, right) are SA Nadine Nomed Ryf, Chief Cook Alba Ayala, Recertified Steward Jioia De Leon and SA Marshall Daguio. Pictured on deck (immediate left, from left) are GVA Ameer Ali and Recertified Bosun LBJ Tanoa. Standing from left in the photo above are AB Nick Sabuco, De Leon, Tanoa, Oiler Leonard Chavis, OS Edward Sabac, Oiler Mark Lata and Darrell Jackson. Henson Mariners Brighten Kids’ Day Overseas - SIU members and AMO officers from the USNS Henson visited the International Children’s Advocate, Inc. (Ninos Pag-Asa Center), a residential care facility in Olongapo City, Philippines, in October. The organization is self-described as “a non-profit … established to help [meet] the special needs of impoverished, malnourished, and sick children and young adults with disabilities and with deformities.” Among those participating in the visit were Storekeeper Caroline Thomas, SA Mery Koch-Lupa, GVA Fahd Saleh, GVA Assaf Ghalib, Capt. Kristin Mangold, Third Assistant Engineer Stephanie Stowe, Second Mate Danielle Garcia-Lance, Radio Officer Joanne Sykes and Second A.E. Brandy White. Attending but not in the photo were Chief Steward Arturo Montoya and QMED Benjamin Mathews. The USNS Henson is operated for the Military Sealift Command by Ocean Ships, Inc. (Photo courtesy of Capt. Kristin Mangold) 10 Seafarers LOG December 2019 �Higher Education Opportunities 2020 Seafarers 2020 Seafarers 2020 Seafarers Health and Benefi tsPlan Plan Health and Benefi ts HealthScholarship and Benefi ts Plan Program Scholarship Scholarship Program Program Wilson Hall James Madison University Scholarships totalling $132,000 are avaiable to Seafarers and their dependents looking to continue their education. Allocations for each category will be as follows: Wilson Hall Wilson Hall James Madison University James Madison University Seafarers Scholarships Dependents Scholarships Scholarships Scholarships totalling totalling $132,000 $132,000 are are avaiable avaiable to to Seafarers Seafarers and and their their dependents dependents looking looking to to continue continue their education. Allocations for each category will be as follows: Three scholarships designated for active Seafarers: Five scholarships designated for dependents: their education. Allocations for each category will be as follows: ■ A total of five scholarships, each totalling $20,000, are at an accredited college or university being offered to dependents (spouses incuded) to attend four-year courses of study at accredited colleges or ■ Two scholarships ($6,000 each) for Seafarers universities. Dependents and spouses of active as well interested in pursuing two-year courses of study at a as retired Seafarers may apply. Three scholarships designated active Seafarers: Five scholarships designated for dependents: community collegefor or vocational school ■ One $20,000 offering for a four-year course of study Seafarers Seafarers Scholarships Scholarships Three scholarships designated for active Seafarers: Dependents Dependents Scholarships Scholarships Five scholarships designated for dependents: ■ One $20,000 offering foradvantage a four-year course of study clip, complete ■ A totaland of fimail ve scholarships, each totalling $20,000, are To take of these opportunities, the form below, or visit www.seafarers.org, ■ One $20,000 offering for a four-year course of study ■ A total of five scholarships, each totalling $20,000, are at an accredited college or university being and offered totsdependents (spouses incuded) to Notices attend go to the ABOUT tab, navigate to the Seafarers Health Benefi Plan menu (Participant Letters and at an accredited college or university being offered to dependents (spouses incuded) to attend four-year Application courses of (PDF). study Although at accredited colleges or Materialeach) Modifications section) and select Scholarship the booklet is dated ■ Two scholarshipsof($6,000 for Seafarers four-year courses of study at accredited colleges or ■ Two scholarships ($6,000 each) for Seafarers Dependents and spouses of active as well 2016, all information is of stillstudy current SHBP Scholarships. interested in pursuing two-year courses at afor the 2020universities. universities. Dependents and spouses of active as well interested in pursuing two-year courses of study at a as retired Seafarers may apply. community college or vocational school as retired Seafarers may apply. community college or vocational school Please send me the 2020 SHBP Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. To To take take advantage advantage of of these these opportunities, opportunities, clip, clip, complete complete and and mail mail the the form form below, below, or or visit visit www.seafarers.org, www.seafarers.org, go to the ABOUT tab, navigate to the Seafarers Health and Benefi ts Plan menu (Participant Name.................................................................................................................................................................................. go to the ABOUT tab, navigate to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan menu (Participant Letters Letters and and Notices Notices Street Address................................................................................................................................................................... of Material Modifi cations section) and select Scholarship Application (PDF). Although the booklet is dated of Material Modifications section) and select Scholarship Application (PDF). Although the booklet is dated City, State, Zipfor Code........................................................................................................................................................ 2016, 12/19 2016, all all information information is is still still current current for the the 2020 2020 SHBP SHBP Scholarships. Scholarships. Telephone Number ( ) ............................................................................................................................................... Please send me the 2020 SHBP Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying Please send me the 2020 Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying This SHBP application ❏ Self ❏ Dependent and a copy of the application form.is for: and a copy of the application form. form to: Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 Mail this completed Name.................................................................................................................................................................................. Name.................................................................................................................................................................................. Street Address................................................................................................................................................................... Street Address................................................................................................................................................................... City, State, Zip Code........................................................................................................................................................ City, State, Zip Code........................................................................................................................................................ Telephone Number ( ) ............................................................................................................................................... Telephone Number ( ) ............................................................................................................................................... This application is for: ❏ Self ❏ Dependent 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 Mail this completed form to: Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 December 2019 Seafarers LOG 11 �With Seafarers Aboard the Alaskan Legend SIU crews continue to help Seafarers-contracted Alaska Tanker Company (ATC) enjoy a well-earned reputation for safety and efficiency. Seafarers sail aboard the company’s four Jones Act vessels: the Alaskan Legend, Alaskan Explorer, Alaskan Frontier and Alaskan Navigator. Among the fleet’s many accolades over the years are the Alaska Governor’s Special Achievement Award, and the U.S. Coast Guard’s prestigious Benkert “Osprey” Award in recognition of outstanding achievement in marine environmental protection and community outreach. ATC has been previously recognized for its safe operations by the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation, legislators from the State of Alaska, the Prince William Sound Regional Citizens Advisory Council, the Washington State Department of Ecology, the California Office of Spill Prevention and Response, the Pacific States–British Columbia Oil Spill Task Force, and the AFL-CIO. The photos on these two pages were taken earlier this year aboard the Alaskan Legend. AB Jaime Callejas and AB Ramon Guimba Jr. (From left) Maintenance Mechanic Corey Hann, DEU Mohammed Obad and AB Jaime Callejas 12 Seafarers LOG AB Sergio Valentin and Bosun Alvin Martin Bosun Alvin Martin AB Marcus Foster December 2019 AB Jake Tierney Deck/Engine Maint. Kassim Mohamed December 2019 DEU Piotr Mlynarczyk AB Mohamed Alomari AB Ramon Guimba Jr. CC Johnson Ashun S/B Just Self SA Hamid Shahbain Seafarers LOG 13 �Everyday Savings Save every day with union member-only discounts on everything from fashion and beauty to electronics and everyday household items. And whether it’s date night or a fun family night out, enjoy delicious, union family discounts at select restaurants. Find out more about this and other great Union Plus programs by visiting unionplus.org. FREE COLLEGE CREDIT CARDS FLOWERS & GIFTS WIRELESS DISCOUNTS Learn more at unionplus.org 14 Seafarers LOG 12/19 December 2019 �PHC Offers Culinary 2.0 As previously reported, the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education continues to offer Culinary 2.0 classes designed to help students boost their skills while complying with a new rule that takes effect next year. Completing the coursework also is intended to aid individual shipping opportunities. Shipping Rule 5.A.(6), which will go into effect January 1, 2020, states, “Within each class of seniority in the Steward Department, priority shall be given to those seamen who possess an advanced Culinary 2.0 certificate from the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, in the event such program is being offered and that the seaman is registered in Group I, Steward Department.” While every new member of the steward department who completes their apprenticeship at the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship will have successfully passed Culinary 2.0, it’s important to remem- ber that those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards must also take the coursework in order to exercise preference and priority beginning next year (unless they have received training after January 1, 2017 at the Piney Point, Maryland-based campus). For those seamen currently employed as permanent stewards aboard commercial vessels, they must attend Culinary 2.0 in order to maintain their current employment status. For those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards, there are two new revalidation courses that have been designed to ensure a consistent level of culinary training and efficiency: Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 and Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0. The courses are being offered regularly, but spaces are limited, so members are encouraged to plan ahead and enroll as soon as possible. For more information, contact your port agent and/or the school’s admissions office. December 2019 & January 2020 Membership Meetings Piney Point...............................Monday: December 2, January 6 Algonac..................................Friday: December 6, January 10 Baltimore............................Thursday: December 5, January 9 Guam.................................Thursday: December 19, January 23 Honolulu.............................Friday: December 13, January 17 Houston.......................................Monday: December 9, January 13 Jacksonville..................Thursday: December 5, January 9 Joliet.................................Thursday: December 12, January 16 Mobile.........................Wednesday: December 11, January 15 New Orleans........................Tuesday: December 10, January 14 Jersey City..........................Tuesday: December 3, January 7 Norfolk..............................Thursday: December 5, January 9 Oakland.........................Thursday: December 12, January 16 Philadelphia.............Wednesday: December 4, January 8 Port Everglades..............Thursday: December 12, January 16 San Juan................................Thursday: December 5 , January 9 St. Louis..................................Friday: December 13, January 17 Tacoma............................Friday: December 20, January 24 Wilmington..............Monday: December 16,*Tuesday: January 21 *Wilmington change due to Martin Luther King Day observance 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 December 2019 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from Oct. 6-Nov. 5. “Registered on the Beach” data is as of Nov. 5. Total Registered All Groups B Total Shipped Trip Reliefs 2 2 0 4 0 1 0 10 5 3 0 3 10 1 2 0 1 4 0 5 53 Deck Department 11 7 1 2 1 0 15 7 1 1 7 4 6 0 35 15 24 18 36 6 2 1 8 2 21 12 15 3 2 1 3 3 4 5 19 8 0 0 23 10 234 105 C 1 1 0 2 0 4 0 2 4 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 4 2 2 25 3 1 4 7 0 2 3 10 19 7 1 6 20 5 0 7 3 9 1 6 114 3 0 0 1 0 0 1 3 2 1 1 1 6 3 0 0 1 0 0 1 24 Engine Department 3 1 1 0 1 1 9 4 1 0 2 4 3 3 11 5 16 10 10 6 0 1 2 4 15 16 6 2 0 0 2 2 4 2 13 8 2 0 13 9 114 78 10 0 3 8 3 4 10 19 17 14 1 4 17 12 2 1 4 9 2 22 162 2 0 0 2 0 1 1 7 8 3 0 4 9 6 0 1 6 0 1 9 60 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 2 1 1 0 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 16 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 0 0 0 2 0 0 2 5 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 3 0 2 19 10 1 1 5 1 1 8 10 24 15 1 0 19 8 1 0 1 9 1 15 131 12 0 1 4 0 2 3 8 24 4 2 1 14 4 1 4 0 7 1 4 96 GRAND TOTAL: 593 448 189 Port A Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 24 1 2 12 5 13 7 47 37 31 1 12 19 12 2 2 6 19 2 24 278 6 2 1 9 1 6 3 23 29 7 1 1 19 4 2 5 6 8 1 9 143 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 4 0 0 12 1 3 6 17 18 11 1 5 13 7 1 5 2 13 1 14 134 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS C A All Groups B C 2 0 0 6 0 7 1 20 9 22 0 4 12 5 1 2 7 14 1 13 126 28 4 5 33 6 15 14 78 56 52 4 22 36 26 6 3 9 49 4 68 518 13 1 3 11 1 12 8 43 50 23 1 6 27 8 3 5 10 14 1 24 264 4 4 0 7 0 1 0 14 12 9 1 6 17 5 2 0 2 9 0 9 102 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 2 0 0 4 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 14 0 0 1 7 0 2 0 6 10 4 0 2 8 1 0 2 4 9 0 1 57 5 1 1 17 1 5 18 25 28 21 2 6 24 14 3 5 3 20 1 27 227 2 2 3 8 0 4 7 18 34 18 1 8 30 8 2 7 2 10 3 14 181 3 0 1 4 1 1 1 5 3 2 3 1 7 5 1 0 1 2 0 4 45 Steward Department 5 2 0 0 3 0 4 4 1 0 5 1 7 3 14 4 12 5 11 5 0 0 4 1 3 8 12 6 3 0 0 1 2 5 12 1 2 1 15 9 120 51 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 3 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 8 2 0 0 2 0 3 3 8 5 3 0 0 2 6 0 1 6 5 0 12 58 7 0 3 16 3 7 19 38 41 24 2 5 27 19 1 5 5 20 4 36 282 2 0 1 6 0 2 3 13 15 3 0 5 22 6 0 6 8 1 0 15 108 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 6 1 0 0 4 3 1 0 1 2 1 0 22 Entry Department 1 4 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 5 5 9 0 17 0 8 0 0 1 0 0 10 1 6 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 7 0 0 2 13 13 84 5 1 0 2 0 2 2 5 10 3 1 0 13 4 0 4 0 8 1 4 65 3 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 8 1 2 0 3 1 0 2 0 2 0 6 31 0 0 0 2 0 0 2 8 4 4 0 0 0 1 0 1 2 5 0 12 41 9 1 0 7 0 2 14 18 55 32 3 0 42 18 2 0 1 22 2 32 260 20 0 1 6 1 6 3 12 41 8 2 2 43 11 1 2 0 17 0 21 197 112 272 1,068 813 366 A 481 All Groups B Registered on Beach 318 Seafarers LOG 15 �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 Kate Hunt, Vice President Government Services Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by students at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. Question: What do you like most about being a member of the SIU? 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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 Malia Bouchee Chief Cook I like the fact that although I am a female, I’m treated fairly in every respect; a rarity in today’s society. I also think it’s great that the union makes it easy for me and fellow members to advance their careers by making this school available to us free of charge. When it comes down to it, I guess you could say that I really like everything about the union. John Reid Recertified Chief Steward The SIU provides me with a good environment to work in and some great people to work with. At the same time, I am compensated very well. I have been able to provide for my family for 31 years as a member of the SIU, so I have no complaints. I’ve had a great career so far and acquired a great deal of knowledge over the years in my craft. It was all made possible because of the union. Lamont Robinson QMED Electrician I’d have to say the money that I’m able to make, and the travel. I also enjoy and appreciate the fact that the union makes it so easy for me to increase my knowledge and advance in my career through these free upgrading programs. You won’t find any place like this (the school) anywhere else. Here we have everything we need to keep moving up in our careers and I really appreciate that. Najeeb Ginah Chief Cook I like having the opportunity to choose your own career path. I used to work on the Great Lakes in the deck department, but I always enjoyed cooking. Through the union I was able to get into the steward department, upgrade my skills and become a better cook. I really like my job and the union. Italy Byers Chief Cook I enjoy the camaraderie – that we always stick together regardless of the challenges we may face. I never have to worry because I know that someone has my back and I can always find assistance up to and including talking to officials at my union hall. I also love my job because it affords me the opportunity to travel extensively and make a great living in the process. Face it, you’re not going to find a job ashore that compensates you as well as mine. Malcolm Holmes Chief Steward I enjoy everything about being a member of the SIU. I’ve been with the union for about 35 years now and I only have good things to say about it. I enjoy sailing and seeing the world. The SIU has given me both of those things in addition to providing me the chance to make a good living. It’s been great! MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 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 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (787) 721-4033 Pic From The Past The original caption from the Feb. 3, 1956 LOG that accompanied this photo: “The whole family joined in the holiday festivities enjoyed by Seafarers in New Orleans when Mr. and Mrs. Al Nasser and Al Jr. attended the SIU dinner. Junior had eyes only for the photographer, however.” Readers can look up back issues of the LOG at seafarerslog.org or by visiting the “Complete Seafarers Log Archive” section that’s linked on the regular SIU website (seafarers.org). 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 December 2019 �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 LITO ACOSTA Brother Lito Acosta, 65, started sailing with the SIU in 1982, initially shipping aboard the Independence. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Acosta last shipped on the Matsonia. He resides in Daly City, California. EMMANUEL BAYANI Brother Emmanuel Bayani, 64, began sailing with the SIU in 1989 when he shipped on the Independence. He primarily sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Bayani most recently sailed on the USNS Algol and makes his home in Union City, California. STEPHEN BROWN Brother Stephen Brown, 65, started sailing with the union in 1976, initially shipping with Mariner Towing. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on several occasions. Brother Brown last shipped on the SLNC York. He resides in Auburn, Georgia. JOVENCIO CABAB Brother Jovencio Cabab, 61, joined the SIU in 1990 and first sailed aboard the Independence. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions. Brother Cabab’s last vessel was the Norfolk. He lives in Fairfield, California. TEDDIE CARTER Brother Teddie Carter, 62, signed on with the SIU in 1979 when he shipped on the Zapata Ranger. An engine department member, he upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Carter’s final vessel was the Horizon Reliance. He makes his home in Los Angeles. HILARIO DAVID Brother Hilario David, 63, began sailing with the union in 1992, first shipping on the Independence. He worked in the steward department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother David most recently sailed on the Manoa and resides in Alameda, California. EARL FARMER Brother Earl Farmer, 72, started his career with the SIU in 2001 when he sailed on the Liberator. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Farmer December 2019 concluded his career on the Alliance Norfolk and resides in Brooklyn, New York. DANIEL GAMBOA Brother Daniel Gamboa, 67, donned the SIU colors in 2001. The deck department member upgraded at the Piney Point school within his first year with the union. Brother Gamboa’s first vessel was the Cape Farewell; his last, the Liberty Glory. He is a Houston resident. TERRY GOODWIN Brother Terry Goodwin, 65, joined the union in 2005, initially sailing on the Advantage. He shipped in the deck department and trained at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Goodwin last sailed on the Black Eagle and makes his home in Alexandria, Louisiana. TYLER LAFFITTE Brother Tyler Laffitte, 60, embarked on his SIU career in 1981 when he shipped on the Golden Endeavor. A member of the steward department, he upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Laffitte most recently sailed on the Empire State and calls Mobile, Alabama, home. RANDY LOUQUE Brother Randy Louque, 65, became a member of the SIU in 1996 when he sailed on the Cape Flattery. An engine department member, he upgraded his skills on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Louque’s last vessel was the Atlantic Forest. He resides in New Zealand. MICHAEL MAHONEY Brother Michael Mahoney, 65, signed on with the union in 1977, sailing first on the Baltimore. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Mahoney last sailed on the Resolve and settled in Philadelphia. JAMES REILY Brother James Reily, 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1989 when he shipped on the USNS Assurance. He upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center and worked in the deck department. Brother Reily concluded his career on the Liberty Grace. He is a resident of Shreveport, Louisiana. ROLANDO ROMANILLOS Brother Rolando Romanillos, 65, joined the SIU in 1993, first sailing on the Producer. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Romanillos last sailed on the Ocean Freedom and makes his home in Long Beach, California. CRAIG SMITH Brother Craig Smith, 65, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1974 when he shipped on the Erna Elizabeth. He upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center and sailed in the engine department. Brother Smith’s last vessel was the Padre Island. He calls Carriere, Mississippi, home. GREAT LAKES ANDREW DERRY Brother Andrew Derry, 56, joined the SIU in 1990, initially sailing aboard the EM Ford. He was an engine department member and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Derry last worked on the Burns Harbor. He makes his home in South Haven, Michigan. JOSEPH RACICOT Brother Joseph Racicot, 62, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1979, initially working on the Buckeye. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 1993. Brother Racicot concluded his career on the Joyce L. VanEnkevort and lives in Escanaba, Michigan. JAN THOMPSON Brother Jan Thompson, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1977 when he shipped with Inland Tugs. He worked in the engine department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Thompson’s last vessel was the Indiana Harbor. He settled in Nokesville, Virginia. INLAND ISRAEL DEJESUS Brother Israel DeJesus, 58, joined the union in 1993. A deck department member, he first sailed aboard the George Washington. Brother DeJesus upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 2001 and concluded his career working for Port Imperial Ferry. He calls Maywood, New Jersey, home. RONALD ECHEVERIO Brother Ronald Echeverio, 66, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1973 when he worked for OMI Corporation. He shipped in both the steward and deck departments and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1973. Brother Echeverio last worked for American Marine Corporation. He lives in Stevenson, Washington. ALBERT HILLIER Brother Albert Hillier, 66, began his career with the SIU in 2010 when he worked for Penn Maritime. A deck department member, he upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2016. Brother Hillier remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He resides in Richmond, Virginia. JERRY LOCKABY Brother Jerry Lockaby, 64, signed on with the SIU in 1977. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments and worked for Marine Contracting and Towing for his entire career. Brother Lockaby lives in Charleston, South Carolina. ANGEL LOZADA OSORIO Brother Angel Lozada Osorio, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1994, initially working for Crowley Puerto Rico. He primarily shipped in the deck department and most recently worked for Puerto Rico Towing & Barge. Brother Lazada Osorio settled in Bayamon, Puerto Rico. EDWARD MANCKE Brother Edward Mancke, 58, joined the union in 1991 when he shipped aboard the Independence. He was an engine department member and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Mancke’s final vessel was the Padre Island. He calls Dandridge, Tennessee, home. FRANCIS MARI Brother Francis Mari, 63, began sailing with the Seafarers in 2001. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Mari worked for Port Imperial Ferry for the duration of his career. He is a resident of Gaithersburg, Maryland. JOHN NATIONS Brother John Nations, 62, started his SIU career in 1976, initially working for National Marine Service. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 1980. Brother Nations was last employed by OLS Transport in 1998. He settled in Farmington, Missouri. JON RICHARDSON Brother Jon Richardson, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1976 when he worked for National Marine Service. A member of the deck department, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Richardson most recently sailed aboard the Legend. He makes his home in Plant City, Florida. KIM ROGERS Brother Kim Rogers, 62, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1979. He was employed by Crowley Towing & Transportation and sailed in the deck department. Brother Rogers upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1983. He worked for the same company for his entire career and lives in Murrieta, California. ALAN SELF Brother Alan Self, 62, signed on with the SIU in 1977, initially shipping with G&H Towing. He was a deck department member and upgraded at the union-affiliated Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Self last worked for Moran Towing of Texas and resides in Pasadena, Texas. GEORGE URBAN Brother George Urban, 62, began his career with the union in 1991 when he worked for Allied Transportation. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on several occasions and continued to work for the same company throughout his entire career. Brother Urban lives in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA MICHAEL BRENNAN Pensioner Michael Brennan, 81, passed away October 24. He embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1970, initially sailing on a Hudson Waterways vessel. Brother Brennan shipped in the engine department and concluded his career on the LNG Virgo. He became a pensioner in 2003 and was a resident of Houston. ROY CARR Pensioner Roy Carr, 78, died October 23. He began sailing with the union in 1962 when he signed on aboard the MT Shasta. Brother Carr was a member of the deck department. He concluded his career on the Overseas Arctic and retired in 1997. Brother Carr lived in Williamsburg, Kentucky. ROBERT CROOKS Pensioner Robert Crooks, 89, passed away September 23. He joined the SIU in 1966 when he worked for Michigan Tankers. A deck department member, Brother Crooks last sailed on the Horizon Tiger. He became a pensioner in 2002 and made his home in San Francisco. GARIN DOYLE Pensioner Garin Doyle, 78, died October 8. He became an SIU member in 1978 when he sailed on the Cove Navigator. Brother Doyle primarily sailed in the deck department and concluded his career on the Kocak. He became a pensioner in 2000 and lived in River Ridge, Louisiana. RALPH EGELAND Pensioner Ralph Egeland, 77, has passed away. He signed on with the SIU in 1969, first sailing on the Mohawk. Brother Egeland was a deck department member. He last shipped on the Comet and 18 Seafarers LOG began collecting his pension in 2006. Brother Egeland resided in Deming, New Mexico. JAMES JOWERS Pensioner James Jowers, 76, died September 13. He joined the union in 1986 and first sailed on the USNS De Steiguer. A deck department member, Brother Jowers last sailed on the Nantucket Shoals. He retired in 2007 and was a resident of Liberty Hill, Texas. DONALD OYOLA Pensioner Donald Oyola, 76, passed away October 21. He joined the SIU in 1965 and first sailed aboard the Ocean Spray. Brother Oyola worked in the engine department and last sailed on the Champion. He became a pensioner in 2008 and was a Baltimore resident. JOHN PADILLA Pensioner John Padilla, 72, died October 30. He embarked on his Seafarers career in 1978 when he sailed on an Interocean American Shipping vessel. Brother Padilla shipped in the steward department and last sailed on the Agate. He began collecting his pension in 2011 and called Elizabeth, New Jersey, home. FREDERICK SULLIVAN Pensioner Frederick Sullivan, 92, passed away October 9. He signed on with the SIU in 1950 and initially sailed with Alcoa Steamship Company. Brother Sullivan primarily sailed in the steward department. He last shipped on the Economy before becoming a pensioner in 1988. Brother Sullivan resided in New Orleans. 72, passed away October 15. He joined the Seafarers in 1991, first sailing aboard the Bonny. Brother Wildermuth sailed in the steward department, most recently aboard the Maersk Chicago. He became a pensioner in 2016 and lived in Suwanee, Georgia. YOUNS YAFAI Pensioner Youns Yafai, 86, died October 9. He donned the SIU colors in 1970, initially sailing on the Cantigny. Brother Yafai shipped in all three departments. He last sailed on the Mayaguez before going on pension in 1998. Brother Yafai was a resident of Brooklyn, New York. INLAND EDWARD BETHEL Pensioner Edward Bethel, 81, passed away September 14. Sailing with Taylor Marine, he signed on with the Seafarers in 1957. Brother Bethel shipped in the deck department and concluded his career working for Moran Towing of Philadelphia. He retired in 2002 and lived in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania. GERALD BISHOP Pensioner Gerald Bishop, 65, died August 28. He joined the SIU in 1977 when he worked for HVIDE Marine. Brother Bishop was a deck department member and last worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation. He went on pension in 2017 and lived in Westminster, California. EDWIN BLACK Pensioner Edwin Black, 81, passed away October 1. He began sailing with the union in 1969, initially working with Berg Towing Company. Brother Black shipped in the deck department and last worked for Interstate Oil. He became a pensioner in 2000 and settled in Rock Hall, Maryland. SEAN GALLAGHER Brother Sean Gallagher, 27, died September 5. He signed on with the SIU in 2015 when he worked for Great Lakes Dredge and Dock. The engine department member’s final vessel was the Dodge Island. Brother Gallagher resided in Virginia Beach, Virginia. LOUIS LOUVIERRE Pensioner Louis Louvierre, 88, passed away September 18. He joined the union in 1964 and was employed with Higman Barge Lines. The deck department member concluded his career with the same company. He went on pension in 2001 and was a resident of Dickinson, Texas. JOHN TAYLOR Pensioner John Taylor, 87, died September 27. He joined the SIU in 1968 when he worked for Allied Transportation. Brother Taylor was a deck department member and remained with the same company for the majority of his career. He went on pension in 1994 and lived in Newport News, Virginia. NMU CLIFFORD CHURCHWELL Pensioner Clifford Churchwell, 89, passed away October 1. He was born in Tifton, Georgia, and sailed with the NMU before the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. Brother Churchwell made his home in in Philadelphia. KIM GIN Brother Kim Gin, 107, died September 1. Born in China, he was an NMU member prior to the 2001 merger with Seafarers International Union. Brother Gin resided in San Francisco. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. NAME AGE Alverio, Pablo 77 Anderson, Frederick 77 Benitez, Enrique 92 Calderon, Emilio 84 Esteves, Justo 75 Matthews, Henry 94 Persakis, John 95 Smith, Robert 94 DOD 10/01/2019 09/25/2019 08/31/2019 09/26/2019 09/27/2019 10/07/2019 10/19/2019 09/22/2019 Unrep in the Atlantic WILLIAM WEEKLEY Pensioner William Weekley, 77, died October 18. He began sailing with the union in 1968 when he signed on aboard the Choctaw. An engine department member, Brother Weekley concluded his career on the Defender. He retired in 1998 and made his home in Bay Minette, Alabama. HUGH WILDERMUTH Pensioner Hugh Wildermuth, The USNS Supply (left), crewed by CIVMARS from the SIU Government Services Division, provides fuel to the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan Oct. 30 in the Atlantic Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kaitlin Rowell) December 2019 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings ALLIANCE ST. LOUIS (Maersk Line, Limited), June 8 – Chairman Timothy Olvany, Secretary Rudolph Daniels, Educational Director Herbert Hyde, Deck Delegate Tavell Love, Steward Delegate Malachi Tannis. Chairman confirmed payoff in Jacksonville, where voyage will end. Educational director stressed the importance of attending upgrading classes at Piney Point. He emphasized the educational benefits as well as the advantage when competing for jobs at the hall. Members discussed the ship’s fund and various ways it could be used. Deck delegate reported dispute in India where agent wanted monetary compensation for shore passes. Also, crew would like clarification from port agent for penalty work pay for weekends and holidays. Members collectively expressed that a better benefits plan for vision was needed, especially since company requires two pairs of glasses. Crew would like consideration given to safety prescription glasses as well. Crew discussed STCW regulations and their effect on various ratings during docking/ undocking. They noted a potential conflict between STCW requirements and (collectively) union and company rules. They emphasized the importance of safe working conditions for everyone. Next port: Gulfport, Mississippi. INDEPENDENCE II (TOTE), June 9 – Chairman Victor Eligio, Secretary Gerald Hyman, Deck Delegate Zachary Ballard, Engine Delegate Ricardo 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. Fuentes. Chairman noted one hour of meal relief pay for watchman when on watch, and also discussed pending OT for engine and deck departments. Chairman thanked all departments for their good work and gave a special thanks to the three ordinary seamen. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested coffee for bosun shop, new toaster, new mattresses and WiFi availability. Members asked for TV and DVDs in rooms. CALIFORNIA (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning), July 14 – Chairman Kenneth Abrahamson, Secretary Gerald Kirtsey, Educational Director Alex Canada, Deck Delegate Barry Briggs, Engine Delegate Raibonne Charles, Steward Delegate Lea Ramos. Computer in crew lounge has internet access. Chairman discussed shipyard period in September and explained new medical benefits. He reiterated the importance of the Jones Act, a staple of the American maritime industry. Educational director recommended members upgrade at the Piney Point school and check credentials for expiration dates. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks extended to all departments for a job well done. Crew requested bigger TVs in rooms as well as cable access. Ship will soon be wired for WiFi. Next port: Long Beach, California. INDEPENDENCE II (TOTE), August 2 – Chairman Victor Eligio, Secretary Gerald Hyman. Crew discussed getting relief for watchmen at mealtime. Chairman thanked entire crew for a job well done. Another time will be given to call for a job relief. Members inquired about using ship funds to purchase movies. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew went over expiration dates for credentials and discussed course requirements. Members asked for new mattresses, new refrigerator and another washer and dryer for work clothes. Crew requested TVs in each room and WiFi availability. MAERSK SELETAR (Maersk Line, Limited), August 11 – Chairman Ronmel Lopez, Secretary Steven Dickson, Educational Director Monroe Monseur, Deck Delegate Michael Sherman, Engine Delegate Christopher Edwards, Steward Delegate Danilo Florendo. Secretary advised members to keep documents up to date and to visit SIU website to set up member profile. Educational director encouraged crew to upgrade whenever possible at the Paul Hall Center and donate to SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Two new juice machines purchased. Universal weight machine to be purchased and set up in gym. Members requested a raise in pension and an increase in vacation days. Crew directed to report any nonworking items on ship. Next port: Newark, New Jersey. MAERSK ATLANTA (Maersk Line, Limited), September 1 – Chairman Nur Holis, Secretary Oscar Gomez, Educational Director Richard Huffman, Deck Delegate Mohamed Abdelwahab. Payoff scheduled at sea. Chairman thanked steward department for a job well done including the hot food at nighttime. Secretary gave thanks to the engine and deck departments for supporting the ship and galley gang. Special thanks given to captain for supportiveness. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested TVs in all rooms, plus transformers and adaptors. Crew needs more big-sized coveralls and new microwave in crew mess. They suggested changing requirements for medical benefit eligibility. MAERSK COLUMBUS (Maersk Line, Limited), September 20 – Chairman Ali Alhamyari, Secretary Merly Ford, Educational Director Melgar Dagvio, Engine Delegate Norman Arquillano, Steward Delegate Adele Messina. AB sent home after ankle injury. Missing-man wages not paid while vessel sailed short. Educational director reminded crew to take advantage of the upgrading opportunities at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. Members discussed budgetary questions about security team. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Ship in need of new pillows and linen. WiFi equipment delivered and waiting to be installed. Food funding was adequate according to Capt. Madden. Crew requested TVs for each stateroom and for the cost be taken out of ship’s fund. Next port: Newark, New Jersey. LIBERTY PEACE (North Star Shipping), September 22 – Chairman Manolo Delos Santos, Secretary Terrell McMillian, Deck Delegate Darius McCastle. Chairman reiterated importance of keeping documents up to date and upgrading at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Secretary reminded crew to save all pay vouchers in order to file for vacation. No beefs or disputed OT reported. MIDNIGHT SUN (TOTE), September 24 – Chairman Darryl Smith, Secretary Lewis Johansen, Educational Director Michael McGlone. Members were instructed to leave clean rooms when leaving ship. Crew discussed importance of donating to SPAD to help keep the U.S. Merchant Marine strong and thereby help ensure the availability of jobs for fellow brothers and sisters. Chairman announced payoff at sea and encouraged crew to remain watchful and safe. Secretary reminded members of their responsibility keeping documents updated. Help is available at the union halls. Educational director informed crew of newly available LNG courses. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members were told to keep new fans in their rooms as they will be needed again soon. Crew was directed to use transportation van for luggage when no cargo operations are going on. Next port: Tacoma, Washington. 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 December 2019 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 19 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Advanced Refer Containers May 4 May 15 Title of Course BAPO March 23 April 17 Engineroom Resource Management August 24 August 28 FOWT February 24 March 20 Start Date Date of Completion Gap Closing Courses Start Date Date of Completion Engine Department Upgrading Courses MSC Storekeeper Basic February 24 March 13 Junior Engineer Program January 13 March 6 MSC Supply Configuration Management March 16 April 10 Machinist June 29 July 17 Marine Electrician June 29 July 31 Marine Refer Tech May 18 June 26 Pumpman July 20 July 24 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck February 24 April 20 June 15 AB to Mate Modules March 20 May 15 July 10 Modules must be taken in order. Those who are not in the mates program cannot apply for these courses. Contact the Admissions Office for further details. Welding Advanced Galley Operations February 17 Advanced Meteorology May 4 May 8 Chief Cook Advanced Shiphandling May 11 May 22 Modules run every other week. Contact Admissions for exact date. Advanced Stability April 27 May 1 Chief Steward January 6 February 14 ARPA March 16 August 3 March 20 August 7 Galley Operations January 27 February 21 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 Bosun Recertification July 20 August 3 January 13 February 3 January 17 February 7 Crane Familiarization March 9 March 13 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 January 6 January 10 ECDIS May 25 May 29 Steward Recertification March 16 April 6 Fast Rescue Boat July 20 July 24 GMDSS February 17 July 6 February 28 July 17 January 13 February 10 March 9 Leadership Management Skills August 31 Radar Renewal (one day) January 13 Steward Department Courses January 31 March 13 Safety/Open Upgrading Courses Basic Training March 2 March 6 Basic Training Revalidation January 17 January 17 January 24 February 21 March 20 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation February 10 February 14 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting February 10 February 14 September 4 Government Vessels January 6 January 10 Contact the PHC Admissions Office Medical Care Provider February 3 February 7 Radar Observer March 2 July 20 March 13 July 31 Tank Ship - DL February 24 February 28 RFPNW January 27 February 21 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL February 10 February 14 100 Ton Master August 17 September 4 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG February 3 February 7 Lifeboat 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 # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG 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, or 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. 12/19 December 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class 853 – Graduated Aug. 9 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Bryan Aleman Medina, Peter Louis Festa III, Antonio Leroyce A.H. Hagans Jr., Christian Ivezic, Nathan Ray Johnson Jr., Jalen D’chan Lewis, Felix Maldonado, Pedro Sadrac Maysonet-Gonzalez, Mark Morris, Benjamin Oostenbrug, Jordan Richardson, Elvin Joel RijosPerez, Davner M. Rivera-Melendez, Jorge Gerardo Valencia Bon, Ricardo Jose ValenzuelaVenegas and Jonathan Yates. Important Notice To All 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. Water Survival (Upgraders) - Graduated June 14 (above, from left): Carleous Leroy Brown Jr., and Aurora Foster. Also graduating, but not pictured, was Adam Salim Elmenani. Water Survival (Upgraders) – Graduated July 12 (above, from left): Michael Bonifacio Adote, Carleton Lamar Jenkins II and Saddam Mohamed Yahia. Also graduating, but not pictured, were Badr Eddine Bouziane, Mark Dennison and Cortney Smith. Fast Rescue Boat – Graduated June 7 (above, in alphabetical order): Husein Mohsin Alrayyashi, Bernard Baker, Jason Boyer, David Chance, Christopher Gross, Joshua Lux and Mackenzie Wincelowicz. Class instructor Thomas Truitt is at the far right. ECDIS – Michael Wilson (above, right) graduated from this course June 7. Joining Wilson to celebrate his accomplishment is Patrick Schoenberger, his instructor. Small Arms – Graduated June 21 (above, starting second from left): Joseph Bowen, Eric Van Mose and Michael Souza. Class instructors John Thomas and Matthew Rogers are at the far left and far right, respectively. Government Vessels – Graduated July 12 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Nathaniel Balos, Bernardo Mozo Celi, Adrian Darden, Eugene Evans Jr., Troy Fleming, Noel Ramos Gemo, Raymond Gordon, Dwayne Harris, Darrion Ingram, Jason James, Jamal Kassim, Keith McIntosh, Brian Murphy, Patrick Stubbs, Nixon Thomas, Mary Whatley and Emory Wheeler. December 2019 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes UA to AS-D – Graduated July 19 (right, in alphabetical order): Patrick Kenny Anderson Jr., Timothy Behnke, Thomas Burch, Carlos Omar Diaz-Torres, James Douglas, Rannie Bernard Fore II, Michael Laskowsky, Omaree Williams and Seamus Woods. Government Vessels – Graduated Aug. 2 (above, in alphabetical order): Marsha Blas, Keshyra Brinkley, Peter Burroughs, Nadine Butler, Peter Kweku Annan Dadzie, Salvador Malasan De Guzman, James Fells, Laura Hollar, Romello Johnson, David Kenedy, Martin Krins, Edwin Lashley, Nathaniel Leary, Mario Loria, Luis Ivan Mena, Joshua Ato Mensah, Abdulrahman Mohamed Mussa, Alex Adelmir Oliva, Christopher Richardson, Sharde Ross, Shewanna Stephenson, Nikia Stripling, Derrick Sullivan and Kennard Young. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Paul Hall Center Classes Machinist – Graduated July 19 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): SUA (Galley – GradManolitoOperations) Gener Garcia, uatedJeffrey October 5 (photoEmanat left, in Nicholson, alphabetical order): Alexandra uel Paul, Ronaldo Jose Erickson, Paisami Perez, Gay, Daniel HowQuinones Arturo ard, Lamarai Jones, Apig Reyes, DavidShadonna SanJones, EsStonia Moore, Eugenia chez-Flores, Mohamed Porter, NoahSheriff Susumu Lamin andSantiagoDerStephens, Jessica rick Lareesa Sullivan.Warren, Instructor Williams, Kendra Williams Keith Adamson is atand theJarid Wilson. far right. Combined & Advanced SUA Basic (Galley Opera- Firefighting – Graduated June No14 (photo tions) – Graduated at right, in alphabetical order): Arvember 2 (photo at right, chie in David Eldridge Jr., order): Harold Peter alphabetical Gerber II, Martin Hamilton, Joshua Reginald Howard, Billie Johnson, Roy Alcalde Madrio, Mahealani Kawelo, Alize Martin McDonald, Ian McDonough, Lassiter, Christian Louis, Abdulkhalek Siddiq Mohsen, Gerardo Kaindoy Melano, John Morrison, Davin Tucker Silva, and MackWilfredo Ramos enzieJames Wincelowicz. Scott, Tahn Stuart, Nicholas Tacy, Jalisa Williams and Derek Wilson. 22 Seafarers LOG December 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Tank Ship Familiarization DL – Graduated Aug. 2 (above, in alphabetical order): Jeffrey Amestoy, Michael Cruz, Fredy David, Johnny Dozier III, Joseph Dupre, Debbie Lanquin Garcia, Tavell Love and Chanel Peters. Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Graduated July 26 (above, in alphabetical order): Jeffrey Amestoy, Michael Cruz, Fredy David, Joseph Dupre, Debbie Lanquin Garcia, Jason James, Tony Kirven, Jesus Miguel Mendez Mercado, Sonia Pabon Barreto, Chanel Peters and Lebarron West. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting Upgraders) – Graduated July 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Glennorris Randolph Alston III, Loren Arriola, Michael Birke, Ashley Codrington, Andrew Devine, Mark Feldhaus, Charles Ferguson, Stephen Jenkins, Chanel Peters, Kenneth Taylor, Matthew Thompson, Kenneth Tousignant and Craig Wooten. Certified Chief Cook – Graduated July 12 (above, from left): Dante Jibri Moyer, Jesus Miguel Mendez Mercado and Katherine Anderson. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting Upgraders) – Graduated July 12 (above, in alphabetical order): James Dillon, Tyler Jasinski, David Lorocco, Pamela Mahan, Douglas Marshall, Michael Mazyck, Tony Olaya, Prateek Poras and Hiten Chinukumar Shrimankar. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated July 12 (above, in alphabetical order): Marlon Agulan Battad, Julito Cordova Crodua, Laura Deebach, Kenneth McHellen and Jayne Peterson. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated Aug. 2 (above, in alphabetical order): Shirley Bellamy, Roxanne Fike, Douglas Hundshamer, Francisco Javier Madsen and Richard James Wythe Jr. December 2019 Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated July 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Barry Alviso, Lonnie Wayne Jones Jr., Emmanuel Fabia Laureta, Isabel Reino Sabio and Mary Whatley. Seafarers LOG 23 �VOLUME 81, NO. 12 DECEMBER 2019 Text “Join” to 97779 To Sign Up for SIU Text Alerts O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O DOT Secretary Elaine L. Chao (fifth from right) poses with SIU officials at the gathering in New York. Pictured from left are Safety Director Osvaldo Ramos, Asst. VP Nick Celona, VP Tom Orzechowski, Exec. VP Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, President Michael Sacco, SIU of Canada President Jim Given, Secretary Chao, VP Dean Corgey, Director of Manpower Mark von Siegel, Port Agent Ray Henderson and VP Joseph Soresi. Transportation Secretary Receives AOTOS Award United Seamen’s Service Also Honors Given, Mathur, Pyne, U.S. Crews U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao headlined this year’s recipients of the United Seamen’s Service Admiral of the Ocean Sea (AOTOS) Awards. Chao accepted the honor Nov. 1 in New York City, where she was joined by fellow honorees SIU of Canada President Jim Given, Alaska Tanker Company President and CEO Anil Mathur, and Kirby Corporation Chairman Joseph Pyne. Four Seafarers-crewed vessels also were recognized for heroic actions: the Green Lake (Central Gulf Lines), Maersk Yorktown (Maersk Line, Limited), Great Republic (Key Lakes), and USNS Brunswick (crewed by CIVMARS from the SIU Government Services Division). SIU President Michael Sacco introduced Secretary Chao at the ceremony. He described her as “one of the strongest champi- SIU President Michael Sacco introduces Secretary Chao. ons our industry has ever known…. She not only understands American maritime, but also truly cares about the American worker. She is a tremendous leader and is universally respected, admired and trusted throughout our industry.” Chao received the AOTOS Award based on her career-long commitment to the maritime industry. “I am honored to have my work over the years recognized by such a distinguished organization and audience,” she said. “I understand very well the sacrifices that merchant mariners experience. The men and women in this industry are heroes; I am proud of them and work hard to support them.” “Secretary Elaine L. Chao has worked hard to advance the U.S. maritime industry,” said Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby. “Secretary Chao has been a staunch defender of the U.S.-flag merchant marine fleet. She has defended the budget of the Maritime Administration, and many of its policies in the interagency process. Today, we congratulate Secretary Chao on receiving the Admiral of the Ocean Sea Award which is recognized as one of the most prestigious awards in the maritime industry.” This is Secretary Chao’s second Cabinet post. She served as U.S. Secretary of Labor from 2001-January 2009. She began her executive career in public service working on transportation and trade issues at the White House. She then served as Deputy Maritime Administrator; Chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission; and Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Given has led the fight for tougher cabotage laws within his country. He also chairs a working group of the International Transport Workers’ Federation to support cabotage laws around the world. Given is a third-generation Seafarer, having started his career in the deck department in 1979. After sailing for 13 years, he came ashore as a union dispatcher in Thorold. He held other posts within the union before be- coming its president in 2013. In accepting his award, Given informed those attending that the “Jones Act is the gold standard” of cabotage internationally. He said any weakening of the law – which states any cargo moved between two U.S. ports must be carried aboard U.S.-built, U.S.-owned and U.S.-flagged vessel with American crews – would have negative implications around the world. “You who defend the Jones Act in the United States are the defenders of cabotage around the world,” Given added. Mathur became president and CEO of SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company in 2001 after working for British Petroleum for 20 years in management, corporate planning and facilities engineering. He holds an MBA from the University of California at Berkeley and an MS in Engineering from the Univer- sity of Tulsa. He is an alumnus of the Harvard Business School. Pyne started with Kirby in 1978 and climbed through its executive ranks, becoming a director in 1988. He retired in April 2018 but continues to serve Kirby’s chairman in a non-executive role. The United Seaman’s Service presented the first AOTOS Award in 1970. More than 80 maritime industry leaders have been recognized through the years. Established in 1942, the United Seaman’s Service provides community services for the U.S. Merchant Marine, U.S. armed forces and mariners from around the world at its centers in Europe, Asia, Africa and in the Indian Ocean. It also oversees seagoing libraries for American vessels through its affiliate, the American Merchant Marine Library Association. This year’s honorees are (from left) Joseph Pyne, chairman of the board of Kirby Corporation; U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao; Anil Mathur, president and CEO of Alaska Tanker Company.; and Jim Given, president of the Seafarers International Union of Canada. � 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 2019 Description An account of the resource TRANSPORTATION SECRETARY CHAO UNDERSCORES MARITIME SUPPORT NY WATERWAY CREWS RATIFY 5-YEAR CONTRACT SIU-CREWED GREEN LAKE RECEIVES MARAD'S GALLANT SHIP AWARD SIU MOURNS PASSING OF REP. CUMMINGS WWII SEAFARER DONATES COLLECTION, SHARES MEMORIES TRANSPORTATION SECRETARY RECEIVES AOTOS AWARD Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 12/01/2019 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. 81, No. 12 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/c5dbed1e9f5f9b7f16b2ccf268dad024.pdf e9c6700d80b1247d4e871083b19b6502 PDF Text Text NOVEMBER 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 11 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O ARC Adding Three Ships to Fleet Vessels Enrolling in Maritime Security Program; Net Gain of Two Ships for SIU The SIU helped celebrate new American-flag tonnage as Seafarerscontracted American Roll-on Roll-off Carrier (ARC) hosted an uplifting ceremony Sept. 20 in Baltimore. The company is adding three newer ships to its fleet, including the ARC Resolve (pictured above left, at immediate left, and the vessel’s wheelhouse at immediate right). SIU President Michael Sacco (above right) was a featured speaker at the ceremony. Beforehand, visitors toured the ARC Resolve, including (bottom photo, from left) SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Paul Hall Center Apprentices Cody Carroll, Dave Martin, Juan A. Vallejo, Briana Davis, Marta Ruiz, Chris Kluth, Emmanuel Outerial and Nick Chiappini, and SIU Piney Point Port Agent Victor Nunez. Pages 3, 12, 13. Rescues at Sea Pages 4, 24 Scholarship Info Page 11 �President’s Report Job Well Done Seafarers may recall that it was only a few months ago when I began one of these columns by congratulating them for a great, typically professional response to a sudden flurry of vessel activations. Turns out those activations were just a warmup. As reported elsewhere in this edition, our members recently stepped up and helped crew 33 U.S. military support ships for a widespread exercise beginning in mid-September. This was not a small task, but Seafarers came through with flying colors. So did our officials in the hiring halls and at the manpower office. Overall, this is believed to have been the largest activation since the Persian Gulf War. Although in some ways this may be viewed as “just doing our jobs,” the sheer scope of the activations warrants a pat on the back. I’m proud of our members for answering the call so promptly and so thoroughly. Particularly in light of the fact that it really wasn’t 100 percent certain these were exercises (the activations coincided with some interestMichael Sacco ing happenings overseas), you once again proved that you’re America’s fourth arm of defense. I know we’ll remain at the ready, but in the meantime, congratulations to all concerned on a job well done. Honoring WWII Mariners Speaking of the U.S. Merchant Marine’s vital role in national defense, the U.S. House of Representatives has unanimously passed legislation that would honor the remaining mariners from World War II with a Congressional Gold Medal. The Senate now has an excellent opportunity to recognize these members of the Greatest Generation. For those unfamiliar with the history, the U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II truly made the difference between victory and defeat. The SIU was there from the beginning – even before the United States officially entered the war, in fact. The SIU-crewed Robin Moor was sunk by a German submarine in May 1941. More than 1,200 of our members lost their lives in the war. They were part of a larger group that suffered a higher casualty rate than any of the armed services. Unfortunately, we’ve always had to scrap for recognition and acknowledgement. But, we’ve proven it can be done. We proved it in 1988 with the long-overdue awarding of veterans’ status for World War II mariners, and we proved it again 10 years later with the proper extension of the cutoff date for that recognition. Now, the Merchant Mariners of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act is a fitting, final chance to collectively tip our nation’s cap to the remaining seamen who helped make victory possible. This simple but powerful gesture would be fitting, satisfying, and deeply appreciated by the mariners and their families. The SIU stands behind them 100 percent. Celebrating New Tonnage Whether you navigated to this column online or in print, you couldn’t have missed our coverage of the recent ceremony in Baltimore where three newly reflagged ships were named (they’re joining the American Roll-on Roll-off Carrier fleet). The day itself was inspirational, and I particularly enjoyed hearing so many compliments about our rank-and-file members. Gaining new tonnage under the American flag is never a given, whether it’s for the Jones Act trade or international voyages. It takes significant investment and commitment – and those steps are based in part on the availability of reliable, well-trained mariners, including SIU members. Our industry faces plenty of challenges, but we’re also making substantial progress. Ceremonies like the ARC event reinforce my confidence that our best days are still ahead. Three Seafarers-crewed vessels are pictured Sept. 24 in the Chesapeake Bay during the most recent Turbo Activation. From left are the USNS Mendonca, USNS PFC Eugene A. Obregon and USNS Gilliland. (U.S. Navy photo by Jennifer Hunt) Seafarers Answer the Call TRANSCOM Conducts Large-Scale Sealift Readiness Exercise When the United States Transportation Command (TRANSCOM) called with an unprecedented assignment, the SIU answered in a big way. TRANSCOM in mid-September launched the largest-ever sealift readiness exercise as part of its “Turbo Activation” series, ordering dozens of ships to sea. The SIU crewed up all 33 vessels, filling every unlicensed job. “On one hand, there is never a doubt that Seafarers will answer the call,” stated Bart Rogers, SIU director of manpower. “But in light of the sheer size of this activation, I think the members deserve recognition for stepping up so quickly, without notice, and getting it done. Credit to the people in the halls, too – this was a very large task, and everyone rose to the occasion.” TRANSCOM oversees 10 other U.S. combatant commands (including the U.S. Military Sealift Command), the military services, defense agencies and other government organizations. In announcing the activations, the agency noted, “These exercises typically involve only a few ships but this event … [will] provide a better assessment of the readiness of U.S. sealift forces than can be accomplished with fewer activations. This scale will also stress the underlying support network involved in maintaining, manning and operating the nation’s ready sealift forces.” The Turbo Activation series has, since 1994, served as a no-notice recurring exercise series, sponsored and monitored by the Joint Chiefs of Staff and TRANSCOM. This was the fourth Turbo Activation exercise this year. The agency further noted, “This TRANSCOM exercise rapidly activates a mix of Military Sealift Command and U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) ships on the East, West, and Gulf Coasts. The exercise validates the readiness of selected ships and tests their ability to meet activation time standards and Department of Defense mission requirements. The activated ships are directed to transition from a reduced operating status to a fully crewed status, with the quarters made habitable and cargo gear ready, within five days. Activations are commonly followed immediately by a sea trial.” MARAD maintains the Ready Reserve Force, which is a fleet of 46 militarily useful, civiliancrewed ships. This fleet, located throughout the country, is maintained in a reserve status in the event that the Department of Defense needs the vessels to support the rapid, massive movement of military supplies and troops for a military exercise or large-scale conflict. The ships are managed by commercial companies and crewed by civilian merchant mariners. MSC, in close coordination with MARAD, operates, supplies, and maintains the ships that provide logistics support, conduct special missions, move military equipment, supply combat forces, provide humanitarian relief, and strategically position combat cargo around the world. During the recent exercise, ships were activated in Baltimore; Norfolk, Virginia; Seattle; Harvey, Louisiana; Oakland, California; Wilmington, California; Houston; Jacksonville, Florida; and Tacoma, Washington. The SIU-crewed Cape Wrath is pictured Sept. 20 in Baltimore. O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 81 Number 11 November 2019 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2019 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. 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 CR Reauthorizes Export-Import Bank As part of a Continuing Resolution to fund the government that was enacted on Oct. 1, the ExportImport Bank (Ex-Im) was reauthorized through Nov. 21, 2019. The Bank’s reauthorization would have lapsed on Sept. 30 had Congress not acted. To help convince Congress of the importance of reauthorizing the program for a longer period of time, associations and business leaders from various industries have united to express their support for a funded and authorized Ex-Im Bank. More than 200 companies and organizations joined a letter sent by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), which called on the U.S. House and Senate to pass a “robust and long-term reauthorization” of the Ex-Im Bank. The SIU supports a fully authorized and funded Ex-Im Bank, as all cargoes impelled with the support of the bank must be carried on U.S.flag ships. As stated by the NAM, “As the U.S.’ official export credit agency, the Ex-Im Bank’s mission is to support American jobs through facilitating U.S. exports. Since 2000, the Ex-Im Bank has supported nearly $450 billion in exports from thousands of mostly small- and medium-sized companies and helped support over 2.5 million American jobs. The Ex-Im Bank has become more important in recent years given the rise of other countries’ export credit agencies, from China’s three agencies to those in Germany, Canada and beyond, making Ex-Im Bank a vital tool to level the playing field internationally for industries in the United States that need to increase foreign export sales to continue creating well-paying American jobs.” The letter concluded, “Without quick action to secure a long-term and robust Ex-Im Bank reauthorization that fixes past quorum issues, thousands of American exporters and tens of thousands of American workers who rely on the Ex-Im Bank will be put at risk.” November 2019 �SIU Celebrates 3 New Vessels ARC Ceremony Also Stresses Vital Importance of Mariners On a morning set aside to welcome new tonnage into the American-flag fleet, U.S. Merchant Mariners also got plenty of recognition. The accolades were delivered Sept. 20 in Baltimore, during a pier-side ceremony hosted by Seafarers-contracted American Roll-on Roll-off Carrier (ARC). The company is adding three vessels to its fleet: the ARC Integrity, ARC Independence and ARC Resolve, the latter of which was docked near the celebration. All three will enroll in the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP). SIU President Michael Sacco was a featured speaker, and the union turned out in force. Also representing the SIU at the gathering were Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi and Port Agents John Hoskins and Victor Nunez. Apprentices from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education also were on hand, while SIU crew members aboard the ARC Resolve welcomed guests for pre-ceremony tours. Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby delivered keynote remarks. Also formally addressing the crowd of 200 or so were ARC President and CEO Eric Ebeling; Major Gen. Michael Wehr of the U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM); and Jim White, executive director of the Maryland Port Administration. Capt. Mike Murphy of the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers capped the festivities with a toast to the vessels and crews. Sacco explained the importance of not just the MSP but the entire U.S. Merchant Marine in relation to U.S. national, economic and homeland security. He commended ARC, TRANSCOM and the Maritime Administration (MARAD) for their respective commitments to the industry, and then gave a passionate description of the men and women who comprise the U.S. Merchant Marine. “They are patriots,” Sacco stated. “They are damn proud to be America’s fourth arm of de- Continued on Page 12 Port Agent John Hoskins, Capt. Jon Phillips (an SIU hawsepiper), Bosun Yamira Colon, Port Agent Victor Nunez ARC’s New Additions To Fleet Mean More Jobs for SIU Members The newest additions to ARC’s fleet are replacing three older vessels in the U.S. Maritime Security Program, but the company is keeping two of the older ships in its commercial American-flag service AB Steve Thorak November 2019 – meaning it’s a net gain of two vessels for the SIU. Two of the new RO/ROs – the ARC Integrity and ARC Independence – are sister ships classified as large car/truck carriers Oiler Zachary Manzi The ARC Resolve (above) was docked at the Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore Sept. 20 when she and two sister ships ceremonially were added to the American Rollon Roll-off Carrier Fleet. OS Jose Rodriguez, SIU Baltimore Port Agent John Hoskins, AB Arles Ballestero, AB Eric Reich or LCTCs. Each is 747 feet long. The other ship, the ARC Resolve, is a pure car/truck carrier or PCTC and is 653 feet long. According to the company, “These three new vessels all have a main deck that can accommodate cargoes up to 6.5 meters in height (21.32 feet), which will make them among the most capable vessels in the U.S.-flag commercial fleet for government and project cargoes.” The ARC Resolve was docked near the recent naming ceremony at the Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore, and it made a great impression on its first crew. “It’s a beautiful ship and it’s in really good condition,” said Bosun Yamira Chief Steward Tom Hely Colon. “Everything about it is excellent, and we will maintain it.” “It’s a good ship and the rooms are really nice,” said AB Steve Thorak. Chief Steward Tom Hely had a practical outlook after having joined the ship two days earlier. “It’s pretty new and everything worked,” he said with a chuckle. The ARC Resolve’s first SIU crew included Colon, Thorak, Hely, ABs Eric Reich and Arles Ballestero, OSs Jose Rodriguez and Melody White, Oilers Hycienth Asagwara, Zachary Manzi and Antonio De Luna, Chief Cook Thomas Cyrus and SA Mohamed Khodeiri. Chief Cook Thomas Cyrus SA Mohamed Khodeiri Seafarers LOG 3 �CIVMARS and Navy personnel (photo at left) launch an unmanned surface vehicle from the Seafarers-crewed USNS Williams into the Chesapeake Bay. In photo above, the unmanned underwater vehicle Knightfish is recovered by the crew on Sept. 14. (U.S. Navy photos by Bill Mesta) CIVMARS Help Test Mine Counter-Measures CIVMARS from the SIU’s Government Services Division recently helped the U.S. Navy conduct tests that are important to national defense. The crew of Military Sealift Command’s expeditionary sea base (ESB) USNS Hershel “Woody” Williams in midSeptember wrapped up a three-day mission that ended in Norfolk, Virginia. The vessel had tested an anti-mine system in the Chesapeake Bay. Specifically, it launched and recovered an unmanned surface vessel (USV) and an unmanned underwater vessel (UUV), Knightfish. According to the Navy, “The USV and UUVs are mine counter measure capabilities and the ship went to sea to determine the feasibility of operating these vessels from an ESB.” “Considering the contested environ- ments which our ships sail in, counter-mine capabilities are very important because we have to be able to keep the enemy at bay,” said Capt. David Gray, the USNS Williams officer in charge and the ship’s prospective commanding officer. “Mines of today are very inexpensive to make. Our adversaries can produce mines for a few hundred dollars and inflict a tremendous loss of life while causing millions of dollars of damage. So, we need the assets out there to detect and destroy these threats ahead of time, and keep the world’s shipping lanes open.” A team of Navy Sailors, CIVMARs and civilian technical experts carried out the task of launching and recovering the USV and UUV into the Chesapeake Bay on Sept. 14-15. The two-day operation required shipboard personnel to transport each unmanned vessel from its storage Seafarers on Maersk Montana Help Rescue Imperiled Boater SIU mariners aboard the Maersk Montana recently sprang into action to save a boater whose vessel was sinking. While the Montana was en route to Antwerp, the ship diverted to answer a distress call. The doomed sailboat La Belle Vie was taking on water about 200 miles off the coast of Ireland, and the lone sailor, Mikhail “Miki” Chumachenko, was in desperate need of rescue. “On Sept. 20, 2019, aboard the Maersk Montana we received a SOS call pertaining to a sailboat in need of assistance. The boat had a damaged keel and needed help, so the ship headed to assist,” said area inside the mission bay to the designated launching point next to the side of the ship. The ship’s crane was used to lift each unmanned vessel off the deck and into the ocean. Once each vessel was launched, they were recovered from the ocean with the ship’s crane and returned to the mission deck. In total, the USV was successfully launched and recovered twice and the UUV four times over the two-day period. According to Gray, the Sept. 14 evolution was the first time a USV has been successfully launched and recovered from any Naval ship. USVs have been launched from other Navy ships, but not recovered, the Navy reported. After the conclusion of the evolutions, Capt. George McCarthy, master of the USNS Williams, recognized the crew’s efforts. Electrician Eddie Almodovar. The SIU members aboard also included Bosun Sunnil Motley, ABs Thellis Barnes, Fethanegest Demoz, Urgel Peligro, George Phillips and Kevin Salter, QMED Jeffery Bull, GVA Al Greene, Recertified Steward James Cameron, Chief Cook Mark Keller and SA Claribel Cabral. “The pilot ladder was ready, a pair of nets were ready to lower from anywhere on the deck and many lines were made ready,” said Third Mate Stephen Miller. “[The approach] was the tricky part. The ship needed to be at a speed slow enough to where she could run the engine astern and yet fast enough to catch La Belle Vie, which was still under sail, to maintain a stable condition.” The challenge was increased by the rough, force-eight seas, with Miller noting, “A containership is anything but graceful in a windy and rough sea at slow speed.” Almodovar concluded, “Upon arrival to the area where the boat was supposed to be, a watch started to locate the boat and was quickly successful. After a cou- “Thank you to everyone aboard the vessel for conducting a safe, efficient and effective evolution here over the last couple of days,” he said. “Most importantly, we were able to successfully demonstrate the concepts we set out to. “There was a lot of hard work across the spectrum of people aboard the ship: civilians, Sailors and CIVMARs,” he added. “My thanks to everyone for a great job.” The ship is crewed by a hybrid team of civil service mariners and Sailors who operate and maintain a large flight deck, berthing and messing accommodations and provide command and control support for embarked forces. The USNS Williams was built by union members at the General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard in San Diego. It entered service in early 2018. ple hours to maneuver in place to make the rescue, the single occupant of the boat was successfully rescued and the story ended well. The boat, of course was lost, but he will live to sail another day. He was a very nice gentleman, and it was a pleasure to meet him. The crew on the ship did a very professional job during the rescue.” The rescue was fast and efficient: The Montana began its approach towards the doomed boat at 7:45 p.m., and by 9:30 p.m., the vessel had resumed its course to Antwerp. Pictured aboard the Maersk Montana (photo at left, from left) are the rescued sailor Mikhail Chumachenko, Capt. Richard Hoey, SA Claribel Cabral, Chief Mate Samuel Halley, Chief Engineer Jeremy Travers, Electrician Eddie Almodovar, Engine Cadet Willam Star, 3rd Mate Steven Miller, Deck Cadet Blaine McDonough, AB Fethanegest Demoz, AB George Phillips, Bosun Sunnil Motley and Recertified Steward James Cameron. Pictured above is the doomed sailboat La Belle Vie (Photo courtesy of Eddie Almodovar). 4 Seafarers LOG November 2019 �WWII Merchant Mariners One Step Closer To Receiving Congressional Gold Medal World War II U.S. Merchant Mariners are poised to receive a Congressional Gold Medal after the House recently voted to approve the Merchant Mariners of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act, introduced by U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California). “The United States Merchant Marine was integral in providing the link between domestic production and the fighting forces overseas, providing combat equipment, fuel, food, commodities and raw materials to troops stationed abroad,” the bill reads. The bill also makes clear that merchant mariners “bore a higher per-capita casualty rate than any other branch of the military.” Garamendi said in his statement: “Throughout the Second World War, our armed forces relied on the Merchant Marine to ferry supplies, cargo and personnel into both theaters of operation, and they paid a heavy price in service to their country. The Merchant Marine suffered the highest per capita casualty rate in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II. An estimated 8,300 mariners lost their lives, and another 12,000 were wounded, to make sure our service members could keep fighting. Yet, these Mariners who put their lives on the line were not even given veteran status until 1988. “Last year, I got the chance to meet with three World War II Merchant Mariners: Charles Mills of Texas, age 97; Eugene Barner from Kansas, age 92; and Robert Weagant from Illinois, age 92. These mariners put their lives on the line for this country, braving German and Japanese submarines in their Liberty Ships as they delivered critical supplies to our servicemembers in the European and Pacific theaters,” Garamendi continued. “Unfortunately, their sacrifice is commonly overlooked. A Congressional Gold Medal would give them the recognition they deserve, and that’s why I introduced this bill: to give these veterans and their families the honor and respect they are owed. I’m pleased that this bill has passed the House and I will work to ensure it passes the Senate and becomes law.” SIU Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman said of the bill, “These mariners have waited over 70 years to get the recognition they earned braving the perils of the Atlantic during the Second World War. This is a long overdue honor and the SIU is proud to have been a part of making it possible. Every American owes these mariners a debt of gratitude we cannot begin to repay, and this recognition is but a fraction of what they deserve.”  The bill passed the House by a unanimous voice vote. A companion bill has also been introduced in the Senate by Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska). That bill still needs to pass a Senate vote and be signed by the president in order to become law. Paul Hall Center Delivers On-Site Training for Crescent Crews SIU boatmen employed by Crescent Towing recently completed a one-week designated duty engineer course specifically crafted for them by the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC). The back-to-back classes, which were very well-received by all concerned, took place at the company’s New Orleans office. Boatmen from New Orleans and Mobile, Alabama, participated. Pictured from left in photo above are SIU New Orleans Port Agent Chris Westbrook, Seafarers Jeff Adams, Justin O’Laughlin and Scott Doll, PHC Instructor Sterling Cox, Seafarers Danny Mayfield, Robert Trahan, Zach Tierney, Kevin Anderson and Ricky Shumock and Crescent VP Edward Pinner. Standing from left in the photo below are SIU members Rodney Schaubhut, William Wolfe, Bobby Minton and Keith Lowe, Cox and Seafarers Andrew Carson, Anthony Frisch and Bryan Hughes. November 2019 Seafarers LOG 5 �Union, School Welcome NVIC Modifications ROS Time Now Meets Sea Service Requirements for Certain Renewals The SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education applaud several recent changes announced by the U.S. Coast Guard’s Office of Merchant Mariner Credentialing. Specifically, the agency on Sept. 23 publicized changes to three Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circulars (NVICs) pertaining to qualification for certain STCW endorsements. The NVICs are lengthy, but one upshot is that mariners now can get credit for ROS sea time towards their sea service requirement of 360 days sailing in the past five years, when renewing Basic Training, Advanced Firefighting, and Proficiency in Survival Craft. Following is an excerpt from NVIC 08-14, “Guidelines For Qualification For STCW Endorsements In Basic Training”: c. For demonstrating continued competence in BT, the Coast Guard will accept service in any capacity aboard a vessel that is required to hold regular fire and emergency and abandon ship drills as being relevant to the qualification of BT. Service on vessels in reduced operating status (ROS) will be accepted as these vessels are required to hold drills under 46 CFR Subchapter W. Mariners may demonstrate that service on other vessels is relevant by providing evidence that their service included duties relevant to BT Stena Impero Finally Allowed to Leave Iran The chemical tanker Stena Impero and its remaining crew members departed Bandar Abbas on Sept. 27 after the vessel had been held by the Iranian authorities since July 19. The International Transport Workers’ The Stena Impero was seized by Iranian military forces in late July. and/or that their service included ongoing participation in training and drills relevant to BT. d. For purposes of continued competence for BT, this service will be credited at day for day (one day of service equals one day of service credit). e. The Coast Guard may accept discharges, or sea service letters prepared in accordance with current standards, as proof of seagoing service. For the purposes of determining competency in BT. f. Mariners who can provide evidence of 360 days of service within the past five years may complete revalidation training to mainFederation (ITF) first reported the news, after being informed by their affiliate the Iranian Merchant Mariners’ Syndicate (IMMS). Both organizations worked extensively on behalf of the mariners. The SIU also is an ITF affiliate; SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel serves as chair of the federation’s Seafarers’ Section. “The ITF is very happy that this matter has finally been resolved and that the vessel was allowed to leave Iran after 10 weeks,” he stated. “This is especially welcome for the remaining crew members. Although they were treated well, they were understandably keen to get home to their loved ones.” He added, “As trade unionists, our first concern is for the workers. We understand and respect that there are situations that are sometimes highly politically sensitive, but our goal will always be to ensure the fair treatment, health and wellbeing of seafarers, and to see that any situation involving seafarers is handled in a transparent and timely manner.” Stephen Cotton, ITF general secretary, also welcomed the release of the vessel, reiterated the ITF’s commitment to the world’s seafarers, and praised the actions of the IMMS. “Ninety percent of the world’s goods are transported on ships thanks to the world’s seafarers. The ITF remains committed to providing support to seafarers worldwide tain competency for BT. Mariners who cannot provide evidence of this service must complete U. S. Coast Guard approved or accepted refresher training (46 CFR 11.302(e) and 12.602(e)). Refresher training must include assessment of all BT components. The announcement and related links are available in the News section of the SIU website, in a post that’s dated Sept. 24. The NVIC numbers, respectively, are 0414, 08-4, and 09-14. As noted by the agency, for more information or to suggest changes, contact the Mariner Credentialing Program Policy Division (CG-MMC-2) at (202) 3722357 or MMCPolicy@uscg.mil. and hopes that governments put in place special measures to ensure that they are not unduly hindered in performing their duties,” Cotton said. He continued, “We also want to put on record our gratitude to our affiliate the Iranian Merchant Masters Syndicate for visiting the crew on Aug. 31 on behalf of the ITF and for continuing to provide solidarity to the crew during their time in Iran.” Mark Dickinson, general secretary of Nautilus International and second vice chair of the ITF Seafarers’ Section, said, “I welcome the release of the vessel and remaining crew and wish to thank all those who worked tirelessly to effect this outcome.” The Stena Impero is a runaway-flag ship that is owned by a Swedish company, flies a British flag and most recently carried a multinational crew of 23. The mariners were from India, Latvia, the Philippines and Russia. According to news reports, the Stena Impero was sailing through international waters in the Strait of Hormuz when it was detained by Iran’s Islamic Revolutiony Guard Corps. Iran claimed the ship collided with a fishing vessel and failed to respond to communications, something the Stena Impero’s owner denied. A Royal Navy frigate reportedly was deployed from the UK to assist the tanker, but it didn’t reach the scene in time. Spotlight on Mariner Health Lipid Turnover Could Be Cause Of Age-Related Weight Gain Editor’s note: The following article was provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. Many people struggle to keep their weight at a good level as they get older. Research in Sweden now shows why: Lipid turnover in the fat tissue decreases during the aging process, and will make it easier to gain weight, even if we do not eat more. The lipid turnover happens when lipids (or fats) in the fat cells are removed and stored at a quicker rate. As we get older, this does not happen as rapidly as it used to. Studies show that if you want to lose weight, you must watch your diet and exercise more. Sometimes this is very hard to do. Gravity, along with a slowed metabolism and aging are responsible for the “middle-age spread.” Most people start to notice this as they reach age 40. Lack of dietary restraint is also a big factor for weight gain. Adults are not under control of their parents and are not told 6 Seafarers LOG what or what not to eat anymore. They make their own decisions and may not think of the consequences. They may not think of portion control or limiting their carbohydrate and fat intake. They may drink more and indulge in empty calories. They may also eat out more and order take-out from fast food chains on busy days. With more-demanding jobs, adults may not have the time to exercise as they would like. Families with children who are always on the go, may find they have a more sedentary lifestyle due to being tired at the end of the day. There are also some genetic reasons why people cannot lose weight. Every person’s body handles the storage of excessive fat in different ways. Medical issues also may cause weight gain – for example, a thyroid problem or a digestive problem could be the culprit. Do the best you can with your diet and weight as you get older. Be alert to what you are eating and how much. Exercise when you can and be diligent to keep your weight at a normal level. Healthy Recipe Greek Lamb Stew (Servings: 25) Ingredients and Seasonings 7 1/2 pounds lamb leg, fat trimmed & cubed 3 3/4 quarts low sodium beef broth 1 1/4 teaspoons cumin 1 1/4 teaspoons cinnamon 2 1/2 teaspoons brown sugar 1 tablespoon granulated garlic 2 1/2 teaspoons oregano 3 bay leaves 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced fine 2 cups onions, medium dice 4 cups potatoes, medium dice 3 cups celery, medium dice 2 cups carrots, medium dice 2 1/2 cups tomato, medium dice 2 quarts water 1 1/4 teaspoons granulated garlic 2 1/2 teaspoons salt 1 1/4 teaspoon white pepper, freshly ground 1/3 cup parsley, chopped 1 pound flour, to thicken sauce 1 pound smart balance Preparation Brown the lamb in a stock pot or steam jacked kettle for about 5 minutes. Combine the lamb, stock, and seasonings then bring to a simmer and continue to cook over low heat for 40 minutes. Add the bay leaves and vegetables, add water and cover. Simmer slowly for 30-40 minutes, or until all ingredients are tender. Make brown roux by cooking the flour and smart balance together for about 10 minutes, stirring consistently. Check the seasoning; re-season with salt and pepper to taste. Thicken with the cooked brown roux, slowly to reach desired thickness. Garnish with the chopped parsley. Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 249 Calories; 10g Fat (32.3% calories from fat); 25g Protein; 24g Carbohydrate; 2g Dietary Fiber; 57mg Cholesterol; 300mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1 Grain (Starch); 3 Lean Meat; 1/2 Vegetable; 1/2 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates. Editor’s note: The foregoing recipe was provided by Chef Robert “RJ” Johnson of the of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship. November 2019 �CONGRESSMAN RECOGNIZES UNION’S EFFORTS TO RECRUIT VETERANS – U.S. Rep. Donald Payne (D-New Jersey) (center in photo above) recently awarded a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition to the SIU. The document (below, right) reads in part: “In appreciation of your participation and hiring efforts during our Annual Veterans Job Fair and your tireless work towards helping Veterans enter the workforce.” The congressman is flanked by SIU Safety Director Osvaldo Ramos (left) and Patrolman Edwin Ruiz. The photo at to right includes (from left) SIU Port Agent Mark von Siegel, SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi (holding the certificate) and Patrolman Ray Henderson. Happenings Around the Port Of New York/New Jersey WITH CONGRESSMAN SIRES – U.S. Rep. Albio Sires (D-New Jersey) (right) recently hosted a breakfast for local labor officials in Hudson County, New Jersey. He is pictured with SIU Patrolman Ray Henderson. WITH CONGRESSMAN SUOZZI – The SIU recently took part in a local event for U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi (DNew York) (center). Pictured with the congressman are SIU Patrolman Ray Henderson (left) and SIU Port Agent Mark von Siegel. Suozzi is a good friend of labor and the maritime industry. He chatted with the SIU representatives for a few minutes and thanked them for their attendance. A-BOOOKS ABOUND – Several Seafarers recently received their respective A-seniority books at the hiring hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. Pictured at the far left is Munasar Muthana (left), with Port Agent Mark von Siegel. Pictured in the center is Khaled Hussein, also with the port agent, while the remaining photo at right includes Zaza Tchitanava (right) and Patrolman Ray Henderson. REMEMBERING EL FARO CREW – Members gather at the hiring hall in Jersey City, New Jersey, and observe a moment of silence on Oct. 1, the fourth anniversary of the sinking of the SIU-crewed El Faro. November 2019 Seafarers LOG 7 �ON THE RECRUITING TRAIL – SIU Safety Director Kevin Sykes recently participated in a local job fair on behalf of the union. In photo at left, he stands with the event’s sponsor, City Councilman Dwight Boykins (left). Sykes poses with staff members in the snapshot above. With Seafarers in Houston WELCOME ASHORE – Two members recently picked up their respective first pension checks at the hiring hall. Recertified Bosun Eddie Hall is at left in photo at left, with SIU Asst. VP Mike Russo, while the photo at right features AB Winton Rich (left) and Patrolman J.B. Niday. BACKING MAYOR TURNER – Seafarers recently gathered with fellow trade unionists and other supporters of Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner (third from left) for a press conference at the Plumbers Local 68 hall. Pictured from left are Wiper Luis Fernandez, AB Hermenegildo Cordova, Mayor Turner, AB Franklin Akins (rear), SIU Asst. VP Mike Russo, GUDE Pablo Rochez, GUDE Hector Guity and QMED/Electrician Mike Kifle. ABOARD LIBERTY GLORY – SIU and AMO members are pictured aboard the Liberty Maritime ship in Corpus Christi, Texas. From left in photo above are AB Anthony Obesem, AB Adams Mohammed, Bosun Bernard Baker, GUDE Kalanihooulumoku Holt, GUDE Alika Kukahiko, AB Reynaldo Bernardez, GUDE Delson Smith, AB Usman Ibrahim, C/M Patrick Showell, 2/M Nicholas Stanislaw and 3/M Ryan Cazneaux. The vessel was loading sorghum for East Africa. B-BOOKS EARNED – Displaying their respective full B-books at the hiring hall are Mate Connor Graham (left in photo above) and AB Remigio Garte (left in photo below). Both are pictured with SIU Safety Director Kevin Sykes. MOMENT OF REMEMBRANCE – Members observe a moment of silence at the Houston hall on Oct. 1, in memory of the final crew of the El Faro. The Seafarers-crewed ship sank on Oct. 1, 2015, near the Bahamas, claiming the lives of all 33 aboard. 8 Seafarers LOG November 2019 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU B-BOOKS IN JACKSONVILLE – SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (right in both photos) administers the union oath at the hiring hall. Picking up their respective B-books are AB Rick Worthington (photo at left) and AB Alfredo De Vera and GUDE Lance Gibson (photo at right). SOLIDARITY IN SUNSHINE STATE – Pictured at the Florida AFL-CIO convention are (from left) SIU Jacksonville Port Agent Ashley Nelson, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services Nikki Fried, and SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins. During the gathering in early September, Hopkins was elected a VP of the state federation. AT THE HONOLULU HALL – In photo at left, OMU Rholand Daan (right) displays his first pension check. He’s pictured with SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso. AB Dean Crisostomo (center photo, also pictured with the port agent) shows off his newly acquired A-seniority book. The photo second from right shows OMU Elyser Carpio receiving his full B-book. Congratulating him is Shureen Yatchmenoff, administrative assistant. GOLDEN STATE SELFIE – Pictured aboard the Crowley vessel during a coastwise run on Labor Day are Chief Cook Pauline Crespo (left) and Recertified Bosun Phil McGeoghegan. AT THE PINEY POINT HALL – These photos were taken at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. In photo at left, Seafarer Bertram Solomon (left), who just finished upgrading to FOWT, is pictured with Port Agent Victor Nunez, displaying his probationary B-book and his first MDL donation receipt. Chief Cook Ramon Sarmiento (left in center photo) receives his full book as Patrolman Jesse Sunga gives the oath. In the photo at right, SA Tyrone Hall (right) picks up his full book, from the port agent. ABOARD HORIZON KODIAK – Pictured aboard the Matson vessel (above, from left) are GUDEs John Hays and Joey Lata, and (photo at right) GUDE Marshall Daguio. November 2019 Seafarers LOG 9 �AB Dan Lovely, Recertified Bosun Shawn Strand OMU Mike Burke, retired SA Leroy Jenkins, Recertified Bosun Sanjay Gupta Tacoma Reignites Traditional BBQ Seafarers Joey Lata, Doug Neubauer, Duane Bergeson and Mike Gramer After a slight lull, Seafarers recently enjoyed the restart of a regular gathering at the hiring hall in Tacoma, Washington. Following the August membership meeting, the union hosted a barbeque for Seafarers and their families. Approximately 80 people attended, and the event was successful, said SIU Port Agent Warren Asp. “Although it’s been a couple of years since the last one, this is something that Tacoma did annually for some time,” Asp said. “We’re looking to revive the event and host it on an annual basis again.” The port agent said “many members, both active and retired” pitched in to help either on the grill or setting up and cleaning up. “The main idea was to thank the members for a busy summer,” Asp concluded. “The membership stepped up this year both to fill jobs on our military activations and paint a house (through the volunteer project Paint Tacoma-Pierce Beautiful). Tacoma is very thankful and this is a small way to show that thanks and give back to them.” Recertified Stewards Scott Opsahl (front) and Mike Gramer Ben Anderson Jr., son of SIU Safety Director Ben Anderson, counts down the days until he can get his driver’s license – and does so on a union-made Harley. Recertified Bosun Adel Ahmed’s kids enjoy the festivities. Ample indoor seating was available, but many diners opted for casual spots outside. 10 Seafarers LOG Retired Recertified Steward Lincoln Pinn entertains the gathering. November 2019 �2020 Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Scholarship Program Scholarships totalling $132,000 are available to Seafarers and their dependents looking to continue their education. Allocations for each category will be as follows: Seafarers Scholarships ■ One $20,000 offering for a four-year course of study at an accredited college or university ■ Two scholarships ($6,000 each) for Seafarers interested in pursuing two-year courses of study at a community college or vocational school Dependents Scholarships ■ Five scholarships, each worth $20,000, are being offered to dependents (spouses included) to attend four-year courses of study at accredited colleges or universities. Dependents and spouses of active as well as retired Seafarers may apply. The Cathedral of Learning University of Pittsburgh To take advantage of these opportunities, clip, complete and mail the form below, or visit www.seafarers.org, go to the ABOUT tab, navigate to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan menu (Participant Letters and Notices of Material Modifications section) and select SHBP Scholarship Application (PDF). Although the booklet is dated 2016, all information is still current for the 2020 SHBP Scholarships. Please send me the 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: ) .......................................................................................................................................... ❏ Self ❏ Dependent Complete and mail form to: Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. All scholarship application packages must be received by April 15, 2020. 11/19 November 2019 Seafarers LOG 11 �Michael Sacco President, SIU RAdm. Mark Buzby (USN, Ret.) U.S. Maritime Administrator Maj. Gen. Michael Wehr U.S. Transportation Command Eric Ebeling President and CEO, ARC Jim White, Executive Director Maryland Port Administration ARC, Union Welcome New American-flag Tonnage Continued from Page 3 fense. They are part of a legacy that has supported our troops – not for years, but for centuries. And you’d better believe they are ready right now, today, to answer the call and support our troops if the balloon goes up. “Those are the men and women who’ll sail aboard the ARC Integrity, the ARC Resolve and the ARC Independence,” he continued. “And because of their unions and the fact they’re employed by a good, fair company like ARC and the vessel operator, TOTE, they’re able to support their families. That’s the American dream, and it’s symbolized here today.” Buzby, who formerly served as commanding officer of the U.S. Military Sealift Command, said his current agency is working hard to spread the word about maritime. “Too few of our own countrymen understand the vital importance of maritime issues and the significance of every single ship sailing under the Stars and Stripes,” he stated. “The industry is all about economic security; it’s about national security; it’s about trade; and it’s about jobs.” He explained that the nation’s military strength “is inextricably tied to the maritime industry. That’s because American commercial vessels – like the three ARC vessels we’re going to be naming here today – are essential elements of military sealift. Virtually everything that the military requires in a deployment moves by ships…. We need a strong, properly sized U.S.-flag fleet, including U.S.-flag merchant ships in regular international trade like these three ships.” Buzby then recalled a recent visit with young military personnel who didn’t realize that volunteer, civilian mariners deliver the vast majority of U.S. materiel in times of conflict. With Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ships docked elsewhere in the port, Buzby also pointed out that the mariners reporting there and elsewhere during a massive activation were all “on leave or training just a few hours ago. Now, they have been called, and they have answered. Someone said they’re patriots? You’re damn right they’re patriots. They answered the call and they are there today on those ships, ready to take them to sea.” A longtime maritime stalwart, Buzby then described the importance of laws and programs backing the industry. “Programs like the MSP are designed to ensure that we maintain (at least) an absolute bare minimum of commercial sealift capability to serve our nation’s needs in times of emergency…. We’ve got to level that playing field for our ships,” he stated. Cargo preference statutes “are key elements in the U.S.flag equation, too,” he added. Moreover, Buzby continued, “I can’t stand here this morning without mentioning the Jones Act and its vital importance to the health of the maritime industry and our national security. There have been many op-eds written lately – much of them slanted and based on long ago-debunked falsehoods. Let me be very clear: The Jones Act is the fundamental cornerstone of our nation’s maritime policy. It has been for the past 99 years. Without it, our domestic maritime industry – afloat and ashore – would fold. You need only ask folks in Australia how things are going there after they repealed their version of the Jones Act. I, for one, do not want to see our national internal maritime logistics chain and the jobs that go with it, (given) to a foreign power. Not on my watch.” Wehr, director of Strategic Plans, Policy and Logistics and TRANSCOM, declared, “Many of the people and organiza- tions who have made this possible today are true patriots.” He also backed the MSP when he stated, “There is no doubt the most cost-effective way to do business is the MSP. It’s effective, it’s efficient, and it’s a true testimony of our nation’s economic strength…. At TRANSCOM, we depend on this partnership with commercial industry. You’re all part of this nation’s ability to fight and win wars.” He further explained, “The ability to support our nation’s security at wartime is unmatched by any other country. These ships really do represent sealift that gives the United States the ability to project military power anywhere in the world…. No other nation matches this. “What makes us a superpower is the people that man these ships, that make them work and bring it together,” he concluded. “Everyone here today is part of this sacred trust we have.” White described how Baltimore is the nation’s top port for RO/RO shipments. He noted that the cargo means significant economic benefit for the state, both in terms of jobs and income. Ebeling reiterated his company’s commitment to U.S.-flag shipping and military support. He also thanked the “steadfast friends and strategic partners from organized labor. The industry-labor partnership is an amazing success.” Ebeling described Sacco as a “visionary leader” whose work is “essential.” Vessel sponsors were Georgina Fitzgerald for the ARC Resolve (wife of ARC Group Chairman Raymond Fitzgerald); Carol Henry for the ARC Integrity (wife of Transportation Institute President James Henry); and Pat Ridlon for the ARC Independence (wife of AIS Executive Vice President and General Counsel John Ridlon). Capt. Mike Murphy of the American Maritime Officers leads the audience into a toast for the three additions to the ARC American-flag fleet. Vessel sponsors (photo above, from left) Georgina Fitzgerald for the ARC Resolve; Pat Ridlon for the ARC Independence; and Carol Henry for the ARC Integrity break bottles of champagne on wooden anchors that represented the bows of their sponsored vessels. The trio pose for a group shot in the photo immediately below. Apprentices from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland pose with union officials following the ceremony. Included were SIU Secretary Treasurer David Heindel (far left); SIU President Michael Sacco (fifth from left); Port Agent Victor Nunez (eighth from left); SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez (fourth from right); and SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi (second from right). Pictured at the far right is RAdm. Mark Buzby (USN, Ret.),U.S. Maritime Administrator. 12 Seafarers LOG November 2019 November 2019 Seafarers LOG 13 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings MAERSK SENTOSA (Maersk Line, Limited), July 21 – Chairman Emanuel Gazzier, Secretary Charles Brooks, Educational Director Carl Montoya. Crew reviewed president’s report from union newspaper. Secretary reminded members of Culinary 2.0 training opportunity. Educational director encouraged crew to upgrade at SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to headquarters. HORIZON KODIAK (Horizon Lines), August 10 – Chairman Tar Ahmed, Secretary Antoinette Amato, Educational Director Joshua Johnson, Deck Delegate Anwar Alsharif, Engine Delegate Dennis Adjetey. Chairman encouraged crew to donate to SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. He advised members to attend Culinary 2.0 prior to January and to keep all Coast Guard requirements current. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Crew expects to use portion of ship’s fund for new gym equipment. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Resolution made concerning overtime allowances for steward department. Steward department unable to accomplish all weekly tasks within new time frame. Deck department was thanked for plankton tow as well as various projects for new fitness room. Entire crew commended for working well together. Next port: Tacoma, Washington. WALTER J. MCCARTHY (Armstrong Steamship), August 10 – Chairman Radi Hani, Secretary Randall Campbell, Educational 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. Director Dean Parks. Chairman discussed importance of helping new members understand their contract. Secretary encouraged crew to room share if enough room is available. Deck department felt harassed during work hours while spraying the pilot house. Educational director talked about upgrading and scheduling classes at the Piney Point school. No disputed OT reported. MAERSK CHICAGO (Maersk Line, Limited), August 18 – Chairman Wilfred Maurice, Secretary Marguerite Diggs, Educational Director Darrell Goggins. Educational director urged members to upgrade at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested increase in vacation days as well as less deductions on vacation checks. Members discussed health care benefits and voiced concerns with current co-pay payments. Next port: Charleston, South Carolina. JEANE ANN (PASHA), September 1 – Chairman Noel Camacho, Secretary Ismael Garayua, Educational Director Joseph Letang, Deck Delegate Russel Piamonte, Engine Delegate Rosalio Cordova, Steward Delegate Abrahem Elsawy. Chairman discussed rules for random drug tests and when they apply. He advised members to keep documents up to date and renew six months in advance. Chairman reminded crew to put Labor Day as a holiday. Captain and third mate getting off at next port. Captain provided new fans for the week due to broken a/c. Secretary directed members to inform her of any food allergies as soon as possible. Educational director urged crew to upgrade at Piney Point and seek higher education. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members who want to get Real IDs should do so, per chairman. Members were encouraged to take jobs on military support ships if available on the hiring hall board. Crew layoff expected around February for shipyard work. Steward department was thanked for a job well done and delicious BBQ. WiFi should be available for the beginning of the year. Aboard CS Decisive OREGON (Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning), September 7 – Chairman Rudy Harjanto, Secretary Tina Knox, Educational Director Frank Harris, Deck Delegate Michael Gore Engine Delegate Waverly Moore, Steward Delegate Wilson Peniston. Steward department commended for a job well done. Educational director reminded members to upgrade and keep documents up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew read president’s report from the LOG. Members were encouraged to work safely. Crew very hopeful to have WiFi availability in near future. MAERSK DETROIT (Maersk Line, Limited), September 8 – Chairman William Barret, Secretary Norma West, Deck Delegate Morris Foster, Engine Delegate Charles Packer, Steward Delegate John Ward. Educational director advised members to check documents and upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members request increase in vacation pay. Crew discussed benefits and requested 100% dental coverage. Members requested increase to retirement wages and decrease in time required for retirement. Pictured from left aboard the SubCom vessel in Baltimore are Apprentice Kenneth Smith, Recertified Bosun Lovell Smith, Apprentice Quinson Blueford, SIU Piney Point Port Agent Victor Nunez and Apprentice Andre Barbary. MOHAWK (JM Ship, LLC), September 15 – Chairman Timothy Kauble, Secretary Alan Bartley, Educational Director Michael Knight, Deck Delegate Eric Jett, Engine Delegate Jonathan White, Steward Delegate Kendra Williams. Crew to be relieved after COI with the Coast Guard. Chairman directed members to work safely and watch for coming and going overhead loads. While in port, hard hats and safety vests are required on deck. Secretary thanked members for keeping mess hall clean. Educational director advised members to renew documents early and upgrade at Piney Point. SA Williams was praised for doing a great job and being helpful while on board. Members were commended for a job well done this tour. Next port: Sunny Point, North Carolina. 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 14 Seafarers LOG 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 2019 �PHC Offers Culinary 2.0 As previously reported, the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education continues to offer Culinary 2.0 classes designed to help students boost their skills while complying with a new rule that takes effect next year. Completing the coursework also is intended to aid individual shipping opportunities. Shipping Rule 5.A.(6), which will go into effect January 1, 2020, states, “Within each class of seniority in the Steward Department, priority shall be given to those seamen who possess an advanced Culinary 2.0 certificate from the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, in the event such program is being offered and that the seaman is registered in Group I, Steward Department.” While every new member of the steward department who completes their apprenticeship at the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship will have successfully passed Culinary 2.0, it’s important to remem- ber that those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards must also take the coursework in order to exercise preference and priority beginning next year (unless they have received training after January 1, 2017 at the Piney Point, Maryland-based campus). For those seamen currently employed as permanent stewards aboard commercial vessels, they must attend Culinary 2.0 in order to maintain their current employment status. For those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards, there are two new revalidation courses that have been designed to ensure a consistent level of culinary training and efficiency: Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 and Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0. The courses are being offered regularly, but spaces are limited, so members are encouraged to plan ahead and enroll as soon as possible. For more information, contact your port agent and/or the school’s admissions office. November & December 2019 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 Mobile.........................Wednesday: November 13, December 11 New Orleans........................Tuesday: November 12, December 10 Jersey City..........................Tuesday: November 5, December 3 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” Data is cumulative from Sept.10-Oct. 9. “Registered on the Beach” Data is as of Oct. 9. Port 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, December 13 Tacoma............................Friday: November 22, December 20 Wilmington........................Monday: November 18, December 16 *Houston change due to 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 November 2019 A All Groups B C Total Shipped A All Groups B C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach A All Groups B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 17 7 6 21 10 3 5 18 16 4 1 2 0 0 4 0 0 4 4 3 8 2 0 8 2 0 5 5 3 0 26 15 6 25 14 5 10 32 13 6 3 1 0 3 0 0 1 4 1 0 9 6 2 10 3 3 3 9 9 5 5 6 0 9 3 0 0 15 5 0 44 21 7 38 16 6 18 88 43 6 31 22 11 26 19 7 18 63 43 13 27 14 8 29 9 3 16 58 27 11 5 6 1 3 5 1 1 5 3 1 12 5 5 9 2 3 2 21 8 3 23 17 12 28 9 5 10 41 31 13 21 2 7 14 3 3 5 33 7 5 5 4 5 3 1 3 1 6 3 1 7 4 2 3 4 4 0 3 4 1 9 3 2 5 6 2 6 8 8 1 26 10 5 25 7 2 8 54 19 11 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 3 0 3 30 15 2 32 7 2 10 57 31 6 310 162 82 293 124 52 119 527 278 93 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 1 1 2 2 2 1 2 6 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 2 1 0 1 4 1 2 2 0 0 2 3 1 8 4 3 7 5 1 4 23 9 4 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 2 0 1 1 5 0 2 3 0 2 6 5 1 11 7 1 5 5 0 3 14 6 2 17 8 3 11 9 2 9 32 15 6 12 24 0 11 16 1 9 30 35 2 16 7 1 12 8 3 4 21 14 1 3 2 2 2 2 2 1 2 1 2 1 5 2 1 4 1 2 4 6 1 16 18 7 13 13 2 4 25 25 9 8 5 3 7 2 0 0 11 6 4 3 2 1 1 0 0 0 3 2 1 4 6 0 0 2 0 0 4 10 0 4 1 1 7 3 0 2 3 4 1 11 10 3 13 7 2 6 22 9 3 4 2 1 2 0 2 0 3 4 0 13 9 1 6 4 1 2 30 26 7 136 121 33 104 88 19 50 245 182 47 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 3 1 1 3 0 1 1 4 3 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 1 1 0 1 3 2 0 5 6 0 6 5 0 5 15 8 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 2 0 5 1 0 3 0 0 1 13 3 0 8 1 0 6 0 0 3 18 3 0 22 6 0 14 3 0 6 41 10 3 23 8 1 17 8 2 5 39 14 5 14 2 0 7 1 0 4 24 4 1 4 0 0 1 0 1 0 3 0 0 3 1 0 4 1 0 1 4 5 0 10 10 2 8 8 2 6 20 18 3 12 2 3 12 3 1 7 25 12 4 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 3 4 0 2 2 0 0 5 6 0 4 4 0 1 5 0 2 4 8 0 11 0 2 9 1 0 3 22 6 2 3 0 0 2 1 0 0 3 0 0 21 6 0 12 5 1 8 30 20 1 157 53 9 111 46 8 53 275 124 19 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 0 5 12 2 8 6 6 1 6 18 1 3 0 0 2 1 0 1 2 1 0 1 5 0 1 3 1 0 1 2 1 1 4 0 2 2 0 1 7 8 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 6 1 0 4 1 0 2 4 0 6 1 1 4 1 0 1 12 4 7 13 7 0 9 3 1 13 25 14 3 25 26 3 17 13 2 4 47 41 2 17 11 1 15 5 3 4 27 12 0 3 2 0 2 2 0 0 4 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 24 31 0 13 25 3 0 31 48 1 13 9 0 13 5 1 3 20 16 0 2 0 0 2 0 1 0 1 1 0 3 8 0 2 8 0 1 1 2 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 2 3 9 7 2 8 6 2 7 17 15 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 2 1 5 16 6 3 5 6 1 11 53 33 24 145 138 13 104 91 22 49 260 226 GRAND TOTAL: 627 481 262 521 362 170 244 1,096 844 385 Norfolk..............................Thursday: November 7, December 5 Oakland.........................Thursday: November 14, December 12 Total Registered Seafarers LOG 15 �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 Kate Hunt, 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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by students at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Question: Why did you choose to be a mariner? Lavontat Anderson Oiler I chose to be a mariner because I knew I could learn a trade that I could use on land. I plan to put in 15-20 years in my sailing career. Chanel Peters Oiler Because I don’t mind turning wrenches on a ship to make money and travel the world. After I received my B-book, I found out my great grandfather was a mariner. I didn’t know before then. 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 Kevin Willis Oiler I chose to be a mariner because there’s no other job like this in the world. You learn while you grow, and the pay is great. Tim Jones Oiler Nothing else better to get a change of pace, change of life. No other job pays like it. What could be better? HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 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 Denard Williams Oiler My brother has been a mariner for about 15 years, and I finally decided to take his advice. So far, it’s everything he said it was, and the money and travel are pretty great incentives. I like being missed back home. Plus, Popeye the Sailor Man was my idol. Marcus ‘Muscles’ Lopez Oiler My dad was in the military, and he had mariner friends in dredging. Through them, I found the SIU. I plan on doing this for 10 years, then take my money and invest it. 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 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (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 SIU pensioner Carlos Boiser recently submitted this photo of the LNG Libra on its final voyage under U.S. registry, which took place in 2000. Crew members and officers signed the oversized print after the ship sailed between Himeji, Japan, and Bontang, Indonesia. Boiser recalls being on vacation years earlier when he decided to take a job on the Libra. He ended up working aboard the ship off and on for five years. Boiser retired in 2012. 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 November 2019 �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 THOMAS BLUITT Brother Thomas Bluitt, 65, joined the union in 1970, first sailing on the Jacksonville. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Bluitt concluded his career on the Overseas Alice in 1995. He resides in Harbor Beach, Michigan. signed on with the SIU in 1972 when he shipped on the Mohawk. A deck department member, he upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Cunningham’s final vessel was the Thompson Pass. He makes his home in West Covina, California. Brother Alfonso Bombita, 69, started sailing with the SIU in 1983, initially shipping aboard the Santa Maria. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Bombita last shipped on the Gem State. He resides in American Canyon, California. DANNY BROWN Brother Danny Brown, 61, began sailing with the SIU in 1980 when he shipped on the Philadelphia. He was a member of the steward department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Brown most recently sailed on the Golden State and makes his home in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. MARK CABASAG Brother Mark Cabasag, 65, started sailing with the SIU in 1989, initially shipping on the Independence. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Cabasag last shipped on the Horizon Reliance. He resides in Auburn, Washington. THOMAS CUDDIHY Brother Thomas Cuddihy, 65, joined the SIU in 1979, first sailing aboard the El Paso Southern. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in 2001. Brother Cuddihy’s last vessel was the USNS Algol. He lives in Long Beach, New York. ROBERT CUNNINGHAM Brother Robert Cunningham, 65, November 2019 at the Paul Hall Center and was a member of the engine department. Brother Parker concluded his career on the Horizon Pacific and lives in the Philippines. CHARLIE JOHNSON WINSTON RESTAURO Brother Roland Daan, 71, embarked on his career with the union in 1989, first shipping aboard the Independence. He sailed in the engine department and concluded his career on the Horizon Spirit. Brother Daan is a resident of Honolulu. Brother Charlie Johnson, 71, became a member of the SIU in 2003 when he sailed on the Green Cove. An engine department member, he upgraded his skills on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Johnson’s last vessel was the USNS Gilliand. He settled in Gresham, South Carolina. CHRISTOPHER DOWE PAUL KLIPPEL Brother Christopher Dowe, 65, joined the SIU in 1974, initially sailing aboard the Bienville. He was an engine department member and upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Dowe also worked on shore gangs. He makes his home in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Brother Paul Klippel, 65, signed on with the union in 1975, sailing first on Hydromar’s Atlantic. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Klippel last sailed on the Philadelphia. He resides in Florence, Oregon. ALAN GARDNER GIL MANIPON Brother Alan Gardner, 65, started his career with the SIU in 1974 when he sailed on the Columbia. He primarily sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 1975. Brother Gardner concluded his career on the Golden Monarch. He resides in Felton, Delaware. Brother Gil Manipon, 55, started shipping with the SIU in 1983, initially sailing on the Constitution. The deck department member upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Manipon also worked on shore gangs. He calls Federal Way, Washington, home. ROLAND DAAN ALFONSO BOMBITA member upgraded his skills at the maritime training center located in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Holland last sailed on the USNS Capella and lives Jacksonville, Florida. ALFRED GONZALEZ Brother Alfred Gonzalez, 65, joined the union in 1977, initially sailing on the Fort Hoskins. He shipped in the engine department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Gonzalez last sailed on the El Yunque and makes his home in Carolina, Puerto Rico. PETE HERNANDEZ Brother Pete Hernandez, 72, donned the SIU colors in 2001, sailing first on the Rover. He primarily sailed in the steward department and upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Hernandez most recently sailed aboard the Cape Taylor. He resides in Galveston, Texas. JOHN HOLLAND Brother John Holland, 64, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1989, initially working aboard the USNS Altair. In 2001, the deck department ALEXANDRE MITCHELL Brother Alexandre Mitchell, 72, began his career with the SIU in 2001 when he sailed on the Manoa. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions. Brother Mitchell most recently sailed on the Patriot and settled in Longview, Texas. PHILIP PARISI Brother Philip Parisi, 59, joined the SIU in 1981, briefly sailing with the Gloucester Fishermen before changing to deep sea. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Parisi last sailed on the John Boland and makes his home in Gloucester, Massachusetts. DAVID PARKER Brother David Parker, 69, signed on with the Seafarers in 1990 when he shipped on the USNS Hess. He upgraded often Brother Winston Restauro, 65, embarked on his SIU career in 2003, initially sailing on the USNS Capella. A deck department member, he upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Restauro’s final vessel was the Brenton Reef. He makes his home in Houston. WINTON RICH Brother Winton Rich, 70, started sailing with the SIU in 1990, shipping first on the USNS Bellatrix. He worked in the deck department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Rich most recently shipped on the Pride of America and is a Houston resident. DONNA SALING Sister Donna Saling, 67, joined the union in 1993, when she shipped on the Independence. Sailing as a steward department member, she upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Sister Saling’s last vessel was the Santorini. She calls Vero Beach, Florida, home. ARNIDO SINDAC Brother Arnido Sindac, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1996. The engine department member’s first vessel was the USNS Kane. Brother Sindac upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. He last sailed aboard the Integrity and resides in Norfolk, Virginia. EVELYN TAYAG Sister Evelyn Tayag, 64, donned the SIU colors in 1988 when she sailed on the Baldomero Lopez. She sailed in the steward department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Sister Tayag most recently shipped on the Empire State. She makes her home in Stuart, Florida. GREAT LAKES JAMES WEBSTER Brother James Webster, 62, began sailing with the union in 1977. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Webster worked for Arnold Transit for the duration of his career. He resides in Mackinaw City, Michigan. INLAND ROBERT ARTHUR Brother Robert Arthur, 62, joined the union in 1975. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 1993. Brother Arthur worked for G&H Towing for his entire career. He calls Spring, Texas, home. JAMES BRYAN Brother James Bryan, 63, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1996 after he worked as a member of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers. He worked for Crowley for the duration of his SIU career. Brother Bryan lives in Delran, New Jersey. JEFFREY JONES Brother Jeffrey Jones, 52, began his career with the SIU in 2003 when he worked for Crowley Towing & Transportation. A deck department member, he upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Jones remained with the same company for the duration of his career and resides in Pensacola, Florida. RONALD MEADOWS Brother Ronald Meadows, 62, joined the union in 2008 when he worked with Express Marine. He was a deck department member and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Meadows remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He calls Accomac, Virginia, home. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA JOE ATCHISON Pensioner Joe Atchison, 91, has passed away. He joined the SIU in 1951 when he worked for Waterman Steamship Corporation. An engine department member, Brother Atchison also worked on shore gangs. He became a pensioner in 1991 and made his home in Alvin, Texas. CHRISTOPHER BRADY Pensioner Christopher Brady, 74, died September 13. He signed on with the SIU in 1969, first sailing on a Seatrain Lines vessel. The deck department member’s last vessel was the Prestige New York. Brother Brady began collecting his pension in 2010 and resided in Ireland. SAL BUZALI Pensioner Sal Buzali, 91, passed away August 24. He became an SIU member in 1956 when he sailed on the Del Norte. Brother Buzali sailed in all three departments and concluded his career on the Stonewall Jackson. He became a pensioner in 1992 and lived in Sugarland, Texas. SILVANA CLARK Pensioner Silvana Clark, 70, died August 11. She joined the union in 2001 and first sailed on the Sugar Island. Sister Clark shipped in all three departments. She last sailed on the USNS Bellatrix and retired in 2015. She was a resident of Norfolk, Virginia. JAMES DEMARCO Brother James DeMarco, 33, passed away August 13. Born in Redbank, New Jersey, he signed on with the SIU in 2013. He initially sailed on the John Paul Bobo and was a member of the deck department. Brother DeMarco most recently shipped on the Freeport. He resided in Port Monmouth, New Jersey. JOSE FERREIRA Pensioner Jose Ferreira, 79, died September 5. He joined the union in 1971 and first shipped on the Hydro Atlantic. Brother Ferreira worked in the engine department and last sailed aboard the Sulfur Enterprise. He retired in 2005 and made his home in Spain. CALIXTO GONZALEZ Pensioner Calixto Gonzalez, 92, passed away September 14. He became a member of the SIU in 1947. A member of the deck department, he was first employed by CSX Lines. Brother Gonzalez last shipped on the Caguas. He started collecting his pension in 1985 and settled in Puerto Rico. CURTIS JACKSON Pensioner Curtis Jackson, 73, died September 10. He embarked on his SIU career in 1967, initially sailing on the Bethflor. Brother Jackson was a member of the en- gine department and concluded his career on the Sirius. He became a pensioner in 2006 and settled in Jacksonville, Florida. STANLEY KRAWCYNSKI Pensioner Stanley Krawcynski, 93, passed away September 14. He joined the SIU in 1952 when he worked for Ore Navigation Corporation. Brother Krawcynski sailed in the deck department, most recently aboard the Carolina. He retired in 1990 and lived in Orange City, Florida. RICHARD O’BRIEN Pensioner Richard O’Brien, 76, died September 22. He started sailing with the union in 1990 when he shipped on the Overseas Vivian. A deck department member, Brother O’Brien last sailed on the Charleston Express. He went on pension in 2007 and was a Houston resident. ALLAN ROGERS Pensioner Allan Rogers, 76, passed away September 12. He donned the SIU colors in 1965 when he sailed on the Steel Executive. Brother Rogers was a deck department member and last shipped on the USNS Mendonca. He began collecting his pension in 2008 and resided in Rhodesdale, Maryland. INLAND LESLIE GIBBS Pensioner Leslie Gibbs, 82, died August 8. Sailing with G&H Towing, he signed on with the Seafarers in 1962. Brother Gibbs shipped in the deck department and continued to work for the same company until his retirement in 1999. He lived in Santa Fe, Texas. RONALD RIGGINS Pensioner Ronald Riggins, 83, passed away September 24. He joined the SIU in 1981 when he worked for Moran Towing of Texas. Brother Riggins was an engine department member and remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He went on pension in 1998 and lived in Huntington, Texas. RICHARD ROBINSON Pensioner Richard Robinson, 72, died March 6. He began sailing with the union in 1971, initially working with Gulf Atlantic Transport. Brother Robinson shipped in the deck department and last worked for OSG Ship Management. He became a pensioner in 2009 and settled in Chesapeake, Virginia. PERRY RUBOTTOM Pensioner Perry Rubottom, 75, passed away September 27. He signed on with the SIU in 1993 when he worked for Higman Barge Lines. The deck department member continued his employment with the same company until retiring in 2006. Brother Rubottom resided in Waring, Texas. portation. Sailing in the steward department, Brother Sadowski remained with the same company for his entire career. He went on pension in 1996 and was a resident of Paramount, California. NMU ALFREDO CARPIO Pensioner Alfredo Carpio, 85, passed away August 27. He sailed with the NMU prior to the 2001 merger with Seafarers International Union. Brother Carpio retired in 1996 and made his home in in the Philippines. ALFRED HOWES Pensioner Alfred Howes, 84, died August 22. He was an NMU member before the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. Brother Howes began collecting his pension in 1993 and lived in Providence, Rhode Island. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. NAME Barros, Jeronimo Erdt, Edmund Evans, Leon Fujii, Saloshi Marsh, Harry Phillips, Reynold Rogick, Erwin Stafford, Roosevelt Unzue, Angel Zwicker, Dennis AGE DOD 94 09/21/2019 81 08/19/2019 90 08/01/2019 93 08/30/2019 92 08/13/2019 97 09/03/2019 94 09/06/2019 98 09/06/2019 84 09/24/2019 100 06/18/2019 CHESTER SADOWSKI Pensioner Chester Sadowski, 88, died September 6. He joined the union in 1970 and was employed with Crowley Towing and Trans- Hospital Ship Continues Mission The CIVMAR-crewed hospital ship USNS Comfort is pictured off the coast of Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis as it prepares for a six-day medical mission starting Oct. 3. The Comfort, featuring a crew that includes members of the SIU Government Services Division, is working with health and government partners in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean to provide care on the ship and at land-based medical sites. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Morgan K. Nall) 18 Seafarers LOG November 2019 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Galley Operations November 9 December 6 Deck Department Upgrading Courses AB to Mate Modules Modules must be taken in order. Those who are not in the mates program cannot apply for these courses. Contact the Admissions Office for further details. ECDIS November 16 November 22 Lifeboat November 16 November 29 December 14 December 27 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW November 9 December 6 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Steward Department Courses Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start November 11. Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 November 2 November 8 December 7 December 13 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 November 16 November 22 November 30 December 6 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training/Basic FF November 16 November 22 December 7 December 13 Basic Training Revalidation November 15 November 15 December 6 December 6 Government Vessels November 16 November 22 December 7 December 13 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG November 9 November 15 December 7 December 13 BAPO November 9 December 6 Pumpman November 9 November 15 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 # and dates attended___________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. November 2019 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, or 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. 11/19 Seafarers LOG 19 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #852 – Graduated July 12 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Daniel Bost, Michael Jacob Caquias Garcia, Christian Spiros Cavathas, Marck Mathias Hilgendorf-Sanchez, Brandon Hoisington, Anthony Tubsuav Lo, Jeremy Poertner, Christopher Richardson, Lorin Stewart, Ronald Von Kaenel, Zarya Ward, Paris Wilbert and James Zaro. Welding – Graduated June 7: Bryan Moreira (above, center) and Luis Alberto Sepulveda (right). Instructor Chris Raley is at left. Welding – Graduated June 28 (above, in alphabetical order): John Groom, Vernon Humbles and Yahya Ali Mohamed. Their instructor, Chris Raley, is at the far right. Medical Care Provider – Graduated June 7 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Richard Abshire, Jose Manuel Boza, Harold Gerber II, Martin Hamilton, Ian McDonough and John Morrison. Instructor Mike Roberts is at the far left. RFPNW (Phase III) – Graduated June 21 (above, in alphabetical order): Zachary Anderson, Sharde Baker, Badr Bouziane, Jessica Clark, Michael Curtin, Antonio Manuel GonzalezEsteves, Michael Hickey, Kevin Kelly Jr., Mark Malicki, Vincent Mauro, Jackson McDaniel, Joseph Murphy III, Velislav Nikolov, Lane Plummer, Aaliyah Richardson, Samuel Schwimmer and Cyrus Silen. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the deck departments of SIU-contracted vessels. 20 Seafarers LOG November 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes BAPO (Phase III) – Graduated June 21 (above, in alphabetical order): Elizabeth Ashworth, Marco Antonio Baez Millan, James Bithos Jr., Anthony Brown Jr., Kyree Carter, Michael Day Jr., Mark Dennison, Albert Granville III, Lorenz Grice, David Hain-Mendez, D’mitri Hill, Kalanihooulumoku Holt, Cale Irons, Carleton Jenkins II, Damon Johnson, Tony King Jr., Alika Kukahiko, Johnthan Lebeaux, Anthony Maltese, Andrew Robey, Stephan Robles-Matos, Delson Smith, Christopher Taylor, Neil Tupas and Scott Waterman. Each plans to work in the engine departments of union-crewed vessels upon the completion of their training. Government Vessels – Graduated June 28 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Gregory Attawora, Claude Beerrom, Elizabeth Byrd, Jehan Daza, D’angelo Dickson, Oscar Emilio Garcia, Richetta Jackson, Joshua Johnson, Jemell Jones, Ivan Marikovsky, Hussein Nasser, Yohanes Pribadi, Damonta Roberson and Stephen Roseberry. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Important Notice To All Students SUA (Galley Operations) – Graduated October 5 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Alexandra Erickson, Paisami Gay, Daniel Howard, Lamarai Jones, Shadonna Jones, EsStonia Eugenia BAPO – Graduated JuneMoore, 21 (photo at right, in Porter, order): Noah Mohamed Susumu Alghazali, Santiago-Akim alphabetical Stephens, Lareesa Warren, Jessica Davis-Griffin, Marvin Fabrizius, Basheer Ghazali, Terrex Houston,Kendra Joesef Williams Shaibi andand Saddam Williams, Jarid Mohamed Yahia. Instructor Keith Adamson is at the far Wilson. 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. right. Tank Ship Familiarization DL – Graduated June 14 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Jehan Daza, Dexter Douglas Jr., Scottie Duncan, Joel Fahselt, Nieves Calixto Guerrero Mariano, Kevin Hale, Jason James, Leportre Jasper, Mahare Kidane, Gary Mann, Ivan Marikovsky, Darius McCastle, Edward Mills, Frederick Neese, Daniel Tennant and Christopher Thompson. (Note: Not all are pictured.) November 2019 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Government Vessels – Graduated June 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Bernard Baker, Clark Castrodes, David Chance, Manuel Davis, Dominador Diaz, Nicholas Gibbs, Michael Kanga, Lon Tige Maduro, Anton Ivanov Marchev, James McLeod, Ariven Torres Olamit II, Dean Parks, John Reyes, Arthur Mojica Sison, Reynaldo Aganan Tinay and Hermino Vasquez Jr. Advanced Shiphandling – Graduated May 24: Brian Sheehan (left) and Patrick Wells. MSC Storekeeper Basic – Graduated May 3 (above, in alphabetical order): Bernard Baker, Barry Bettis, Ana Marie Chona Razon Calma, VanNessa Curd, Christopher Flood, Eric Hondel, Porcia Johnson and Christopher Waters. Galley Ops (Phase III) – Graduated June 21 (above, in alphabetical order): Jada Gay, Keith Guthrie, Am’quez Hagans and Kion Miller. Each plans to work in the steward departments of SIU-contracted vessels upon the completion of their training. Joining the Phase III group in this photo is SUA Graduate Jalisa Williams (right). 22 Seafarers LOG Certified Chief Cook – Graduated June 28: Solymar Herrera Carreras. November 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Chief Cook 2.0. – Graduated July 26 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Ricardo Giovanny Arauz Rochez, Adalberto Colon Rosa, Keyon Gregory, Noel Genisan Segovia and Olive Stewart-Paul. Galley Ops – Graduated June 21: Gus Papas (left) and Anthony Jackson. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated June 28 (above, in alphabetical order): Domingo Mallari Barroga Jr., Nelson Tulio Bernardez, Romarico Dico Hinayon and Deitre Jackson. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated June 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Raymond Alexander, Mark Brooks, George Burgos, Michael Henry and Jayson Velez-Cruz. Certified Chief Cook (Module 1) – Graduated June 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Elijah Boson, Darryl McCray, Brittany Steward and Calvin Wilson. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated June 3 (above, in alphabetical order): Elizabeth Byrd, James McLeod, Rual Frades Napoles, Hans Franz Schmuck and Charles Washington. November 2019 Chief Steward – Graduated June 16 (above, in alphabetical order): Dennison Dizon, Rachel Janssen, Jesus Pacheco and Luis Jose Perez Acosta. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated June 21 (above, in alphabetical order): Gregory Broyles, Jean Favreaux, Lisa Favreaux, Robert Firth and Ali Ahmed Matari. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Seafarers LOG 23 �NOVEMBER 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 11 Text “Join” to 97779 To Sign Up for SIU Text Alerts O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Seafarers Save 3 Lives Near Tampa Crew from Jones Act Tanker American Pride Rescues Fishermen The SIU-crewed tanker American Pride on Sept. 18 rescued three individuals from a foundering boat near Tampa, Florida. Recertified Bosun Ronald Webb said the American Pride was headed to anchor when an alarm sounded. “The fishermen’s boat was sinking and they had gotten into a life raft,” Webb stated. “We deployed a rescue boat and put out a ladder. We towed their raft to the ship, and they came up the ladder…. They had been out there for four days. They were bailing water like a son of a gun when we found them.” The two men and one woman were in good and grateful spirits as they boarded the Jones Act ship. “Our guys all went above and beyond and did a great job,” Webb added. “Everything went perfectly, and everybody did what they were supposed to do.” Steward/Baker Richard Jones said the galley gang happily attended to their unexpected guests. “You know the routine,” he said. “We provided food and water as soon as they came aboard, and also grabbed some blankets. You should have seen their expressions – they were very, very grateful.” Jones added, “Conditions couldn’t have been any better for the rescue, whereas today (one day later), it’s very windy. For us to spot them like that, it was something.” SIU members sailing aboard the Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning vessel during the rescue included Webb, Jones, ABs Kervin Guevara, Shaib Juma, Jahn Boman, Natividad Suazo Ortiz and Alfred Acheampong, QEP Emanuel Paul, OMU Marcus Brown, Oiler Greg Alvarez, Chief Cook Adolfo Bermudez and SA Marco Guity. The ship’s officers are members of the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers. “The quick and selfless actions of the American Pride crew saved three lives today,” said Capt. Mat- thew Thompson, commander of Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg. According to news reports, the rescue happened in the early evening, approximately 45 miles west of Egmont Key. The commercial fishing vessel Captain Bob was sinking when the American Pride approached it, but no one was visible in or near the boat. After contacting the Coast Guard, the American Pride made a second approach, and this time Chief Mate Brian Enos saw orange smoke, a parachute flare and a life raft approximately three nautical miles southwest of the Captain Bob. The Coast Guard sent a response boat to pick up the individuals who were rescued. All three were transported to the local Coast Guard station and then released in good condition. The SIU-crewed American Pride was delivered in November 2017. (Photo courtesy Philly Shipyard) Bosun Ronald Webb (center in photo directly above) is pictured with two of the fishermen aboard the American Pride. In the pair of photos at the immediate right , the American Pride’s rescue boat retrieves the fishermen and returns to the vessel. The image at the far right (released by the by the U.S. Coast Guard) shows the fishermen’s boat almost submerged. � 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 2019 Description An account of the resource Headlines: SEAFARERS ANSWER THE CALL CR REAUTHORIZES EXPORT-IMPORT BANK SIU CELEBRATES 3 NEW VESSELS ARC'S NEW ADDITIONS TO FLEET MEAN MORE JOBS FOR SIU MEMBERS CIVMARS HELP TEST MINE COUNTER-MEASURES SEAFARERS ON MAERSK MONTANA HELP RESCUE IMPERILED BOATERS WWII MERCHANT MARINERS ONE STEP CLOSER TO RECEIVING CONGRESSIONAL GOLD METAL UNION, SCHOOL WELCOME NVIC MODIFICATIONS STENA IMPERO FINALLY ALLOWED TO LEAVE IRAN LIPID TURNOVER COULD BE CAUSE OF AGE-RELATED WEIGHT GAIN HAPPENINGS AROUND THE PORT OF NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY TACOMA REIGNITES TRADITIONAL BBQ SEAFARERS SAVE 3 LIVES NEAR TAMPA 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 11/1/2019 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. 81, No. 11 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/ea94c5e7f4d7456e177d842a55161571.pdf 6d68f458828b26d09886f2944b84b070 PDF Text Text OCTOBER 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 10 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O New RO/ROs Set to Join MSP Fleet At press time, SIU-contracted American Roll-on Roll-off Carrier (ARC) was slated to formally welcome three new vessels into its fleet: the ARC Integrity, ARC Independence, and ARC Resolve. All three will be enrolled in the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP) and will be managed by TOTE Services. ARC will continue to operate two of the vessels being replaced in the MSP fleet in U.S.-flag service, so it’s a net gain of two ships. Another SIU-crewed ARC ship – the M/V Patriot which is a sister ship of the ARC Resolve – is pictured above and at left, loading a mix of helicopters, vehicles, containers and support equipment for the Army’s 4th Combat Aviation Brigade. Visit the SIU website and our social media pages for coverage of the flag-ins, which also will be featured in the next LOG. Latest Upgrades at Piney Point Receive Approval From Students, Staff Alike As reported in last month’s LOG, the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education recently completed substantial upgrades to its engineering shop. Students are reacting very favorably to the improvements; upgraders are pictured at immediate left and directly below. Page 6. MTD Welcomes Newest Affiliate Page 2 54930_Seafarers_X.indd 1 Express Marine Pact Approved Page 3 9/19/2019 3:03:41 PM �President’s Report Labor Day Media coverage of this year’s Labor Day often included what I consider a crucial fact. Namely, the general public has a favorable view of organized labor – but people who want to join unions often fight an unfairly uphill battle. AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka, who’s been a friend for many years, did a great job throughout a series of interviews explaining why our country is long overdue for extensive labor-law reform. The deck is severely stacked against workers in most traditional organizing campaigns. We’ve gotten to this point through decades of attacks on unions. Those attacks – sometimes sneaky, sometimes brazen – have taken a toll and have eroded too many protections. And that’s basically why the movement’s numbers are where they are. It’s a flat-out falsehood that unions aren’t needed anymore, or that people aren’t interested in joining. Nonpartisan polling shows that people do indeed value what collective bargaining and union representation have to offer. They understand that union representation is the only effective way to have a voice in the workplace. They’d welcome the chance to sign up, and they know that union members consistently earn Michael Sacco more money and have better benefits than unrepresented workers. But, too often, employers have all the power during an organizing campaign, and they face few if any penalties for breaking the law. It’s no secret that when unions are strong, the middle class is strong. And America’s businesses and workers, from the 1930s to the 1970s, grew together. But since then, companies have gotten more prosperous while workers’ pay largely has stayed the same. We have an opportunity to turn this ship around, and as always, it starts at the ballot box. The 2020 elections, incredibly, are only a year away. There are also elections before the end of this year. Stay informed about the issues and candidates, and support candidates at every level of government who’ll support America’s working families and the maritime industry. The SIU has never cared about political party and that’ll be the case again next year. We’ll back those who back us, period. Grassroots and Civility Speaking of politics, I enjoyed recent remarks from the union’s legislative director, Brian Schoeneman. Addressing one of our affiliated unions, he declared that the most important thing union members can do to protect your job and help advance the labor movement in the political arena is to vote. “There is no more powerful four-letter word in the union vocabulary, even when politicians give us reasons to use a lot of other four-letter words,” he said, and I agree. Motivating others to vote is also important, and it’s something we can all do. Talk with your co-workers and neighbors about the issues and candidates that matter to you. Encourage them to vote, and if they’re not registered, point them in the right direction. Brian also underscored the vital significance of political action funds, which for the SIU means SPAD. Those funds are a form of insurance and a virtual prerequisite to have a seat at the table and have our voices heard. Our political donations help to get good candidates elected to office and keep good elected officials in office. Any help you can give is critical. On a personal note, I encourage all Seafarers to keep it civil when discussing politics, no matter who you’re talking with. It’s often a touchy subject, but our country needs to re-learn the art of civil discourse and focusing on issues rather than personalities. AFT Becomes MTD’s Newest Affiliate Organization Boasts Membership of 1.7 Million Strong The Maritime Trades Department (MTD) recently welcomed its newest affiliate: the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). “We are very proud and honored that the AFT has joined the ranks of the MTD,” declared MTD President Michael Sacco, who also is president of the SIU. “We have had a very good working relationship with the AFT and its members from the local level up throughout the years. “People may wonder why the Teachers would join,” he continued. “Well, without teachers, none of us would have a chance to learn critical new ideas, to fight for our members and to succeed in life.” The MTD is a constitutional department of the AFL-CIO. It has 22 affiliates with a collective membership of approximately six million. “The AFT is proud to join the Maritime Trades Department,” said AFT President Randi Weingarten. “Together, we can fight for what all Americans want – a better life and a better future for our families – through good jobs; high-quality, affordable health care; a secure retirement; great public schools; affordable college; and a healthy democracy.” The AFT represents 1.7 million teachers, paraprofessionals and school staff, higher education faculty and staff, nurses, other health care professionals, and public employees. MTD President Michael Sacco (right) welcomes AFT President Randi Weingarten to the 2018 MTD meeting. AFT members work as instructors and staff at a variety of public maritime schools, colleges and programs across the United States. The union also represents workers at the Guam Port Authority. During the last two years, MTD affiliates – prominently including the SIU – and the AFT have worked together to help Puerto Rico recover from the devastating hurricanes of 2017, including the delivery and dispersal of 100,000 water filters. Weingarten spoke directly about that labor solidarity when she addressed the 2018 MTD executive board meeting in Orlando, Florida. At the start of this year, members of the Port Maritime Council of Southern California immediately adopted a local school when the United Teachers of Los Angeles went on strike on Jan. 10. They walked picket lines and provided supplies (including food and drinks) during the six-day struggle. In 2018, the Maritime Port Council of Greater New York/ New Jersey and Vicinity recognized Weingarten with its Paul Hall Award of Merit. In receiving the recognition, Weingarten told the audience how MTD affiliates helped her local, New York City’s United Federation of Teachers, gain recognition in the early 1970s. Antares Drydocks in Philly New Tonnage Last but definitely not least, we are gearing up for a big ceremony in Baltimore that’ll welcome three RO/ROs into the SIU-crewed fleet, just after press time. Whenever we can add new or newer tonnage, it bodes well for our future. Some of you have heard me say this before, but when we crew up new vessels, it’s a credit to every rank-and-file Seafarer. Our companies wouldn’t build or flag-in new ships and tugs and passenger ferries if they didn’t have confidence in you. Keep up the great work. O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 81 Number 10 October 2019 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2019 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 54930_Seafarers_X.indd 2 The SIU-crewed Antares (above) in early August started a routine drydock period for repairs and maintenance at Philly Shipyard. Operated by TOTE Services for the U.S. Maritime Administration, the Antares is part of the Ready Reserve Force. The shipyard period was expected to last approximately two months. (Photo courtesy Philly Shipyard) October 2019 9/19/2019 3:03:43 PM �Express Marine Crews Approve New Contract SIU mariners working aboard Express Marine vessels recently ratified a new, three-year contract with wage increases each year, among other improvements. Negotiating for the SIU were Captain Riley Johnson, Mate Jeff Fackett and AB Scottie Duncan, alongside Philadelphia Port Agent Joe Baselice. The contract includes improved vacation benefits, a boost to the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan, and larger pension contributions. Members also maintain their medical coverage at the Core Plus level, the highest available under the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Fackett said, “It was an awesome process. Joe did a great job, and everyone seems to think it’s a great contract. Given the current conditions of the industry, I think we did a good job.” Duncan, who had served on a previous negotiating committee, said, “I think the new contract is going to be good for everyone. I believe it’s going to help our retirement benefits, as well as our weekly paychecks. Joe Baselice helped us pull some things together at the last minute, and was a real help during the whole process.” The new contract covers approximately 25 members. “Everything went well,” said Baselice. “We were able to address everything that the members had asked for, and it all came together in a nice package that the membership overwhelmingly approved. It’s a good contract with a good company.” Express Marine, Inc. has provided safe, reliable tug and barge transportation for dry bulk and liquid cargos along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, Caribbean and associated bays, harbors and rivers for more than 100 years. SIU members sail aboard the company’s fleet of tugs and barges, which range from smaller inland units to larger offshore ones. Adm. Paul F. Zukunft (Ret) Former U.S. Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Zukunft Named Next American Maritime Hero From left, Mate Jeff Fackett, Capt. Michael Daniels and Mate Greg Allman signal their approval of the new contract. USNS Puerto Rico Undergoes Successful Integrated Sea Trials A civilian-crewed U.S. military support ship recently took a big step towards delivery. The USNS Puerto Rico – which will be crewed by CIVMARS from the SIU Government Services Division – successfully completed the first integrated sea trials for an expeditionary fast transport (EPF) ship Aug. 22. The vessel returned to the Austal USA shipyard in Mobile, Alabama, following two days underway in the Gulf of Mexico. Integrated trials combine builder’s and acceptance trials, allowing for the shipyard to demonstrate to the Navy’s Board of Inspection and Survey the operational capability and mission readiness of all the ship’s systems during a single underway period. During trials, the shipbuilder October 2019 54930_Seafarers_X.indd 3 conducted comprehensive tests to demonstrate the performance of the Puerto Rico’s major systems. “The EPF program continues to be an The American Maritime Partnership (AMP), to which the SIU is affiliated, has announced the latest addition to its American Maritime Heroes campaign: former U.S. Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Paul F. Zukunft (Ret). According to AMP, “An American Maritime Hero is recognized for his or her courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities that have added to the rich history of America as a maritime nation.” The coalition said Zukunft has demonstrated strong support for the Jones Act and the greater American maritime industry – understanding its vital importance in strengthening our national security. Zukunft, who retired in 2018, has previously stated: “[Without the Jones Act,] all of our coastwise trade will probably be done by a third nation, namely China, [and] not just coastwise trade, but plying our inland river systems as well.… The next thing that goes away is the [U.S. and state] maritime academies. You don’t need them because we have foreign mariners. We don’t know who they are, but they are foreign mariners plying our waters and our internal waters as well to conduct maritime commerce. Then the next thing that goes is our shipyards and the technology that goes with the shipyards.” Zukunft joins a group of recognized American Maritime Heroes including the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard, Shipbuilder Andrew Higgins, the late U.S. Rep. Jim Oberstar (D-Minnesota), the World War II U.S. Merchant Mariners and U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao. For more information on the campaign, which will culminate on the 100th anniversary of the Jones Act becoming law, visit https:// americanmaritimeheroes.com/ example of stable and successful serial ship production,” said Capt. Scot Searles, Navy Strategic and Theater Sealift program manager, Program Executive Office Ships. “I look forward to seeing EPF 11 deliver in the fall and expand the operational flexibility available to our combatant commanders.” SIU CIVMARS already sail aboard the previously launched EPFs. The Navy The USNS Puerto Rico wraps up sea trials. (Photo by Austal USA) describes the ships as “non-combatant vessels designed to operate in shallowdraft ports and waterways, increasing operational flexibility for a wide range of activities including maneuver and sustainment, relief operations in small or damaged ports, flexible logistics support, or as the key enabler for rapid transport. The ships are capable of interfacing with roll-on/roll-off discharge facilities, as well as on/off-loading vehicles such as a fully combat-loaded Abrams Main Battle Tank.” EPFs support a variety of missions including overseas contingency operations, conducting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, supporting special operations forces, and supporting emerging joint sea-basing concepts. In addition to the Puerto Rico, Austal USA is also currently in production on the future USNS Newport, and is under contract to build the future USNS Apalachicola and an additional sister ship that hasn’t been named. Seafarers LOG 3 9/19/2019 3:03:45 PM �Richard Trumka: Workers ‘Not Interested in a Sliver Of Change,’ Demand Economy That Works For Them Workers are “not interested in a sliver of change or gestures” from politicians, but demand massive shifts to an economy that works for them rather than heavily benefiting the extremely wealthy, AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka recently stated. And, primed by their unions, they’re already demanding and getting that commitment from presidential candidates on the campaign trail, he added. Trumka, a longtime friend of the SIU, made those remarks and many others Aug. 29 during an annual pre-Labor Day press breakfast hosted by The Christian Science Monitor. He cited several important steps that would help ensure an economy that works for all, including passage of the Protect the Right to Organize (Pro) Act, strong worker safeguards in the U.S., and massive changes in labor laws (and enforcement) in Mexico before any ratification of an updated NAFTA. (The Pro Act, designed to strengthen U.S. labor law, now has more than 200 U.S. House co-sponsors and 41 Senate cosponsors.) Additionally, Trumka noted that unions’ popularity, at least as measured by an annual Gallup Poll, recently reached a record 64% approval. But that hasn’t translated, yet, into increasing union numbers, due to the loopholes and flaws of U.S. labor law. He sees change coming, though, citing new state-level legislation that will open the way to organizing significant numbers of workers. Trumka also expressed optimism stemming from public-sector union membership gains that happened after last year’s Supreme Court Janus decision, which some had viewed as a potentially devastating blow to organized labor. However, the federation president noted, the disconnect between union popularity and results has led the AFL-CIO, in its preparations for the 2020 presidential campaign, to undertake a massive education effort among its affiliates’ members, prepping them on questions for the contenders. The quizzes are a prelude to what Trumka predicts will be a record labor political effort next year. Those questions involve kitchen-table issues, such as years of stagnant wages, pensions which crashed in the Great Recession, increased corporate shifting of health care spending from firms to workers, and the right to organize free of corporate interference and repression. The kitchen-table questions also include so-called “free trade” pacts and business’s corresponding massive export of U.S. jobs to Mexico. Those issues and others have come up on the campaign trail as unionists have quizzed some of the hopefuls. The results, Trumka said, have been gratifying. “We’re excited that all the candidates are talking about workers’ rights and unions, and that’s a big plus,” Trumka said when asked to rank five top contenders: former Vice President Joe Biden, Sens. Bernie Sanders (Ind-Vermont), Elizabeth Warren (D-Massachusetts), and Kamala Harris (D-California), and South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg. Trumka declined to rank them. “Any (AFLCIO) endorsement will come from the bottom up – from our members through our executive council,” he replied. “And it’ll take 70% of the vote there.” “They’re asking candidates about their position on different issues that are important to them, and forcing the candidates to think about it,” Trumka said of union members. “And if they have a position, it’s stated. If they don’t, they think it through and get a position. That’s where we’ve been largely successful and we will do that again.” And in that respect, all the current hopefuls differ from 2016 Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton, whom most unions supported early in her contest with Sanders. She put kitchentable issues second, behind criticizing Donald Trump, said Trumka. He added that the possibility of winning workers’ votes will increase if candidates spend more time talking about “changing the rules – and it’s not just trade, it’s tax laws, it’s regulations, it’s health and safety, it’s education, it’s health care, it’s pensions…. It’s bankruptcy laws that have stripped workers of their pensions over the years.” On other issues, Trumka reiterated labor’s opposition to the nomination of Eugene Scalia, a pro-management attorney, to be the new Labor Secretary. Trump formally sent Scalia’s name to the Senate on August 26. No hearings have been scheduled yet on the nod. “We actively opposed him in 2002, because his record was so bad,” Trumka stated. “It’s only gotten worse. His views are dangerously outside the mainstream.” AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka Illinois Rep. Introduces Pro-Maritime Resolution Illinois Rep. Jay Hoffman The Illinois General Assembly will have a chance to show its support for the U.S. Merchant Marine, following the recent introduction of a pro-maritime statement by Rep. Jay Hoffman (D). Hoffman, the assistant majority leader, represents the state’s 113th District. His statement is a well-informed description of why the nation is best-served by maintaining a strong maritime industry, including American crews. In part, the statement reads: “The members of the Illinois House of Representatives are supportive of federal statutes that ensure that vessels engaged in the coastwise and inland trades are built and crewed by American workers; the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, the Passenger Vessel Services Act, and U.S. cargo preference laws are critical in maintaining a viable American Merchant Marine…. Without the Jones Act, the American Merchant Marine and its well-paying jobs would be destroyed, and the domestic water- borne commerce of the U.S. would be controlled by foreign interests.” The statement also credits the U.S. Maritime Security Program for its affordability and military usefulness. “The program requires that the vessels, crews, and participating companies’ intermodal assets are immediately available to the Department of Defense in times of crisis; military experts have said it would literally cost tens of billions of dollars to replicate the program’s assets, which currently are delivered for a few hundred million dollars per year,” the resolution points out. Later, the statement backs cargo preference laws, including the Food for Peace program, “whose purpose is to promote the food security of developing countries. Food aid is grown by American farmers, processed by American workers, and transported on board U.S. vessels to countries in need. Since the program’s inception in 1954, more than three billion people in 150 countries have benefited directly from U.S. food aid that was delivered by the U.S. Merchant Marine.” Moreover, the statement also supports development and expansion of America’s marine highway system, and takes to task the so-called flag-of-convenience setup, “in which avaricious shipowners around the world register their vessels in phony flag states to evade labor, safety, environmental, and tax laws.” The system “deserves condemnation [and] has resulted in the global exploitation of seagoing maritime labor and the reduction of international commercial cargo carried by U.S. vessels….” The statement concludes that the House backs “the U.S. Merchant Marine as America’s fourth arm of defense and recognizes that the American maritime industry is critical for U.S. national, economic, and homeland security and that our mariners and our maritime industry deserve our full support.” The Illinois General Assembly reconvenes in late October or November. Seafarers March in Labor Day Parade Seafarers were out in force for the 40th Labor Day parade in Wilmington, California. Pictured at the hall before joining the festivities are (from left) Port Agent Jeff Turkus, DEU John Raquipiso, AB Edward Alfonso, AB Paul Elderts, Chief Cook Todd Curry, ACU David Simon, Bosun Ruben Saturday, AB Julius Dagoldol, ACU Ricky Sencida, SA Sheryl Johnson, SA Ed Lopez, SA Gedrick Reyes, AB Leonard Ajoste and Chief Cook Richard Walker. “There was a great turnout this year overall,” noted Turkus. “There were about 5,000 union members and their families and supporters.” 4 Seafarers LOG 54930_Seafarers_X.indd 4 October 2019 9/19/2019 3:03:46 PM �EPI Asks (and Answers): How is Economy Working for America’s Working Families? A new report from the Economic Policy Institute (EPI) thoroughly examines the economic plight of American workers. “This report makes clear that despite an unemployment rate below 4%, wage growth continues to elude the vast majority of working families,” noted EPI Vice President John Schmitt. “This is a result of a decades-long attack on labor unions, and trickledown policies that put corporate profits and CEO pay ahead of the rights and wages of working people.” A headline on one of the essays contained in the overall report stated, “Working people have been thwarted in their efforts to bargain for better wages by attacks on unions.” The report, available online at epi.org, was launched just before Labor Day. The research therein is consistent with the nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank’s selfdescribed mission of “including the needs of low- and middle-income workers in economic policy discussions…. EPI conducts research and analysis on the economic status of working America. EPI proposes public policies that protect and improve the economic conditions of low- and middleincome workers and assesses policies with respect to how they affect those workers.” One of the report components, by Heidi Shierholz, points out that the “share of workers represented by unions has dropped by more than half since 1979 – from 27.0% to 11.7% in 2018. Not coincidentally, the share of income going to the top 10% has escalated in this period – these high earners now capture nearly half of all income. The decline of unions is not because people don’t want to be in unions. They do: The share of people who either have union coverage or report they want it is 60% – the same as it was 40 years ago. But employers’ aggressive efforts to dismantle unions and impede organizing efforts have robbed workers of this opportunity. We need fundamental reform of labor law to restore and protect workers’ rights to come together and have a voice in their workplace.” Her conclusion about the need for labor law reform is shared by the AFL-CIO, to which the SIU is affiliated. Such reform is one of the federation’s top priorities, though it’s also an enormous challenge. “Impeding union representation has been a primary goal of corporate interests in recent decades, and these interests have convinced conservative policymakers to attack collective bargaining through legislation, executive rulemaking, and the courts,” Shierholz added. “Meanwhile, policymakers claiming to care about the economic struggles of typical Americans have too often turned a blind eye to these “This report makes clear that despite an unemployment rate below 4%, wage growth continues to elude the vast majority of working families. This is a result of a decades-long attack on labor unions, and trickledown policies that put corporate profits and CEO pay ahead of the rights and wages of working people.” - - - EPI Vice President John Schmitt attacks. But if workers are not able to effectively organize into unions, broadly shared prosperity that extends to most working people has virtually no chance.” Her part of the report states it is “no surprise that workers want unions.” The EPI, using government data, found that on average, a worker covered by a union contract earns 13.2% more than a peer with similar education, occupation, and experience in a nonunionized workplace in the same sector. Union workers also are more likely to have employer-sponsored health insurance, and their employers tend to contribute more toward those plans. They are also more likely to have paid vacation and sick Maritime Administrator Pledges Jones Act Support Outlines Efforts to Recapitalize RRF, Boost Manpower The head of the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) recently reiterated that the agency is constantly pushing to revitalize the U.S. Merchant Marine. At a recent Navy League breakfast, Maritime Administrator RAdm. Mark Buzby (USN, Ret) spoke of the importance of the American maritime industry, in relation to both domestic security and the nation’s economy. He also identified MARAD’s top priorities. Buzby said, “We are addressing the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) and ensuring that it is prepared to answer the call. That has been a struggle, with readiness of the 44-year-old fleet a day-to-day challenge given our budgetary constraints. I’m pleased that Congress has increasingly gotten it on their scope, and having TRANSCOM Commander General Steve Lyons testify that RRF recap is his number one priority is a huge deal. Long-term, we believe the Navy’s surge sealift recapitalization strategy, which includes a combination of targeted service life extensions, acquiring and converting used vessels, October 2019 54930_Seafarers_X.indd 5 leave, more input into the number of hours they work, and more predictable schedules. Union employers are more likely to offer retirement plans and to contribute more toward those plans than comparable nonunion employers, the EPI found. Other benefits of union representation, according to the report, include providing workers due-process protections; creating safer workplaces (“because union workers are protected by their unions from repercussions for reporting safety issues, they are more likely to report safety concerns”); and shrinking the racial wage gap. “Furthermore, the benefits of collective bargaining extend beyond those em- and building new sealift vessels in U.S. shipyards, will get us where we need to be.” He continued, “I pledged myself to a vigorous defense of the Jones Act. There has been a lot of discussion about the Jones Act of late, much of it misinformed and some of it purposely misleading. We’ve turned back several serious challenges to this indispensable policy, but only a vigilant watch will protect this linchpin of American maritime policy from attack.” A lifelong advocate of American mariners and a former commanding officer of the U.S. Military Sealift Command, Buzby said MARAD is working “across the board, from growing the U.S.-flag fleet and strengthening our ports to improving and modernizing maritime education and addressing the mariner shortage, to help ensure that America’s maritime community is ready to meet all challenges in an increasingly contentious and competitive world. That means not only addressing the needs for the RRF, but also supporting U.S.-flag commercial carriers ployees who are represented by a union,” Shierholz wrote. “Where unions are strong, they effectively set broader standards that nonunion employers must meet in order to attract and retain the workers they need and to avoid facing an organizing drive. The combination of the direct effect of unions on union members and this ‘spillover’ effect to nonunion workers means unions are crucial in fostering a vibrant middle class and reducing income inequality.” Shierholz also debunks a view held by some outside the labor movement that the decline in collective bargaining has occurred naturally. “Quite the contrary,” she wrote. “Fierce corporate opposition has suppressed workers’ freedom to form so U.S.-flag ships are there for us to provide sustained sealift.” He added, “The MSP (Maritime Security Program) stipend is a lifeline for those carriers who struggle to compete against foreign competitors who benefit from government subsidies and preferential tax policies.” He then addressed the manpower shortage, saying, “Right now, we remain about 1,800 mariners short of what we need to crew government and commercial sealift ships to meet national security needs. Closing that gap demands that we grow the U.S.-flag fleet to ensure that qualified American mariners have places to ply their trade. “We also recently announced nine new marine highway projects that will join previously designated projects in being eligible to apply for $7 million of marine highway grants this year,” he concluded. “Short sea shipping is an additional way that we can boost Jones Act shipping and support mariner jobs. There are some really innovative ideas emerging in the marine highways sector.” The Navy League of the United States, founded in 1902 with the support of President Theodore Roosevelt, is a nonprofit civilian, educational and advocacy organization that supports America’s sea services: the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and U.S.-flag Merchant Marine. As part of its mission focus, the Navy League of the United States, according to its website, unions and bargain collectively. Intense and aggressive anti-union campaigns – once confined to the most anti-union employers – have become widespread; it is now typical, when workers seek to organize, for their employers to hire union avoidance consultants to orchestrate fierce anti-union campaigns. “And though the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) makes it illegal for employers to intimidate, coerce, or fire workers in retaliation for participating in union-organizing campaigns, the penalties are insufficient to provide a serious economic disincentive for such behavior (there are no punitive damages or criminal charges under the NLRA; penalties may consist of being required to post a notice or reinstate illegally fired workers),” she continued. “This means that many illegal tactics can be actively pursued; for example, employers often threaten to close the worksite, cut union activists’ hours or pay, or report workers to immigration enforcement authorities if employees unionize. More than one in seven union organizers and activists are illegally fired while trying to organize unions at their place of work.” Yet, despite such conduct, policymakers “have egregiously failed to update labor laws to rebalance the system,” she said. “In fact, in many cases policy is moving backward; 27 states have passed so-called right-to-work laws, which are intended to undermine union finances by making it illegal for unions to require nonunion members of a collective bargaining unit (who don’t pay union dues) to pay ‘fair share fees’ – fees that cover only the basic costs of representing employees in the workplace. And the Supreme Court decision in Janus v. AFSCME – a case financed by a small group of foundations with ties to the largest and most powerful corporate lobbies – made ‘right-to-work’ the law of the land for all public-sector unions. Conclusion: We need to protect workers’ rights to organize and bargain collectively.” Mark Buzby Maritime Administrator “Enhances the morale of sea service personnel and their families through national and council level programs, provides a powerful voice to educate the public and Congress on the importance of our sea services to our nation’s defense, well-being and economic prosperity and supports youth through programs, such as the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps, Junior ROTC and Young Marines, that expose young people to the values of our sea services.” Seafarers LOG 5 9/19/2019 3:03:47 PM �Mariners work on various electrical projects in the new electronics lab. Upgraders work inside the new machine shop. Students, Instructors Praise PHC Machine Shop Upgrades As detailed in last month’s issue of the LOG, the machine shop at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education has recently undergone a complete overhaul, with new equipment, classrooms and specially designed trainers. PHC Acting Vice President Tom Orzechowski noted, “The shop is completely retooled and set for the next level of training. The building itself went through a complete renovation, and we added new classroom space adjacent to the new Electricians’ Lab. New trainers encompassing every aspect needed for upgrading and basic training are now available and at the ready. This brings our vocational shop up to date and prepares us for the future.” “This is a plus right here,” said QMED Lamont Robinson of the new Electrical Training Lab. “We had something like 2019 SEATU Convention Builds Towards Future Convention themes aren’t always so literal, but at the 2019 Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union (SEATU) Triennial Convention, “Building for the Future” was a slogan that delivered. The convention took place September 1011, at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland, and brought with it news of solid membership growth, new contracts and multiple new constructions, the latter of which potentially will provide jobs for hundreds and hundreds of SEATU members before the next convention. SEATU is an affiliate of the Seafarers International Union of North America. In addition to reports from each SEATU representative and a dozen resolutions, attendees were treated to presentations from: Cornel Martin, President and CEO of the Delta Queen Steamboat Company; Howard Weinstein, Senior Vice President and General Counsel at The Cordish Companies; Nelson Hill, Vice President of United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW) Local 27; Daniel Duncan, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO; Valerie Cole, SEATU’s Union Plus Representative; and Brian Schoeneman, SEATU’s Legislative Director. Representing the SIU at the convention were SIU (and SEATU) President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice-President Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President of Contracts George Tricker, Gen- eral Counsel Leslie Tarantola, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone, Assistant Vice Presidents Bryan Powell, Pat Vandegrift and Mike Russo, Port Agent Mark von Siegel, Port Agent Todd Brdak, Port Agent Victor Nunez, and Safety Directors Amber Akana, James Brown and William Tyson Little. The SEATU Representatives in attendance were Akana, Monte Burgett, Brdak, Brown, Patti Christian, Gerard Dhooge, Amber Gibson, Ashley Smith, Shane Sterry, and Little. Each brought delegates from their respective worksites to the convention. Martin presented information on the long history of the Delta Queen, a celebrated river steamboat which operated from 1927 until 2008 as an overnight passenger vessel, often carrying SIU crews. The vessel was granted a Congressional Exemption on December 4, 2018, which will allow the Delta Queen Steamboat Company to fully restore the boat and return it to overnight river cruise service. He explained that in 2007, the owners of the boat at that time began to crew the vessel with non-union, improperly trained employees. Shortly thereafter, also in 2007, the vessel’s exemption expired, as Congress no longer felt the vessel was being operated safely by qualified mariners. By October 2008, the vessel was retired from sailing the waterways, and was operated as a floating hotel in Chattanooga, Tennessee, until 2014. SEATU representatives, delegates and guests look on during the convention session. 6 Seafarers LOG 54930_Seafarers_X.indd 6 this, but it was very basic. Everything is right here now, and organized much better.” Robinson also praised the other new trainers, as well as the overall redesign of the space. QMED Reginald Hunter also credited the new Electrical Training Lab, saying, “You could wire whatever you want, it’s all right in front of you. Much better than what we used to have.” Martin then spoke on how he became involved with the Delta Queen: “The hotel eventually came under the operation of Randy and Leah Ann Ingram, longtime supporters of the Delta Queen, in 2010.... In 2012, they contacted me and said, ‘We’d like to see the Delta Queen cruise again on the river, and we’d like you to come on board and help us.’ And I said, there’s only one way I’ll do it, and that’s if you agree to [get input from maritime labor].” After a detailed report of the work it will take to restore and modernize the vessel to meet current safety requirements, Martin stated that the boat will sail the inland rivers again as soon as the restoration is complete. Weinstein’s presentation also carried with it the reveal of potential new jobs on the horizon. After a look back at the history of the working relationship between Maryland LIVE! Casino and the union, he focused on the future expansion of that property, as well as new facilities. “We are in the process of building two new casinos,” he said. “The first is in Pittsburgh, which is due to open in August of next year. And the second one is another casino, in Philadelphia, which is also due to open next year.” He further clarified that the Philadelphia property is both a hotel and casino, and will employ hundreds of people in both facilities when it opens in December 2020. He then mentioned that the partnership with SEATU isn’t always perfect, and that there have been plenty of disagreements and grievances over the years. “I share that with you because we have good, healthy disagreements, and the relationship stays intact. We’re both committed to the long term here, and it has worked very, very well,” he concluded. Duncan explained the importance of grassroots and community activities, and how QMED Christian O’Brien agreed, adding, “It’s awesome! Seems a lot more professional, and definitely more organized. It makes me feel a lot more confident now.” PHC Instructor Chris Morgan also spoke on the new upgrades, saying, “I think we’ve seen a dramatic improvement with the recent changes. With these technical advances, we can teach a lot more in our classes. All welcome improvements.” SEATU executives and representatives have stepped up to do their part. For example, he noted the union’s successful efforts to defeat so-called right-to-work statutes in Missouri; and SEATU’s volunteerism in assisting Habitat for Humanity in Baltimore. Schoeneman offered a fact-based picture of the current political landscape, saying, “Let me put things into perspective. This Congress is on pace to being the most do-nothing Congress in the history of the Union. Since January when they came into office, they’ve created and enacted 56 laws. 56. Of those 56, 26 were things like post office namings, short-term extensions of programs and technical corrections bills.... That gets us to about 150 bills by the end of this Congress. When President Truman ran in 1948 against the first do-nothing Congress that he christened, that Congress passed 906 laws. “That being said, the 2020 election cycle is probably going to be one of the most contentious in history,” he continued. “The 2016 election saw the largest number of Americans in history voting, despite the turnout hovering around 60 percent. Last year’s mid-term elections saw turnout of almost 50 percent, which was the highest since 1966 and way up from 2014, when 37 percent of eligible voters cast a ballot – the lowest in 72 years.” He then urged everyone in attendance to get out to the polls and vote, reminding them that every vote counts. Outside of the meeting hours, SEATU representatives and delegates attended discussions and seminars, before being treated to a crab feast as well as campus tours for those so inclined. Delegates unanimously re-elected Sacco as president, Heindel as secretary-treasurer and Tellez and Orzechowski as vice presidents. From left, General Counsel Leslie Tarantola swears in the newly elected SEATU Executive Board: President Michael Sacco, Vice Presidents Tom Orzechowski and Augustin Tellez and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. October 2019 9/19/2019 3:03:50 PM �‘Fuji’ Finds a Home for Lighthouse Collection When longtime Seafarer Shawn “Fuji” Fujiwara realized he had to downsize from his residence, he wanted to find a suitable home for some of his prized lighthouse model collection. It didn’t take long for him to identify his preferred destinations: SIU headquarters, and the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. “Now, people can enjoy them. That was a big thing,” said Fujiwara, a recertified steward who is retiring due to medical issues stemming from a major auto accident. “Lighthouses are part of our industry, and our headquarters is a beacon. The models are going to a good home.” Fujiwara, 55, started sailing with the SIU in May 1988, aboard the cruise ship Independence. “I was kind of struggling before I joined the union,” he recalled. “I went to the union hall (in Honolulu), got signed up, did the physical. The port agent looked at me and said, ‘Hey you, you want a job? Ninety-day rotary.’ I didn’t know what 90-day rotary meant. My mom was excited because I was going to work on a cruise ship. I didn’t know what I was getting into.” It wound up being an excellent fit. Fujiwara pursued his sailing career with constant enthusiasm – and with appreciation. “I always had a good job and I always had something to look forward to,” he noted. “As a steward, I always believed Though he didn’t plan to retire this soon, Seafarer Shawn Fujiwara (center) maintains a positive outlook about his career as well as his health. He’s pictured at the Tacoma hiring hall, receiving his first pension check. SIU Asst. VP Joe Vincenzo is at right, while Port Agent Warren Asp is at left. it was up to me to make a difference. You are the heartbeat of the ship. Plus, I don’t care if you own the restaurant, you’re not going to make the money you make on a ship.” Fujiwara maintained similar passion for his lighthouse models. A shipmate gave him a couple miniature lighthouses 30 years ago, and his interest quickly blossomed. He collected approximately 110 of them (most were created by artist Bob Younger, whom Fujiwara met). Purchases were made both online and in person, at collector events and stores. “I went crazy with it,” he said with a laugh, adding that the average cost was around $100 per item. “I had a cabinet custom-built so I could see them from the side. Later, I built a custom bookcase for some other ones. “But I like it because when a sailor saw a lighthouse, they knew safety was close,” he continued. “To me, the galley was a beacon of hope for the crew. Everything can be going to hell on deck and in the engine room, but if the galley area was good, that was a safety zone for everyone.” He donated nearly half of the lighthouses to the union and the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. A few were designated for specific individuals (including SIU President Michael Sacco), but most are displayed in offices and common areas throughout the respective locations. “Shawn’s generosity has given a big boost to our member lounge in particular,” said Chuck Corbin, building manager for the SIU headquarters facility in Camp Springs, Maryland. “The lighthouse models are really well-made and captivating.” Fujiwara also made other donations and kept 15 for himself. But parting with the items didn’t leave him bittersweet. He said he’s simply grateful to have survived the accident and to have found a new home while collecting his SIU pension and other retiree income. He also said he plans to remain involved with the union, particularly through the hiring hall in Tacoma, Washington. “The union has been a big part of my life for 30 years,” he The two photos above show some of the 110 lighthouse models collected by Recertified Steward Shawn Fujiwara. said. “That won’t change just because I can no longer sail.” Asked what advice he’d give to people who are entering the industry, he replied, “Keep your nose clean, believe in yourself – and you have to care. The day you stop caring, you need to get out. That’s true with any job. That’s what kept me going. From day one, I cared. “Also remember that you when you sign on board, you have watch – whether you’re relief, rotary or permanent,” he concluded. “You have the watch, so don’t put the blame on the person you relieved. Be you, make it right, and leave it better than the last person. With sadness, I have been relieved of watch and I have to come ashore.” Spotlight on Mariner Health Identify Cause of Dizziness Editor’s note: The following article was provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. Dizziness is a term used to describe a range of sensations, such as feeling faint, woozy, weak or unsteady on your feet. It is one of the most common reasons that adults will visit their doctor. Dizziness that makes people feel as though they are spinning or moving when they actually are not is called vertigo. Frequent or constant vertigo will interfere with individuals’ daily routines and should be evaluated by a physician as soon as possible. There are a variety of possible culprits when it comes to the causes of dizziness. Included are: low blood sugar, dehydration, hyperventilating and migraine headaches. Other causes are alcohol consumption, prescription medications, low blood pressure, and/or very high blood pressure that could also cause a stroke. Inner ear infections, Meniere’s disease, or problems with circulation and blood flow (such as anemia) can also cause dizziness and even vertigo. Treatments for dizziness need not be complicated and often involve commonsense measures, including: October 2019 54930_Seafarers_X.indd 7 n Moving slowly – Do not just jump up from a seated position. Instead, move at a normal pace. It’s important to establish a good blood flow from the extremities back up to the heart/lungs and brain. n Exercise daily – Do this to establish a routine for your body. Also remember to drink plenty of fluids. n Take medications as instructed – Do not miss doses or take more than prescribed. n Know your diet – Avoid consuming foods that could possibly cause allergies. n Treat inner ear infections with medications prescribed by your doctor. n Check your blood pressure regularly – Use home blood pressure machines to stay on top of readings. Immediately report any significant changes (too high, or too low) to your doctor. n Use a walking aid – If dizziness persists, use a cane or walker. This will provide needed stability. n Limit the use of caffeine, alcohol and tobacco. Most cases of dizziness will clear up on their own once the underlying cause has been identified. If not, see your doctor for testing. Healthy Recipe Cajun Chicken Servings: 25 Ingredients 10 pounds chicken breast without skin, trimmed of fat Seasoning: ½ cup olive oil 2 tablespoons thyme, dry crushed fine 1 ¼ teaspoons salt 1 ½ tablespoons Spanish paprika 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 ½ tablespoons granulated garlic 2 tablespoons oregano, dry crushed fine 1 teaspoon white pepper, ground 1 teaspoon cumin, ground ½ teaspoon nutmeg, ground Garnish: 2 tablespoons parsley, fresh chopped ¼ cup red bell pepper, roasted and diced Preparation Place the chicken in a large container with plenty of room. Pour the olive oil all over the chicken. Mix all the remaining dry ingredients together. Mix the dry seasoning into the chicken. Marinate over night. Grill the marinated chicken over medium-high heat on a well-oiled grill. Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side; cook half way through. Place the seared chicken in 2” hotel pans. Bake the chicken in a 350 degree F oven uncovered for about 15-20 minutes until internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Garnish pans with chopped parsley and roasted peppers. Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 205 calories; 6g fat (28.6% calories from fat); 34g protein; 1g carbohydrate; trace dietary fiber; 84mg cholesterol; 202md sodium. Exchanges; 0 grain (starch); 4 ½ lean meat; 0 vegetable; 1 fat. Provided by Chef Robert “RJ” Johnson of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship. Seafarers LOG 7 9/19/2019 3:03:53 PM �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU GATHERING IN PHILLY – SIU officials in August attended the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement convention in Philadelphia. Pictured from left are SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, LCLAA National President Yanira Merino, AFLCIO President Richard Trumka and SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo. SIU HONORED – Philadelphia City Councilman Alan Taubenberger on Aug. 21 presented a proclamation to the union, thanking the SIU for its help and support in the community. Pictured at the hiring hall are (from left) SIU Safety Director Andre MacCray, Taubenberger and SIU Port Agent Joe Baselice. BOATMEN BACK SPAD – Two Seafarers employed by G&H Towing recently signed up for SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. They joined two fellow crew members who already were donating. Pictured from left are Mate Francois Conde-Jahn, Deckhand Mauro Gutierrez, Chief Engineer Christopher Wooten, SIU Port Agent Joe Zavala and Capt. Jean Sean Irish. Conde-Jahn and Gutierrez are the newly signed-up members. B-BOOK IN HOUSTON – QEE Orlin Thomas (left) is sworn in for his B-book at the hiring hall. SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey is at right. SPREADING THE WORD – Patrolman Ray Henderson sets up at a career fair at Port Richmond High School in Staten Island, New York, in early August. ABOARD USNS PETERSBURG – Pictured from left aboard the TOTE Services vessel in San Francisco are GUDE Julian Lacuesta, Bosun Roberto Flauta, AB Elorde Ramos, AB Leodiane Torrenueva, Chief Steward Jurally Aseberos and QEP Mohamed Sheriff. 8 Seafarers LOG 54930_Seafarers.indd 8 October 2019 9/18/19 12:39 PM �ABOARD AMERICAN SPIRIT – Pictured in the photo directly above are Bosun Jabr Ali, AB/Wheelsman Jamal Sailan and Gateman Ali Yahya. The photo at left includes Chief Cook Mohamed Algalham and ACU Aldrin Saez. The American Steamship Co. vessel was docked in Indiana Harbor, Indiana, in late July when the photos were taken. ABOARD EL COQUI – This steward-department selfie aboard the Crowley vessel features (from left) Recertified Steward Juan Vallejo, SA La’Sonia Randolph and Chief Cook Bryan Alvarez. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD GLOBAL SENTINEL – Pictured from left to right aboard the Transoceanic cable ship in Baltimore (above, left) are Chief Steward Brian Bautista, SIU Piney Point Port Agent Victor Nunez, 3rd Cook Albert Hermoso and Chief Cook Casey Pearson. Nunez and AB Antonio Arizala are pictured in the center photo, while AB Alex Reyes, Nunez and Recertified Bosun Sanyboy Whiting are shown in the photo at right. MANY BOOKS IN OAKLAND – Several Seafarers received union books at the August membership meeting. Picking up their respective A-books in photo above were Ali Ghaleb (left) and Jose Balerite (right). They’re pictured with Port Agent Nick Marrone II. The photo at the immediate right shows members who got their B-books (from left): Jose Medina, Abdulrhman Omar and Jerwin Francisco. SEAFARING SELFIE – Chief Cook Anthony Harrell (right) and SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo are pictured aboard Crowley’s National Glory in Puerto Rico. October 2019 54930_Seafarers.indd 9 WELCOME TO CROWLEY VP – SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo (right) and Chief Cook Luis Perez (center) recently conferred with Crowley Maritime VP of Labor Relations Ira Douglas (left) at the hiring hall in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Perez most recently sailed on Crowley’s Taino. WELCOME ASHORE – Recertified Steward Randy Stephens (left) picks up his first pension check at the Houston hall. He’s pictured with Patrolman J.B. Niday. PASSING DURING THE DAY – Two SIU-crewed tankers are pictured this summer in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. That’s the West Virginia at left and the Lone Star State at right. Both ships are operated by Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning. Seafarers LOG 9 9/18/19 12:39 PM �Remembering the SIU-Crewed SS Henry Bacon Editor’s note: This article originally appeared in a booklet titled “The Seafarers in World War II.” Written by the late SIU historian John Bunker, the 44-page digest recapped the often-heroic work of Seafarers during the war. (More than 1,200 SIU members lost their lives during World War II.) The tale of the SS Henry Bacon is the tome’s final entry. It is presented here as both a respectful nod to the union’s history – and a descriptive reminder of why the U.S. Merchant Marine is known as America’s fourth arm of defense. Twenty-seven people, most of them SIU members, perished as the Bacon was attacked and then sank. The vessel was the last Allied ship sunk by German aircraft during the war. No better finale to the story of SIU ships in World War II could be written than the epic account of the SS Henry Bacon, an SIU-manned Liberty operated by the South Atlantic Steamship Company. Cold were the Artic waters and forbidding was the sky when the Henry Bacon added its name to the list of valiant fighting freighters. Besides her crew, the Henry Bacon carried 19 Norwegian refugees as passengers, when she headed back toward Scotland after a voyage to Murmansk, North Russia, in the early winter of 1945. After leaving the White Sea, the Bacon had been in convoy, only to lose contact with it on the 19th of February because of heavy weather. She rejoined it on the 20th, then dropped out again two days later when trouble developed with the steering gear. A heavy gale was blowing, and Captain Alfred Carini radioed his plight to the convoy while the black gang worked on the steering mechanism. Contact Lost With this finally fixed, the Bacon proceeded, meeting up with more moderate seas, but seeing no sign of her companions which, Captain Carini then decided, they must have passed during the night as they hurried to rejoin the fleet. Having lost radio contact, and there being no response to his messages, he decided to turn back over his course for just one hour in the hope of picking up their companion ships. It was while doubling back on her wake that the Henry Bacon was suddenly attacked by a huge flight of 23 torpedo planes that pounced upon the lone Liberty almost as soon as the thundering roar of their engines was heard through the leaden sky, sending the crew running to battle stations. Twenty-three planes against one merchant ship! It was odds enough for a battleship or a cruiser. Many a big aircraft carrier that thought itself hard pressed in the Pacific thundered back at half as much opposition with a hundred times the firepower that this unattended freighter The SIU-crewed SS Henry Bacon could muster for its defense there amid the bleak, rolling waters. There was not another ship around upon which to call for help. The bombers were Junkers 88s, coming in off the starboard bow in an extended, wing-to-wing formation no more than 30 feet above the jumbled wave tops. All Guns Working Every gun on the Bacon went into action as soon as the canvas covers could be pulled off the barrels, and the magazines clamped onto the breech of the 20-millimeters. The sky around the ship was pocked with shell bursts as the fighting merchantmen and the vessel’s armed guard drove off sally after sally by those audacious bombers that attacked simultaneously, one to a side, darting away through a hail of 20-millimeter shells. The gun on the bow boomed out at point blank range, blowing one bomber to pieces as it banked and exposed its belly to the Bacon’s forward gun. Another Nazi nosed into a wall of 20-millimeter fire and dived into the sea in flames. A third wobbled aimlessly over the waves with smoke pouring from his engine. He probably crashed into the steep, green seas soon after, but the crew had no time to worry about verifying their hits. When the Germans swooped down on the unaccompanied Bacon they probably were expecting an easy time of it. Three or four torpedoes and the laboring Liberty would sink beneath the waves, they no doubt thought. If they expected any resistance at all, they were certainly unprepared for the flame and fire of battle with which the men of the Bacon met this overpowering assault. More Ammunition The 20-millimeters stopped firing long enough only to load more ammunition, to change overheated barrels. A bomber which tried to get in at the ship from dead ahead ran into a storm of this small shellfire and disintegrated into a thousand pieces, as tracers found the torpedo slung SIU Scholarship Helped Member’s Son Launch Long, Successful Legal Career Editor’s note: This article was written and submitted by Lynn Thompson, a retired reporter in Seattle. She recently wrote a longer feature about civil rights attorney Lem Howell for the legal community. Seattle attorney Lembhard “Lem” Howell spent a 50-year career cham- 10 Seafarers LOG 54930_Seafarers.indd 10 pioning civil rights. He’s received numerous awards for his legal advocacy, landmark lawsuits to expand employment opportunities for African Americans and for his work to reform the criminal justice system in Washington state. But Howell, now 83, has never forgotten that the Seafarers International beneath the fuselage and blew up plane and occupants in a terrible explosion of steel and flaming debris. Torpedo after torpedo missed the ship when the pilots faltered in their aim in the face of such concentrated fire from this fighting Liberty. For twenty minutes the gunners of the Henry Bacon, standing side by side with the men of the merchant crew, held off this armada of Junkers bombers that had by now become so madly exasperated by the heroic defense of the ship that, once their torpedoes were wasted, they flew at her with machine guns blazing. But such a fleet of planes had only to persist, if nothing else, to be successful against one unescorted ship, and a torpedo finally hit the Henry Bacon on the starboard side in number-three hold, forward. When another tin fish found its mark soon after, Captain Carini ordered the ship to be abandoned. Not All Leave The fateful signal to “leave her”’ was sounded in long, solemn blasts from the whistle while the Junkers – about eight or nine fewer than when they had begun the fight – roared away from the scene toward the coast of Norway 200 miles to the east. The doughty Bacon had kept them in action longer than they wanted. With their gas getting low, they could find no satisfaction in winging around as this “bulldog” settled beneath the waves. The order from the Skipper was “passengers first” and, though two of the lifeboats had been smashed in high seas, the Norwegian refugees – man, women and children – were put safely over the side into the first boat launched, along with some of the merchant crew and Navy gunners. Into the second lifeboat went as many more as could be accommodated. It could not possibly hold them all, but still there was no rush for seats of safety. These SIU crewmen and their Navy comrades waited quietly as Third Mate Joseph Scott counted the regular crew assigned to the boat, and then called to the deck above for half a dozen more to climb down over the scramble nets and take their places between the thwarts. During this time Bosun Holcomb Lemmon was making what the survivors later described as “heroic efforts” to help his shipmates over the side into lifeboats and onto several life rafts which had been launched into the chilling waters. This done, he hurried about the sinking ship gathering boards to lash together as emergency rafts. The Henry Bacon was slowly sinking. Water was pouring into her holds. The black gang had left the engine room and all was deserted down below. Bit by bit the cold water rose higher around her rust-streaked side plates. One of the men assigned to a place in the Third Mate’s boat was Chief Engineer Donald Haviland, who climbed over the side into the bobbing craft only to decline his chance for rescue in favor of a young crewman. The Chief had already taken a seat in the boat when, looking up at the men still left on the Bacon’s deck, he saw among the forlorn group a youthful crewman staring down at those who were about to push away from the settling hulk. Deserting his own place in the boat, Mr. Haviland yelled to the lad to hurry down the net and take his chance for safety. So Long, Brothers “Hey, you,” he called. “You’re a young fellow. It won’t matter so much if I don’t get back.” As the Henry Bacon went down, the survivors in the lifeboats saw Chief Engineer Haviland leaning against the bulwarks with Bosun Holcomb Lemmon, as casually as though the ship was leaving the dock for another routine voyage. Captain Carini waved to them from the bridge and, as he did so, the Henry Bacon slid swiftly and quietly under the sea. A big wave rolled over the spot and soon only some floating boards and crates marked where this gallant fighting freighter of the SIU had written such a glorious chapter into the annals of the American merchant service. Union awarded him a scholarship in 1955 that allowed him to lay the educational foundation for his future success. Howell’s father, Seafarer Cleveland Howell, a Jamaican immigrant and union activist who worked to integrate SIU, encouraged his son’s academic achievement from an early age. Howell recalls his father pointing to his head and saying, “What you have up here, they can’t take away from you.” Howell received a four-year, $6,000 union scholarship – about $57,000 in today’s dollars. Howell Continued on Page 13 Lem Howell October 2019 9/18/19 12:39 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 ANTHONY ADA Brother Anthony Ada, 66, began sailing with the SIU in 2005 when he shipped on the Green Lake. He was a member of the deck department and most recently sailed on the Overseas Key West. Brother Ada makes his home in Hacienda Heights, California. ALFONSO BOMBITA Brother Alfonso Bombita, 69, started sailing with the SIU in 1983, initially shipping aboard the Santa Maria. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Bombita last sailed aboard the Gem State. He resides in American Canyon, California. ROBINSON CRUSOE Brother Robinson Crusoe, 60, signed on with the SIU in 1998 when he shipped on the Keystone State. The deck department member’s final vessel was the Green Bay. Brother Crusoe makes his home in New Orleans. WILLIAM DOBBINS Brother William Dobbins, 62, embarked on his career with the union in 1978, first shipping aboard the J.A. Kling. A deck department member, he upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Dobbins concluded his career on the Olive L. Moore. He calls Willoughby, Ohio, home. STEVEN DUDLEY Brother Steven Dudley, 71, started his career with the SIU in 2001 when he sailed on the John Paul Bobo. Sailing in the deck department, Brother Dudley concluded his career on the North Star. He resides in Gig Harbor, Washington. SHAWN FUJIWARA Brother Shawn Fujiwara, 55, began his career with the SIU in 1989 when he sailed on the Independence. A steward department member, he upgraded his skills at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions. Brother Fujiwara most recently sailed on the California and settled in Tacoma, Washington. EDDIE HALL Brother Eddie Hall, 63, joined the SIU in 1979, initially sailing on the Jefferson Davis. He primarily October 2019 54930_Seafarers.indd 11 sailed in the deck department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Hall last sailed on the Ocean Jazz and makes his home in Houston. HERBERT HYDE Brother Herbert Hyde, 71, signed on with the SIU in 2003 when he sailed on the Delaware Bay. An engine department member, he upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Hyde last sailed on the Alliance St Louis. He lives in Tampa, Florida. ROBERT LANGDON Brother Robert Langdon, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1998, initially sailing aboard the USNS Stalwart. A member of the steward department, he upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2001. Brother Langdon last sailed on the Green Point. He calls Pembine, Wisconsin, home. LIONEL LEE Brother Lionel Lee, 72, started sailing with the SIU in 1987 when he shipped out aboard the USNS Harkness. He sailed in all three departments and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Lee’s last vessel was the Liberty. He resides in Oakland, California. ALI MUTHER Brother Ali Muther, 46, joined the SIU in 1993, initially sailing on the Independence. He upgraded at the union-affiliated Piney Point school in 2009 and shipped in the steward department. Brother Muther last sailed on the Horizon Anchorage and resides in Tacoma, Washington. EDWIN ORTEGA Brother Edwin Ortega, 59, signed on with the SIU in 1979, first sailing on the Pisces. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded often at the maritime training center located in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Ortega most recently shipped on the Maersk Seletar. He lives in Rockaway Beach, New York. KENNETH POWELL Brother Kenneth Powell, 66, began sailing with the union in 2003, initially shipping aboard the Lykes Explorer. An engine department member, he upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Powell last worked on the Golden State before settling in Warsaw, Missouri. Gladstone, Michigan, home. WILLIAM MULCAHY Brother William Mulcahy, 59, began sailing with the SIU in 1977, first shipping out aboard the Adam E. Cornelius. A deck department member, he upgraded often at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. Brother Mulcahy most recently shipped on the Walter J. McCarthy. He lives in Orange Park, Florida. LOUIS ULESKI JAMES RUSH Brother James Rush, 64, joined the SIU in 1980. The deck department member’s first vessel was the Santa Mariana. Brother Rush upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. He most recently shipped on the Alliance St. Louis and calls Jacksonville, Florida, home. IRINA SHUBOV Sister Irina Shubov, 73, embarked on her career with the SIU in 2005 when she sailed on the Liberty. She was a steward department member and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Sister Shubov last shipped on the Courage in 2013. She makes her home in Brockton, Massachusetts. Brother Louis Uleski, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1978, initially sailing on the Aries. Sailing in the deck department, he upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Uleski concluded his career on the Detroit Princess. He makes his home in Chesterfield, Michigan. INLAND RAY BROWN Brother Ray Brown, 71, began his career with the SIU in 2005 when he worked for G&H Towing. A deck department member, he remained with the same company for the duration of his career. Brother Brown resides in Rockport, Texas. EDWARD SOSA CRISPIN CARINO Brother Edward Sosa, 71, signed on with the Seafarers in 1999, initially shipping on the Express. He was a deck department member and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Sosa concluded his career on the Green Cove. He lives in Sunrise, Florida. Brother Crispin Carino, 62, joined the union in 2002, first shipping on the R.J. Pfeiffer. He upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center and sailed in both the steward and deck departments. After spending most of his career in the inland division, Brother Carino last sailed on the USNS Loyal. He resides in the Philippines. RANDY STEPHENS Brother Randy Stephens, 64, joined the union in 1987 when he sailed on the USNS Bartlett. He sailed in the steward department and in 2000 upgraded at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Stephens most recently shipped aboard the Palmetto State. He resides in Houston. GREAT LAKES DAVID DEMENTER Brother David Dementer, 62, became an SIU member in 1977 when he worked for Quality Quarries. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1995 and worked in both the deck and steward departments. Brother Dementer’s final vessel was the Joyce L. VanEnkevort. He calls JAMES CRISHER Brother James Crisher, 65, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 2005 when he shipped with the Association of Maryland Pilots. He continued to work for the same company for the remainder of his career. Brother Crisher calls Virginia Beach, Virginia, home. ROBERTO DIAZ CANDELARIO Brother Roberto Diaz Candelario, 66, joined the SIU in 1976 when he worked for Crowley Puerto Rico Services. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Diaz Candelario last sailed on the Producer. He resides in Orlando, Florida. GARY GILLISPIE Brother Gary Gillispie, 62, started sailing with the SIU in 1988. A deck department member, he worked for Orgulf Transport for the duration of his career. Brother Gillispie makes his home in Columbia, Kentucky. GLENN HUGHES Brother Glenn Hughes, 63, signed on with the union in 1974. A deck department member, he worked for Crescent Towing and Salvage for his entire career. Brother Hughes calls Gretna, Louisiana, home. ROBERT MULHOLLAND Brother Robert Mulholland, 55, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1996 when he worked for Crowley. He was employed by the same company for the duration of his career. Brother Mulholland calls Sewell, New Jersey, home. RAYMOND SAMARIA Brother Raymond Samaria, 60, joined the SIU in 2001. A deck department member, his first vessel was the Columbia Bay. Brother Samaria trained at the SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education around the same time he signed on with the Seafarers. He was last employed with OSG Ship Management and makes his home in Miami. WILLIAM SMITH Brother William Smith, 66, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1988, initially sailing with Steuart Transportation. He upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school and was a member of the deck department. Brother Smith most recently worked for Penn Maritime and is a resident of Middleburg, Florida. HEWSON WILLIAMS Brother Hewson Williams, 69, signed on with the SIU in 1992 when he worked for Higman Barge Lines. Sailing in the deck department, he remained with same company for his entire career. Brother Williams resides in Groves, Texas. MARK WILLIAMSON Brother Mark Williamson, 62, donned the SIU colors in 1978. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments and was employed by Hvide Marine. Brother Williamson upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1985 and continued sailing with the same company for the duration of his career. He lives in Livingston, Texas. Seafarers LOG 11 9/18/19 12:39 PM �Renovations take place (photo at right) on the building in 1953. The updated facility is pictured in photo at left. Farewell to a Waystation Editor’s note: This article was written by Rafael Alvarez, who spent 20 years as a city desk reporter for the Baltimore Sun. The son of a longtime member of the SIU’s inland division (pensioner Manuel Alvarez, 85), he has published numerous books in addition to briefly sailing with the union. This piece first appeared in Chesapeake Bay Magazine, in late June; it is reprinted with the author’s permission, under its original headline. The subject is one of the SIU’s old hiring halls in Baltimore. for having been taken by the Khmer Rouge the year before in the last official battle of the Vietnam War. I sailed on the Mayaguez for two consecutive summers; first in the deck department and in ’77, as a wiper down below. Soon after getting my discharge papers that second As the Tall Ships sailed into the Port of Baltimore over year, I landed a job dispatchthe Bicentennial Summer of 1976, I waited to ship out of ing trucks in the circulation Crabtown at the Seafarers International Union hall just east of department of the Baltimore downtown. Sun. I had graduated high school just a few weeks before; 18, In June of 1978, the Seaeager to take a bite out of the world and completely unprefarers made the hall available pared for the work soon be expected of me in the deck deto their union brethren in partment. The only knot I’d mastered was the one I used to tie the Baltimore-Washington my shoes. Newspaper Guild. There, in But however ignorant of actual seafaring, I was long fathe same room where the port miliar with the large building where I waited for a job on a agent had called my name for Members and officials meet in the hall in early 1955. ship – 1216 East Baltimore Street, just off the corner of Central work just a year before – I Avenue and a block away from the Lloyd Street synagogue and and my fellow newspaper to the Jewish Education Alliance and demolished to make way Attman’s Delicatessen in Baltimore’s original Jewish neighcolleagues voted to strike the for the Michael S. Levy Memorial building, a wonder of recborhood. Sunpapers, a disruption that lasted three days. reation and edification with a rooftop playground, not unlike My father, a retired chief engineer now receiving a generThat was more than 40 years ago. Until the other day, I had the one that once graced the roof of the City Recreation Pier on ous and well-earned pension, is a lifetime member of the SIU. not been back inside. The only thing recognizable to me from Thames Street. As a boy in 1966, my family attended a large Christmas party the past were brushed aluminum handrails and what was left Local architect Joseph Evans Sperry, perhaps best known at the hall during a protracted tugboat strike against the Bakerof the star-and-diamond shaped terrazzo tiles. There were discs for the Bromo Seltzer tower downtown – inspired in part by Whiteley and Curtis Bay towing companies. My brother and cut out of wooden passageway doors, but the portholes which the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence – was commissioned by the I were given G.I. Joes. In grade school, I was treated there by once filled them had been yanked out, most likely in some laJEA to design the Levy building, which was dedicated in 1913. union physicians, one of whom diagnosed me with allergies. It borer’s basement or garage. Had the building remained as Sperry envisioned it – brick was as close to a functioning American socialism as ever exThe first building developed on the footprint known as with arched windows in an overall “Colonial Revival” spirit isted and the men were proud of it. 1216 East Baltimore Street – now part of the Jonestown – it likely would have been protected by historic status and Later, on the notion that to be a writer you needed advenHistoric District, the earliest settlement of note in colonial spared the wrecking ball that awaits it. ture, I sat in the large open hall reading Tolstoy (which I didn’t Baltimore along with Fells Point – was the Second Unitarian But after the Jewish community sold the building to the understand any more than I knew what it meant to “go aloft”) Church, cornerstone 1860. SIU in 1952, Sperry’s conception was radically altered by a while waiting for an entry-level job to be posted on a large A quarter-century later, the Redemptorists religious order massive – and much celebrated – makeover, according to a board that resembled a movie marquee. My chances were best acquired the property for the city’s first incarnation of St. report by Baltimore City’s Commission for Historical and Aron a vessel that more senior men – meaning everybody else – Wenceslaus Bohemian Catholic Church, which opened in chitectural Preservation. had no interest in. 1886. The Seafarers opened the hall to its members on NovemThe ship was the S.S. Mayaguez, built in Wilmington, Next to occupy the building were two theater operators ber 10, 1954, a much-ballyhooed event that garnered TV North Carolina, for the federal maritime commission and offering live entertainment – including Yiddish drama, vaudecoverage. launched as the S.S. White Falcon in 1944 less than two weeks ville and boxing matches – for a predominantly Jewish audiIn addition to squaring off the arched windows with stainbefore D-Day. By the time I trudged up the gangway (a satchel ence, first known as Baltimore Theater and better known as the less steel, the building’s brick skin was covered by white of notebooks and pencils and cassette tapes in my seabag), the Princess Theater. stucco to mimic the SIU hall in New York; a “bump-back” freighter had been converted into a container ship, infamous The big change came in 1912 when the building was sold addition was added on the east side, and, overall, said Walter W. Gallas, a city preservation planner, the post-war seafaring “showplace” fell victim to “an unsuccessful effort at modernist design.” Oh, but what a prosperous, Eisenhower-era palace it was to sailors shipping out of the Chesapeake Bay compared to the small union hall it replaced on above the Lorraine Tavern on Gay Street. In 2000, claiming that the area had become too rough even for salty dogs, the SIU sold the building to the mdlogix healthcare and information technology firm. A number of tenants followed – including a Christian school, which left a New Testament passage from Hebrews in red paint on a wall. In 2016 the building was bought by the non-profit Helping Up Mission, which is headquartered across the street. “We’re putting up a 150,000 square feet building to house 210 adult women and their children,” said Robert K. Gehman, chief executive officer of the Mission. “We weren’t buying the building; we were buying the future.” The future is set to open in September of 2021. And by the time you read this, the past will be dust. These undated file photos from the Baltimore hall are believed to be from the mid to late 1950s. 12 Seafarers LOG 54930_Seafarers.indd 12 October 2019 9/18/19 12:39 PM �SIU Issues Notice About Text Message Alerts The union occasionally sends text messages to Seafarers (and others) who have signed up for such alerts. Those texts contain information relevant to members’ careers, including important news about the SIU, its contracted companies and the industry as a whole. The messages may include alerts about open jobs, information about grassroots campaigns, and other time-sensitive bulletins. The SIU does not charge for this service, but there may be costs associated with receiving messages, depending on an individual’s phoneservice plan that they have with their provider. People can unsubscribe from SIU text alerts at any time, simply by texting the word STOP to 97779. To sign up for the alerts, text the word JOIN to 97779. Terms and Conditions By signing up for this service, you acknowledge that you understand there may be costs associated with the receipt by you of such text messages depending on the cell phone service plan that you have with your provider. You are providing your cell phone number and your consent to use it for these purposes with the understanding that Continued from Page 10 your cell phone number will not be distributed to anyone else without your express consent and that this service will not at any time be used for the purpose of distributing campaign materials for official elections for union office. Scholarship The Union Plus Scholarship Program has awarded more WIRELESS DISCOUNTS CREDIT CARDS than $4.5 million to students from working families who want to begin or continue their post-secondary education. Find out more about this and other great Union Plus FREE COLLEGE programs by visiting unionplus.org. CAR RENTALS 10/19 For more information: unionplus.org/scholarship October 2019 54930_Seafarers_X.indd 13 Union Grant Paves Highway To Greatness said the generous award allowed him to attend the private Lafayette College in Pennsylvania, where Howell graduated in 1958 with honors in history. “Daddy was so proud,” Howell recalls. So was the union. The Seafarers LOG wrote an article about him when he received the scholarship and again when he was the first in his family to graduate from college. The newspaper even sent a photographer to Easton to document the event. Howell served four years in the Navy, but his father was impatient. He wanted his son to go to law school. Howell graduated from New York University Law School in 1964 and headed west on a Ford Foundation Fellowship. He interned in the Washington governor’s office, clerked for the state supreme court and served as an assistant attorney general before moving to Seattle to start a private law practice. As a young Seattle attorney, Howell quickly established a reputation as an advocate for equal opportunity in employment. His lawsuits on behalf of black construction workers opened the state’s trade unions to minority applicants. He also defended the city’s affirmative action program which ensured the promotion of qualified black union firefighters. Howell’s advocacy on behalf of African American construction workers led to a successful career as a personal injury attorney representing workers killed or injured on the job. But it was his work challenging police killings of African American men, beginning in 1971 and continuing over the next several decades, often without pay, that made Howell a hero among community members and within the legal field. In an era before cell phone videos and police dash cams, Howell repeatedly challenged the official police versions of fatal shootings and questioned whether the use of force was justified. He advocated for more police accountability and for a greater emphasis on de-escalation techniques rather than the immediate use of deadly force when apprehending criminal suspects. In 2016, at age 80, Howell received the Outstanding Attorney Award from the King County Bar Association, which cited his “courage and relentless pursuit of justice on behalf of the marginalized and underrepresented.” Ron Ward, former Washington State Bar president, said Howell’s work led to significant changes to police policies and practices that in turn “improved basic civil rights protections for Washington citizens.” Cleveland Howell died in 1974, long enough to share in some of his son’s early successes and to have his faith in his potential confirmed. After his death, Howell found in his father’s wallet two folded copies of the article from the Seafarers LOG. Seafarers LOG 13 9/19/2019 3:03:55 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 Kate Hunt, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by members of the most recent bosun recertification class at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Question: Why did you join the SIU and why have you remained with the union? Raymond Johnson Recertified Bosun I joined to see the world and because of the excellent wages and excellent benefits. I have stayed because it’s now in my blood. Shawn Strand Recertified Bosun I joined because I wanted to travel, see the world and make money. I remain with the union because the SIU gave me the opportunity to have a career, grow, and support my family.. Ronald Webb Recertified Bosun I joined the SIU because I always had daydreamed about traveling the world. The chance came and I jumped on it. What keeps me going is the travelling, seeing different places. Christopher Rosado Recertified Bosun Because of the opportunities for career advancement. You can go as high up as you want in this career, and the SIU gives you the tools to do it. I’ve remained because with the SIU, I have job security and I belong to something big. The opportunity to get a job at any of our 20 halls is amazing. 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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 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 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 John O’Shaughnessy Recertified Bosun I was offered the chance to join when my life was in a period of uncertainty. A chance to see the world and get paid sounded good. I stayed because of the money, of course, but also the time off and adventure. Donley Johnson Recertified Bosun I joined the SIU to travel and see the world. I have remained in the union because it’s a good career. I am able to support my family and live a very comfortable lifestyle. William Lima Recertified Bosun My dad and uncle were merchant seamen. I started off in the NMU. In 1987, I was on board the USNS Neosho, where I met (current SIU VP) Kate Hunt. I listened to her remarks about the union and that’s when I joined. Now, we became the SIU and it has been great. (The unions merged in 2001.) 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 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (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) 549-400 Foaad Saleh Recertified Bosun I joined because my father was a sailor and he got me into it. I remained because the SIU changed my life. I get time off for vacation. I have better and more benefits than I had before. This was my dream and it became true. When I was younger, I worked in many industries, but I’ve never found one better than this career. Lovell Smith Recertified Bosun A friend of my father came home from work with an application (for the trainee program) and told me to make a copy so I can get my life together. This was back in 1990. I had no idea what I was getting myself into, but from the moment I walked into the school, I knew that I wanted to be part of the SIU. The SIU saved my life in all areas. Antjuan Webb Recertified Bosun I became a merchant seaman because my uncle David Dove went through the program and my mother saw a great opportunity for me to travel around the world and be financially stable. I’ve been sailing 30 years. I encourage my fellow seamen to take advantage of the opportunities available for upgrading. This field allows us to have a very comfortable lifestyle. Pic From The Past After the Bloomfield Steamship vessel Anne Butler ran aground in 1953 and ended up drydocked in a Japanese shipyard, crew members passed some time on the softball field. The U.S. squad won two of three games against a team of shipyard workers. They opened with a 16-7 victory, dropped the second game by a score of 18-10, and then “came through in the rubber in good old SIU style, 19-9,” according to information submitted with this photo. The original image is noteworthy for a few reasons. The footwear on the mariners in front appears to have been drawn, and the 1953 version of white-out was added in the lower part of the frame before publication. Also, the original submission included nicknames (“Tiny” and “Big Nose”) that didn’t make it to print. 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 14 Seafarers LOG 54930_Seafarers.indd 14 October 2019 9/18/19 12:39 PM �PHC Offers Culinary 2.0 As previously reported, the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education continues to offer Culinary 2.0 classes designed to help students boost their skills while complying with a new rule that takes effect next year. Completing the coursework also is intended to aid individual shipping opportunities. Shipping Rule 5.A.(6), which will go into effect January 1, 2020, states, “Within each class of seniority in the Steward Department, priority shall be given to those seamen who possess an advanced Culinary 2.0 certificate from the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, in the event such program is being offered and that the seaman is registered in Group I, Steward Department.” While every new member of the steward department who completes their apprenticeship at the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship will have successfully passed Culinary 2.0, it’s important to remem- ber that those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards must also take the coursework in order to exercise preference and priority beginning next year (unless they have received training after January 1, 2017 at the Piney Point, Maryland-based campus). For those seamen currently employed as permanent stewards aboard commercial vessels, they must attend Culinary 2.0 in order to maintain their current employment status. For those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards, there are two new revalidation courses that have been designed to ensure a consistent level of culinary training and efficiency: Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 and Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0. The courses are being offered regularly, but spaces are limited, so members are encouraged to plan ahead and enroll as soon as possible. For more information, contact your port agent and/or the school’s admissions office. NMC Issues Final Update On FY2019 Shutdown The U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center (NMC) on Aug. 26 issued the following notice, which is available both on the SIU website (in the News section) and on the agency’s site. Merchant mariner credentials (MMC) and medical certificates (national endorsements only) that expired in December 2018, January 2019, February 2019, March 2019, April 2019, May 2019, June 2019, or July 2019 will remain valid only until August 31, 2019. No further credential extensions are authorized. The backlog of credential applications and increased net processing time caused by the lapse in appropriations and partial government shutdown has improved. Within the next 2 weeks, the National Maritime Center (NMC) will resume processing all MMC applications within the stated goal of 30 net days. Applications for medical certificates are currently processed well under the stated goal of 20 net days. The NMC recommends mariners submit their application packages at least 2 months prior to the expiration date of their current credentials. If you need immediate assistance or require expedited processing, contact our Customer Service Center via the NMC online chat system, by e-mailing IASKNMC@uscg.mil, or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (4275662). For general information, visit the NMC website at http://www. uscg.mil/nmc. October & November 2019 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 21 Houston...............*Tuesday: October 15, **Tuesday: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 Jersey City..........................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 change due to Columbus Day Holiday **Houston change due to Veterans Day Holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m October 2019 54930_Seafarers_X.indd 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” Data is cumulative from Aug. 16-Sept.15. “Registered on the Beach” Data is as of Sept. 16. Total Registered All Groups B Total Shipped C A All Groups B Port A Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 20 3 7 20 1 4 7 27 25 27 2 7 23 13 5 1 4 39 2 29 266 7 3 4 9 1 4 3 21 16 9 2 3 15 7 0 1 3 6 0 11 125 4 3 1 5 0 3 0 9 6 4 1 2 8 1 0 5 0 6 0 5 63 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 3 1 1 11 0 1 9 6 20 15 0 2 16 8 1 1 7 10 1 12 125 1 0 3 4 0 2 5 11 11 16 1 2 10 5 0 3 1 7 3 15 100 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 6 1 0 0 0 1 0 3 22 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 3 0 0 8 0 5 7 19 24 9 0 3 10 14 3 4 3 16 2 14 144 3 0 4 5 0 1 3 7 6 0 0 1 5 4 0 4 6 1 0 8 58 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 4 0 1 0 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 13 Steward Department 4 2 0 0 1 3 10 2 0 1 0 0 8 2 17 1 15 3 4 3 0 1 2 0 10 4 12 2 3 0 2 2 5 1 8 0 1 0 8 8 110 35 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 3 0 0 0 1 3 0 2 0 5 1 1 22 4 1 0 1 0 2 2 11 16 15 1 0 7 13 1 1 0 9 1 18 103 7 1 2 5 0 3 2 9 15 4 2 0 28 4 0 7 0 8 0 8 105 Entry Department 1 1 0 1 0 2 0 3 0 1 1 2 1 0 3 11 1 19 0 4 0 0 0 1 1 13 1 9 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 4 0 0 1 11 11 83 GRAND TOTAL: 557 386 203 Deck Department 20 6 2 0 4 1 14 12 1 0 6 1 7 3 38 14 11 14 29 5 1 2 4 5 22 12 6 3 3 0 4 2 5 3 23 6 3 0 17 5 220 94 Registered on Beach C Trip Reliefs A All Groups B C 3 0 1 3 0 0 0 7 3 1 0 3 2 2 1 1 1 0 1 1 30 7 0 2 9 0 1 0 17 12 11 0 4 12 2 2 0 4 6 1 12 102 27 4 6 28 3 11 17 71 68 63 4 15 39 29 4 0 7 63 6 57 522 16 6 4 9 1 7 4 32 39 22 5 6 22 10 0 3 9 13 0 26 234 3 3 0 8 0 6 0 5 11 6 2 4 10 2 0 4 1 11 2 10 88 1 0 0 4 1 1 0 11 8 5 0 0 8 0 0 0 3 6 0 7 55 6 2 3 17 1 5 12 23 33 21 1 4 25 14 2 1 6 22 3 25 226 2 0 3 11 0 3 4 21 30 19 2 5 17 6 0 7 5 11 2 22 170 2 1 0 1 0 2 1 6 3 3 3 1 12 2 0 0 1 4 2 9 53 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 2 10 0 0 2 4 0 0 1 9 5 4 0 0 6 4 0 1 2 3 0 8 49 4 0 1 16 1 10 17 29 34 18 0 5 22 27 3 5 1 24 2 29 248 3 1 3 8 2 2 5 8 17 4 0 4 13 10 0 3 11 5 1 13 113 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 3 4 1 0 0 5 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 16 4 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 10 2 0 0 14 5 0 8 1 3 0 2 52 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 3 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 15 2 0 0 0 0 0 5 10 4 4 0 1 0 3 0 1 0 10 0 4 44 16 2 1 7 0 1 9 18 31 27 3 0 22 23 3 1 1 21 1 36 223 17 1 3 5 0 3 6 13 68 9 4 0 44 11 1 1 0 14 1 25 226 102 221 1,040 740 383 Engine Department 3 1 0 0 0 0 1 3 1 5 2 1 1 1 0 1 2 0 6 2 0 11 13 0 11 3 0 10 6 2 2 0 0 1 1 0 16 13 1 5 4 1 3 1 0 1 0 0 7 5 0 13 2 1 1 1 0 7 10 3 105 70 10 446 282 Seafarers LOG 15 9/19/2019 3:03:55 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA LUCIANO ALFEO Pensioner Luciano Alfeo, 90, has passed away. He joined the SIU in 1970, sailing first on the Manhattan. An engine department member, Brother Alfeo last sailed aboard the Falcon Champion. He retired in 1993 and lived in Yonkers, New York. FIDEL BROAS Pensioner Fidel Broas, 82, died July 20. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1979 when he sailed on the Del Sol. Brother Broas sailed in all three departments and concluded his career on the Liberator in 2001. He went on pension the following year and made his home in the Philippines. CARLOS CACHO Brother Carlos Cacho, 49, passed away July 17. Born in Honduras, he became an SIU member in 1994 when he sailed on the Independence. Brother Cacho primarily sailed in the deck department. He was most recently employed by American Service Technology, working on shore gangs. Brother Cacho resided in Houston. JOHN CARMELLO Pensioner John Carmello, 89, died August 24. He joined the union in 1966 and first sailed on the Beaugard. Brother Carmello shipped in the engine department and also worked on shore gangs. He became a pensioner in 1994 and was a resident of Venice, Florida. RODNEY CLARK Pensioner Rodney Clark, 66, passed away July 27. He embarked on his SIU career in 1975, initially sailing on the Sea-Land Market. Brother Clark sailed in the deck department, most recently aboard the Horizon Spirit. He became a pensioner in 2014 and settled in Surprise, Arizona. 2006. Brother Erdt resided in Kenmore, New York. ERNEST GIBSON Pensioner Ernest Gibson, 78, died August 25. He began his career with the SIU in 1964 when he sailed on the Trans Orleans. An engine department member, Brother Gibson last shipped on the Pride. He went on pension in 2008 and lived in Moscow, Texas. HERBERT HOLLINGS Pensioner Herbert Hollings, 85, passed away September 2. He embarked on his SIU career in 1951, first working with Waterman Steamship Corporation. Brother Hollings sailed in the steward department, most recently aboard the William R. Button. He became a pensioner in 1999 and made his home in Mobile, Alabama. Pensioner Gregory Johnson, 61, died August 14. He joined the union in 1980, initially sailing aboard the Point Susan. Brother Johnson worked in the steward department and concluded his career on the Benavidez. He retired in 2016 and settled in Jacksonville, Florida. PHILLIP NILES Pensioner Phillip Niles, 74, passed away August 19. He signed on with the SIU in 2001 during the NMU/ SIU merger. An engine department member, he first shipped on the Lykes Explorer. Brother Niles’ final vessel was the Philadelphia Express. He went on pension in 2016 and made his home in Houston. JOHN RYAN Pensioner Alvin Dyer, 92, died September 8. He became a member of the SIU in 1945 and sailed in the deck department. Brother Dyer’s first vessel was the Del Comp; his last, the Long Island. He retired in 1992 and lived in Gouldsboro, Maine. EDMUND ERDT EDWARD SINGLETON Pensioner Edmund Erdt, 81, passed away July 19. He signed on with the Seafarers during the 2001 NMU/SIU Merger. Brother Erdt was an engine department member whose first SIU vessel was the Seabulk Trader. He last sailed on the Seabulk Mariner before becoming a pensioner in 16 Seafarers LOG 54930_Seafarers.indd 16 NORMAN TAYLOR Pensioner Norman Taylor, 64, died July 31. He embarked on his career with the SIU in 1981 and first sailed on the USNS Contender. Brother Taylor was a member of the deck department and most recently shipped on the Maersk Utah. He went on pension in 2017 and made his home in Iron Mountain, Michigan. GREAT LAKES JAMES KUCHNICKI Pensioner James Kuchnicki, 82, passed away August 3. He became a member of the SIU in 1987 when he shipped on the Steel T. Crapo. A deck department member, Brother Kuchnicki concluded his career on the Paul H. Townsend. He became a pensioner in 2002 and resided in Alpena, Michigan. GREGORY JOHNSON Pensioner John Ryan, 77, died September 7. He donned the SIU colors in 1967, initially shipping on the Seatrain New York. Brother Ryan worked in the engine department. He last sailed on the San Juan, and became a pensioner in 2007. Brother Ryan was a resident of Toms River, New Jersey. ALVIN DYER sailed in the steward department and last shipped on the Gulf Merchant. He retired in 1991 and settled in Mobile, Alabama. Pensioner Edward Singleton, 90, passed away August 1. He joined the union in 1951, and his first vessel was the Lafayette. Brother Singleton INLAND COLIN CHALMERS Pensioner Colin Chalmers, 83, died August 29. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1980, initially working for Dixie Carriers. Brother Chalmers sailed in the steward department and was last employed with OSG Ship Management. He retired in 2003 and lived in Plant City, Florida. OMAR COLLINS Pensioner Omar Collins, 90, passed away August 26. He became a member of the SIU in 1957, first working for Taylor Marine Towing. A deck department member, Brother Collins concluded his career sailing with the same company and retired in 1987. He was a Philadelphia resident. was a deck department member and continued to ship with the same company for his entire career. He began collecting his pension in 1996 and called Alliance, North Carolina, home. BILLY PADGETT Pensioner Billy Padgett, 88, died August 10. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1980, initially sailing on the Manhattan Island. A deck department member, Brother Padgett last worked on the Dodge Island. He became a pensioner in 1996 and resided in Lake Park, Georgia. ROGER RAINEY Brother Roger Rainey, 64, passed away August 22. He joined the SIU in 2000 and first worked for Allied Transportation. The engine department member’s final vessel was the Legacy. He called Gulf Breeze, Florida, home. GEORGE STEWART Pensioner George Stewart, 82, died September 5. He donned the SIU colors in 1981 when he shipped on the Manhattan Island. Brother Stewart was a member of the engine department. He last sailed on the Dodge Island and went on pension in 2000. Brother Stewart lived in Seffner, Florida. NMU JULIAN GARCIA away August 7. He was an NMU member before the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. Brother Garcia began collecting his pension in 1974 and was a Miami resident. BERNARDO MARIANI Pensioner Bernardo Mariani, 106, died August 6. He sailed with the NMU prior to the 2001 merger with Seafarers International Union. Brother Mariani retired in 1980 and lived in Puerto Rico, his birthplace. THOMAS O’DONNELL Pensioner Thomas O’Donnell, 79, passed away April 23. Born in Portland, Maine, he was a member of the NMU before the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. Brother O’Donnell became a pensioner in 2010 and continued to live in his hometown. ALBERT RHEINER Pensioner Albert Rheiner, 93, died August 18. Brother Rheiner went on pension in 1981 and made his home in Tuckerton, New Jersey. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. Name Cerna, Marcial Dawson, Thomas Ebanks, Hoyt Flores, Frank Gibson, Mervain Knight, Wilford Phillips, John Pritchett, Wade Rodgers, James Traywick, Joe Age 94 91 76 94 92 90 91 88 93 82 DOD 08/18/2019 06/10/2019 07/18/2019 08/19/2019 08/11/2019 06/25/2019 09/09/2019 07/23/2019 09/01/2019 09/04/2019 Pensioner Julian Garcia, 91, passed Talking Maritime with Congresswoman GEORGE ESPONGE Pensioner George Esponge, 83, died August 14. Upon joining the SIU in 1984, he initially sailed with Crowley Towing and Transportation. Brother Esponge was a member of the deck department and was employed with the same company for most of his career. He began collecting his pension in 2004 and resided in Galveston, Texas. JAMES MAYO Pensioner James Mayo, 85, passed away August 2. He embarked on his SIU career in 1974, working for Allied Transportation. Brother Mayo SIU Port Agent Georg Kenny (left) and SIU Government Services Division Representative Sam Spain (right) welcome U.S. Rep. Elaine Luria (D-Virginia) to a Hampton Roads Port Council meeting earlier this year in Norfolk, Virginia. They and other meeting attendees discussed various maritime issues. Rep. Luria reiterated her strong backing of the U.S. Merchant Marine. October 2019 9/18/19 12:39 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. HORIZON PACIFIC (PASHA), June 2 – Chairman Daniel Ticer, Secretary Kevin Dougherty, Educational Director Jessie Turner, Deck Delegate Antjuan Webb, Engine Delegate Muthana Koraish, Steward Delegate Mercurion Abuan. Chairman gave reports to union regarding TV and WiFi issues on ship. He noted next year’s upcoming election and urged members to contribute to SPAD. Secretary reported a job well done by crew. Members quickly turned the ship over after the drydock to pass the COI inspections with flying colors. Educational director reminded crew about upgrading opportunities available at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Satellite dish needs fixed for cable and WiFi functionality, at least while at port. Next Port: Oakland, California. upgrade often. No beefs or disputed OT reported in deck or steward departments. Members discussed recent surprise sanitary inspection by captain. Crew unsure if advanced notice of inspection is contractually required. EVERGREEN STATE (Crowley), June 9 – Chairman Reginald Watkins, Secretary Jorcell Davis, Educational Director Michael Robinson, Steward Delegate Andres Brown. Educational director went over upgrading procedures. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members discussed the LOG and were urged to be active in the union. Crew requests physical requirements return to one per year. Members were encouraged to do their best while working safely. ANCHORAGE (Horizon Lines), June 23 – Chairman Daniel Seagle, Secretary Justo Reyes, Educational Director Michael Kelly, Deck Delegate Terrence Carmody, Engine Delegate William Mogg, Steward Delegate Douglas Neubauer. New TV will be purchased. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested dayfor-day vacation time. AMERICAN PRIDE (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning), June 12 – Chairman Felsher Beasley, Secretary Cynora Hunter, Educational Director Rodriques Carson, Deck Delegate Shaib Juma, Engine Delegate Wordell Prescott, Steward Delegate Adolfo Bermudez. Chairman reminded crew to stay hydrated and to cool down often when working in the heat. Also discussed retroactive OT for engine department members. Educational director advised crew to LOUISIANA (Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning), June 13 – Chairman Gregory Jenkins, Secretary Timothy Dowd, Educational Director Kevin Hall, Deck Delegate Damon Johnson, Steward Delegate Carlos Suazo. Crew waiting for info on new mattresses. Educational director encouraged members to renew documents early. Ongoing dispute for penalty pay due to oilers for burning garbage. Crew asked for clarification on day’s pay in lieu of day off. Members requested new toaster. Crew discussed concerns about galley inventory and portions. OCEAN GLORY (Crowley), June 23 – Chairman Jerrold Foke, Secretary Johnny Palencia, Educational Director Sixin Ling, Deck Delegate Abdulsalam Issa, Engine Delegate Edward Galbis. Galley appliances working well. Chairman reminded members to go to Piney Point and upgrade. Crew was paid for dangerous cargo pickup. Secretary reported low supply of everyday items including honey, cookies, ice cream, butter, etc. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew continues having issues with late direct deposits. No TV in rooms and members not being paid for travel transportation. Microwave, rice cooker and additional dishes needed in galley. Members read letter from Vice President Contracts George Tricker. Captain ensured travel pay for members that joined overseas. Satellite fixed and phone and internet working. Members requested better overseas transportation. Next Port: Quebec. On the Job in San Francisco HORIZON RELIANCE (PASHA), June 30– Chairman Kissinfor Taylor, Secretary Mark Cabasag, Educational Director James Donohue, Deck Delegate Jesse Sunga, Steward Delegate Teresito Reyes. Chairman went over contract. Secretary advised crew to check documents six months ahead. He reminded members to leave clean linen and empty trash when finishing rotation. Educational director encouraged crew to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center and to donate to SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. ALASKAN LEGEND (Alaska Tanker Company), July 7 – Chairman Alvin Martin, Secretary Johnson Ashun, Educational Director Kassim Mohamed, Engine Delegate Corey Hann. Request made concerning crew-lounge computer. Phone booster on B-deck. Ship sailing smoothly. New classes posted in crew mess via portal. Educational director reiterated importance of staying up to date on documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Busy port stay in Port Angeles, Washington. Next Port: Valdez, Alaska. GREAT REPUBLIC (Key Lakes), July 7 – Chairman Amin Quraish, Secretary Rolando Batiz. Crew discussed basic information about merchant mariner credentials and the Jones Act. Chairman Recertified Bosun Ritche Acuman performs preventive maintenance for radar foundation aboard the USNS Algol (Ocean Duchess) in San Francisco. discussed safe working practices. Forms in the rec room for crew signing off. Members discussed port agent’s report. Educational director reminded crew of culinary 2.0 requirements for chief cooks in 2020. Deck delegate encouraged members to register within 12 hours and to support union by paying dues. Crew went over president’s report from Seafarers LOG, the SIU’s official publication. LIBERTY PASSION (Liberty Maritime), July 28 – Chairman James Blitch, Educational Director Leon- ard Ajoste, Deck Delegate Shawn Williams. No union meeting on last trip. Patrolman was asked to settle rates on garbage pay. Store seems to be in short supply. Steward department needs latex gloves. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Piney Point and to keep papers in order. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman urged crew to read current LOG and to stay informed of union affairs. Members discussed contract and made request concerning vacation benefits. Crew unable to get new movies. Next Port: Freeport, Texas. 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 October 2019 54930_Seafarers.indd 17 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 17 9/18/19 12:39 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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Steward Department Courses Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 Date of Completion October 26 November 16 November 30 November 1 November 22 December 6 Safety Upgrading Courses Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck October 12 AB to Mate Modules Modules must be taken in order. Those who are not in the mates program cannot apply for these courses. Contact the Admissions Office for further details. Basic Training/Basic FF October 19 November 2 November 16 December 7 October 25 November 8 November 22 December 13 Basic Training Revalidation October 18 October 25 November 15 December 6 October 18 October 25 November 15 December 6 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation September 14 September 20 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting September 21 September 27 Government Vessels October 12 October 26 November 16 December 7 October 18 November 1 November 22 December 13 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL October 19 October 25 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG November 9 December 7 November 15 December 13 November 8 Crane Familiarization October 5 October 11 ECDIS November 16 November 22 Lifeboat October 19 November 16 December 14 November 1 November 29 December 27 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW November 9 December 6 100 Ton Master October 19 November 8 Engine Department Upgrading Courses BAPO November 9 December 6 FOWT October 12 November 8 Machinist October 19 November 8 Marine Electrician October 12 November 15 Pumpman November 9 November 15 Welding October 19 November 8 Steward Department Courses Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start October 14. Chief Steward October 19 December 6 Galley Operations November 9 December 6 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 October 19 November 2 December 7 October 25 November 8 December 13 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 # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 18 Seafarers LOG 54930_Seafarers.indd 18 SHBP Trustees Approve Modification of Rules Regarding Eligibility for Upgrading Programs Due to recent feedback from the membership, the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) Trustees approved a modification to the rules regarding eligibility requirements for scheduling and attending classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. The new rule allows mariners to apply as long as they have a valid U.S. Coast Guard Medical Certificate that covers the duration of the class, and removes the requirement for a valid SHBP Fitness Certification form (sometimes referred to as a clinic card). Since the Coast Guard Medical Certificate is valid for a two-year period, this should allow for mariners to apply and attend classes while they are in the process of updating their medical exams that are required for shipping. 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, or 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. 10/19 October 2019 9/18/19 12:39 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #851 – Graduated June 14 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Andre Barbary Jr., Keshyra Brinkley, Rhiannon Buttrum, Denny Hale, Romello Johnson, Gregory Nash, Travis Nesar, Sharde Ross, Nikia Stripling and Luis Ricardo Venegas Nolasco. Important Notice To All 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. Water Survival (Upgraders) – Graduated May 17 (above, from left) Maurice Woodhouse Jr. and Osborn Miranda. Also graduating, but not pictured, was Billy Sawyer III. MSC Supply Configuration Management – Graduated May 31 (above, in alphabetical order): Bernard Baker, Barry Bettis, Ana Marie Chona Razon Calma, VanNessa Curd, Christopher Flood, Eric Hondel, Eric Johnson, Porcia Johnson and Christopher Waters. Class instructor Matthew Rogers is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Graduated May 10 (above, in alphabetical order): Jeffrey Amestoy, Rodelo Blanco Ayaton, Roche Aurea Bonita, Hector Ismael Caballero, Nelxon Colon Diego, Faustino Tmodrang Cosby, Mario Humberto Cruz Levy, A’trenique Tramani Deamus, Smyrno Desir, Dexter Douglas Jr., Carlicia Jones, Gizelle Jones, Kyle Knickerbocker, Vincent Knight, Deshante Luchien, Deven McCoy, Mohamed Abdullah Ali Mohamed, Patricia Ricks, Terry Santure and Curtis Spencer. Their instructor Keith Adamson, is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) October 2019 54930_Seafarers.indd 19 Seafarers LOG 19 9/18/19 12:39 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Graduated April 26 (above, in alphabetical order): Digna Castillo, Jawonn Nicholson, Glenn Snow, Jamika Thomas, Sutthipong Ticer and Nicole Walton. ECDIS – Graduated April 19 (above, from left): John Schmanski and Jason Boyer. Instructor Patrick Schoenberger is at right. Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Graduated April 5 (above, in alphabetical order): Abdul-Ghaffar Abu-Bakr, Ali Ahmed, Evan Bradley, Ferdinand Malicay Cabanlit, Gary Davis Jr., Ashley Fabor, Harold Gerber II, Hussein Kareem Howe, Nat Lamb, Thomas MacGregor, Jesus Manuel Pacheco, Kyle Parson, Efren Asdrubal Ramos-Sosa, Chenequa Moet Rodriguez, Ovidio Joana Santos, Terry Santure, Charles Williams and Matthew Wright. Junior Engineer – Graduated May 10 (above, in alphabetical order): John Abernathy, Ryan Cameron, Oliver Luc Especa, Marquez Fields, Viliamu Milikini, Bryan Moreira, James Parker, Robert Pendarvis, Michael Smith, Boleslaw Tomasz Szatkowski and Keshawn Webster. 20 Seafarers LOG 54930_Seafarers.indd 20 October 2019 9/18/19 12:39 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes UA to FOWT – Graduated May 24 (above, in alphabetical order): Keondre Bell, Justin Bodnar, Kevin Campfield Jr., Elyser Valdez Carpio, Samuel Fanjoy, Vincent Hall, Joshua Irvine, Daniel Jaim Leon-Bruges, Kevin Lueddeke, Ryan Kaleolani Manlapit, Robert Murphy, Srawut Petchsaitip, Tresten Porter, Gabriel Santa Ramos and Nicholas Simoneaux. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Medical Care Provider – Graduated April 26 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Yahya Abdulaziz Ahmed, Hussein Mohsin Alrayyashi, William Born, Corey Covington, Charles Drumm, Michael Iverson and Andrzej Tlalka. John Thomas, their instructor, is at the far right. ARPA – Graduated May 31 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Yahya Abdulaziz Ahmed, Husein Mohsin Alrayyashi, Smyrno Desir, Christopher Hickey, Martin McDonald, Ian McDonough, Michael Norman, James Norsworthy and Mackenzie Wincelowicz. Instructor Brian Moore is at the far left. UA to Able Seaman (Deck) – Graduated May 24 (photo at left,, in alphabetical order): Tommy Benton, Devin Hoerr, Rahsean Lillard and Brian Wendler. Welton Grooms, their instructor, is at the far right. October 2019 54930_Seafarers.indd 21 Seafarers LOG 21 9/18/19 12:39 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes GMDSS – Graduated May 10 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Yahya Abdulaziz Ahmed, Husein Mohsin Alrayyashi, Christopher Hickey, Brennon Hough, James Pierce and John Reyes. Instructor Patrick Schoenberger is at the far right. Radar Observer – Graduated May 24 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Yahya Abdulaziz Ahmed, Hussein Mohsin Alrayyashi, Smyrno Desir, Christopher Hickey, Martin McDonald, Ian McDonough and Mackenzie Wincelowicz. Brian Moore, their instructor, is at the far left. Small Arms – Graduated May 24 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Justice Agha-Kuofie, Johnnatan Escobar, Amos London, Loreto Antonio Orosco and Timothy Valentine Sr. Instructors John Thomas and Matthew Rogers are at the far left and far right, respectively. Advanced Refer Container Maintenance – Graduated May 31 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Carlos Eduardo Amaya Avila, Ricardo Bonuel Ducay, John Groom, Vernon Humbles, Lon Tige Maduro, Carl Montoya, Michael Murphy, Tijani Rashid and Brian Wilder. Instructors William Dodd and Mike Fay are first and second from the left, respectively, while Instructor Christopher Morgan is at the far right. 22 Seafarers LOG 54930_Seafarers.indd 22 October 2019 9/18/19 12:39 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Bridge Management (Delta Mariner) – Graduated April 5 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Scott Accardi, John Bilich Sr., Antonio Manuel Carreiro Jr., Lee Hendrix, Hussein Marumbo Hussein, Thor Pearson, Van Powell, Carson Shallenberger, Johnny Skipper and Thomas Sullivan. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Graduated May 31 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Jonamie Antonio Encarnacion, Angelo Hernando Golden, Gladys Grant, Michael Matthews, Frederick Neese, Kwame Owusu, Carlos Ovidio Palacious-Nunez, William Jose Sanchez and Marshall Turner Jr. MSC Ship Reaction Force – Graduated May 29 (above, in alphabetical order): Justice Agha-Kuofie, Johnnatan Escobar, Amos London, Loreto Antonio Orosco and Timothy Valentine Sr. Instructors John Thomas and Matthew Rogers are at the far left and far right, respectively. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated May 24 (above, from left): William Jose Sanchez, Demarius Jones and John Chaney. October 2019 54930_Seafarers.indd 23 Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated May 10 (above, in alphabetical order): Thalis Ealy, Gerald Kirtsey, Just B Self and Samuel Sinclair. Certified Chief Cook (Module 5) – Graduated May 31 (above, in alphabetical order): Nasr Ahmed Ali Almusab, James Cherico, Gerard Cox, Reynard Gibbs and Andrew Miller. Seafarers LOG 23 9/18/19 12:39 PM �VOLUME 81, NO. 10 OCTOBER 2019 Text “Join” to 97779 To Sign Up for SIU Text Alerts O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Hands-on Training Highlights PHC Curriculum A state-of-the-art vocational school in southern Maryland acts as a gateway to rewarding careers for experienced mariners and entry-level students as well. The Piney Point, Maryland-based SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education opened its doors in 1967. Since that time, it has enjoyed more than a half-century of steady growth and has developed into a cutting-edge school with wide-ranging curriculums. A characteristic that hasn’t changed from the facility’s outset, however, is its continuing emphasis on practical training. Hands-on instruction is featured in virtually every one of the school’s 81 U.S. Coast Guard-approved courses. Many classes are department-specific (deck, engine, or steward), while numerous others provide comprehensive safety training for the entire crew. Similarly, the Paul Hall Center offers entry-level instruction for those just embarking on their respective maritime careers, plus upgrading coursework for 54930_Seafarers_X.indd 24 experienced Seafarers. Some hands-on segments take place aboard the Freedom Star, a modern training vessel which also is one of the most visible parts of the campus’ waterfront. Proactive training also takes place at the nearby Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, located on a satellite campus just a few miles from the main base. While the Paul Hall Center mainly is known for vocational training – including its highly regarded apprentice program, which is registered with the U.S. Department of Labor – it also offers academic support along with separate programs for earning a high school degree and a two-year college degree. The photos on this page show a small sample of practical coursework in Piney Point. Additional information about the school is available in the Training and Careers section of the SIU website: www.seafarers.org 9/19/2019 3:03:57 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 October 2019 Description An account of the resource Headlines: AFT BECOMES MTD'S NEWEST AFFILIATE EXPRESS MARINE CREWS APPROVE NEW CONTRACT ADM. ZUKUNFT NAMED NEX AMERICAN MARITIME HERO USNS PUERTO RICO UNDERGOES SUCCESSFUL INTEGRATED SEA TRIALS RICHARD TRUMKA: WORKERS 'NOT INTERESTED IN A SLIVER OF CHANGE,' DEMAND ECONOMY THAT WORKS FOR THEM ILLINOIS REP. INTRODUCES PRO-MARITIME RESOLUTION EPI ASKS (AND ANSWERS): HOW IS ECONOMY WORKING FOR AMERICA'S WORKING FAMILIES? MARITIME ADMINISTRATOR PLEDGES JONES ACT SUPPORT STUDENTS, INSTRUCTORS PRAISE PHC MACHINE SHOP UPGRADES 2019 SEATU CONVENTION BUILDS TOWARDS FUTURE 'FUJI' FINDS A HOME FOR LIGHTHOUSE COLLECTION IDENTIFY CAUSE OF DIZZINESS REMEMBERING THE SIU-CREWED SS HENRY BACON FAREWELL TO A WAYSTATION SIU ISSUES NOTICE ABOUT TEXT MESSAGE ALERTS PHC OFFERS CULINARY 2.0 NMC ISSUES FINAL UPDATE ON FY2019 SHUTDOWN HANDS-ON TRAINING HIGHLIGHTS PHC CURRICULUM 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 10/1/2019 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. 81, No. 10 2019 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/941524042ad0e852214cc1bea85df7c9.pdf 5e975b13dd1c2506cd6976d05b4f16d6 PDF Text Text SEPTEMBER 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 9 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Tacoma Tradition: SIU Members Again Give Back to Community Community outreach is a staple for Seafarers in the Pacific Northwest, including the yearly project Paint Tacoma-Pierce Beautiful. SIU personnel recently teamed up for the 2019 iteration; they spent a few days painting and repairing the home of a local family. Pictured from left in the group photo at right are some of the SIU participants: Henry Egaran, Joni Bradley, Sonny Lawson, Ben Anderson, Robert Anderson and Warren Asp. Bosun Derik Rye is shown painting in the photo below. Page 8. Great Lakes Towing Co. Celebrates Milestone, Christens Tug Michigan Attendees had more than one reason to celebrate when they gathered in Cleveland on July 22. SIU-contracted Great Lakes Towing Company marked its 120th anniversary, and also christened the new tugboat Michigan. SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez and VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski were among those on hand for the event. The Michigan was christened by vessel sponsor Carolyn Watkins (left), an official with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency. Page 24. NY Waterway Christens Ferry Page 3 Piney Point Completes Major Upgrades Pages 12-13 �President’s Report Big Win, and More Progress Our industry scored an important victory in late July, when United States Senators from both sides of the aisle stood up for the Jones Act. Specifically, they turned back two ill-conceived amendments in the Coast Guard Authorization Act that would have weakened America’s freight cabotage law. The resounding, bipartisan votes in favor of fully maintaining the century-old law that remains vital to U.S. national, economic and homeland security must not be taken for granted. This is a constant battle, which is one reason why it’s also a regular topic of my columns. In a case of coincidental timing, during that same stretch in July, the SIU’s most recent class of recertified bosuns made separate trips to SIU headquarters and then to the nation’s capital. They learned about the behind-the-scenes work our union constantly puts forth to protect SIU Michael Sacco jobs and the industry as a whole. They also saw the results, in real time. The following week, during their graduation speeches, the bosuns all mentioned how their eyes had been opened to the sheer, unrelenting grassroots effort it takes to promote and protect the U.S. Merchant Marine. While our industry does indeed enjoy strong support from many in the military, in the administration and in Congress, we also have enemies. Some are foreign-flag interests, others are merely misinformed, but all of them threaten American maritime. The bosuns also, without exception, urged fellow members to donate to SPAD, our union’s voluntary political action fund. SPAD isn’t our only tool, but it’s important. We have a great rate of participation but there’s always room for improvement. If you’re already on board, I thank you. If you’re not, there’s never a bad time to join the battle. As the saying goes, the job you save may be your own. Successfully defending the Jones Act wasn’t the only recent positive development. As reported in this edition of the LOG, our affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, recently completed a massive upgrade of its engine-department training facilities. This should be a big boost for both entry-level students and upgraders. And, it’s consistent with the school’s mission of producing the world’s besttrained mariners. We also joined with two of our contracted companies in celebrating new-tonnage additions, plus an anniversary. The Great Lakes Towing Company christened a new tug while commemorating 120 years of business, and NY Waterway christened a fully refurbished boat that has been added to its flourishing fleet of passenger ferries. Such growth is a credit not only to the companies but also to the reliable SIU manpower that keeps those vessels running smoothly. I also call your attention to our yearly feature on Paint Tacoma, a very worthwhile project that the SIU has supported for many years. For as long as I can remember, SIU members often have had tough exteriors but hearts of gold. Our volunteers for Paint Tacoma symbolize the membership’s generosity quite well. Brothers and sisters, I’m confident we’ll continue to have plenty of good news to report for many years to come. But, as with anything in life, nothing will be given to us. You have to continue with your outstanding professionalism aboard ship. The union must maintain our political activism as well as working closely with our contracted operators and all of the agencies that affect maritime. And our school must provide the best possible training for every student, whether an apprentice or an upgrader. Our future is bright. O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 81 Number 9 September 2019 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2019 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. 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 Pro-Maritime Bill Reintroduced Bipartisan Legislation Promotes U.S. Shipbuilding, Crews U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) and U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi) in July reintroduced the Energizing American Shipbuilding Act in their respective halls of Congress. The legislation, strongly backed by the SIU, would support U.S. shipbuilding by stipulating that a portion of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and crude oil exports be transported on U.S.-built, U.S.-crewed vessels. Specifically, the measure would require that vessels built in the U.S. transport 15 percent of total seaborne LNG exports by 2041 and 10 percent of total seaborne crude oil exports by 2033. If enacted, the bill is expected to induce the construction of dozens of ships, support thousands of jobs in U.S. shipyards, as well as in the domestic vessel component manufacturing and maritime industries. According to an estimate from the Shipbuilders Council of America, the bill would result in the construction of more than 40 ships: approximately 28 LNG carriers by 2041 and 12 oil tankers by 2033. Wicker and Garamendi on March 26 sent a letter to the Trump Administration encouraging it to secure export opportunities for American mariners and shipyards as part of any trade agreement negotiated between the United States and the Peoples Republic of China. In that correspondence, Garamendi said: “America is on U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi) pace to be the third largest producer of LNG exports by 2020. If we don’t use these trade negotiations to require our LNG exports to ship on U.S. vessels, the United States will continue exporting its LNG on foreignflagged ships manned by foreign crews.” He continued, “The U.S.-flag international fleet has declined 60 percent since 1991 to just 80 vessels. These negotiations give us the opportunity to reenergize American shipyards and rebuild our nation’s dwindling merchant fleet, which provides a vital economic stimulus and critical sealift capacity for our military. I look forward to establishing a dialogue with the administration on this matter, and I thank Senator Wicker for leading the effort in the Senate to grow the U.S.flag fleet.” “The United States should seize every opportunity to bolster our domestic maritime industry,” Wicker said. “As we pursue stronger trade agreements with China and other nations, I urge the administration to consider supporting the American merchant marine fleet by requiring liquid natural gas and crude oil exports be transported by U.S.-flagged and crewed vessels.” Garamendi and Wicker initially introduced the legislation in December 2018 during the 115th Congress. ‘Jones Act is About Protecting America’ A former U.S. congressman recently wrote a powerful defense of America’s freight cabotage law. Ernest Istook, a former Republican member of the United States House of Representatives from Oklahoma’s 5th Congressional District, posted an op-ed headlined “The Jones Act is About Protecting America.” Currently a political science professor, Istook plainly spelled out how the century-old law remains vital to U.S. national, economic and homeland security. “In recent weeks, opinion writers in a number of leading agriculture industry publications have been encouraging American farmers to ship their products in foreign vessels, arguing that it’s cheaper,” he began in his article, which first went online in mid-July. “They have also been urging repeal of the American law that is the last thin lifeline of the once-robust shipbuilding industry in the United States. Unfortunately, this line of thinking reflects the blindly globalist agenda that has been the bane of America’s economy for the last 50-years.” Istook specifically pointed to a piece attacking the Jones Act “in favor of this globalist agenda.” That author, according to Istook, “starts by ignoring the economies of scale to ship grain. It will always cost more per unit-mile to ship any product on shorter routes and on smaller vessels between domestic ports compared to shipping the same thing to Asia. After the mislead- ing number on shipping cost, [the writer] then recites libertarian globalist talking points for undoing the Jones Act.” The former congressman continued, “The biggest beneficiaries of repeal would not be American farmers but the anti-American policies of other countries. Ships built and crewed by foreign powers can undercut other prices due to massive subsidies to their maritime industry, trying to monopolize the market. Cornering that market is enormous since 90% of the world’s cargo goes by ship.” Not to be overlooked are the massive investments made by other countries in their respective maritime industries. As Istook noted, “For some years now, foreign countries have been giving mega-billion-dollar subsidies to win a monopoly over the maritime industry. That allows companies to offer sometimeslower prices for shipping grain and other commodities, because overseas governments are paying the difference. In China, for example, these subsidies are estimated to provide a 15-20-% advantage. “South Korea is being sued by Japan and the European Union, whose own subsidies can’t keep up with bigger ones in South Korea,” he continued. “So the World Trade Organization (WTO) is being asked to adjudicate. This would be similar to the WTO ruling this spring that Europe’s subsidies for Airbus harmed the U.S. aviation industry, leading to approval for $21-billion a year in retaliatory American tariffs on European goods. It took the WTO 14.5 years to reach that decision. Hoping for a similar ruling against foreign shipbuilding subsidies would take who knows how long? This is why the United States must have its own policies to protect our jobs and security.” He described the Jones Act’s impact as “far too small to overcome other countries’ massive incentives to shipbuilders, yet it benefits our homeland security. Only the need to construct our military ships has kept America’s shipbuilding industry afloat.” For instance, he wrote, the law’s “requirements are limited to cargo shipped from one U.S. port to another U.S. port, and not the far-more-massive trade between the U.S. and foreign ports. In other words, only purely domestic shipping is affected, which is a homeland security issue. Similar laws in other countries are used to protect their internal waterways as well.” Istook concluded, “Those who would subvert the Jones Act are part of the never-ending effort to discourage incentives to Buy American. The debate is as old as the United States. Our very first Congress adopted laws to promote both a strong presence at sea and to protect domestic waters. The economist Adam Smith argued that a strong merchant fleet was vital to national interests. Other countries may offer us financial incentives to weaken our shipping industry. But we should tell them, ‘No.’” September 2019 �New Jersey Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver (photo above) christens the NY Waterway ferry Susan B. Anthony. She is flanked by State Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg and NY Waterway President Arthur E. Imperatore. (Photo courtesy Joe Sharp Photography) In photo at right, Deckhand Steven Matos (left) and Capt. Frank Virginia are pictured aboard the Susan B. Anthony. Union-Contracted NY Waterway Christens Ferry Fully Restored Susan B. Anthony is Newest Addition SIU-contracted NY Waterway has added to its fleet of safe, reliable passenger ferries. The company on July 24 hosted a ceremony in Weehawken, New Jersey, where Lt. Gov. Sheila Y. Oliver christened the Susan B. Anthony. The boat joins NY Waterway’s fleet of three-dozen vessels. SIU Patrolman Ray Henderson attended the gathering, which he described as small but upbeat. “It was a great ceremony – a sunny day on the river,” Henderson said. “The lieutenant governor gave a wonderful speech, as did (NY Waterway President) Arthur Imperatore. The members are happy.” Capt. Frank Virginia and Deckhand Steven Matos, assigned to the new addition, also were there for the christening, which took place at the Port Imperial Ferry Terminal. “It is with great honor that I join NY Waterway to dedicate this boat to one of the most consequential heroes in U.S. history, Susan B. Anthony,” Oliver said. “She was often seen as an outlier and a fighter, which are the traits of every transformative figure that I admire. The roots of her activism started at a very young age and continue to inspire me and so many others in our contemporary pursuit for social equity in New Jersey and beyond.” “It is fitting that Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver, who has dedicated her life to serving the people of New Jersey, is here to christen the Susan B. Anthony,” said Imperatore, founder of the company. “Sheila Oliver is a living testament to the wisdom, power and passion of women in politics made possible by Susan B. Anthony and the suffragettes…. Like all our ferries, and the dedicated men and women who keep them running, this boat will honor the example of Susan B. Anthony and Sheila Oliver, serving New Jersey commuters for years to come.” “I am honored to participate in NY Waterway’s boat dedication to one of my heroines, Susan B. Anthony, who relentlessly crusaded for the woman’s right to vote,” said New Jersey Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg. “She was a true social reformer, activist and fighter for social equality, which are many of the same issues we continue to fight for today. Her spirit will be a guiding light to this vessel and I know somewhere she is looking down on this dedication with pride and satisfaction as we welcome her namesake into the ferry fleet.” The Susan B. Anthony was built in 2002 by Yank Marine in Tuckahoe, New Jersey, where the NY Waterway ferries Molly Pitcher and Betsy Ross also were built. These are the first ferry boats built in New Jersey in memory. NY Waterway has three other boats under construction at Yank Marine. Originally named the Suzie Girl, the Susan B. Anthony was used as a party fishing boat on the Jersey Shore. NY Waterway has completely restored it, returning her to as-new condition, with a luxury interior that’s standard on all NY Waterway ferries. She is 65 feet long and 20 feet wide, capable of carrying 130 passengers at 24 knots, and powered by two American-made Caterpillar engines. The new addition to the fleet can carry 130 passengers. In announcing the christening, the company noted that the Susan B. Anthony “will be used on Hudson River crossings between New Jersey and Manhattan. She also will join NY Waterway’s proud tradition of providing emergency service when other transit systems are disrupted by weather or road and track repairs. Since 1986, NY Waterway ferries also have conducted emergency evacuations, bringing hundreds of thousands of New Jersey residents home safely after 9/11, the 2003 blackout and other disasters. These ferries also have rescued more than 300 people from various accidents including 143 people rescued from Flight 1549 in the Miracle on the Hudson, the most suc- cessful rescue in aviation history.” Moreover, NY Waterway ferries carried 11,000 to 12,000 extra riders home to New Jersey when PATH service was disrupted on June 27 and carried more than 10,000 extra passengers home when the Lincoln Tunnel and Port Authority Bus Terminal were closed July 3. SIU-crewed NY Waterway ferries are considered by many as the most reliable transit system in the New York metro area. They carry upwards of 32,000 or more passengers daily and maintain an on-time performance rate greater than 99 percent. The boats serve 20-plus routes between New Jersey and Manhattan. SIU-Crewed Vessel Marks U.S. Customs Anniversary The Maersk Kinloss, operated by SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited, approaches the Port of New York on its way to a historic inspection. (U.S. Customs and Border Protection photo by Anthony Durak) September 2019 The U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) recently celebrated 230 years of service with a ceremony conducted at APM’s Port Elizabeth terminal in Newark, New Jersey – and SIU members helped with the commemoration. The SIU-crewed M/V Maersk Kinloss served as a symbol of the first vessel to arrive after the creation of the CBP on August 5, 1789: the two-masted sailing ship Persis. During the Aug. 5, 2019 ceremony, the captain of the Maersk Kinloss, Christopher Murray, presented the Application for Unlading (CBP Form #3171) for the vessel to CBP Director of Field Operations Troy Miller, and acting Port Director Dylan DeFrancisci. Before a group of senior port executives, CBP executives, Coast Guard officers, media and other invited guests, the Customs document was duly signed and stamped, formally executing the permit in accordance with the procedures of the late 18th century. In that era, this process would also have included the payment of the tonnage taxes due to the Customs collector. Maersk Americas Head of Corporate Security and Regulatory Mark Tierney spoke at the event, saying, “As we commemorate the very first vessel cleared by U.S. Customs at the Port of New York two centuries and three decades ago, we must also recognize that each year, this port alone receives and processes approximately 17,000 commercial vessel calls – and the CBP is doing an outstanding job in meeting the challenges of expanding global trade volumes and increasing vessel size and cargo capacities.” A Customs duty fee of $774.71 was collected based upon the assessed values of the goods entering the port 230 years ago aboard the Persis. In 2018, the total value of U.S. merchandise imports exceeded $2.6 trillion. CBP is the second-largest source of revenue in the federal government, collecting approximately $52 billion in duties, taxes, and other fees in Fiscal Year 2018. Seafarers LOG 3 �Tanker Saga Spotlights Runaway-Flag Shipping When Iranian military forces seized a commercial tanker in the Strait of Hormuz in late July, the incident made worldwide headlines. Most of the stories focused on the escalating tensions in the Middle East, but some also spotlighted what CNN described as “the murky world of international shipping, where shipowners can register and re-register their vessels within minutes, turning their crews into pawns in a game of diplomatic chess.” The vessel in question is a flag-of-convenience (FOC) or runway-flag tanker, the Stena Impero. It is owned by a Swedish company, flies a British flag, and carries a multinational crew of 23. The mariners are from India, Latvia, the Philippines and Russia. An FOC ship is one that flies the flag of a country other than the country of ownership. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel is quoted in an online CNN piece about the Stena Impero. The article by Ivana Kottasová was most recently updated July 29. It takes a detailed look at FOCs and their many pitfalls. Heindel also serves as chair of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) Seafarers’ Section. He told CNN, “On flag-of-convenience vessels, non-national seafarers simply don’t have the same rights that national seafarers would have if they were employed.” He also told the news outlet that mariners may have trouble getting assistance from their ship’s flag state if they’re not its citizens. “That is especially true when the flag belongs to a developing country with little diplomatic power and no real labor protections,” CNN said in summarizing his comments. “At the same time, Heindel said, the diplomatic missions of the seafarers’ own countries may not be able to help either. It may be their citizens who are involved, but they have no power over the vessels. To make the matters even more complicated, ships are allowed to switch flags and re-register as they please, even mid-journey.” Another maritime expert quoted in the article – Michael Roe, professor of maritime and logistics policy at the University of Plymouth – said, “If you’ve got a credit card, and you’ve got 15 minutes, you can re-register your ship under any flag you want.” Some of the data cited in the article likely didn’t surprise those already familiar with the maritime industry, but for others, the statistics may have been jolting. For instance, the reporter pointed out that approximately 40 percent of the world’s fleet is registered either in Panama, the Marshall Islands, or Liberia (whose registry is headquartered in Virginia). Yet those three countries combined own fewer than 170 ships. Moreover, landlocked Mongolia has 265 vessels sailing under its flag. The ITF has engaged in a decades-long campaign against runaway-flag shipping, and the SIU has been part of the effort. The federation has brought thousands of FOC ships under ITF contract while striving to promote a genuine link between flag states and vessels. As pointed out by the ITF, for workers, runaway-flag shipping can mean “very low wages, poor on-board conditions, inadequate food and clean drinking water, and long periods of work without proper rest, leading to stress and fatigue.” The federation further notes that by “flagging out, shipowners can take advantage of minimal regulation, cheap registration fees, low or no taxes, and freedom to employ cheap labor from the global labor market.” The ITF believes there should be a genuine link between the real owner of a vessel and the flag the vessel flies, in accordance with the United Nations Con- vention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). According to the federation, FOC registries make it more difficult to hold shipowners accountable; in many cases, the registries themselves are not even run from the country of the flag. Solidarity in Lone Star State The SIU had a strong presence at this year’s Texas AFL-CIO convention in San Antonio. Pictured from left are Rick Levy, president of the state fed; SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, who was re-elected as a district VP; Shwe Aung, ITF inspector, who was elected president of the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance of Texas (thereby also making him a VP of the state labor federation); and Montserrat Garibay, secretary-treasurer of the state fed. SIU Asst. VP Mike Russo and Port Agent Joe Zavala also attended. School Hosts IBF Officials The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education recently hosted top officials from the International Bargaining Forum (IBF) for meetings in Piney Point, Maryland. The IBF brings together representatives from the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and the international maritime employers that make up the Joint Negotiating Group (JNG). IBF agreements are only available to shipping companies that are members of the JNG and can only be signed by ITF-affiliated unions. (Visit the ITF website for comprehensive information on the IBF.) Pictured here are meeting participants touring the Paul Hall Center in mid-July. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who chairs the ITF Seafarers’ Section, is at far left in photo immediately below. 4 Seafarers LOG September 2019 �Sen. Portman Named Lakes Legislator of 2019 A United States senator recently garnered a prestigious maritime award. U.S. Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio) early last month was named the 2019 Great Lakes Legislator of the Year by the largest labor/management coalition representing shipping on America’s fourth sea coast. The award is presented annually by the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force (GLMTF) to a legislator who has helped advance waterborne commerce on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway. The SIU is a member of the GLMTF. Portman received the award Aug. 9 in Cleveland, immediately after touring SIUcontracted Great Lakes Towing Company facilities. “Senator Portman understands the importance of marine transportation to our national and regional economies,” said John Baker, president of the coalition. “As co-chair of the Great Lakes Congressional Task Force, Senator Portman often works in a bipartisan way on the complex issues confronting the region.” Baker, president emeritus of the International Longshoremen Association’s Great Lakes District Council, added, “GLTMF is especially grateful that Sen. Portman played a key role in passing the Vessel Incidental Discharge Act as part of the Coast Guard Authorization Bill. While preserving a role for the states and the Environmental Protection Agency, it charged the Coast Guard with primary responsibility for implementing and enforcing vessel regulations. Senator Portman negotiated language that overwhelmingly passed the House and Senate.” “Senator Portman’s commitment to workforce development and interest in U.S. shipbuilding are other reasons for his selection,” said Richard Hammer, first vice president of the GLMTF and assistant general manager of Donjon Shipbuilding and Repair. “Presenting the award at the Great Lakes Shipyard on the Cuyahoga River is an appropriate venue.” John Clemons, a GLMTF vice president and national vice president for the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers, stressed that Portman’s support for a strong U.S. Merchant Marine played a role in his selection. “As a member of the Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee, Sen. Portman understands that the economic security, homeland security and national security interests of the United States are best served by vessels crewed, built and owned by Americans,” Clemons said. Jim Weakley, GLMTF vice president and president of the Lake Carriers’ Association, noted that Portman’s support for the many jobs along the waterfront and the roles they play in the economy are unquestioned. “Senator Portman continues to work on environmental and economic issues that benefit Lake Erie and the entire Great Lakes region,” Weakley stated. “His bipartisan nature is a true testament to Midwest values Communications Workers President Emeritus Bahr Passes Away at 93 The last member of the AFL-CIO Execu- had become American Cable & Radio. By tive Council to have served during World 1954, he was elected president of his New York local. War II passed away July 30. In 1957, he joined the CWA staff and Morton Bahr, president emeritus of the Communications Workers of America was the lead organizer for the campaign (CWA), was a shipboard radio operator dur- that brought 24,000 plant workers of the ing the war before he came ashore to begin a New York Telephone Company into the career that culminated in heading the union union. Four years later, he was appointed the that dealt with telecommunications workers. union’s New York director. Bahr was elected District 1 vice president “Morty was a great friend and a true union man,” stated SIU President Michael Sacco. in 1963. His jurisdiction included New York, “He was proud of the fact that he served in New Jersey and New England. In 1985, Bahr the merchant marine became the third during World War II. president in CWA’s He was a man who history. He took embodied all the old over just after the virtues, most notably breakup of the loyalty and commitAT&T Bell Sysment. Yet, he martem, which had ried those qualities to employed a halfbuild a new vision of million union memthe future.” bers. He served Sacco said Bahr until his retirement loved telling him in 2005. He also why he stopped was a member of being a mariner. Bahr the Maritime Trades had married his girlDepartment Execufriend, Florence, durtive Board during ing a shore leave in those 20 years. 1945. Both of them Bahr and Florence were teenagers. He remained together, returned to sailing and they raised two and received a meschildren. sage at sea that he C WA Presihad become a father. dent Chris Shelton Bahr wasn’t able to stated, “Not only see his son for six CWA members, weeks. When he did CWA President Emeritus but the entire labor get home, he told Morton Bahr movement, lost a giant. Florence he was going to Morty was comfortmake one more voyage. able whether he was in Her response (taken from his autobiography “From the Telegraph to the company of presidents of the United the Internet”): “Go ahead. But the baby and States, in the halls of Congress, or on a picket line. He was not only a great presiI won’t be here when you return.” Bahr found a land-based job with McKay dent but he was a members’ president. Radio and stayed with the American Com- Morty loved fighting alongside members munications Association, which he joined in organizing drives and on the picket line upon sailing. Following a 1948 strike that almost more than anything that he did as crippled the union, Bahr joined the CWA president of this union. He will be sorely and became an organizer at McKay, which missed.” September 2019 and Ohio’s tradition of statesmanship.” “I’m honored to be named the 2019 Great Lakes Legislator of the Year by the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force,” said Portman. “As co-chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force, I will continue to lead the fight to protect our Great Lakes while ensuring our shipping industry in Ohio and across the region remains competitive. Lake Erie is an Ohio treasure that provides drinking water for three million Ohioans, supports hundreds of thousands of jobs, and draws millions of visitors each year. I will continue to fight to help preserve this treasure for future generations.” With his selection as Great Lakes Legislator of the Year, Portman becomes the eleventh Ohio legislator to receive the award since its inception in 1998. Previous recipients are Sen. John D. Glenn (D); Rep. Louis B. Stokes (D); Rep. Steve LaTourette (R); Sen. Mike DeWine (R); Sen. George Voinovich (R); Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D); Rep. Stephanie Tubbs Jones (D); Rep. Betty Sutton (D); Rep. Bob Gibbs (R) and Rep. David Joyce (R). Founded in 1992, the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force promotes domestic and international shipping on the Great Lakes. With 78 affiliated organizations, it is the largest U.S. 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. Its goals include ensuring Lakes dredging is adequately funded, construction U.S. Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio) of a second Poe-sized lock at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, bolstering the Coast Guard’s icebreaking resources, protecting the Jones Act and other U.S. maritime cabotage laws and regulations, maximizing the Lakes overseas trade via the St. Lawrence Seaway, opposing exports and/ or increased diversions of Great Lakes water, and expanding short sea shipping on the Lakes. Congrats to New Commanding Officer SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (left) attended the change-of-command ceremony for the 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Division. He’s pictured with the new commanding officer, Col. Ross A. Parrish. The division is based in San Bruno, California. Seafarers LOG 5 �Class members join SIU officials for a photo immediately following the meeting in Piney Point, Maryland. Pictured from left are Port Agent Victor Nunez, VP Joseph Soresi, VP Tom Orzechowski, Recertified Bosuns Shawn Strand, Donley Johnson, Foaad Saleh, Antjuan Webb and Lovell Smith, SIU President Michael Sacco, Executive VP Augie Tellez, Recertified Bosun Christopher Rosado, VP George Tricker, Recertified Bosuns Raymond Johnson, Ronald Webb, John O’Shaughnessy and William Lima, and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. Bosuns Find a Home with SIU Recertified Seafarers Underscore Career Opportunities Members of the union’s newest class of recertified bosuns have diverse backgrounds, but they share a strongly held belief in the attractive career opportunities available with the SIU. That message came through time after time, often poignantly, when 10 Seafarers graduated from the recertification course Aug. 5 in Piney Point, Maryland. In keeping with tradition, they gave speeches near the end of the monthly membership meeting; their remarks were well-received by fellow upgraders, Paul Hall Center apprentices, family members and union officials. Graduating from the twoweek class were Donley Johnson, Raymond Johnson, John O’Shaughnessy, Christopher Rosado, Lovell Smith, Shawn Strand, Antjuan Webb, Ronald Webb, William Lima and Foaad Saleh. They completed a two-week course that’s considered the top curriculum for deck department mariners at the SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC). The class includes reviews of U.S. Coast Guard regulations, updates on the latest PHC training, hands-on exercises with simulators, and briefings on the collective bargaining process. It also features a town hall-style session with apprentices, meetings with representatives from various union and Seafarers Plans departments, and a trip to AFLCIO headquarters in Washington, D.C., among other subjects. Following are some highlights Recertified Bosun Shawn Strand Recertified Bosun Donley Johnson 6 Seafarers LOG of the graduation speeches, in chronological order. Shawn Strand A 20-year Seafarer, Strand kicked off his remarks by thanking SIU officials “for all their hard work protecting our jobs. Because of you, I am able to have a successful career to support my family.” He also praised the PHC instructors and staff. “The leadership skills and union education I have learned in these last couple weeks was top notch,” said Strand, who sails from Tacoma, Washington. “These skills will be carried over to every ship I sail on.” Like his classmates, he urged fellow members to promote the Jones Act and donate to SPAD, the union’s voluntary political ac- Recertified Bosun Foaad Saleh tion fund. “This is what keeps our jobs safe,” he stated. Strand added, “I would not be where I am today if it wasn’t for the old-timers passing their seamanship down to me. All that knowledge has made me a better sailor, and I thank you.” Donley Johnson When he signed on with the SIU 24 years ago, Johnson had a five-year plan: “get in, make some money, buy a house and then get a ‘normal’ job,” he said. “Well, I’m in the twenty-fourth year of my five-year plan. I keep sailing because this is my normal. It’s a great career; I’ve been able to provide for my wife and two boys. I’ve seen a lot of really interesting places and really cool things.” Recertified Bosun Ronald Webb Johnson encouraged all Seafarers to take advantage of the PHC. He also called the recertification class “a real eye-opening experience. We met a lot of individuals who are dedicated to keeping the American flag flying on ships. We learned about their everyday struggle to defend the Jones Act. It is truly an endless battle. It was good to see our SPAD money hard at work. So please, contribute to SPAD, because our jobs depend on it,” said Johnson, who sails from Jacksonville, Florida. Foaad Saleh There’s no mystery as where Saleh found his influence for joining the union. Continued on next page Recertified Bosun John O’Shaughnessy September 2019 �Recertified Bosun Lovell Smith Recertified Bosun Raymond Johnson “I joined when I was 19 years old, after I graduated from high school in 1994,” he recalled. “The reason I joined the SIU is because my father is an SIU member.” Saleh, who sails from Algonac, Michigan, doesn’t regret the decision. “The SIU provides great contracts, and they also fight for us for better wages, reasonable hours and safer working conditions,” he said. “The union ensures benefits for me and my family.” He said that the class trips to SIU headquarters and to D.C. provided valuable insights about how the union, the Seafarers Plans, and the Maritime Trades Department (MTD) operate. In that vein, he encouraged all members to donate to SPAD and support the Jones Act. Saleh concluded with “special thanks” to SIU President Michael Sacco and other officials “for the effort they put in to keep the SIU strong. This has been a wonderful experience.” Ronald Webb Another longtime member, Webb joined the union in 1986 in New Orleans (he now sails from Fort Lauderdale, Florida). “I didn’t know what I wanted to do (for a career), and the union gave me direction,” Webb said. “The union pretty much saved my life.” He said the recertification course will help him do an even better job aboard ship, and stressed that the officials “need our help to protect our industry and jobs. We need to always do our best job, we need to upgrade our skills, and we need to donate to SPAD.” John O’Shaughnessy “I’ve been part of the SIU since 1983 when I was a trainee here in class 384,” O’Shaughnessy began. “I’ve always tried to do a good job, and that’s why I’ve lasted this long.” Currently sailing from Jersey City, New Jersey, O’Shaughnessy said the SIU “has Recertified Bosun William Lima been important in my life. It has given me stable income, time to enjoy myself, and benefits. I have enough (sea) time to receive a pension, and let me tell you, that’s a good feeling.” He thanked the PHC instructors and SIU officials for their work, and underscored the union’s “commitment to protecting our jobs. During my visits to Camp Springs and Washington, I saw firsthand their dedication to the union and its members, and how hard the battle is for survival. We as members need to donate to SPAD so our union officials who represent us have the support they need for their continuous battle on Capitol Hill – and so we in turn can support ourselves and our families.” O’Shaughnessy added, “My time here has been enjoyable. This is a beautiful school, and I was treated with respect for all my years of service.” Lovell Smith The other class member who sails from Jersey City, Smith noted, “Twenty-four years ago, I walked through these doors as a trainee – a boy from New York with no direction. Now, I stand here as a man that gives direction.” He said he first applied for the recertification class 15 years ago, but things worked out for the best. “Looking back, I was not ready then,” Smith stated. “Now, I stand here humble, with more understanding, more knowledge and more patience.” He said the class was worthwhile and summarized the work of a bosun as “not about knowing how to tie every knot in the book. It’s about people management, conflict resolution, promoting safety and morale-boosting.” Smith thanked his family for their unwavering support “and being so understanding of my absences through holidays, birthdays and all the special events that I could not attend.” Some of those family members traveled hundreds of miles to Recertified Bosun Antjuan Webb attend the graduation ceremony; his first bosun, Brian Isenstadt, and other old shipmates also attended. Raymond Johnson Describing the union as “a well-oiled machine,” Johnson said one thing that stood out in the class was “learning how hard the leadership works to provide jobs, protect the Jones Act and protect the livelihoods of so many people. They are at the forefront of the maritime industry to ensure that we continue to have jobs and a strong union with a good pension plan and a good health benefits plan.” He thanked the school’s instructors and said the facility has “a good atmosphere and great people.” Johnson, who sails from Mobile, Alabama, noted that he has been a mariner for 33 years, the last 29 with the SIU. He has sailed around the world twice. William Lima Before becoming a Seafarer, Lima started sailing with the National Maritime Union’s (NMU) division for civil-service mariners in 1987. “When we merged with the SIU (in 2001), things got better,” he recalled. Lima has sailed from Boston, Brooklyn and Jersey City, but currently calls Piney Point his home port. “This union has always supplied me and many others with good-paying jobs throughout the years,” he said. Lima said the leadership course in particular will help him “be a little more tactful without yelling so much.” He concluded by expressing confidence in the union’s officials. “There’s a lot of people out there who would like to see this union fail and the Jones Act disappear, for their own selfish gain and greed,” Lima said. “Luckily, we have a whole slew of dedicated men and women that work hard for us to keep this union strong and proud for many, many Recertified Bosun Christopher Rosado years to come.” Antjuan Webb “The union has played a very important role in my life,” said Webb, who joined the SIU in 1989 and who sails from Oakland, California. “It took me off the streets and kept me away from the people I’d been hanging out with. They either went to jail or were murdered. I believe God protected me through the trainee program here at Piney Point.” Webb said the initial training “taught me how to become a man – responsible, disciplined, and a professional U.S. Merchant Mariner.” He thanked Sacco and SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez “for being concerned and passionate about our wellbeing. I also thank the instructors and staff at the school for their hard work.” Webb said the class helped him realize the vital importance of grassroots political action, including SPAD. Christopher Rosado Another part of the graduation tradition is enduring the playful suspense about who’ll be the last speaker – and in this case, Rosado had the honors. “I’ve had the pleasure of travelling the world, meeting all kinds of people and cultures and seeing things people pay good money to see on cruise ships. The difference is, I got paid to see those places,” said Rosado, whose home port is Santurce, Puerto Rico. He continued, “Being part of this SIU family has made me the man I am today. Because of the SIU, I’ve been able to provide for my family and to have the lifestyle I have today – and I have a pretty good one.” Rosado thanked the officials and school personnel, and encouraged fellow Seafarers to support SPAD. “It’s hard work, what these people do,” he stated. “Our leaders need the resources to make it happen.” Apprentices Receive Advice From Those ‘In The Know’ The newly recertified bosuns wrapped up their respective speeches with advice for Paul Hall Center apprentices. Here’s a sampling: questions, and keep all of your mariner documents up to date.” --- Foaad Saleh “You are part of a great tradition! Work hard, ask questions, and learn as much as you can. Take pride in what you do. You are the future of the SIU.” --- Shawn Strand “Study hard while you are here. Learn from your instructors. Learn to work together with your classmates. When you go out to sea, work hard, carry your load and never be afraid to ask questions.” --- Ronald Webb “Have an open mind as to which department you want to join. There is something great and rewarding in all of them…. Don’t be surprised to find out that this is your ‘normal,’ too!” --- Donley Johnson “It’s all about learning how to get along with others and how safety is one of the biggest issues. Ask questions – it’s very rare that someone isn’t willing to help.” --- John O’Shaughnessy “Take advantage of this great school and look to the future. Study hard, ask “Join the ship with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Work safe and listen September 2019 to your department heads. While overseas, practice the buddy system and try not to travel alone. Save your money.” --- Lovell Smith “To be a good trainee and shipmate, you need to have a good attitude and good work ethic. Listen to your instructors, department heads and even your peers. No one knows it all.” --- Raymond Johnson “The sky is the limit for all of you. Where else can you start out cleaning pots and pans, then end up being master of your vessel? Be positive and, most of all, be safe out there.” --- William Lima everything you need out of this program. Take advantage, work hard, get along with others and pay attention to these great leaders here at the school. Whenever you get on ships, always be respectful and professional and work hard. Not only do you represent yourselves, you also represent the Seafarers International Union.” --- Antjuan Webb “You are the future. Study hard, learn from your instructors, and be a team player. When you go out there, represent. Work hard, ask questions. Be neat, be early, be respectful. That will take you a long way.” --- Christopher Rosado “You have a great opportunity to get Seafarers LOG 7 �AB Robert Anderson Oiler Luke Coffelt GUDE Henry Egaran SA Robert Seals (front) and AB Morgan Hayes ‘A Tacoma Staple’ Seafarers Participate in Annual Philanthropic Project SIU members in the Pacific Northwest show no signs of letting up in their efforts to give back to the community. Most recently, SIU personnel teamed up for the union’s annual participation in Paint Tacoma-Pierce Beautiful, a regional philanthropic project that began in 1985. The union has been active with the program (typically referred to as Paint Tacoma) for 13 straight years. The summertime outreach normally consists of painting the exteriors of houses of lowincome, elderly and disabled homeowners within Tacoma, Washington, city limits. SIU Port Agent Warren Asp headed the union’s involvement this year, and he came away impressed by the attitude, effort and skills of the Seafarers team. Collectively, they spent three days (80 man-hours) at a local home, where they deftly gave it a facelift. “We could not have asked for better crews this year,” the port agent said. Joining him were AB Abdulhak Ahmed, AB Morgan Hayes, SA Robert Seals, AB Robert Anderson, GUDE Henry Egaran, AB Sonny Lawson, Bosun Derik Rye, Oiler Luke Coffelt, Recertified Bosun Richard Barnes, Recertified Bosun Richard Barnes 8 Seafarers LOG Safety Director Ben Anderson and Administrative Assistant Joni Bradley. “The volunteers were a generational mixture of SIU veterans and rookies working side-by-side,” Asp said. “This was also an introduction to the program for our new Administrative Assistant Joni Bradley. Joni has had big shoes to fill in the port this year following Brenda Flesner’s retirement, and she was up for the challenge.” Alberto Ortiz, a son of the homeowners, was the SIU’s main contact for the project. “The SIU people did a very wonderful job,” Ortiz said. “The house really needed it, and I know my parents are very happy and grateful. Thank you very much, on behalf of all of us.” Recertified Bosun Barnes has participated in Paint Tacoma several times. He said this year’s iteration was worthwhile, as usual. “I enjoy giving back to Tacoma, putting the SIU’s name out there and showing we care,” Barnes stated. “The homeowners really appreciated our work.” AB Lawson was a Paint Tacoma newcomer and was no less pleased with the AB Abdulhak Ahmed group effort. “I think it went really well,” Lawson said. “Everything was organized and we had lots of volunteers. You could tell that everybody was chipping in and having a good time. It’s a good program.” GUDE Egaran has participated in prior years. “I like to volunteer and help,” he said. “This was definitely worthwhile. At the end, I told Warren, ‘Maybe next summer we’ll do it again’” Based on the SIU’s reliability, participation seems like a given, though not one that’s taken for granted. Meanwhile, Asp noted that Egaran “was instrumental in stepping up and volunteering every day that we had a team working. From pressure washing to the final touches, he was our Johnny on the spot, so to speak. “Also worth mentioning is our apprentice program graduate AB Morgan Hayes,” he continued. When we first got to the house, there were shrubs and tree branches that needed to be cleared so we could work. Brother Hayes had the proper tools in his truck to do a first-class pruning job of all interfering foliage.” Port Agent Warren Asp Asp also credited the homeowners for being “a delightful family that couldn’t have been more pleased to have their home getting a refreshed look. In sticking with the generational theme that seemed to be prevalent this year, the home comprised of grandparents to grandchildren spanning close to 70 years. The family brought out cold refreshments to make sure the team wasn’t overheating, showing their genuine delight with the job and wanting to show their appreciation.” He reserved his highest praise for the Seafarers who turn out year after year. “We always get members asking, ‘So, when are we painting a house this year?’” Asp said. “It has become a Tacoma staple, and it brings this hiring hall great joy to be involved with the community. “Aside from generational diversity, we also get a cultural diversity of volunteers,” he concluded. “From our Muslim brothers to Filipino to African American, Tacoma gets it all from all walks of life. It speaks to a genuine desire for our membership to want to work side-by-side for the betterment of something that is bigger than themselves. We couldn’t be more thankful for our membership here.” Safety Director Ben Anderson September 2019 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU PRESIDENTIAL GREETING – From left: SIU President Michael Sacco, future Seafarer Kemer Gennady Rojas and current AB Kemer Rojas are pictured at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. CONGRESSWOMAN BACKS MARITIME – In early August, U.S. Rep. Elaine Luria (D-Virginia) (left) noticed coverage of the SIU-crewed USNS Seay in the Seafarers LOG and pointed out she once sailed aboard the vessel during her U.S. Navy career. (She served two decades in the Navy, retiring at the rank of Commander.) She’s pictured holding a copy of the LOG at a Maritime Trades Department port council event in Norfolk, with MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan (a former editor of the LOG). Luria reiterated her support of the U.S. Merchant Marine. ABOARD DANIEL K. INOUYE – Pictured aboard the Matson ship in Oakland, California, are (from left) Recertified Steward Edvaldo Viana, ACU Moosa Mohamed and Chief Cook John Bennett. ABOARD OVERSEAS KEY WEST – These snapshots were taken when the OSG vessel made a stop in Port Everglades, Florida, earlier this year. SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins is third from left in the larger group photo in the center. SBX CREWS RECOGNIZED – Vessel operator TOTE Services earlier this year treated SBX crew members to a dinner in their honor, and also presented certificates of appreciation for nearly 600 continuous days at sea. Some of the attendees are pictured here. In photo at left are SA Billie Kawelo (left) and SA Apalogie Cruz-Labrador. Displaying certificates in photo at center are (from left) QDW Timothy Van Pelt, Recertified Steward Cesar Dela Cruz, Storekeeper Connie Tarplin, Bosun James Reynolds, OS Ayesh Ahmed and SA Laura Davies. The photo at right includes company executives, union officials, crew members and officers. MEETING WITH MARINES – SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (second from right in photo at immediate right) meets with U.S. Marine Corps officers on the West Coast to discuss national security and the importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine carrying materiel for our troops. Pictured from left are Lt. Col. Thomas Chockly, Maj. Michael Becker, Celona and Col. Steven White. September 2019 STARLIGHT CONTRACT APPROVED – Starlight Marine crews on the West Coast recently approved a three-year contract featuring wage gains and other improvements. Celebrating the occasion are (from left) SIU Port Agent Nick Marrone II, crew members Paul Gonzalez, Joe Corey, Victor Gonzalez, Chris Wooten and Marty Russo and SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona. Seafarers LOG 9 �MATSON THANKS CAPE HUDSON CREW – When the Seafarers-crewed Cape Hudson returned to San Francisco in late June following a seven-month mission, vessel operator Matson hosted a celebration at a local restaurant. They thanked the crew for a job well done and for making the mission successful. Pictured at the gathering are (from left) SIU Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli, SA Mohamed Shahbain, MEBA Patrolman Max Alper, Matson Crewing Coordinator Julie Sarrico, Chief Steward Dorray Saberon, Maritime Administration RRF Program Director Danny Defanti, Matson VP Jack Sullivan and SIU Port Agent Nick Marrone II. ABOARD CAPE MOHICAN – Pictured aboard the Ocean Duchess vessel in late July in Oakland, California, are (from left) Bosun Anthony Pace, Electrician Boleslaw Szatkowski, Steward/Baker Salah Omar, GUDE Zaid Said, GVA Mohamed Omar and SIU Port Agent Nick Marrone II. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU BOOKS GALORE IN HOUSTON AB Dwayne Harris (right) takes the oath before receiving his full B-book. ITF Inspector Shwe Aung is at left. STEWARDS CONFER – Two recertified stewards are pictured in Jacksonville, Florida. That’s Juan Vallejo (from the El Coqui) on the left and Kim Strate (from the Taino) on the right. Crowley operates the LNG-powered ConRos. QEE Jimmie Williams (left) receives his A-book from Patrolman Kelly Krick. AB Kervin Guevara (left) gets his B-book from Port Agent Joe Zavala. AB Dixon Omar Guity Bonilla (left) gets his full book from Safety Director Kevin Sykes. ABOARD OVERSEAS LOS ANGELES – These photos were taken on the OSG ship in Martinez, California. Pictured from left in the photo at left are Chief Cook Keith Hall, Steward/Baker Clifton Medley and SA Jessie Espiritu. Shown from left in the other photo are Bosun Lionel Hall, Oakland Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli, OSM Mykel Potter, GUDE Reynaldo Mambulao, QEP Fernando Ortega and GUDE Gil Lawrence. AB Francisco Martinez (left) proudly displays his full book. He’s pictured with Patrolman J.B. Niday. ABOARD LIBERTY GRACE – Pictured from left are SIU Patrolman Kelly Krick, ABM Nieves Guerrero, AMO 2nd Mate Lauren Johnson, ABM Dixon Guity, and Patrolman J.B. Niday. The Liberty Maritime vessel was at Houston’s City Docks, not far from the hiring hall. WITH SIU CIVMARS – These were taken aboard the USNS William McLean. Steward department members (photo at left, from left) include James Frasier, Elfatesha Carter, Luis A. Ramos Jr., Antionette White, Celeste Bracey and Laura Thomas. In the photo at right, the deck crew (and one engine department member) includes Bosun Travis Laws, Bosun Mate Robert Melendez, AB Omary Ally, OS Jereau Scruggs, AB Virgilio Abadam, Pumpman John Mejia and Bosun Mate Joseph Teshara. Thanks to SIU Government Services Division Representative Sam Spain for the photos. 10 Seafarers LOG September 2019 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU AT THE HALL IN SAN JUAN – Chief Steward Jesus Ortiz (left in photo at left) donates a new grill for the hall. He’s pictured with Port Agent Amancio Crespo, who’s also at right in the remaining photos. In photo at center is second-generation Seafarer FOWT Marcelino Santos Bermeo, displaying his first registration since completing upgrading training at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center. The remaining photo at right includes STOS Carlos Omar Diaz, showing his first Maritime Defense League receipt. B-BOOK IN CHARM CITY – OS Abraham Tunguia (right) receives his B-book from Safety Director DeCarlo Harris at the hiring hall in Baltimore. B-BOOK IN JERSEY – OS George Arthur (right) receives his full B-book from Patrolman Ray Henderson at the hiring hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. WITH G&H BOATMEN – Pictured aboard the G&H Towing boat Andrew K are Patrolman J.B. Niday (far left) and AB Jason Shaw, Master Travis Shaw, Asst. Engineer Jesse Sendejas and Mate Nicholas Ellis. The photo was taken in Galveston, Texas. B-BOOK IN PHILLY – SA Ismail Saleh (right) displays his newly acquired full B-book at the hiring hall. He’s pictured with Port Agent Joe Baselice. ABOARD TUG KIOWA – Pictured aboard the Material Services boat are (from left) SIU Deckhands Matthew McGinnis, Dustin Ferguson, Nathan Rossiter and Chad Hogan. Thanks to Patrolman Tyson Little for the photo, which was taken in Romeoville, Illinois. September 2019 ABOARD DECISIVE – Pictured from left on the Transoceanic cable ship in Baltimore are Chief Cook Aaron Helton-Cox, SIU Piney Point Port Agent Victor Nunez, Chief Steward Ben Piker and Steward Assistant Anthony Parks. ALGONAC SNAPSHOT – The SIU-crewed Great Republic (Key Lakes) passes the hiring hall in Algonac, Michigan. Seafarers LOG 11 �SIU President Michael Sacco (left) and Acting Paul Hall Center Vice President Tom Orzechowski tour the new facility. A steam boiler trainer The Electrical/PLC Lab Major Upgrades Completed in Piney Point PHC Opens State-of-the-Art Engine Department Shop The Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) recently completed yet another major upgrade to the school’s facilities. The newly upgraded engineering shop features state-of-the-art trainer systems, real-world equipment and new lab environments that will give students the best opportunity for learning the various aspect of the engine department in a safe, controlled scenario. PHC Acting Vice President Tom Orzechowski said, “The shop is completely retooled and set for the next level of training. The building itself went through a complete renovation, and we added new classroom space adjacent to the new electricians’ lab. New trainers encompassing every aspect needed for upgrading and basic training are now available and at the ready. This brings our vocational shop up to date and prepares us for the future.” PHC Instructor Bill Dodd said, “The engineering community is ever-evolving with the introduction of newer electrical and electronic equipment, more advanced mechanical applications and environmental concerns on board ships. It is the responsibility of the HLSS (Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship) Marine Training Department to incorporate the most up-to-date equipment to train mariners in their perspective vocations.” The new equipment includes: - A Pumps Trainer System, for teaching students how various types of pumps operate and function with the multiple piping systems on board ships - A Mechanical Trainer System, for teaching how couplings, bearings, chain drives and gear drives are incorporated in a mechanical system, as well as how alignments are performed - A Hydraulics Trainer System, for teaching about hydraulics and what types of components are in a hydraulic system for lifting, pushing, extending and retracting pieces of equipment that are far too heavy to move by hand - A Pneumatics Trainer System, to provide students with understanding how air can accomplish many tasks - A Steam Boiler Trainer System, to allow students to better understand the steam cycle - An Oily Water Trainer System, to provide students an understanding of how to clean and get rid of oily water waste aboard ships in accordance with applicable laws and regulations - A Lube Oil Purifier System, to help develop a better understanding of how important clean lube oil and fuel oil are to the effective running of the ship’s engines - Centrifugal Pumps and Motor Assemblies, which allows hands-on training for students when having to replace components or rebuild The new pump lab is one of many recent upgrades at the Paul Hall Center. 12 Seafarers LOG centrifugal pumps onboard ships. Another new addition, the Electrical Training Lab, allows students to train for troubleshooting, testing and repairing various types of electrical issues that may arise aboard vessels. Each student has access to their own group of electrical components for testing, troubleshooting and repair training. Additionally, the Programmable Logic Controller Units Lab allows students to develop and implement sensor inputs/output logic for multiple mechanical, pneumatic and electrical systems aboard ships. Finally, as previously reported, the engineering shop houses the up-to-date reefer containers – donated by SIU-contracted ship operators – which allow mariners to train on the actual equipment they will encounter on a vessel or offshore work site. Longtime mariner and electrician Mike Fay offered his thoughts on the completed shop, saying, “I think most would agree the reefer container training is the top rung of the engine department ladder. That is where all the other courses are combined: electrician, refrigeration, high pressure silver brazing, etc. The reefer units we train on are the actual units from vessels; they are not models or simulators as some other labs use.” “Many of our trainers that we have taught with were more than 20 years old, and have seen The refrigerated container lab better days,” said Dodd. “While static trainers are useful, they do not represent the full level of comprehension students need to demonstrate their competency requirements for certification and graduation.... It was decided that new training equipment needed to be acquired, so we may continue to provide the very best training to the new and seasoned mariner for years to come.” The Hydraulic/Pneumatic Lab with trainers Electrician Mike Fay (left) describes aspects of the shop to SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona during a recent tour. September 2019 September 2019 The industrial refrigeration training system Seafarers LOG 13 �Everyday Savings Save every day with union member-only discounts on everything from fashion and beauty to electronics and everyday household items. And whether it’s date night or a fun family night out, enjoy delicious, union family discounts at select restaurants. Find out more about this and other great Union Plus programs by visiting unionplus.org. Learn more at unionplus.org 14 Seafarers LOG FREE COLLEGE CREDIT CARDS FLOWERS & GIFTS WIRELESS DISCOUNTS 9/19 September 2019 �Culinary 2.0 Available at PHC As previously reported, the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education continues to offer Culinary 2.0 classes designed to help students boost their skills while complying with a new rule that takes effect next year. Completing the coursework also is intended to aid individual shipping opportunities. Shipping Rule 5.A.(6), which will go into effect January 1, 2020, states, “Within each class of seniority in the Steward Department, priority shall be given to those seamen who possess an advanced Culinary 2.0 certificate from the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, in the event such program is being offered and that the seaman is registered in Group I, Steward Department.” While every new member of the steward department who completes their apprenticeship at the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship will have successfully passed Culinary 2.0, it’s important to remem- ber that those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards must also take the coursework in order to exercise preference and priority beginning next year (unless they have received training after January 1, 2017 at the Piney Point, Maryland-based campus). For those seamen currently employed as permanent stewards aboard commercial vessels, they must attend Culinary 2.0 in order to maintain their current employment status. For those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards, there are two new revalidation courses that have been designed to ensure a consistent level of culinary training and efficiency: Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 and Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0. The courses are being offered regularly, but spaces are limited, so members are encouraged to plan ahead and enroll as soon as possible. For more information, contact your port agent and/or the school’s admissions office. Personal Anyone who sailed with Norman R. Currie Sr. (between 1961 and 1968) is asked to contact Thomas P. Kelly at (410) 649-2049. Currie’s vessels during that time included, but were not limited to, ones operated by Cities Service, A.H. Bull & Co., Waterman, Alcoa, Moore-McCormack, Calmar, and U.S. Steel, respectively. September & October 2019 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 Mobile.........................Wednesday: September 11, October 16 New Orleans........................Tuesday: September 10, October 15 Jersey City..........................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 due to Labor Day Holiday **Houston change due to Columbus Day Holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m ATTENTION SEAFARERS Contribute To The Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD SPAD Works For You. September 2019 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” Data is cumulative from July 16-Aug. 15. “Registered on the Beach” Data is as of Aug. 16. Total Registered All Groups B Total Shipped Trip Reliefs 2 0 0 9 0 3 0 6 6 7 2 0 4 1 1 0 1 6 4 2 54 Deck Department 12 5 2 1 4 4 22 11 3 1 13 3 8 6 44 23 29 18 27 11 2 1 4 2 19 11 8 2 6 0 0 4 4 5 20 5 1 0 25 10 253 123 C 0 1 1 5 0 1 1 3 3 3 1 4 6 1 1 0 2 3 2 3 41 2 0 5 12 1 2 1 10 16 9 1 2 11 2 1 5 7 5 1 5 98 1 0 0 3 0 1 0 4 2 2 1 0 5 2 0 0 0 0 1 4 26 Engine Department 4 0 1 0 4 0 10 6 2 0 3 1 4 3 15 3 22 8 11 5 3 0 4 2 12 9 6 4 0 0 2 2 4 2 12 5 2 1 9 4 130 55 3 0 2 12 0 6 11 14 21 11 0 1 18 21 3 2 1 9 1 24 160 1 0 1 5 3 2 1 2 12 9 1 6 7 3 0 4 6 5 1 12 81 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 3 2 0 1 3 1 0 0 1 2 1 1 18 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 3 1 4 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 1 17 6 1 4 8 1 4 4 13 26 14 2 0 16 12 3 1 2 11 1 16 145 10 2 2 2 0 1 3 4 19 6 3 0 25 6 1 6 1 5 1 8 105 GRAND TOTAL: 631 488 203 Port A Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 18 1 4 19 6 9 13 55 36 39 2 11 31 13 5 3 2 26 4 24 321 8 6 3 11 1 5 4 23 28 17 1 6 14 3 0 3 10 10 0 11 164 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 6 0 5 9 3 7 4 16 13 12 4 3 10 9 0 2 3 11 2 14 133 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS C A All Groups B C 4 3 4 10 0 6 4 26 27 12 0 5 17 5 2 0 4 11 3 6 149 29 3 4 27 3 14 14 87 63 75 3 15 44 26 3 4 9 50 8 60 541 16 5 1 15 0 6 6 25 40 16 5 10 19 8 1 5 8 16 0 18 220 2 0 0 8 0 4 0 11 12 6 1 5 6 8 1 0 3 7 3 8 85 2 0 1 1 0 0 0 3 2 0 1 0 4 2 0 0 0 2 0 2 20 1 0 0 3 1 1 1 13 9 9 0 3 7 6 0 1 1 6 1 1 64 7 0 3 11 1 5 9 26 27 20 1 3 23 11 5 2 7 22 3 25 211 3 0 5 11 1 5 2 23 28 10 1 4 26 6 1 7 7 8 1 13 162 1 0 0 3 0 1 0 7 2 6 1 1 11 1 1 0 1 6 2 10 54 Steward Department 1 1 0 1 1 1 10 3 0 1 6 1 6 0 17 2 17 10 6 2 0 1 1 4 17 2 17 2 4 0 2 6 4 4 8 2 1 0 16 10 134 53 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 2 2 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 1 2 1 15 1 0 1 4 0 1 2 5 10 2 0 4 10 6 1 6 2 4 1 11 71 6 0 2 17 1 6 22 33 36 16 0 5 25 29 3 3 3 19 2 32 260 2 1 1 5 3 2 2 3 16 9 1 3 11 8 0 2 6 6 1 10 92 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 1 2 3 0 0 2 2 0 0 1 2 0 2 18 Entry Department 0 5 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 1 4 1 3 1 11 1 13 1 11 0 0 0 0 0 11 0 7 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 8 0 1 1 11 8 89 8 0 0 0 0 1 2 1 10 6 0 1 13 6 0 4 0 6 0 2 60 8 0 1 0 0 2 1 4 6 3 0 0 5 0 0 6 0 2 1 0 39 2 0 0 0 0 1 5 8 3 4 0 1 0 2 0 0 1 7 0 1 35 16 3 1 9 1 1 9 23 32 21 3 1 29 26 2 2 1 19 0 36 235 20 2 1 3 0 1 5 11 84 13 3 0 31 8 1 3 1 21 1 27 236 136 323 1,047 709 393 A 525 All Groups B Registered on Beach 320 Seafarers LOG 15 �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 Kate Hunt, 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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 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 This month’s question was answered by Seafarers at the Houston hiring hall. Question: Why did you start sailing and what has kept you sailing? Charles Hill Recertified Bosun I started sailing as a youngster, about 21 years old, and I was an NMU member. I started sailing because friends of my parents were seamen, and they would tell me stories about their trips. I enjoy the camaraderie, the sea. It’s relaxing; it’s therapy for me. I’m a sea lover, and it has enhanced my life, made my life better across the board. Now I’m the one telling sea stories, to my grandchildren. Being in the union has really helped me achieve so much in life. John Mbelwa AB I started sailing because I love it. Joining the SIU allowed me to become financially stable, and allowed me to send my daughter to college, and I’ll be able to send my son starting next year. I appreciate everything the SIU has done for me, in helping me get a good-paying job to provide for my family. Emanuel Gazzier Recertified Bosun I started sailing because I grew up in a commercial shrimping family. I’ve been on boats since I was 5 years old, down in Mobile, Alabama. I’ve just got so much involved in it, it’s a good life. I appreciate everything the union has done for us, and a special thanks to the negotiating committees for getting these good contracts for us. Abel Reyna ACU I always loved to sail, and I loved seeing the world. I joined the union to be able to provide for my family, while also travelling around the world and exploring all new places. The SIU has allowed me to do all of that, and I’m very grateful for the opportunity that being in the union has provided. John Leahey GUDE I started sailing as a bartender on the Independence (American Hawaii Cruises). I’ve kept sailing because I like to travel, and sailing is a great way to do that. The Philippines, Thailand, all of southeast Asia. I’m 63 now, and looking forward to my retirement benefits that being in the union has secured for me. John Gunning Tugboat Master Initially, I had finished my career as a newspaper reporter, and I was looking for a new career. As soon as I stepped foot on a tugboat, I knew it was where I wanted to be. I’ve kept at it because it’s such a unique job, and I still am amazed at the size of the vessels we move around every day. The union has allowed me to support my family, and I’m grateful for all the opportunities I’ve been afforded as a part of the SIU. 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 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (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) 549-400 SIU members currently sail aboard LNG-powered ships, and they also have a rich history of working aboard LNG carriers. One such vessel, the LNG Gemini, is pictured during the early 1990s. The ship was built in 1978 and was one of eight such vessels in the old ETC 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 September 2019 �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 ABDULAZIZ AHMED Brother Abdulaziz Ahmed, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1979, initially sailing on the Overseas Vivian. He sailed in all three departments and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Ahmed last shipped on the Jean Anne and makes his home in Detroit. ANDREW ANDRINI Brother Andrew Andrini, 68, donned the SIU colors in 2007 when he sailed on the Wilson. He was a steward department member and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Andrini’s final vessel was the Moku Pahu. He lives in Altoona, Iowa. GLENN BARNES Brother Glenn Barnes, 65, became a member of the union in 2001. He first shipped on the John Chapman and worked in the engine department. Brother Barnes upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. He concluded his career on the Texas and resides in Aliceville, Alabama. MARC BROMBERG Brother Marc Bromberg, 65, joined the SIU in 1977, initially sailing with Inland Tugs. A deck department member, Brother Bromberg upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions. He concluded his career on the Tacoma and lives in Keyport, Washington. NOEL CUNANAN Brother Noel Cunanan, 68, began sailing with the SIU in 2000, first sailing on the Little Hales. He upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2001 and sailed in the steward department. Brother Cunanan most recently shipped aboard the USNS Bowditch. He makes his home in Houston. HENRY DANIELS Brother Henry Daniels, 65, embarked on his SIU career in 1979 when he sailed on the Del Sol. He upgraded on September 2019 several occasions at the Paul Hall Center and was a member of the steward department. Brother Daniels concluded his career on the Virgo in 1994. He resides in Jacksonville, Florida. JIM DAWSON Brother Jim Dawson, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1974. A deck department member, he was first employed with G&H Towing in the inland division. Brother Dawson upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. He concluded his career on the Leader and settled in Houston. CLIFTON FAVORITE Brother Clifton Favorite, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 2001, first sailing on the Diamond State. A deck department member, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2001. Brother Favorite most recently shipped on the Ocean Jazz. He is a Houston resident. ROLANDO GUMANAS Brother Rolando Gumanas, 65, became an SIU member in 1984 when he shipped on the Santa Mariana. He sailed in the engine department and last shipped on the USNS Capella. Brother Gumanas lives in Mather, California. STANLEY GURNEY Brother Stanley Gurney, 57, joined the union in 1979. He first sailed on the Philadelphia. Brother Gurney primarily sailed in the deck department, and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. He last sailed on the Horizon Tacoma and makes his home in Montesano, Washington. JAMES HEINCY Brother James Heincy, 65, began his career with the union in 2001, initially sailing on the Bernard F. Fisher. Shipping in the deck department, he upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Heincy’s final vessel was the Captain David Lyon. He is a resident of Summerfield, Florida. DANA HENRY Brother Dana Henry, 71, donned the SIU colors in 2003 when he shipped on the Beaver State. He was a steward department member and upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Henry’s last vessel was the John McDonnell. He resides in Tonasket, Washington. DONALD IRVINE Brother Donald Irvine, 66, signed on with the SIU in 1981. He first sailed on the Independence and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. A steward department member, Brother Irvine most recently sailed aboard the Horizon Pacific. He lives in the Philippines. JAMES MANN Brother James Mann, 65, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1972 when he sailed on the Platte. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the unionaffiliated Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Mann was last employed by Sealand. He lives in Vallejo, California. NAZIRUDDIN PATANKAR Brother Naziruddin Patankar, 65, became a member of the union in 2002, initially sailing aboard the Franklin J. Phillips. A steward department member, he last sailed on the Cape Ray in 2014. Brother Patankar makes his home in Jackson Heights, New York. ROY PAYNE Brother Roy Payne, 72, signed on with the union in 1990 when he shipped on the Long Lines. A member of the deck department, he upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Payne most recently sailed aboard the Alliance Norfolk. He settled in Brooklyn, New York. RAUL QUIOTO Brother Raul Quioto, 67, began sailing with the SIU in 2004 when he shipped out aboard the Overseas New Orleans. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments and concluded his career on the Overseas Tampa. Brother Quioto resides in Katy, Texas. ADRIAN REED Brother Adrian Reed, 65 joined the Seafarers in 2001 during the NMU/SIU merger. He first sailed on the Liberator and was a steward department member. Brother Reed concluded his career on the Energy Enterprise. He resides in Rockport, Maine. FRANK REVETTE Brother Frank Revette, 66, signed on with the SIU in 1978, initially sailing on the Overseas Vivian. He worked in the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Revette most recently sailed aboard the Delta Mariner. He resides in Honoraville, Alabama. ALI SHAIBI Brother Ali Shaibi, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1978 when he sailed on the TransColorado. A member of the deck department, he upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1981. Brother Shaibi concluded his career on the Philadelphia in 1996. He makes his home in Brooklyn, New York. ROBERT TORGERSEN Brother Robert Torgersen, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1974, initially sailing on the Bradford Island. A member of the engine department, he upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Torgersen last worked for the union in Elizabeth, New Jersey. He lives in Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey. KENNETH WELLS Brother Kenneth Wells, 57, became a member of the union in 1991 when he shipped on the Eugene Obregon. He primarily sailed in the engine department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Wells most recently sailed on the American Liberty. He resides in Jacksonville, North Carolina. GREAT LAKES LEE MACARTHUR Brother Lee MacArthur, 65, joined the union in 1974. He first sailed on the JB Ford and primarily worked in the engine department. Brother MacArthur’s last vessel was the JAW Iglehart. He lives in Alpena, Michigan. upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. He was most recently employed by Penn Maritime and lives in West Palm Beach, Florida. DAVID FERACE Brother David Ferace, 66, began sailing with the SIU in 2011 when he shipped with Harley Marine New York. He was a member of the deck department and continued to work for the same company for the duration of his career. He calls Waterford, Connecticut, home. KERRY O’CALLAGHAN Brother Kerry O’Callaghan, 55, became a member of the union in 1990, when he sailed on the AMSEA vessel Lake. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2008 and shipped in the deck department. Brother O’Callaghan was most recently employed with Crowley and settled in Norwood, Pennsylvania. ROBERT STEINMANN Brother Robert Steinmann, 64, donned the SIU colors in 1975, initially sailing with G&H Towing. He sailed in the deck department and was last employed by Moran Towing of Texas. Brother Steinmann resides in Las Cruces, New Mexico. DAVID SUMNER Brother David Sumner, 62, donned the SIU colors in 1982 when he sailed on the Santa Elena. He primarily sailed in the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Sumner most recently worked for OSG Ship Management and resides in Lutz, Florida. INLAND ALBERT BODDEN Brother Albert Bodden, 62, signed on with the union in 1998. A deck department member, his first vessel was the Wilson. Brother Bodden Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA HENRY BOON Brother Henry Boon, 92, died February 24. He joined the SIU in 1979, sailing first on the President Truman. A steward department member, Brother Boon last sailed aboard the President Tyler in 1992. He lived in Oakland, California. JOSE FELICIANO Pensioner Jose Feliciano, 72, passed away July 23. He became an SIU member in 1987 when he sailed aboard the USNS Hess. A deck department member, Brother Feliciano last sailed on the Maersk Arkansas. He went on pension in 2012 and lived in Penuelas, Puerto Rico. EARL GRAY Pensioner Earl Gray, 87, died July 13. He joined the union in 1971 and first sailed on the Columbia. Brother Gray was a steward department member and last sailed aboard the Horizon Challenger. He became a pensioner in 1998 and was a resident of Gretna, Louisiana. JUAN GUARIS Pensioner Juan Guaris, 78, passed away July 2. He embarked on his SIU career in 1967, initially sailing on the Chatham. Brother Guaris primarily sailed in the engine department, most recently aboard the Consumer. He became a pensioner in 1997 and settled in Carolina, Puerto Rico. JOHNNY HAMMOCK Pensioner Johnny Hammock, 64, died July 13. Signing on with the Seafarers in 1973, he first shipped on the Van Horizon. Brother Hammock was a member of the deck department and last sailed aboard the John Page. He retired in 2010 and called Cantonment, Florida, home. PATRICIA JOHANSEN Pensioner Patricia Johansen, 69, passed away August 4. She joined the union in 1998, initially sailing aboard the USNS Invincible. Sister Johansen worked in both 18 Seafarers LOG the deck and steward departments. She last sailed on the Cape Orlando and retired in 2015. Sister Johansen lived in Belfair, Washington. SANFORD KLAVANO Pensioner Sanford Klavano, 74, died July 20. He started sailing with the SIU in 1969 when he shipped on the Columbia Beaver. A deck department member, Brother Klavano last sailed aboard the William Baugh. He went on pension in 2008 and lived in East Wenatchee, Washington. GUY POLLARD LOWSLEY Pensioner Guy Pollard Lowsley, 82, passed away June 25. He donned the SIU colors in 1967 when he sailed on the Santa Maria. Brother Pollard Lowsley shipped in the engine department. He last sailed on the Explorer before becoming a pensioner in 1998. Brother Pollard Lowsley was a resident of San Francisco. CRAIG LUNDBERG Brother Craig Lundberg, 59, died June 26. He signed on with the union in 2001, during the NMU/SIU merger. Brother Lundberg was a member of the steward department. His first SIU vessel was the Overseas New York; his last, the American Freedom. He made his home in San Diego. on pension 2010. Brother Ortiz lived in Turlock, California. ENDEL PAPPEL Pensioner Endel Pappel, 93, passed away June 11. He became an SIU member in 1985 when he worked for Waterman Steamship. Brother Pappel shipped in the deck department and last shipped on the Bayamon. He retired in 1985 and resided in Baltimore. MICHAEL PITERIS Pensioner Michael Piteris, 97, died May 25. He joined the SIU in 1967 when he shipped on the Northern Lights. Brother Piteris was an engine department member and sailed last on the Robert E. Lee. He retired in 1986 and made his home in Greece. EDWARD SMIGIELSKI Brother Edward Smigielski, 47, passed away July 21. He was born in Pennsylvania and joined the SIU in 2012. Brother Smigielski’s first vessel was the Resolve. The steward department member most recently shipped on the Maersk Ohio. He called Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, home. FRANCIS TOTH Brother Francis Toth, 62, died June 10. Born in Pennsylvania, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1978. Brother Toth first sailed on the Mount Explorer and shipped in the steward department. He most recently worked on the Evergreen State and made his home in Hollywood, Maryland. INLAND MICHAEL HUFANA Brother Michael Hufana, 63, passed away April 19. He became a member of the SIU in 2007 when he worked for OSG Ship Management. A deck department member, Brother Hufana remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He lived in Town Bank, New Jersey. CLIFFORD JAMES Pensioner Clifford James, 65, died July 14. He embarked on his SIU career in 1973, working for Dravo Basic Materials. Brother James was a deck department member and continued to ship with the same company for his entire career, which ended in 1992. He called Jackson, Alabama, home. JEREMIAH NICASTRO Pensioner Jeremiah Nicastro, 91, passed away July 11. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1970, initially sailing with Michigan Tankers. A deck department member, Brother Nicastro last sailed with Boat St Mary’s Inc. He resided in Gloucester, Massachusetts, his birthplace. NMU FRANK BENNETT Pensioner Frank Bennett, 92, died July 15. He joined the union during the 2001 SIU/ NMU merger; his first SIU vessel was the St. Louis Express. Brother Bennett was a member of the deck department and concluded his career aboard the Cape Victory. He resided in Port Arthur, Texas. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. NAME AGE Arroyo, Jose Bollard, Joseph Caballer, Carmen Dodd, Thomas Duarte, John Green, Albert Iguina, Francisco McAllister, Andrew Rosario, Felix Sanchez, Emilio Thompson, Georgie Vieira, Joseph 94 96 93 90 82 94 96 92 94 89 91 94 DOD 07/17/2019 06/13/2019 06/28/2019 07/13/2019 07/31/2019 07/22/2019 07/19/2019 08/04/2019 08/10/2019 06/22/2019 07/04/2019 06/27/2019 SIU CIVMARS Support Our Troops NEIL NAPOLITANO Pensioner Neil Napolitano, 88, passed away May 27. He joined the SIU in 1979, initially sailing aboard the Boston. Brother Napolitano shipped in the deck department and last sailed on the Consumer in 1994. He started collecting his pension in 1996 and resided in Forksville, Pennsylvania. GREGORIO ORTIZ Pensioner Gregorio Ortiz, 72, died July 15. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, he began his SIU career in 1967. Brother Ortiz first sailed on the Trans Hudson and was a member of the deck department. He last shipped on the USNS Dahl before going The USNS Richard E. Byrd (right), crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division, prepares for a replenishment-at-sea operation with the U.S. Navy’s forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan. Photo was taken Aug. 14 in the Philippine Sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tyra M. Campbell) September 2019 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings PATRIOT (TOTE), April 14 – Chairman Yamira Colon, Secretary Matthew Carroll, Deck Delegate Kevin Moore, Engine Delegate Thomas Leroy, Steward Delegate Velicia Williams. Parts needed in order to repair work clothes dryer. Members to use drying room for work clothes in the meantime. Secretary discussed policies aboard ship. All unlicensed members are considered “all-purpose crew.” Secretary noted drug and alcohol policy. OSs to be notified of duties on watch and on deck. Steward department was thanked for providing great meals. Crew was thanked for keeping the house clean. OS Jewel Lamb was praised for taking important steps to maintain shipboard safety. Next Port: Constanta, Romania. HORIZON KODIAK (Matson), April 21 – Chairman Gary Walker, Secretary Antoinette Amato, Educational Director Kevin McCagh, Deck Delegate Mott Arnold, Engine Delegate Jeffrey Murray, Steward Delegate Patrick Durnin. Chairman reminded members to keep dues current and encouraged them to contribute to SPAD. Educational director encouraged crew to upgrade at the Piney Point school. He suggested registering for the Culinary 2.0 to remain competitive with other members in 2020. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested a new paid holiday in the next Standard Freight Ship Agreement. The new holiday requested would be designated as Maritime Day and would not come at the expense of an existing paid holiday. Crew thanked steward department for a 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. job well done. Deck department was thanked for their commitment to SAHFOS plankton collection, which contributes to the ship’s fund. Crew discussed situation with standby reliefs and Tacoma hall, including standby wages. Members asked that headquarters provide wage incentives and also negotiate an increase with the Matson shore gang. Next Port: Tacoma, Washington. OREGON (Crowley), April 27 – Chairman Charles Hill, Secretary Tina Knox, Educational Director Frank Harris, Deck Delegate Saleh Almatari, Engine Delegate Waverly Moore. SIU Assistant Vice President Kris Hopkins came aboard ship and discussed transition to SIU, shipping rules and contracts. Chairman welcomed new members to the union and advised them to keep documents current. He encouraged crew to contact headquarters for more information. Educational director recommended members upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Good food on ship. HOUSTON (USS Transport), May 5 – Chairman Reny Arzu , Secretary Fausto Aranda, Educational Director Jorge Lawrence, Engine Delegate Charlie Wescott. Chairman went over new ship procedures and encouraged members to work together. Secretary gave thanks to the SIU. Crew thanked bosun for doing a good job and the deck department for clean housekeeping. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members expressed appreciation for new chairs and sofa covers. Crew requested 40inch TV. Steward department was thanked for good food. Chairman advised members to read the Know Your Rights section in the LOG. USNS WILLIAM R. BUTTON (Crowley), May 10 – Chairman Gregory Jackson, Secretary Edwin Bonefont, Educational Director Braden Horne, Deck Delegate Abdoulla Alssoudi, Engine Delegate Deralle Watson. Crew washing machine installed. Chairman went over beneficiary information and reminded members to check and update documents. Secretary discussed differences between the medical plan levels. Educational director reiterated importance of upgrading at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested change to vacation accrual policy. Members are unable to communicate with family without email access. Crew would like to have movies on ship. Members plan on having an anchor pool to put more money into ship’s fund. HOUSTON (USS Transport), May 19 – Chairman Reny Arzu, Secretary Fausto Aranda, Educational Director Jorge Lawrence, Engine Delegate Charlie Wescott. Chairman put together new chairs for the mess hall and lunch room. He addressed questions regarding travel pay. Crew commended for keeping vessel clean. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman encouraged crew to read LOG. Members discussed complaints about Anderson Kelly clinics and asked the SIU to discontinue sending seamen there. Members requested new TVs as well as recliners for each room. Crew gave thanks to the steward department for good food. Members expressed appreciation for bosun’s help with the steward department. PATRIOT (TOTE), May 21 – Chairman Yamira Colon, Secretary Mathew Carroll, Deck Delegate Kevin Moore, Engine Delegate Thomas Leroy, Steward Delegate Velicia Williams. Crew went over old business. Clothes dryer still in need of repair. Educational director advised members to check their documents for expiration dates. Beef reported from deck delegate. Crew requests ability to pay union dues through online portal. Members asked for clarification of penalty pay for engine department. Crew thanked steward department for good meals and for keeping house and decks clean. Next port: Baltimore. MARJORIE C (Pasha), May 25 – Chairman Daniel Davenport, Secretary Jatniel Aguilera Santiago, Educational Director Michael Papaioannou, Deck Delegate Billy Cooley, Engine Delegate Oscar Cesena, Steward Delegate Reno Duque. Members addressed ideas for ship fund spending. Chairman thanked crew for working hard and working safely. He commended Chief Steward Aguilera and Chief Cook Duque for working together and creating excellent menus. Secretary gave thanks to crew for cleaning up after night lunches. Educational director advised members to check the Seafarers LOG or SIU webstie for upgrading courses offered at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate reminded crew to leave clean rooms when signing off ship. Members would like to see room inspections prior to signoff. Crew requested new mattresses for staterooms and would like to keep weekly slop chest on board. INDEPENDENCE (Eco-Tankers Crew Management), May 25 – Chairman Dave Coleman, Secretary Arlene Thomas, Educational Director Jeremy Jendrusiak, Deck Delegate Albert Washington, Engine Delegate Terren Fields, Steward Delegate Antonio Holmes. Crew received memory foam mattress toppers as requested. Payoff scheduled at Port of Houston. Chairman recommended taking USCG physical simultaneously with regular physicals in order to keep ahead of expiration dates. Educational director encouraged crew to upgrade as often as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for a job well done and entire crew was praised for working together safely. Next port: Houston. OVERSEAS KEY WEST (OSG), May 30 – Chairman Wayne Ricard, Secretary Breon Lucas, Educational Director Michael Blue. Crew went over old business, including requests for reimbursement for work shoes. Chairman thanked members for working safely in the shipyard. Educational director reminded members to upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested extended vacation time and changes in pension plan benefits. Special thanks given to steward department members Lucas, Dustin Laney and Hyeyoung Forrer for their excellent work. 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 September 2019 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 19 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Advanced Galley Operations September 21 Title of Course Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start September 16. Chief Steward October 19 December 6 Galley Operations September 14 November 9 October 11 December 6 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 September 14 September 28 October 19 November 2 December 7 September 20 October 4 October 25 November 8 December 13 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 September 21 October 5 October 26 November 16 November 30 September 27 October 11 November 1 November 22 June 6 Start Date Date of Completion Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck October 12 November 8 AB to Mate Modules Modules must be taken in order. Those who are not in the mates program cannot apply for these courses. Contact the Admissions Office for further details. ARPA September 28 October 4 Crane Familiarization October 5 October 11 ECDIS September 21 November 16 September 27 November 22 Lifeboat September 21 October 19 November 16 December 14 October 4 November 1 November 29 December 27 Radar Observer September 14 September 27 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW September 14 November 9 October 11 December 6 100 Ton Master October 19 November 8 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion Steward Department Courses October 18 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training/Basic FF September 21 October 19 November 2 November 16 December 7 September 27 October 25 November 8 November 22 December 13 Basic Training Revalidation September 13 October 18 October 25 November 15 December 6 September 13 October 18 October 25 November 15 December 6 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation September 14 September 20 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting September 21 September 27 Government Vessels September 28 October 12 October 26 November 16 December 7 December 14 October 4 October 18 November 1 November 22 December 13 December 20 BAPO September 14 November 9 October 11 December 6 FOWT October 12 November 8 Junior Engineer September 28 November 22 Machinist October 19 November 8 Marine Electrician October 12 November 15 Medical Care Provider September 28 October 4 Pumpman November 9 November 15 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL September 21 September 27 Welding September 14 October 19 October 4 November 8 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG September 14 November 9 December 7 September 20 November 15 December 13 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 # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG 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, or 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. 9/19 September 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #850 – Graduated May 17 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Diquan Adamson, Quinson Blueford Jr., Kaleb Bogan, Zaid Cooper, D’Angelo Dickson, Nicholas Kai Fortunato, Solomon Foster Jr., Allen Gilmore, Jemell Jones, Zeke Pasquarelli, Jahmiah Peets, Yohanes Pribadi, Marcell Santos-Pascual, Jonathan Silva and Kenneth Smith Jr. Important Paul Hall Center Classes Paul Hall Center Classes Notice To All Students SUA (Galley Operations) – Graduated October 5 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Alexandra Erickson, Paisami Gay, Daniel Howard, Lamarai Jones, Shadonna Jones, EsStonia Moore, Eugenia Porter, Noah Susumu SantiagoStephens, Lareesa Warren, Jessica Williams, Kendra Williams and Jarid Wilson. 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. SUA (Galley Operations) – Graduated November 2 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Reginald Howard, Billie Mahealani Kawelo, Alize Lassiter, Christian Louis, Gerardo Kaindoy Melano, Wilfredo Ramos Silva, James Scott, Tahn Stuart, Nicholas Tacy, Jalisa Williams and Derek Wilson. SUA (Galley Operations) – Graduated October 5 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Alexandra Erickson, Paisami Gay, Daniel Howard, Lamarai Jones, Shadonna Jones, EsStonia Moore, Eugenia Porter, Noah Susumu SantiagoStephens, Lareesa Warren, Jessica Williams, Kendra Williams and Jarid Wilson. SUA (Galley Operations) – Graduated November 2 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Reginald Howard, Billie Mahealani Kawelo, Alize Lassiter, Christian Louis, Gerardo Kaindoy Melano, Wilfredo Ramos Silva, James Scott, Tahn Stuart, Nicholas Tacy, Jalisa Williams and Derek Wilson. Paul Hall Center Classes RFPNW (Phase III) – Graduated April 26 (above, in alphabetical order): Robert Coleman III, Norman Comeaux Jr., Jovanni Capistrano Garcenila, Nicholas Holt, Anthonie Nichols and Mervin Zamora. Each plans to work in the deck departments of SIU-contracted vessels upon the completion of their training. SUA (Galley Operations) – GradOctober 5 (photo atCruz left,Corin BAPO (Phase III) – Graduated April 26 (above, in alphabeticaluated order): Reny Arzu, Michael David dova, Carlos Marcos Gutierrez, Deandre Henry, Roman Hutson,alphabetical Julian Jordan, Jack Lanier, Zion Lyons, Billy order): Alexandra ErSawyer III, Nicholas Sweeney, Justin Turner and Daniel Villarruel. Upon the completion of their training, each ickson, Paisami Gay, Daniel Howplans to work in the engine departments of union-contracted vessels. ard, Lamarai Jones, Shadonna Jones, EsStonia Moore, Eugenia Marine Refrigeration – Graduated April 19 Porter, Susumu Santiago(photo atNoah left, in alphabetical order): Rudy Stephens, Lareesa Jessica Cesar, Edgar Dequito Warren, Dionio, Jesus Manuel Martinez Ortiz, Melody Mitchell, Williams, Kendra Williams and Lamar Jarid Pinckney, Cesar Arnaldo Rivera-Polanco, Wilson. Marvin Sacaza and Sutthipong Ticer. Class Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated October 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Tommy BelChief Steward Galley Operations 2.0 – Graduated – Graduated OctoberOctober 19 (above, 5 (above, in alphabetical from left):order): StevonTommy Taylor,BelPorciaGalley John- Operations – Graduated October 5 (above, from left): Stevon Taylor, Porcia Johnvin, Karl Meyer, Mark Salvador Scardino and Velicia Williams. vin, Karl son Meyer, and Tuliga Mark Salvador Fuega. Scardino and Velicia Williams. son and Tuliga Fuega. instructor William Dodd is at the far right. Chief Steward – Graduated November 9: (above, from left), Merly Ford, real Coronel and Delia Miral Peters. April 2019 54924_APRI 2K1LOG.indd 27 Certified Chief Chief Steward Cook (Module – Graduated 3) – Graduated November November 9: (above, 30 from (above, left), Merly from left): Ford,John Certified Billington, Chief Alvinmar Cook (Module 3) – Graduated November 30 (above, from left): John Billington, Alvinmar Iremedio real Aldana, Coronel Dindo and Prellagera Delia MiralReforsado Peters. and Norma Painitan Baucan. Iremedio Aldana, Dindo Prellagera Reforsado and Norma Painitan Baucan. April 2019 54924_APRI 2K1LOG.indd 27 BAPO (Upgraders) – Graduated April 26 (above, from left): Andrew Blacker, Donte Sawyer and Torina Brooks. September 2019 Seafarers LOG 27 3/19/2019 3:49:09 PM Seafarers LOG 27 3/19/2019 3:49:09 PM Marine Electrician – Graduated March 8 (above, in alphabetical order): Edgar Dequito Dionio, Jesus Manuel Martinez Ortiz, Melody Mitchell, Cesar Arnaldo Rivera-Polanco, Marvin Sacaza and Sutthipong Ticer. William Dodd, their instructor, is at the far left. Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes MSC Supply Configuration Management – Graduated March 22 (right, in alphabetical order): Jason SUA (Galley Operations) – GradBentz, Carlos Enrique uated October 5 (photo at Gibleft, in bons, Stephanie Granger,Eralphabetical order): Alexandra Enchantress Charmaine ickson, Paisami Gay, Daniel Howard, LamaraiPaul Jones, Shadonna Johnson, Klear, DeJones, EsStonia Moore, Eugenia markus Antoine McNabb, Porter, Noah Susumu SantiagoRobert Resurreccion, DougStephens, Lareesa las Vaughn and Warren, BeverlyJessica WilWilliams, Kendra Williams and Jarid liams. Matthew Rogers, their Wilson. instructor, is at the far right. UA to Able Seaman – Graduated March 29 (above, in alphabetical order): Erik Andersen, Brandon Caruthers, Da’vonte Junies and Lucas Vasiliades. Junior Engineer (Basic Electricity) – Graduated March 8 (above, in alphabetical order): Patrick Dean, Vincent Freeman, Deondre Gardner, Arvin Tarroza Heras and Yves Mbuiti Nsaumi. Instructor Christopher Morgan is at the far right. er 5 (above, from left): Stevon Taylor, Porcia John- Government Vessels – Graduated April 12 (above, in alphabetical order): Valerie Bowman, Ernest Boyd, Ferdinand Malicay Cabanlit, Van Dixon, Leopoldo Estrada Martinez, Ryan Marquez Gallano, James Gerry, Mohammed Alam Gir, John Hays, Hussein Kareem Howe, Cecil Husted, Ruby Jones, Joshua Kraynak, John Lewis, Radu Viorel Marinescu, Melaethon Deshenda Silas, Shayla Stafford, Arkala Williams and Kipp Worthy. Keith Adamson, their instructor, is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) mber 30 (above, from left): John Billington, Alvinmar rma Painitan Baucan. Seafarers LOG 27 Combined Basic & Advanced Firefighting – Graduated April 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Yahya Abdulaziz Ahmed, Husein Mohsin Alrayyashi, William Born, Evan Bradley, Corey Covington, Charles Drumm, Michael Iverson, Benny Antonio Orosco and Glenn Snow. Their instructor, Mike Roberts, is at the far left. 22 Seafarers LOG 3/19/2019 3:49:09 PM Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Graduated April 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Mohaned Kaid Algalham, Joso Buterin and Joshus Kraynak. (Note: Not all are pictured.) September 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Paul Hall Center Classes SUA (Galley Operations) – Graduated October 5 (photo at left, in alphabetical Alexandra ErBasic Training order): (Basic Firefighting Upickson, Paisami Gay,April Daniel How-in graders) – Graduated 12 (left, alphabetical order):Jones, Mohamed Kaid Algalard, Lamarai Shadonna ham, Ronald Burris, Keith Carswell, Eric Jones, EsStonia Moore, Eugenia Ivan-Ray Castle, Susumu Duane Evans, Dennis Porter, Noah SantiagoFitzpatrick, Harold Gerber II, Kassim GhaStephens, Lareesa Warren, Jessica leb Ghaleb, Twawang M Gyurme, Doyle Williams, Kendra Williams and Jarid Ling, Larry Skowronek, Glenn Snow, Marc Wilson. Tantre, Alexander Young Jr., and Antonio Duhaylungsod Zorrilla. Operauated Noo at right, l order): ard, Billie elo, Alize an Louis, y Melano, os Silva, hn Stuart, Jalisa Wilk Wilson. Basic & Advanced Firefighting Revalidation – Graduated April 5 (above, in alphabetical order): Jason Boyer, Michael Condron, Nicholas Conway, Matthew Coogan, Van Dixon, Maxwell Fleischfresser, Paul Howard, Bud Sok Khuth, Robert Lapointe, Niels Lund, Wade Poor, Michael Washburn, Foster Watts Jr., and Alan Willliams. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated April 5 (above, in alphabetical order): Peter Crum, Ismael Armando Garayua, Benjamin Ines, William Kane and Troy Smith. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 2.0 – Graduated October 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Tommy BelMark Salvador Scardino and Velicia Williams. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated April 19 (above, from left): Richard Sanderson, Juan Luis Guanill and Kimberly Strate. September 2019 Advanced Galley Ops – Graduated April 26 (above, from left): Sharray Turner, Jeffery Toliver Jr., and Luis Jose Perez Acosta. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated April 12 (above, from left): David Simon, Andy Campollo and Rae Williams. Galley Operations – Graduated October 5 (above, from left): Stevon Taylor, Porcia Johnson and Tuliga Fuega. Certified Chief Cook (Module 6) – Graduated April 6 (above, in alphabetical order): Erwin Raphael Saludares Asinas, Andres Brown, Gilma David, James Gerry, Dominique Villanueva-Kaaiahua and Deja Watson. Seafarers LOG 23 �VOLUME 81, NO. 9 SEPTEMBER 2019 Text “Join” to 97779 To Sign Up for SIU Text Alerts O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Pictured from left to right in photo at left are SIU Port Agent Todd Brdak, SIU VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski, Great Lakes Towing Company President Joseph Starck, SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez and SIU Patrolman Gerret Jarman. Pictured from left in photo above are Exec. VP Tellez, Great Lakes Group President Emeritus Ron Rasmus and VP Great Lakes Orzechowski. (Rasmus is still a board member for the company.) Great Lakes Towing Celebrates 120 Years Ceremony Includes Christening of Tugboat Michigan Seafarers and SIU officials recently helped celebrate two milestones with a longtime employer of union boatmen. The Great Lakes Towing Company on July 22 hosted a dual celebration in Cleveland – recognizing the organization’s 120th anniversary and also christening the new tugboat Michigan. Crew members didn’t stay long, but that was for a good reason: They had to get back to work, a reflection of the company’s full schedule. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski, Port Agent Todd Brdak and Patrolman Gerret Jarman attended the gathering at Merwin’s Wharf on the Cuyahoga River. Daniel Duncan, executive secretary-treasurer of the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO, also attended. Great Lakes Towing boasts the largest American-flag tugboat fleet on the Lakes, and provides harbor assist and towing services to ships in more than 40 U.S. Great Lakes ports. “Through decades of changes, experiencing both the highs and lows, the company has endured, and remained a critical link in the Great Lakes transportation system,” said Joe Starck, company president. “We have always tried to be an outstanding corporate citizen. We are proud to be cel- ebrating 120 years, and we look forward to many more.” The Michigan was christened by vessel sponsor Carolyn Watkins, an official with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency. According to Great Lakes Towing, she “was instrumental in helping the company secure funding assistance through the EPA’s Diesel Emissions Reduction Grant program for the fleet’s new construction program.” The Michigan is the third in a series of five, 64-foot harbor tugs that Great Lakes Shipyard is building for Great Lakes Towing’s operation. It is powered by two diesel engines and generates more than 30 tons of bollard pull, but it also features a hybrid system that will allow it to operate on electricity while at idle, underway at low speeds, or when under low loads. “The tug’s compact size and high maneuverability make it ideal for the narrow waterways and low bridges that characterize harbor towing on the Great Lakes,” the company noted. The tugs Cleveland and Ohio were the first new ones built in the series as part of the company’s fleet renewal program. The fourth tug, Pennsylvania, is slated for completion later this year. The fifth, not yet named, is scheduled for a Spring 2020 completion. Attendees gather at Merwin’s Wharf in Cleveland for the ceremony. The newest addition to the company’s fleet (photos immediately above and below) signals job security for SIU boatmen. The commemorative cake at left was served following the christening ceremony � 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 2019 Description An account of the resource Headlines: PRO-MARITIME BILL REINTRODUCED 'JONES ACT IS ABOUT PROTECTING AMERICA' UNION-CONTRACTED NY WATERWAY CHRISTENS FERRY SIU-CREWED VESSEL MARKS U.S. CUSTOMS ANNIVERSARY TANKER SAGA SPOTLIGHTS RUNAWAY-FLAG SHIPPING SEN. PORTMAN NAMED LAKES LEGISLATOR OF 2019 COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS PRESIDENT EMERITUS BAHR PASSES AWAY AT 93 BOSUNS FIND A HOME WITH SIU APPRENTICES RECEIVE ADVICE FROM THOSE 'IN THE KNOW' SEAFARERS PARTICIPATE IN ANNUAL PHILANTHROPIC PROJECT MAJOR UPGRADES COMPLETED IN PINEY POINT GREAT LAKES TOWING CELEBRATES 120 YEARS 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 9/1/2019 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. 81, No. 9 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/9cc0a4f980de352ccc8a460fa38d99d9.pdf 9e33fb92e03af1bae60e0efc773db27f PDF Text Text AUGUST 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 8 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Matson Christens Lurline Jones Act Vessel Scheduled For Delivery in Late October Seafarers-contracted Matson recently christened the Lurline (right), a combination container roll-on/roll-off (ConRo) vessel built by union workers at the General Dynamics NASSCO yard in San Diego. Page 3. Florida Seafarers Pitch in With Community Service SIU members in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, recently donated time and muscle for a project benefiting homeless people in the area. They teamed up with other union members and local citizens to haul donated furniture from a hotel to a pair of containers donated by SIU-contracted Crowley. Many of the volunteers are pictured below. Page 8. Domestic Maritime Creates 13,850 Jobs, $3.2 Billion in Economic Growth for Ohio According to the findings of a new study conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers, throughout Ohio, the domestic maritime industry employs nearly 14,000 individuals, produces $3.2 billion for the local economy, and generates $817.5 million in worker income. The Jones Act is at the heart of that industry – a fact celebrated during a recent media event in Cleveland. Above, U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio) (at podium) and other maritime supporters discuss the numerous benefits of the Jones Act. Page 3. Chao to Receive AOTOS Award Page 2 Crowley Crews Honored Page 4 �President’s Report Answering the Call When a large number of civilian-crewed military support ships activated early last month, our members and port officials stepped up and smoothly filled the jobs on all three coasts. It’s a given that the SIU always answers the call, but when you combine a large-scale activation with a short deadline, there are bound to be challenges. I’m proud of the way our members in the halls and our people behind the counters came through under pressure, though I’m not surprised. These are exciting times for our union, filled with opportunities, positive developments and of course the never-ending challenges. We have opportunities for growth and job security because of a combination of things, not the least of which is the professionalism and reliability of rank-and-file Seafarers. Some of you have heard me say this before, but when the union goes to bat for our industry, you are the first people we highlight. Your dedication and dependability Michael Sacco help give shipowners the confidence to order new tonnage, like the ConRo and tugboat we’re spotlighting in this edition of the LOG. Your patriotism lets our military leaders know that we’ll be ready when the balloon goes up. Those opportunities for a bright future also require ongoing political action, not just on Capitol Hill but at every level of government. Our industry is heavily regulated, which means we constantly have to educate lawmakers about the U.S. Merchant Marine. And of course, you all know about the bogus attacks on the Jones Act, which is a full-time battle. File that one under “never-ending challenge,” but be assured we are winning, while not taking anything for granted. We don’t always publicize our political undertakings, but we’ve also been working to help expand the fleet of militarily useful U.S.-flag vessels, and I’m optimistic about those efforts. Stay tuned. Another huge key to our future is the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, the SIU-affiliated school based in Piney Point, Maryland. I spend a lot of time at the school and keep a close eye on the steady – and sometimes spectacular – improvements there. The cutting-edge training available in Piney Point is right up there with political action in terms of importance to us. Something else I appreciate about visiting the school is the opportunity to regularly meet Seafarers. Whether we’re discussing concerns or goals, or maybe just reminiscing, I enjoy working with and getting to know our SIU brothers and sisters. (At certain times of year, we’ve been known to talk a little football, too.) These are the same members who earn safety awards like the ones reported in this issue. They’re the same Seafarers who donate their time to help others, also as featured this month. In short, they – you – are the kind of people who make it easy to stay enthused about working hard to help ensure ongoing success for the SIU. Tensions Still High I began last month’s message with a note about controversial attacks on two foreign-flag tankers in the Gulf of Oman. I’ll end this month’s column with a reminder that the international maritime community is still on alert following a reported alleged incident from July 10 in which armed Iranian boats unsuccessfully attempted to seize a British oil tanker in the Persian Gulf. The tanker reportedly was crossing into the Strait of Hormuz area when it was approached by boats from the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. A British Navy ship effectively intervened. As it becomes harder to call these incidents isolated, I know our crews aboard American-flag ships will take every precaution in that part of the world and all over the globe. USS Selects Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao to Receive AOTOS Award One of the American maritime industry’s strongest advocates is receiving one of its most prestigious awards. The United Seamen’s Service (USS) in late June announced that U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao will receive the 2019 Admiral of the Ocean Sea (AOTOS) Award “based on her careerlong commitment to the maritime industry.” The other, previously announced recipients are James Given, president of the Seafarers International Union of Canada; Anil Mathur, president and CEO of Alaska Tanker Corp.; and Joseph Pyne, chairman of the board of Kirby Corporation. The awards will be presented Nov. 1 in New York City, during the 50th annual AOTOS event. A number of U.S. mariners also will receive recognition for specific acts of bravery and heroism while at sea. In announcing Chao’s selection, Lt. Gen. Kenneth Wykle, USA, (Ret.), AOTOS committee chairman, said, “We are honored that Secretary Chao will attend the AOTOS event and personally accept the award.” Chao assumed her office on Jan. 31, 2017. She was previously Secretary of Labor under President George W. Bush. Chao was raised in Queens, New York and subsequently earned her MBA from Harvard Business School. Early in her career, she specialized in transportation financing in the private sector. She began her executive career in public service working on transportation issues at the White House. She then served as Deputy Maritime Administrator, U.S. Department of Transportation; Chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission; and, Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation. As U.S. Secretary of Transportation, Chao has been one of the strongest advocates for the U.S. maritime industry in Department history. She has consistently reiterated the need for a modern U.S.-flag fleet, crewed by skilled U.S. Merchant Mariners, as an important component of U.S. national security. To that end, more funding for the Maritime Administration has been requested than in any previous administration’s budgets – $682 million for FY 2020. She also advocated for additional new school training ships. And, as a signal of her unprecedented support for the U.S. maritime industry, within the first six months of her tenure as U.S. Secretary of Transportation she visited the Ready Reserve fleet in Beaumont, Texas, and toured two American-flagged vessels. She also gave her first commencement speech as Secretary to the graduating class of the U.S. Merchant Marine Secretary Chao (center) is welcomed to the 2017 SIUNA convention by President Michael Sacco (right) and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. Academy on June 17, 2017. “Secretary Chao brings to AOTOS her background in transportation, non-profit work, labor and a macro-view of all the sectors that apply to the mission of USS,” said General Wykle. “We look forward to greeting her on November 1.” SIU President Michael Sacco described Chao as “someone who not only understands our industry, but also truly cares about the American worker. She is a tremendous leader and is universally respected, admired and trusted throughout our industry.” The AOTOS Award commenced in 1970 and has honored more than 80 industry leaders, while the USS marks its 77th anniversary this year. USS President Edward Morgan noted, “Whether operating 144 service centers in 1942 to look after American seafarers and the military or ensuring we honor our true industry leaders as Admiral of the Ocean Sea, USS has continued to be an important presence in the American maritime industry.” The USS continues to provide community services for the U.S. Merchant Marine, the American Armed Forces, and seafarers of the world. A nonprofit agency established in 1942, the USS 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. VP Pence Visits USNS Comfort The Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort, crewed by CIVMARS from the SIU Government Services Division, hosted Vice President Mike Pence (second from right in photo below) and his wife, Karen (left), June 18 in Miami. They are pictured with Adm. Craig S. Faller, commander, U.S. Southern Command. According to the Navy, the Comfort “is working with health and government partners in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean to provide care on the ship and at land-based medical sites, helping to relieve pressure on national medical systems strained by an increase in Venezuelan migrants.” (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Richard L.J. Gourley) O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 81 Number 8 August 2019 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2019 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. 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 August 2019 �The new vessel (photo at left) begins its launch at the unionized General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard. In photo above, SIU Port Agent Nick Marrone II (right) is pictured with Matson President Ron Forest (center) and Forest’s wife, Peggy. Matson Christens ConRo Lurline in San Diego Jones Act Vessel Means New Jobs for SIU Members A new ship with an old name is joining the SIU fleet. Seafarers-contracted Matson on June 17 christened the Lurline, a combination container roll-on/roll-off (ConRo) vessel built by union workers at the General Dynamics NASSCO yard in San Diego. Billed as the largest American-built ConRo, it’s the sixth Matson vessel named Lurline, dating to 1887. SIU Port Agent Nick Marrone II represented the union at the ceremony, which drew a crowd of approximately 700 people. NASSCO also is building a second ConRo for Matson. The Lurline is 870 feet long and has a beam of 114 feet. The ship has a deep draft of 38 feet and weighs in at more than 50,000 metric tons. It will be one of Matson’s fastest vessels, with a top speed of 23 knots, helping ensure on-time deliveries in Hawaii from the company’s three West Coast terminals in Seattle, Oakland and Long Beach, California. In announcing the christening, Matson pointed out that both new ConRo ships “will have an enclosed garage with room for approximately 500 vehicles plus ample space for rolling stock and breakbulk cargo. They will also feature stateof-the-art green technology, including a fuel-efficient hull design, environmentally safe double-hull fuel tanks, freshwater ballast systems and the first Tier 3 dual-fuel engines to be deployed in containerships serving West Coast ports. Under the latest International Maritime Organization (IMO) requirements for engine manufacturers, Tier 3 engines reduce the levels of particulate emissions by 40 percent and nitrogen oxide emissions by 20 percent, as compared to Tier 2 standards.” “The great speed, capacity and environmental improvements of this new ship position us well to serve the needs of our communities in Hawaii for many years to come,” said Matt Cox, Matson’s chairman and chief executive officer, after the shipyard ceremony. “As a proud U.S. company and Jones Act carrier, our investment in this new ship is about much more than maintaining a high level of service Domestic Maritime Creates 13,850 Jobs, $3.2 Billion In Ohio Economic Growth The domestic maritime industry is vital for America – and few states reflect that truth more than Ohio. The American Maritime Partnership (AMP), a powerful coalition to which the SIU is affiliated, hosted a press conference July 1 at Seafarers-contracted Great Lakes Towing Company with U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio), local business leaders, and maritime advocates and employees to proudly announce new economic benefits of the industry to the state of Ohio and Great Lakes region. According to the findings of a new study conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) on behalf of Transportation Institute (TI), the Jones Act continues to fuel a strong maritime industry in Ohio and across the Great Lakes region, where the PwC report shows 123,670 Jones Actrelated jobs – or 20 percent of the national total – are based. Throughout Ohio, the industry employs more than 13,850 individuals, produces $3.2 billion for the local economy, and generates $817.5 million in worker income. Between 2011 and 2016, August 2019 maritime employment in Ohio increased by 3,520 jobs. An estimated $30 billion of the national Jones Act economic impact comes from the eight Great Lakes states. As highlighted at the recent event, Ohio is also an important shipyard state. A new study of shipbuilding by the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD), covering both commercial and military ship construction, found more than $617 million of annual economic impact and more than $364 million in worker income for the state. The backbone of the domestic maritime industry is the Jones Act, which requires the transportation of cargo between all U.S. points to be reserved for U.S.built, -owned, -crewed, and -documented vessels. The law is not only a vital anchor for economic strength and job creation for Ohio, but also a pillar for the entire nation’s prosperity and security. “Today’s report confirms our course: invest in our maritime assets and prepare our workforce for the maritime jobs of the future,” Kaptur said. “This region has an to Hawaii. It also helps drive substantial economic benefits in and opportunities in communities around the Pacific, where this vessel will operate.” Cox added, “The construction of this ship required 150,000 man-hours to complete. It’s over a year’s work for about 2,000 professionals here at NASSCO – engineers, tradesmen and lots of support people. And over its expected lifespan, this ship will generate approximately 4.5 million man-hours of work opportunity for the U.S. mariners who will operate it, not to mention all the dock workers and terminal personnel that move the cargo on and off our ships, and all the people who produced the materials used to build this ship that are sourced here in the U.S., like the steel that came from Iowa and Alabama. These are all living-wage jobs, supporting the families of these American workers, the taxes they pay … it all flows from this one ship. Multiply that by all the ships NASSCO and other U.S. shipyards are building, and you get a sense of the value of the maritime industry to our country and its economy. important place at the table to strengthen our strong domestic maritime industry and its critical role in our national security and prosperity. “In Ohio alone, the efforts of over 13,000 workers facilitate more than $3 billion moving into local economies and generating $817.5 million in worker income. These are the benchmarks from which workers and industry leaders can build on our successes and plan a future of expanded commerce and opportunity.” “Ohio workers are the best in the world at what they do and today’s report shows that our state’s maritime industry is no exception,” said U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio). “Ohio’s ports and shipping industry provide good-paying jobs and these workers play a key role in our nation’s economy.” “The Great Lakes is one of America’s most important environmental and economic resources and are a major component of Ohio’s domestic maritime industry,” said U.S. Rep. Bob Gibbs (ROhio). “This would not be possible without the skilled and dedicated men and women who comprise Ohio’s maritime workforce. Ohio’s status as one of America’s best states for the maritime industry is no surprise to those who see it up close every day. The release of today’s study showing an increase in the number of domestic maritime jobs in Ohio and the contribution its employees make to the state and nation are to be applauded.” In California alone, there are more than 51,000 jobs tied to the American maritime industry, providing over 3.6 billion dollars in labor income with a total economic impact in the state of more than twelve billion dollars.” “Designing and building the Lurline brings pride to every member of our team,” said Kevin Graney, president of General Dynamics NASSCO. “It’s an honor to add the Kanaloa Class vessels to NASSCO’s decades-long history in Jones Act ship production.” Matson invited Constance Lau, a member of Matson’s board of directors, to officially christen the vessel by breaking a ceremonial bottle of champagne against the ship’s hull. Immediately after the bottle was broken, the vessel was released from its build ways and slid backward into San Diego Bay. The Lurline was then docked at NASSCO’s nearby testing and trials berth, where the final stages of construction will be completed. Matson is expected to take delivery of the vessel in late October. “The state of Ohio is a leader in the domestic maritime industry, supporting 13,850 family-wage jobs and contributing over $3.2 billion to the local economy,” said James L. Henry, chairman and president of Transportation Institute. “The findings in our most recent study demonstrate the strength and necessity of the Jones Act, which serves as the backbone of the American maritime industry, the U.S. industrial base, and job creation for the hardworking men and women that crew the vessels delivering both in times of war and peace.” “Quite simply, the Jones Act is American security,” said Matt Woodruff, President of AMP. “In addition to the job creation benefits detailed in this study, our American mariners are relied on by defense leaders to project American force overseas in a national emergency. Alongside our waterfront workers, they are the eyes and ears of homeland security on our nation’s coasts and waterways. Our American controlled fleet provides economic security, ensuring that our nation’s internal freight transportation system is not subject to foreign interference. American maritime jobs always have and will continue to be vital in the never-ending task of keeping America safe, strong and prosperous for generations to come.” “Twenty percent of all Jones Act jobs Continued on Page 6 Seafarers LOG 3 �U.S. Rep. Thomas Suozzi (D-New York) (center) is flanked by SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (right) and Paul Hall Center Trustee Tony Naccarato. MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan (left) congratulates BCTGM President David Durkee on his award. SIU VP Contracts George Tricker (left) introduces Russell Paret, president/CEO of Schuyler Line Navigation Company. Port Council Honors Durkee, Suozzi, Paret The 2019 recipient of the Paul Hall Award of Merit set the tone for annual Maritime Port Council of Greater New York/New Jersey and Vicinity’s dinner/dance when he proclaimed, “An attack on the Jones Act is an attack on your members and their families. So, as far as I’m concerned, an attack on the Jones Act is an attack on the BCTGM!” David Durkee, the international president of the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers (BCTGM) International Union, showed the solidarity he said was so prevalent in the award’s namesake as well as in current SIU/MTD President Michael Sacco. Durkee joined U.S. Rep. Thomas R. Suozzi (D-New York) and Russell Paret, president/CEO of Schuyler Line Navigation Company, in being recognized for their efforts on behalf of the U.S. Merchant Marine and all working people during the June 22 event in New York City. Durkee said the late Paul Hall (who served as SIU and MTD President from 1957 to 1980) stood for “strong and principled leadership … creativity, innovation and breaking new ground to improve the lives and standard of living of his members and their families … unflinching courage … an unyielding commitment to the highest values and standards of trade unionism. He was about labor solidarity and always being there for fellow union members and he never forgot where he came from.” He continued, “I did not know Paul Hall, but I do know Mike Sacco. Mike is someone for whom I have the greatest respect because he embodies those very same qualities as his predecessor, Paul Hall. Mike Sacco is a fighter who has never backed down or backed up when it comes to protecting and advancing the rights and well-being of his members and all working men and women in the maritime trades. When it comes to legislative and regulatory issues affecting workers in the maritime trades, there is nobody in Washington, D.C., who has more credibility and more respect than Mike Sacco.” The BCTGM president updated the crowd of nearly 400 on his union’s battle with Mondelez/Nabisco to stop the outsourcing of union jobs to Mexico. He said the company is paying workers in Mexico as little as “97 cents an hour with no benefits” to bake such icons as Oreo and Chips Ahoy. “The first labor organization to support our nationwide consumer boycott of Nabisco products made in Mexico was the Maritime Trades Department,” Durkee noted. “Mike Sacco and the Maritime Trades Department are always there with fraternal support for another union when called upon. More often than not, they don’t wait to be asked for help. They reach out and say how can we help. That, brothers and sisters, is what solidarity is all about.” In introducing Durkee, MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan referred to the Nabisco campaign by displaying a bag of Chips Ahoy and showing the audience where to look on the lower back of the packaging to see if the words “Made in Mexico” appear. “If ‘Made in Mexico’ is not printed, then they are high-quality union-made cookies,” Duncan said. Suozzi received the Government Man of the Year Award for his years of fighting on behalf of working people in New York and Washington. He said the maritime industry is a model of labor-management cooperation that can serve as “the hope for America.” Suozzi pointed out the nation’s economy “is leaving too many people behind” and also reiterated his vow to “fight for U.S.-flag ships any way I can.” SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez introduced Suozzi by noting the congressman’s father was an immigrant who fought in World War II, became a justice of the New York Supreme Court and provided the values Suozzi still follows: “hard work, justice, (knowing) right and wrong, and looking out for others.” Tellez said Suozzi is “an up-and-coming politician who is good for the country and good for our industry.” Upon receiving the Herb Brand Award (named for a past Seafarers LOG editor and American maritime icon), Paret SIU Crews Help Crowley Earn Marathon’s Elite Vessel Award SIU members recently helped bring home elite recognition for Seafarers-contracted Crowley Petroleum Services. Marathon Petroleum Company LP (MPC) recently presented its Elite Vessel Award for the sixth consecutive year to Crowley. The award “recognizes the company’s mariners and vessels who serve Marathon for outstanding performance and environmental protection,” Crowley reported. The award, presented at a reception in Jacksonville, Florida, honors vessel operators (including the crews) for their customer service, dependability and exemplary performance in health, safety and environmental excellence. “Select, high-performing Crowley mariners were chosen to represent their ships and crewmates at the award ceremony,” Crowley noted. “Each mariner received a plaque to commemorate their team’s achievements.” Crowley vessels recognized for 2018 – all featuring SIU crews – included the tanker West Virginia (represented at the event by Capt. James Cunningham); articulated tug-barge (ATB) Courage/650-5 (represented by Capt. Darren Bates); 4 Seafarers LOG ATB Liberty/750-3 (represented by Second Mate Coronado Hickman); tanker Louisiana (represented by First Assistant Engineer Seth Green); ATB Legend/750-2 (represented by Chief Mate Kyle O’Connor); ATB Achievement/650-8; and tanker Ohio. Bates pointed out that his ATB “in- SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi (right), who also serves as president of the port council, presents an award to U.S. Rep. Thomas Suozzi (D-New York). announced, “I appreciate all those working hard at sea tonight. I am grateful to have the best team in the world.” Paret oversees U.S.-flag operations that include cargo preference and Maritime Security Program vessels. “I am so lucky to love what I do. Shipping is a 24/7 industry and I thank everyone I depend on every day,” Paret stated. “We all play important roles – lawmakers, crew, maintenance, operations and crewing, and, of course, labor. Too many people don’t know about the U.S.-flag industry. “We need a national maritime strategy,” he offered to loud applause. “To survive and thrive, we must be bold.” Presenting the award to Paret was SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “His colors are red, white and blue. He is someone you can trust – a true patriot and a great American,” stated Tricker. “He treats mariners properly and with respect.” volves two crews, which is 22 people yearround, in order to make the award happen. Those guys deserve all the credit. I appreciate them working safely, following the rules and going home safe to their families. At the end of the day, that’s what it’s all about.” He added, “I thought it was a nice ceremony and a good way to show appreciation for the crews meeting the companies’ standards. Marathon and Crowley are both great to work for. They set their standards high for safety, quality work and protecting the environment. Hickman stated, “I had a really good time at the event. It was nice meeting the higher-ups and it’s a very special award. It goes to show how much hard work and dedication we put in. It’s nice to get rewarded and know they’re happy with our dedication.” “Crowley is committed to safe and reliable transportation, and we are proud of the dedicated service and professionalism that these honorees demonstrate every day,” said Tucker Gilliam, vice president, petroleum services, Crowley. “We appreciate the trust and partnership that Marathon has for our company and the men and women who serve the fleet.” SIU members are pictured with Crowley and Marathon personnel. The Seafarers include Darren Bates (sixth from left), Coronado Hickman (third from right) and Kyle O’Connor (far right). Among those also pictured are Crowley Chairman and CEO Tom Crowley (sixth from right). August 2019 �Hearing Highlights Benefits of U.S. Maritime Short Sea Shipping Takes Center Stage During Key Transportation Subcommittee Meeting America’s domestic maritime industry benefits the nation in numerous ways, but there are untapped opportunities to utilize it even more. Those were some of the main points voiced June 19 when the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation conducted a hearing titled “Short Sea Shipping: Rebuilding America’s Maritime Industry.” Testifying at the hearing were: U.S. Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby; Maine Port Authority CEO Jon Nass; Lake Carriers’ Association President James Weakley; and Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO President Larry Willis. Each of them voiced strong support for the maritime industry. One of the key topics discussed during the hearing was the Maritime Administration’s (MARAD) “America’s Maritime Highway Program” (AMHP). As explained by Buzby in his testimony, “The Marine Highway System consists of our nation’s navigable waterways including rivers, bays, channels, the Great Lakes, the Saint Lawrence Seaway System, coastal, and certain open ocean routes. These navigable waterways touch 38 states plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. The purpose of the AMHP is to further incorporate these waterways into the overall U.S. transportation system, especially where marine transportation services are the most efficient, effective, and sustainable transportation option.” He continued, describing the AMHP as consisting of three elements: route designation, project designation, and grants. He stated, “The AMHP is clearly having an impact. Metrics we gather to measure that impact include the number of truck road miles that have been eliminated. Using Federal Highway Administration formulas, MARAD estimates the public benefits of funded projects in dollars. In FY 2016, AMHP grant-funded services moved 35,215 twenty-foot equivalent units by water, saving approximately $1.5 million in road maintenance and congestion costs.” He then discussed the complexities and challenges of the nation’s cargo transportation options: “Congestion on our surface transportation system significantly impacts our economic prosperity and quality of life. One study estimates that in 2014, congestion cost America’s urban commuters an estimated $160 billion in wasted time and fuel; trucks account for $28 billion of this cost. Overall, the volume of imports and exports transported by our freight system is expected to more than double over the next 30 years. This will have implications for ports, which handle approximately 70 percent of America’s international trade by volume. Most of this additional cargo will ultimately move along our surface transportation corridors, many of which are currently at or beyond capacity.” Nass pointed out the importance of domestic shipping, saying, “For those of us who live in port cities, moving freight by water is instinct, but it needs to be intuitive for others as well — especially those who set transportation policy. One needs only to sit for a few frustrating hours in Boston or beltway traffic to appreciate the value of alternative transportation. Moving freight from highway to seaway will improve commerce, decrease air pollution, and reduce fuel consumption and traffic congestion in our largest cities. I am not the first to suggest that the United States has an infrastructure problem. There is no denying it. In maritime terms, the nation’s surface transportation infra- structure is like a vessel taking on water – fast.” He continued, “By not making alternative freight transportation systems a national priority, especially short sea shipping alternatives, I believe that we are misusing our surface transportation system. We are missing a win-win opportunity to both stop the leaks in the highway infrastructure while fostering a revitalized waterway economy nationally.” Weakley discussed the lower environmental impacts of short sea shipping, as well as the relative efficiency of cargo ships. “It takes less energy to move cargo via water than it does the other modes of transportation,” he said. A U.S.-flag laker can move a ton of cargo 607 miles, the approximate distance from Duluth to Detroit, while consuming only one gallon of fuel. A truck can typically move that same ton of cargo about 59 miles per gallon and rail can move it 202 miles per gallon. Given the lower energy consumption, marine transportation emits fewer tons of carbon dioxide. A laker will emit 19 tons to transport 1,000 tons of cargo 1,000 miles. Trucks making the same cargo movement will emit 190 tons.... Economies of scale also help us achieve lower energy consumption rates. One of our lakers can move 70,000 tons of cargo. That is the equivalent of 700 rail cars or 3,000 trucks. Another measure of modal efficiency is horsepower per ton. Trucks require 12-20 horsepower for each ton of cargo moved. For rail it is about 1-1 and for vessels, it is 0.2-0.3. If trucks could operate with vessel efficiency, they could be powered with a lawnmower engine.” He also emphasized the importance of the Jones Act, saying, “The Merchant Marine Act of 1920, also known as the Jones Act, requires that vessels moving cargo between U.S. ports be American-owned, American-built and American-crewed. This bedrock of maritime policy provides the stability necessary for LCA’s members to invest in maintaining and adding to their fleet. The national, economic and homeland security implications of the law and the regulatory certainty it provides, allows us to enter into long-term contracts. The Jones Act encourages Americans to invest huge sums of money in assets that will last decades.” Willis highlighted his organization’s commitment to maritime. “Since the nation’s beginnings, waterborne freight transportation has been an integral component of how we move goods domestically,” he said. “As we continue to address our needs, maritime shipping must be a linchpin of any national freight strategy. The maritime industry and the workers we represent look forward to continuing to rise to the challenge.” He echoed the previous statements on efficiency, adding, “Short sea shipping is also green shipping. When transporting substantial volumes, utilizing these vessels is highly fuel efficient per cargo ton-mile, and can result in substantially reduced emissions. The environmental benefits of short sea shipping also go well beyond the fuel efficiency of any particular vessel. Delays at ports and on the surface freight network more broadly can result in unnecessary truck idling and wasted fuel. The utilization of short sea shipping can have a multiplier effect, functioning as a green option individually while simultaneously increasing efficiency in other freight modes.” He concluded, “As Admiral Buzby has highlighted in the past, we are 1,800 civilian mariners short of the Department of Defense’s needs. As we like to say in the maritime industry, cargo is king. If there is cargo, we will train the mariners and build the vessels needed to carry it. By increasing the availability of cargo moved through a strong short sea shipping network, we have the opportunity to create thousands of good seafaring jobs and address pressing national security needs with a single stroke. For these reasons alone, we should take every action to promote short sea services.” DOT Maritime Committee Convenes The Maritime Transportation System National Advisory Committee (MTSNAC) recently conducted its first meeting of the year, in the nation’s capital. Among those pictured afterward are U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao (twelfth from left), flanked by SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (directly next to the secretary’s left shoulder) and Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby (directly to her right). Tellez first served on the committee beginning in 2011 and recently was reappointed following a mandatory break. Established in 2010, the MTSNAC “is made up of leaders from commercial transportation firms, trade associations, state and local public entities, labor organizations, academia, and environmental groups that advise the secretary on policies to ensure that the marine transportation system can respond to projected trade increases,” the DOT reported. August 2019 Seafarers LOG 5 �USCG Commander Addresses Autonomous Shipping Professional Mariners Described as ‘Crucial On-Scene Decision Makers’ U.S. Coast Guard Commander David Dubay, a military professor of international law at the U.S. Naval War College, recently penned an editorial on the possible future of autonomous shipping, and the real issues that such a future would bring. In the editorial (first posted on the Center for International Maritime Security website), Dubay wrote, “In recent years, the prospect of fully autonomous vessels has become a hot topic for commercial shipping. The same fast-paced advances in technology that have led to projects to automate vehicles in every other sector of the transportation industry have also found their way to the shipping industry. Advances in camera technology, sensors, electromechanical actuators and satellite technology appear to promise a world in which ships will soon traverse the oceans without a human on board. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Comité Maritime International (CMI) are already exploring how autonomous vessels would fit into the existing framework of international maritime law.” He continued, “Yet, while it is laudable to plan for the future, autonomous vessels operated by computers and remote operators quite simply pose too many vulnerabilities, and they likely will prove too expensive to replace today’s manned vessels. The professional merchant mariners who operate ships today are the crucial on-scene decision makers, repairmen and physical security providers who make commercial shipping secure, efficient and inexpensive.” Dubay also confidently spoke about the need to maintain a human presence aboard ships: “Once we get past the promises and hyperbole, the risk of collisions, legal liabilities and environmental calamity will ensure that some critical number of humans will persist on board ships. Advances in technology will continue to make shipping safer and more efficient, but they will not eventually replace the human masters and crews that serve on today’s commercial vessels.” He also mentioned the speculative benefits of autonomous shipping, before underlining the valid concern for American workers, saying, “Autonomous vessels may result in better working conditions overall in the shipping industry, as they would eliminate the need today’s batteries simply do not have the energy density necessary to power larger commercial vessels. Higher capacity and more powerful electric batteries that are powerful enough to move larger ships will likely be developed in the future. However, current battery technology has limitations. Lithium ion batteries, the type used for automated vehicles and aircraft, can explode if overcharged and further, large lithium ion batteries need to be temperature controlled to work properly. “Even more challenging obstacles to the success of autonomous vessels will be the expense and complexity of designing such systems,” he continued. “Yet, while it is laudable to plan for the future, autonomous vessels operated by computers and remote operators quite simply pose too many vulnerabilities, and they likely will prove too expensive to replace today’s manned vessels. The professional merchant mariners who operate ships today are the crucial on-scene decision makers, repairmen and physical security providers who make commercial shipping secure, ef ficient and inexpensive.” - - - U.S. Coast Guard Commander David Dubay, military professor of international law, U.S. Naval War College to find workers to fill the many difficult and hazardous jobs at sea. But the elimination of merchant mariner jobs would be a tremendous financial blow to those workers in those jobs today.” He continued, mentioning some of the technology hurdles that are currently stalling autonomous vessels: “One present obstacle for automating larger vessels is battery technology. At the outset, SIU Represented at Safety Event “The technical challenge of operating a large cargo ship autonomously on the open oceans for days or weeks at a time will require a command and control system that does not exist today and may be impractical to build. Seamanship and navigating a ship safely is a challenge with a full complement of crew members on board. Automated ships will require command centers, computers, Maritime Industry Flexes its Muscle In Ohio, Has Huge Impact on Economy Continued from Page 3 Recertified Bosun Adel Ahmed and AB Ryan Boltz took part in a May 29 safety banquet hosted by Shell in Houston. In the large group photo above, Ahmed is second from left and Boltz is second from right. They’re pictured with personnel from Seafarerscontracted Crowley. The photo at the immediate right includes the bosun and his son, Ahmed Ahmed (left). 6 Seafarers LOG advanced satellite communications systems, other electronic devices, remote operators and other technicians.” Not to be overlooked, according to the author, is the “risk of exploitation by adversaries, hackers, terrorists, criminals and other malign actors.” In fact, he said that such potential manipulation is “the most serious concern regarding autonomous vessels” and “one that will very likely keep them from ever being employed.” Dubay wrote, “Autonomous vessels’ dependence on the electromagnetic spectrum and cyberspace infrastructure coupled with the lack of any human onscene responders will provide an opportunity for others to interfere with these ships and potentially use them as weapons or for profit.” He concluded, “Some reality must be injected into the debate over autonomous ships. It is a truism that electronic and mechanical systems will eventually fail. For vital applications where human lives are at risk such as for aircraft, system engineers design in wide tolerances, safeguards and multiple levels of redundancy to ensure an adequate margin of safety. The challenge in designing autonomous vessels is building both a safe and secure system that will function effectively in all ocean and maritime conditions without human beings on board and one that is not capable of being exploited by bad actors. Such a system, even if possible to build, would likely be too expensive for companies to build and operate compared to human crew. As a result, autonomous vessels are extremely unlikely to displace the human network of maritime professionals that have always made the maritime transportation system safe and secure.” are in the Great Lakes states,” said Jim Weakley, President of the Lake Carriers’ Association. “The men and women employed in the domestic maritime industry build and maintain our ships for commercial and governmental clients, including the Navy’s Littoral Combat Ship program, and crew our vessels moving iron ore, stone, and coal, the base of steel and American manufacturing, construction, and energy production.” Weakley further noted, “All eight Great Lakes states are dependent on commercial maritime and the entire national economy is reliant on the cargoes moved on the Lakes by Jones Act-compliant vessels, crews, and companies. There is no second-guessing, the Jones Act is critical to American economic security.” “As a charter member of the Transportation Institute and a participant in the Jones Act domestic shipping industry, along with many of our U.S.-flag customers, we are very proud of the achievements and contributions made over the years in fulfilling and even exceeding the purposes envisaged by this legislation,” said Ron Rasmus of the Great Lakes Towing Company. “The domestic maritime industry is a hugely important source of family-wage jobs for American mariners here in Ohio and all across the country,” said Seafarers International Union Assistant Vice President Bryan Powell. “SIU members have been safely plying these waterways for many decades, contributing to the local economy and delivering the goods.” Powell added, “I’m also proud of the fact that high-ranking individuals in the administration and in our military have pointed out that our crews are a vital component of homeland security. They’re on our rivers and coasts every day; they know if something doesn’t look right, and they have a big stake in the safety and security of our vessels and ports.” Thanks to the Jones Act, the domestic maritime industry employs approximately 650,000 Americans across all 50 states, creates $41 billion in labor income for American workers, and adds more than $154.8 billion in annual economic output each year. The U.S. domestic fleet is one of the largest in the world, with more than 40,000 vessels – built in American shipyards, crewed by American mariners, and owned by American companies – that operate in American waters 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Important SHBP Notice Several New summary plan description (SPD) guides recently were added to the Seafarers website. Now available are: n Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) CorePlus and Core Levels; revised February 2019; n Seafarers Pension Plan (SPP); re- vised March 2019; n Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan (SMPPP); revised April 2019; and n Seafarers Vacation Plan (SVP); revised July 2019. Eligible participants will receive these guides in future participant mailings. August 2019 �Great Lakes Towing Preps for Anniversary Event SIU-contracted Great Lakes Towing Company is well into its second century and still going strong. In a ceremony that simultaneously salutes its history while portending a bright future, the company was scheduled to host a July 22 gathering in Cleveland (after press time). That event was to feature the christening of the new boat Michigan in addition to celebrating Great Lakes Towing’s 120th anniversary. Great Lakes Towing has served the needs of the Great Lakes seaway system – often called America’s fourth coast – since its founding on July 7, 1899. Through the years, the company has remained agile enough to adapt to the needs of the vessels carrying cargo across the lakes, all while expanding into the industry leader they are today. They currently operate a fleet of 28 tugs across 11 major ports throughout the Great Lakes. “Great Lakes Towing has maintained an excellent working relationship with the SIU for decades,” said SIU Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski. “For 120 years, they’ve provided a necessary service in and around the ports of the Great Lakes, and we hope they’ll continue to thrive for at least 120 more years.” In June, the company christened a new tug, Ohio, and dedicated the tug, which Pictured at the tug Ohio dedication June 21 in Toledo are (from left) MM&P President Don Marcus, Great Lakes Towing President Joe Starck, SIU member Eric Johnson, SIU Asst. VP Bryan Powell, SIU member Matt Smith, Great Lakes Towing Operations Manager Lindsay Dew and SIU Port Agent Todd Brdak. previously carried that name to The National Museum of the Great Lakes. The donated tug will serve as a museum piece, after 60 years in the Great Lakes Towing fleet, and 115 years of service on the lakes. House Version of Defense Bill Includes Extended MSP, New Tanker Security Program The U.S. House of Representatives on July 12 passed its version of the Fiscal Year 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which would extend Joe Starck, president of Great Lakes Towing Company, said, “The new harbor tug is aptly named Ohio. She was built by skilled Ohio craftsmen in an Ohio shipyard, for an Ohio-based company, will operate on Ohio waters and serve Ohio the Maritime Security Program (MSP) through 2035 and increases the yearly stipends over the life of the program. In addition, the bill would authorize a tanker fleet that would provide a stipend for the Department of Defense to utilize 10 U.S.-flagged commercial petroleum tanker vessels. Finally, the House version of the bill would also establish a two-vessel U.S.-flag cable security fleet that would “provide installation, maintenance, and repair of ports. In addition, her construction cost was supported by the Ohio EPA.” The tug Ohio will be placed into service in the Port of Toledo. It is the second tug built as part of the company’s fleet renewal program. submarine cables and related equipment.” The tanker fleet would operate similarly to MSP, supporting the needs of our military while helping to maintain the pool of qualified U.S. mariners. The bill will have to be reconciled with the Senate version of the NDAA, which has already been passed but contains a variety of different amendments and different authorization amounts. No further action on the legislation is expected until after Labor Day. CSA Honors Crescent Crews, Others Talking Maritime with U.S. Senator A number of SIU-contracted companies received safety awards from the Chamber of Shipping of America (CSA) during the organization’s annual luncheon in New Orleans on June 18. Crescent Towing crews were among those collectively honored; Seafarers from the Crescent tug South Carolina accepted on behalf of the whole team. Pictured at the event are (from left) Capt. Joseph Carson, Deckhand Kyle McDermott, SIU Port Agent Chris Westbrook and Wheelman Kevin McDermott. SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (left) attended a reception for U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota) (right) on July 5 in Houston. They discussed maritime issues including the Jones Act, cargo preference, the Maritime Security Program, and port infrastructure. August 2019 Seafarers LOG 7 �Seafarers Step Up to Aid Homeless in Florida When an opportunity arose to help area homeless people, SIU members didn’t have to be asked twice. SIU personnel recently teamed up with other union members and area residents in Broward County, Florida, to move donated furniture from a hotel into two large containers provided at no cost by Seafarers-contracted Crowley Maritime. The volunteers weren’t deterred by hot weather – they finished the project in one day (June 20). The outreach was organized by the Port Everglades Association (PEA), a maritime business organization to which the SIU belongs. SIU Assistant Vice President Kris Hopkins led the SIU team, which included members Ron Webb, Anthony Parks, Peter Durangparang, Anito Rarugal, Mike Bowen, David Rodriguez and Mario Hooker. They helped empty 30 rooms, assisted by (among others) members of the IBEW and the Teamsters, respectively. “Any time we have a chance to help the less fortunate, that’s what we’re all about,” Hopkins said. “We’re the lucky ones, because we have jobs to go to and we have families and homes. But we know that many people living in our county do not.” “I always like volunteering to help the less fortunate,” Bowen stated. “Anything to help people, I want to be included. It was hot and more hot that day – we have plenty of that kind of weather in Florida – but there was a lot of teamwork and it went great.” Pier 66 Hotel donated numerous items (bureaus, desks, chairs, lamps, bed linens and other goods) to several local agencies dedicated to providing housing and shelter to the homeless. But, as noted by the association, “There was one big need, however. Much of the furniture and goods needed to be stored in safe keeping for a period of months.” With that in mind, PEA President Rich Vogel contacted Hopkins and Crowley Vice President Patrick Collins, both of whom serve on the association’s board. They led the way in getting three-dozen volunteers, and Crowley also agreed to keep the containers in a secure Undeterred by hot weather, the volunteers haul items from the rooms. area in Fort Lauderdale until the donated items are set for distribution. “This was a total team effort,” said Vogel. “Our companies and the Port Everglades Association feel very strongly about helping and giving back to our great community. We are glad we could provide help to the truly needy people here in Broward County.” PEA board member Anitra Lanzci was one of the volunteers toiling through heat and humidity for the hours-long effort. “It was an inspiration to see such a large-scale, unified group demonstrate their commitment,” she said. Snapshots (and a Poem) from The Union-Crewed USNS Seay Bosun John Wells submitted these images and the poem from the U.S. Marine Management vessel. He reported that the ship loaded cargo in Jacksonville, Flor- ida, and then on April 2 headed for Diego Garcia. The voyage took 30 days. Wells further noted that the crew included a few first-trippers. LOG-A-RHYTHM A Mariner’s Life for Me By Alvin “Surreal” Surrency I’m staring at the water, stuck in its beautiful chaos While taking out the trash, one look and then I was lost Its beautiful splash and violent waves have gotten me Mesmerized and completely taken in Been loving water my whole life, all I wanna do is dive on in Relief Bosun Jonathan Bennett, Chief Mate Mark Sampson Wiper Jorge Garcia Gutierrez (left) and QMED Mariano Ylaya handle bunkering operations. It’s true to say that I can sit and watch the waters all day long Sending me to another place, another world, with a brand new song I’m connected to the water in a way I cannot explain If I jump in this water, I may get fired, fired for being dumb And insane On the other hand, I probably won’t make it, having the Water get the best of me Swallowing me whole, doing a quick 180, going from my Love to my worst enemy I write these words to express my respect and love for This great ocean I guess you can say it has a hoax on me with its magic Motion potion I can write all day about the beauty of this water, this is Something that everyone should see I love my job and the beauty I get to see, not a pirate but a Mariner’s life for me. 8 Seafarers LOG OS Emmanuel Nuez, OS Jeffery Graham QMED Alvin Surrency The bosun said the steward department “kept everyone happy on a long voyage.” Pictured from left are SA Celso Escobero, Chief Cook Melissa McCartney and SA Lally Manalo. August 2019 �Rear Adm. Michael Wettlaufer addresses service members and civilians at MSC’s change of command ceremony aboard the CIVMAR-crewed USNS Burlington (T-EPF 10). (U.S. Navy photo by Jennifer Hunt) Arriving early for the ceremony are (from left) SIU Govt. Services Rep. Sam Spain, SIU VP Govt. Services Kate Hunt, MM&P Rep. Randi Ciszewski and MEBA Branch Agent/Govt. Fleet Rep. Tracy Burke. MSC Conducts Change of Command Ceremony The U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command (MSC) has a new commanding officer. Rear Adm. Michael Wettlaufer relieved Rear Adm. Dee Mewbourne as MSC commander during a June 28 ceremony aboard the SIU CIVMAR-crewed expeditionary fast transport ship USNS Burlington at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story in Virginia Beach, Virginia. SIU Vice President Government Services Kate Hunt and Representative Sam Spain attended the ceremony. They noted that Mewbourne, during his official remarks, thanked SIU President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez and Hunt for their work in helping provide crews for MSC ships while strengthening the overall U.S. Merchant Marine and reinforcing its readiness to answer the call. Adm. Christopher W. Grady, commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, and Lt. Gen. John J. Broadmeadow, deputy commander, U.S. Transportation Command, were the guest speakers. Mewbourne, a native of Ormond Beach, Florida, assumed command of MSC Aug. 25, 2016, overseeing the on-time logistics, strategic sealift and specialized missions that MSC conducts around the world, many of them utilizing SIU-crewed vessels. The agency noted, “During his tenure, Mewbourne, and his staff devoted significant effort in developing and executing a plan to adapt to the changing operational environment and keep MSC ahead of competitors and potential adversaries.” House Legislation Addresses Worker Rights Shortfalls The Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act – introduced May 2 by U.S. Sen. Patty Murray (D-Washington) and U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott (D-Virginia) – is a potentially important piece of legislation on many levels. The bill would address several major problems with current labor laws, and aims to give working people a fair shot when they try to join together and form a union. “It is still too difficult for working people to form a union at their workplace when they want to,” noted the Economic Policy Institute (EPI). “The law gives employers too much power and puts too many roadblocks in the way of workers trying to organize with their co-workers.” The EPI cited several highlights of the bill, including stronger and swifter remedies when employers interfere with workers’ rights; more freedom to organize without employer interference; protecting strikes and other protest activity; and tightening the definitions of independent contractor and supervisor to crack down on misclassification and extend National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) protections to more workers. Significantly, the legislation also would require employers to bargain in good faith with the union chosen by their employees to reach a contract addressing wages, benefits, protections from sexual harassment, and other issues. “But employers often drag out the bargaining process to avoid reaching an agreement,” the August 2019 EPI noted. “More than half of all workers who vote to form a union don’t have a collective bargaining agreement a year later. This creates a discouraging situation for workers and allows employers to foster a sense of futility in the process. The PRO Act establishes a process for reaching a first agreement when workers organize, utilizing mediation and then, if necessary, binding arbitration, to enable the parties to reach a first agreement. And the PRO Act overrides so-called ‘right-to-work’ laws by establishing that employers and unions in all 50 states may agree upon a ‘fair share’ clause requiring all workers who are covered by – and benefit from – the collective bargaining agreement to contribute a fair share fee towards the cost of bargaining and administering the agreement.” The EPI concluded, “The PRO Act does not fix all the problems with our labor law, but it would address some fundamental problems and help make it more possible for workers to act on their federally protected right to join together with their coworkers to bargain with their employer for improvements at their workplace. Research shows that workers want unions. There is a huge gap between the share of workers with union representation (11.9 percent) and the share of workers that would like to have a union and a voice on the job (48 percent). The PRO Act would take a major step forward in closing that gap.” A graduate of the Colorado State University and native of Alexandria, Virginia, Wettlaufer assumed command of MSC following his latest tour of duty as the commander of Carrier Strike Group 3 in Bremerton, Washington. “I am truly humbled to be here and to join this fantastic team,” said Wettlaufer. “Just coming off a dynamic, around-theworld (U.S. Navy) strike group deployment, my team was a prodigious consumer and demanding customer of logistics systems around the globe. As such, I understand and appreciate the challenges which MSC overcomes every day in order to provide the systems and synchronize global activities needed to deliver, distribute and sustain our warriors forward.” Wettlaufer previously commanded the Dambusters of Strike Fighter Squadron 195, USS Denver and USS John C. Stennis. According to MSC, “Wettlaufer’s completed sea assignments include multiple deployments to the Mediterranean Sea, Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf with Attack Squadron 85 and Carrier Air Wing 1 flying the A-6 Intruder from the USS America including Operation Desert Storm. Forward-deployed from Japan aboard USS Independence and USS Kitty Hawk as a Dambuster department head and CVW-5 operations officer, he flew the FA-18C Hornet and he deployed to the Pacific as executive officer aboard USS John C. Stennis.” Mewbourne now will serve as deputy commander of the U.S. Transportation Command. Bill Honoring WWII Mariners Well on Way to House Passage Well-earned recognition for the U.S. Merchant Marine is a big step closer to becoming reality. In late June, U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) announced that his bipartisan Merchant Mariners of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2019 has secured the 290 cosponsors necessary to receive a mandatory vote in the House of Representatives. The bill will move to the Consensus Calendar, which hosts legislation that’s typically passed unanimously by the House, according to Garamendi’s office. “Throughout the Second World War, our armed forces relied on the U.S. Merchant Marine to ferry supplies, cargo and personnel into both theaters of operation, and they paid a heavy price in service to their country,” said Garamendi. “The U.S. Merchant Marine suffered the highest per capita casualty rate in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II. An estimated 8,300 mariners lost their lives, and another 12,000 were wounded, to make sure our service members could keep fighting. Yet, these mariners who put their lives on the line were not even given veteran status until 1988.” He recalled meeting three World War II mariners last year: Charles Mills of Texas, age 97; Eugene Barner from Kansas, age 92; and Robert Weagant from Illinois, age 92. Garamendi continued, “These mariners put their lives on the line for this country, braving German and Japanese submarines in their Liberty ships as they delivered critical supplies to our service members in the European and Pacific theaters. Unfortunately, their sacrifice is commonly overlooked. A Congressional Gold Medal would give them the recognition they deserve, and that’s why I’ve introduced this bill: to give these veterans and their families the honor and respect they are owed. I’m pleased that this bill will receive a vote in the full House of Representatives and is in an excellent position to become law,” Garamendi concluded. “The time has come for our nation to provide a well-deserved thank you and honor the remaining U.S. Merchant Marine Veterans of WWII with a Congressional Gold Medal,” said Christian Yuhas, vice president of the American Merchant Marine Veterans and a chief engineer in the merchant marine. “I urge Congress to support this important bill.” The Merchant Mariners of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act was introduced in the Senate simultaneously by Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska). U.S. Reps. Don Young (R-Alaska) and Susan Brooks (R-Indiana) are the original cosponsors in the House of Representatives. Seafarers LOG 9 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU AROUND THE LAKES – Pictured from left in the photo above, taken aboard Armstrong Steamship’s Walter J. McCarthy, are Safety Director Gerret Jarman, Chief Cook Theo Iglieski, Port Agent Todd Brdak and SA Deja Nae Gardner-Johnson. The other two snapshots were taken at the hiring hall in Algonac, Michigan. Pictured from left in photo at immediate right are AB Yousef Mohamed, receiving his A-book, and Jarman. The photo at the far right includes Recertified Steward Ahmed Sharif, picking up his first pension check, with Brdak. ABOARD SLNC YORK – Pictured from left in the group photo above are Steward/Baker Robert Wright, Oiler Orlando Pajarillo, Oiler Dave Baclaan, Asst. Cook Abdalhakeem Hussein, AB Clifford Carroll, Bosun Ryan Scott and SIU Oakland Port Agent Nick Marrone II. The photo at right from the Argent Marine ship includes (from left) Bosun Ryan Scott and Captain Tim English. These snapshots were taken June 26 in San Francisco. ABOARD APL ROOSEVELT – Pictured from left are Chief Cook Perry Asuncion, Chief Steward Steven Bowmer and ACU Walter Harris. Photo was taken June 21 in Oakland, California. 10 Seafarers LOG ABOARD USNS WILLIAM BUTTON – The deck gang aboard the Crowley-operated ship includes Recertified Bosun Greg Jackson, ABs Samuel Thatcher, Warren Armstead, Robert Goldson, Nate Guevara and Editho Barraca, and OSs Mark Campbell, Frank Muna and Roy Vencer. August 2019 �ABOARD HARLEY MARINE NY TUGS – In photo at left, Mate Andrew Beaird and Deckhand Dave Jakubowski stand in the wheelhouse of the tug St. Andrews. Tankermen Richard Brockway and T.J. Bonilla demonstrate the surest way to land on the SIU Facebook page and in the LOG in center photo. The photo at right includes Tankermen T.J. Bonilla and Jimmy Hargrove displaying the current SIU contract aboard the tank barge Stoddard Sea. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD MAHI MAHI – Pictured from left aboard the Matson ship are ACU John Canson, Chief Steward Gerald Archie and Chief Cook Joel Molinos. Photo was taken June 24 in Oakland, California. B-BOOK IN NY – Tankerman Corey Harris (right) receives his B-book from SIU Patrolman Ray Henderson AT HOUSTON HALL – In photo at left, AB Daniel Ikegwu (left) receives his A-book from Safety at the Harley Marine New York office Director Kevin Sykes. The photo at right shows OMU David Cornelius (left) taking the oath before receiving his full book from Patrolman J.B. Niday. in Elizabeth, New Jersey. ABOARD WEST VIRGINIA – Recertified Bosun John Cedeno shared these snapshots (above, below and at immediate right) from the Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning tanker. Pictured in the photo above (from left) are Oiler Mario Cruz, Bosun Cedeno, OMU Paul Ianni AT OAKLAND HALL – In photo above, Chief Steward Clifton Medley (left) receives his Abook from Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli. The photo below shows Chief Cook Steven Riley (right) picking up his full B-book from Port Agent Nick Marrone II. AB Juberto Perez is tasked with splicing hard lines. August 2019 Nobody takes a more creative group selfie than a Seafarer. This one features the chief mate, Pumpman Scott Fuller and Bosun Cedeno. AB Derek Minnix performs needle maintenance. Seafarers LOG 11 �Independence Day Tradition Thrives Aboard SIU-Crewed Midnight Sun Even the most enthusiastic steward department appreciates an occasional break. For the galley gang aboard the Midnight Sun, those moments often coincide with holidays, including Independence Day 2019. “Our captain, Daniel Severino, did it again,” said an appreciate Chief Cook Sal Ahmed. “For the holiday, he took care of barbecuing outside on the flame grill. We thank him for giving us a break and for doing a great job as grill master. Our thanks also go to Recertified Bosun Darryl Smith and his AB crew for tak- ing care of cleaning and setting up the grill.” Ahmed said there was no shortage of appealing menu items. The spread included lobster, barbecued chicken, hamburgers, smoked Alaskan salmon and much more. “Everyone was happy with the food, and we’re always happy to celebrate our nation’s birthday,” Ahmed added. The rest of the steward department includes Recertified Steward Dennis Skretta and SA Else David. The vessel is operated by TOTE Services. From left: Chief Cook Sal Ahmed, Capt. Daniel Severino, Recertified Steward Dennis Skretta Enjoying the feast are (from left) AB Bakr Elbana, AB Gamal Muflahi, OMU Kasim Ahmed and GUDE Walid Saleh. Recertified Steward Dennis Skretta checks out some of the goodies and the display he put together. Recertified Bosun Darryl Smith Electrician Trevor Cohn (left), OMU Arlie Villasor 12 Seafarers LOG In photo above (from left), DEU Faissal Alamri, AB Troy Ingersoll and a rider help themselves. The Midnight Sun is operated by TOTE Services. The photo at the immediate right shows the Midnight Sun underway on the high seas. August 2019 �Drive Away When it comes to renting a vehicle, Union Plus can help get you the best deal. Check out the Union Plus Car Rental Program’s discounts and services for union members and save up to 25% on rates at companies including Avis, Budget and Hertz. Drive away in style—for less! Find out more about this and other great Union Plus programs by visiting unionplus.org. CREDIT CARDS WIRELESS DISCOUNTS MORTGAGE PROGRAM FLOWERS & GIFTS 8/19 Learn more at unionplus.org August 2019 Seafarers LOG 13 �With Seafarers Aboard Maersk Michigan The vessel docks in the Middle East earlier this year. Bosun Gregorio Cudal chips and paints the main deck drain hole. GVA Evelyn Cruz (left) receives the Maersk Line, Limited monthly safety award. She is pictured with vessel master Capt. T. Pham, who provided all of these photos. Standing, from left are AB Gregory Baker, Bosun Gregorio Cudal, and AB Tomas Robinson. Pictured in front, from left are ABs Randell Paredes, Hiten Shrimankar and Osei Baffoe. The steward department includes (from left) Chief Cook Mohammad Abou-Abdou, Chief Steward Terrelyn Wallace and GVA Evelyn Cruz. 14 Seafarers LOG QMEDs John Morrison and Theodore Gonzales August 2019 �Coast Coast Guard Coast Guard Announces Guard Announces Announces Dispatchers’ Dispatchers’ Dispatchers’ Report Report for Report Deep for Deep for Sea Deep SeaSea Latest Latest Mitigation Latest Mitigation Mitigation Efforts Efforts Efforts June 16, June 201916, June - July15, 2019 16,- July15, 2019 2019 - July15, 2019 2019 The U.S. Coast The U.S. Guard’s The CoastU.S. NaGuard’s Coast only) NaGuard’s thatonly) expire Na-that inonly) expire December that in expire December in December tional Maritime tional Maritime Center tional(NMC) Maritime Center (NMC) 2018, Center January (NMC) 2018, 2019, January 2018, February 2019, January February 2019, February Total Registered Registered Total Registered Total Registered Total Shipped Shipped Total Shipped Total Shipped Registered Registered on Beach Registered on Beachon Beach on July 1 issued on Julyan1 update issued on Julyan head1 update issued2019, an headupdate March 2019, head2019, March 2019, April 2019, March 2019, April 2019, 2019, April 2019, All Groups Groups All Groups All Groups All Groups Groups All Groups All Trip Groups Trip All Trip Groups All Groups All Groups lined “Mitigation lined “Mitigation Efforts lined “Mitigation Due Efforts May Due Efforts 2019, May Due June 2019, 2019, May June or 2019, July 2019, June or 2019, July or July Port Port A A B B A A C C B B A A C C B B A A C B Reliefs Reliefs B C Reliefs C A A Reliefs B B A A C B B C C to Lapse to in Lapse Fiscaltoin Year Lapse Fiscal 2019 in Year Fiscal 2019 2019Year are extended 2019 2019are as extended 2019 valid areuntil as extended valid Port until as valid Port until Appropriations Appropriations and Appropriations Partialand GovPartialAugust and GovPartial 31,August Gov2019. 31, Mariners August 2019. 31, who Mariners 2019. who Mariners who Deck Department Deck Department Deck Department ernment Shutdown.” ernment Shutdown.” ernment The notice Shutdown.” The are notice actively The are notice working actively are on working actively expiredon working expired on expired Algonac Algonac Algonac Algonac 23 23 11 1 11 23 23 111 11 13 6 13 1 1613 13 22 6 655 2 233 33 15 0 5 515 33 33 015 15 0 0 and related andlinks, related plus andlinks, the related “atpluslinks, the credentials “atplus the credentials that “at-meetcredentials the thatexpirameet that the expirameet the expiraAnchorage Anchorage Anchorage 3 0 0 1 0 1 1 5 1 1 3 03 30 01 01 10 01 15 15 51 1 1 tached letter” tached referenced letter” tached referenced below, letter” referenced tion below, criteria below, tionmust criteria carry tionmust criteria the carry ex- must the carry ex- theAnchorage exBaltimore Baltimore Baltimore Baltimore 5 3 0 5 2 0 3 6 4 3 5 3 5 5 0 3 3 5 0 0 2 5 5 0 2 2 3 0 0 6 3 3 4 6 6 3 4 4 3 3 are available are both available on arethe available both NMC on the both pired NMC oncredential thepired NMCcredential with pired a copy credential with of a copy withofa copy of Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale 18 9 18 918 18 6 69 913 10 2 13 6 610 13 13 210 10 6 62 239 15 7 39 6 615 39 39 715 15 7 7 website and website on theand SIU website onwebsite theand SIUonwebsite the the attached SIU website theletter. attached theletter. attached letter.Fort Lauderdale Guam Guam 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 10 01 120 02 20 0 0 01 01 10 0 (look for (look a Julyfor 1 (look post a July in for1our apost Julyin 1“This our post in extension our “This extension does “Thisnot extension doesGuam not does not Harvey Harvey Harvey 12 12 2 1 11 212 12 12 211 1 4 1 4 21 1411 11 14 41 121 4 1 2 4121 21 21 12 2 News section). 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Algonac Algonac Algonac 3 2 1 5 0 0 0 4 3 1 3 23 312 251 105 50 0 04 034 413 31 Algonac School of School Seamanship of School Seamanship will of have Seamanship will have For will morehave For information, more For information, conmore information, conconAnchorage Anchorage Anchorage 1 21 102 210 01 10 0 0 02 02 20 Anchorage 1 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 successfully successfully passed successfully Culinary passed Culinary passed tact your Culinary tact port your agenttact port and/or your agent the port and/or agent theand/orBaltimore the Baltimore Baltimore1 1 0 0 2 0 0 3 1 0 1 1 10 10 02 02 20 03 013 301 10 Baltimore 2.0, it’s important 2.0, it’s important 2.0, to rememit’s important to rememschool’s to admissions rememschool’s admissions school’s office. admissions office. Fort office. Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale 9 69 916 641 164 406 620 018 2 2418 18 24 42 Lauderdale 9 6 1 4 6 0 2 18 4 2 5 82 2 0 1 1 0 0 0 8 3 4 2 1 9 1 0 0 1 5 3 42 Guam Guam Guam 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 02 20 02 02 20 0 01 01 10 10 Guam Harvey Harvey Harvey 3 0 1 3 1 1 3 7 1 1 3 03 310 031 13 31 13 173 317 71 1 Harvey Honolulu HonoluluHonolulu5 2 1 9 3 1 2 15 5 25 512 291 139 913 321 115 2 2015 15 10 01 Honolulu 0 1 Houston Houston Houston 17 17 117 17 01 114 0 0114 14 1 14 137 4 4237 37 12 21 Houston 1 0 14 1 1 4 37 2 1 Jacksonville Jacksonville Jacksonville 11 11 11 2 11 10 2 2810 10 18 861 131 6 618 31 31 218 18 2 Jacksonville 11 11 2 10 8 1 6 31 18 2 JerseyCity City Jersey City Jersey City 6 26 602 250 05 510 041 114 4 4314 14 13 31 Jersey 6 2 0 5 0 1 4 14 3 1 Joliet Joliet Joliet 0 1 1 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 10 01 10 10 02 02 20 01 01 10 Joliet Mobile Mobile Mobile 5 1 1 5 1 0 1 5 5 1 5 15 51 15 15 501 10 051 15 51 51 Mobile Piney Point...........Monday: Piney Point...........Monday: Piney Point...........Monday: August 5, August *Tuesday: 5, August *Tuesday: September 5, *Tuesday: September 3 September 3 3 712 241 126 4 411 26 26 411 11 4 Norfolk Norfolk Norfolk 16 16 516 16 25 572 27 Norfolk 5 2 7 2 1 4 26 11 4 Oakland Oakland Oakland 18 18 418 18 14 411 1 111 11 01 130 028 3 3728 28 17 71 Algonac.........................................Friday: Algonac.........................................Friday: Algonac.........................................Friday: August 9, September August 9, August September 6 9,Oakland September 6 6 4 1 11 1 0 3 28 7 1 Philadelphia Philadelphia Philadelphia 3 03 30 01 01 10 0 05 05 50 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 5 0 0 Baltimore................................Thursday: Baltimore................................Thursday: Baltimore................................Thursday: August 8, September August 8, August September 5 8,Philadelphia September 5 5 PineyPoint Point Piney Point Piney Point 5 65 516 631 143 314 421 142 254 405 50 Piney 5 6 1 3 4 1 2 4 5 0 Guam......................................Thursday: Guam......................................Thursday: Guam......................................Thursday: August 22,August September 22,August September 19 22, Puerto September 19 19 Puerto Rico Puerto Rico Puerto Rico 4 54 405 530 043 304 40 06 056 605 50 Rico 4 5 0 3 4 0 0 6 5 0 Tacoma 13 Tacoma Tacoma 10 10 110 10 1 18 128 812 231 116 3 3016 16 20 02 Tacoma 1 1 8 2 1 3 16 0 2 Honolulu.....................................Friday: Honolulu.....................................Friday: Honolulu.....................................Friday: August 16,August September 16,August September 13 16, September 13 St.Louis Louis St. Louis St. Louis1 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 1 1 01 10 0 0 0 0 04 04 410 01 St. Houston........................................Monday: Houston........................................Monday: Houston........................................Monday: August 12,August September 12,August September 9 12,Wilmington September 9 9 Wilmington Wilmington Wilmington 24 624 24 26 617 2 2917 17 19 981 143 8 843 43 38 83 24 6 2 17 9 1 8 43 8 3 TOTALSTOTALSTOTALS144 144 56 144 144 15 56 56 108 15 15 44 108 108 11 44 44 42 11 11 267 42 42 77 267 267 21 77 77 21 TOTALS 56 15 108 44 11 42 267 77 21 1 0 0 2 0 1 1 1 2 1 0 1 4 1 0 0 0 2 1 3 21 EntryDepartment Department Entry Department Entry Department Entry Algonac Algonac Algonac 1 15 1 15 1 112 15 15 012 12 80 058 85 52 515 2 218 15 15 18 Algonac 12 0 8 5 5 2 15 18 Anchorage Anchorage Anchorage 0 10 01 10 041 104 40 0 04 014 41 Anchorage 0 1 0 1 4 0 0 0 4 1 Mobile...............................Wednesday: Mobile...............................Wednesday: Mobile...............................Wednesday: August 14,August September 14,August September 11 14, September 11 11 BaltimoreBaltimoreBaltimore 0 10 01 10 10 01 1 10 10 01 1 Baltimore 0 1 1 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 New Orleans..............................Tuesday: New Orleans..............................Tuesday: New Orleans..............................Tuesday: August 13,August September 13,August September 10 13, Fort September 10 10 FortLauderdale Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale 0 30 023 302 230 013 31 103 340 014 41 0 3 2 0 3 1 3 0 4 1 Guam Guam Guam 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Guam Jersey City................................Tuesday: Jersey City................................Tuesday: Jersey City................................Tuesday: August 6, September August 6, August September 3 6, Harvey September 3 3 Harvey Harvey 1 2 1 0 1 3 0 2 4 1 1 21 12 201 10 031 103 320 042 214 41 Harvey Honolulu Honolulu Honolulu2 3 3 1 2 2 0 2 10 2 32 23 31 321 12 20 20 010 2 2310 10 3 3 Norfolk......................................Thursday: Norfolk......................................Thursday: Norfolk......................................Thursday: August 8, September August 8, September August 5 8,Honolulu September 5 5 Houston Houston Houston 5 11 5 11 5 5711 11 27 711 2 211 11 52 275 519 7 712 19 19 12 Houston 7 2 11 2 5 7 19 12 Oakland.................................Thursday: Oakland.................................Thursday: Oakland.................................Thursday: August 15,August September 15,August September 12 15, September 12 12 Jacksonville Jacksonville Jacksonville 4 17 4 425 17 17 225 25 15 2 214 15 15 914 14 39 932 3 350 32 32 50 Jacksonville 4 17 25 2 15 14 9 3 32 50 31 122 112 22 22 12 JerseyCity City Jersey City Jersey City 1 13 1 110 13 13 010 10 80 038 813 Jersey 1 13 10 0 8 3 1 1 22 12 Philadelphia............................Wednesday: Philadelphia............................Wednesday: Philadelphia............................Wednesday: August 7, September August 7, September August 4 7,Joliet September 4 4 Joliet Joliet Joliet 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 02 02 20 Mobile 12 Mobile Mobile 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 10 01 10 10 0 0 0 01 01 1 Port Everglades.......................Thursday: Port Everglades.......................Thursday: Port Everglades.......................Thursday: August 15,August September 15,August September 12 15, Mobile September 12 Norfolk Norfolk Norfolk 0 0 22 0 024 22 22 024 24 11 0 019 11 11 419 19 04 430 0 033 30 30 33 Norfolk 22 24 0 11 19 4 0 30 33 Oakland Oakland Oakland 1 9 12 1 91 112 9 9112 12 91 159 915 531 124 3 311 24 24 11 1 9 5 1 3 24 11 San Juan.....................................Thursday: San Juan.....................................Thursday: San Juan.....................................Thursday: August 8, September August 8, September August 5 8,Oakland September 5 5 Philadelphia Philadelphia Philadelphia 1 01 10 01 01 10 10 01 10 0 0 Philadelphia 1 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 St. Louis.......................................Friday: St. Louis.......................................Friday: St. Louis.......................................Friday: August 16,August September 16,August September 13 16,Piney September 13 13 PineyPoint Point Piney Point Piney Point 0 20 032 203 310 01 10 10 02 02 2 0 2 3 0 1 1 0 0 2 2 PuertoRico Rico Puerto Rico Puerto Rico 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 01 01 10 0 Puerto 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 Tacoma.......................................Friday: Tacoma.......................................Friday: Tacoma.......................................Friday: August 23,August September 23,August September 20 23, September 20 Tacoma 20 Tacoma Tacoma 4 11 4 11 4 4511 11 35 511 3 312 11 11 312 12 63 320 6 612 20 20 12 Tacoma 5 3 11 12 3 6 20 12 St.Louis Louis 16 St. Louis St. Louis0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 01 01 10 0 0 0 0 0 Wilmington...................................Monday: Wilmington...................................Monday: Wilmington...................................Monday: August 19,August September 19,August September 16 19,St. September 16 Wilmington Wilmington Wilmington 0 10 0 0610 10 06 612 0 0512 12 05 510 025 1 127 25 25 27 Wilmington 0 10 6 0 12 5 0 1 25 27 *Piney Point *Piney change Point *Piney duechange to Point Labor due change Day to Labor Holiday dueDay to Labor Holiday Day Holiday TOTALS TOTALSTOTALSTOTALS 20 121 20 20 112 121 121 12 112 112 98 12 12 73 98 98 33 73 73 28 33 33 215 28 28 185 215 215 185 20 121 112 12 98 73 33 28 215 185 18 1 1 1 0 1 3 12 50 12 0 1 33 11 0 2 0 12 0 27 185 GRANDTOTAL: GRAND TOTAL:GRAND TOTAL: 593 TOTAL:394 593 593 222 394 394 458 222 222 328 458 458 151 328 328 260 151 151 1,079 260 260 642 1,079 1,079 330 642 642 330 GRAND 593 394 222 458 328 151 260 1,079 642 330 330 August August August & Septemb & Septemb &er Septemb er 2019 er 2019 2019 Member Member Member ship ship Meeting ships Meeting Meeting s s Jacksonville................................Thursday: Jacksonville................................Thursday: Jacksonville................................Thursday: August 8, September August 8, September August 5 8, September 5 5 Joliet.......................................Thursday: Joliet.......................................Thursday: Joliet.......................................Thursday: August 15,August September 15,August September 12 15, September 12 12 Each port’s Each meeting port’s Each starts meeting port’s at 10:30 starts meeting a.m at 10:30 startsa.m at 10:30 a.m 2019 August AugustAugust 2019 2019 2019 Seafarers Seafarers LOG Seafarers LOG 15 LOG 15 �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 Kate Hunt, 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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by members at the hiring hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. Question: Why did you enter this industry and why have you stayed with it? John Nunez Chief Cook My father was a seaman with the SIU for nine or 10 years. Being a chief cook is my favorite job. I like sailing and I like to cook different kinds of meals. This job has made things better for my kids and my life. 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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 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 Alex-Stephen Amarra QMED I got into the industry almost by accident. I was doing odd jobs before I went into the apprentice program. I like the work schedule – it’s not like a regular 9-to-5 job. I have more vacation time when I want it. This job also gives me the chance to do what I like – technical stuff, working around engines. Upgrading in Piney Point also makes me stay. Hussain Nagi Ali SA I heard about it from my friends, and it was the best decision of my life to join the SIU 19 years ago. Since then, I’ve provided my family with a house, food – everything. It’s a happy life. I enjoy the travel and seeing the world. Videlio Roman Bosun When I was in the Philippines, I worked as a mariner for almost 22 years. Here in the States, I worked at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York but was laid off, then joined the SIU. I like it, and the benefits are important. Mike Adorno Chief Cook I was working dead-end jobs and there was too much negative stuff happening in my neighborhood. I had two friends already in the maritime industry, (Electrician) Carlos Perez and (Jersey City Patrolman) Eddie Ruiz…. Eddie took me to the hall, I filled out some paperwork, and the rest is history. The money is good and I like to travel and see how big the world is. Ion Boros AB I started working on ships in Romania in 1973. I sailed as an AB, a captain and a pilot. I started sailing on U.S.-flag ships in 2004. It’s exciting, and I try to do an excellent job, regardless of which ship I’m aboard or which company I’m working for. I enjoy making my contribution to the job. I also appreciate our pension plan. 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 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (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) 549-400 SIU hawsepiper Don Malozi submitted this 1984 snapshot, taken aboard the American Hawaii Cruises vessel SS Independence. He’s standing second from right, chatting with (respectively) a fireman, plumber and third assistant engineer. Malozi (Piney Point Class 359) currently sails as chief engineer on the SS Wright, and has been a member of the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers for the last 28 years. 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 2019 �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 FADHL AHMED Brother Fadhl Ahmed, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1992, initially sailing on the Global Sentinel. A member of the steward department, he last shipped on the Maersk Alabama. Brother Ahmed makes his home in Brooklyn, New York. HENRY COMMAGER Brother Henry Commager, 66, joined the SIU in 1988. A steward department member, he first sailed on the Independence. Brother Commager upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center before concluding his career on the APL Guam. He lives in Columbia, Missouri. WILLIAM CSAPO Brother William Csapo, 65, became a member of the union in 1978 when he shipped on the Commerce. He primarily sailed in the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Csapo concluded his career on the Cape Trinity. He resides in Vancouver, Washington. DEMETRIO FAULVE Brother Demetrio Faulve, 65, donned the SIU colors in 2001, during the SIU/NMU merger. His first SIU vessel was the Innovator. A member of the steward department, Brother Faulve upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2001 and concluded his career on the Patriot. He lives in Long Beach, California. ANDRZEJ FURMANOWSKI Brother Andrzej Furmanowski, 67, began sailing with the union in 1999, first shipping on the Sumner. He upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2002 and sailed in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Furmanowski most recently shipped aboard the North Star. He calls Tacoma, Washington, home. EDWARD GERENA Brother Edward Gerena, 65, embarked on his SIU career in 1977 when he sailed on the Boston. He upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school and was a member of the deck department. Brother Gerena concluded his career on the Eugene A. Obregon. He resides in Panama City, Florida. HAROLD HENDERSON Brother Harold Henderson, 73, August 2019 joined the union in 2001, during the SIU/NMU merger. The steward department member’s first SIU vessel was the Kenai; his last, the Cape Texas. Brother Henderson calls Hayward, California, home. Cape Florida. He sailed in both the steward and deck departments. Brother Ordonez upgraded at the union-affiliated Piney Point school in 2003 and last sailed aboard the Freedom. He resides in Miami. ABDULLA JINAH KIRK PIPER Brother Abdulla Jinah, 66, signed on with the Seafarers in 1992, first sailing on the Independence. A steward department member, he upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2003. Brother Jinah most recently shipped on the Maunawili. He makes his home in Melvindale, Michigan. Brother Kirk Piper, 65, became a member of the union in 1976, initially sailing aboard the Zapata Ranger. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills in 1977 at the Piney Point school. Brother Piper last sailed on the Westward Venture in 1986. He makes his home in Excelsior, Minnesota. MCKINLEY JONES Brother McKinley Jones, 62, became an SIU member in 1990 when he shipped on the USNS Persistent. He was a member of the steward department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Jones last shipped on the Cape Washington. He lives in Portsmouth, Virginia. FORTAN MARTINEZ Brother Fortan Martinez, 65, joined the union in 1992. The deck department member’s first vessel was the Independence. Brother Martinez upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. He last sailed on the Ocean Crescent and makes his home in Houston. SAIAD MONASAR Brother Saiad Monasar, 65, began his career with the union in 1976, initially sailing on the Trader. Shipping in the steward department, he upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Monasar’s final vessel was the Cape Jacob. He is a resident of Bridgeview, Illinois. FRANCISCO OCADO Brother Francisco Ocado, 65, signed on with the SIU in 2004. He first sailed on the Tyco Decisive and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. A steward department member, Brother Ocado most recently sailed aboard the Global Sentinel. He makes his home in Lexington Park, Maryland. CELSO ORDONEZ Brother Celso Ordonez, 65, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1998 when he sailed on the CHARLES SANDINO Brother Charles Sandino, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1975 when he worked for G&H Towing. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Sandino’s last vessel was the Developer. He resides in Texas City, Texas. WOODROW SMITH Brother Woodrow Smith, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1970, initially sailing with Vivian Tankships. He primarily worked in the engine department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Smith most recently sailed aboard the Atlantic Forest. He makes his home in New Orleans. JOHN THRASHER Brother John Thrasher, 65, began his career with the Seafarers in 2005, first sailing on the Virginian. He shipped as a deck department member and last sailed on the Black Eagle in 2014. Brother Thrasher is a resident of Palm Bay, Florida. CHARLOTTE TUGGLE Sister Charlotte Tuggle, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1991 when she sailed on the USNS Wyman. She sailed in both the deck and steward departments and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Sister Tuggle most recently sailed on the USNS John Glenn. She makes her home in Drury, Missouri. JOE WALKER Brother Joe Walker, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1974, initially sailing on the Yukon. A member of the engine department, he upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Walker last sailed on the USNS Chesapeake. He calls Dixon, California, home. WAYNE WEBB Brother Wayne Webb, 60, became a member of the union in 1991 when he shipped on the USNS Bold. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Webb most recently sailed on the USNS Gilliland. He resides in Norfolk, Virginia. GREAT LAKES PENNY POLLARD Sister Penny Pollard, 65, joined the union in 2001 and first sailed on the Sam Laud. She shipped in the steward department and upgraded often at the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center. Sister Pollard’s last vessel was the Green Bay. She lives in Clio, Michigan. DEAN ROBINSON Brother Dean Robinson, 65, started shipping with the union in 1973, initially sailing on the Merle McCurdy. A deck department member, he last shipped on the St. Clair in 1987. He resides in Mesa, Arizona. INLAND WESLEY CAREY Brother Wesley Carey, 62, began sailing with the SIU in 1991 when he shipped on the Anders. Sailing in the deck department, he upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Carey concluded his career working for Crowley Towing and Transportation. He is a resident of Hawthorne, Florida. Center and shipped in the deck department. Brother Conway most recently sailed with Crowley Towing and Transportation and settled in Wenonah, New Jersey. ROBERT HOFFMAN Brother Robert Hoffman, 64, donned the SIU colors in 1975, initially sailing with Mariner Towing. A deck department member, he upgraded on numerous occasions at the maritime training center located in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Hoffman most recently sailed on the Overseas Boston. He resides in Erwin, Tennessee. FRANKLYN LORD Brother Franklyn Lord, 86, donned the SIU colors in 1973 when he sailed with McAllister Towing of Philadelphia. He was a member of the deck department and last worked with Interstate Oil Transportation. Brother Lord lives in Glassboro, New Jersey. RICHARD SUMMERS Brother Richard Summers, 65, signed on with the union in 2004, initially sailing aboard the USNS Hayes. He worked in the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Summers’ last vessel was the Terrapin Island. He calls Craig, Alaska, home. BRENDA TAYLOR Sister Brenda Taylor, 68, joined the SIU in 2012, sailing first on the Padre Island. She was a member of the steward department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Sister Taylor last shipped on the USNS Brittin. She resides in Brandon, Mississippi. DONALD TILLMAN Brother Donald Tillman, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1970 when he worked for Michigan Tankers. He upgraded in 1981 at the Paul Hall Center and sailed in the deck department. Brother Tillman was last employed by Crescent Towing and Salvage. He makes his home in Kenner, Louisiana. NICHOLAS CONWAY Brother Nicholas Conway, 55, became a member of the union in 1985, when he shipped on the Pride of Texas. He upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA ROBERT BIRMINGHAM Pensioner Robert Birmingham, 83, died April 23. He joined the SIU in 1958, sailing first with Suwannee Steamship. A deck department member, Brother Birmingham last sailed aboard the El Faro in 1997. He went on pension in 2000 and made his home in New Orleans. RICHARD BUCHANAN Pensioner Richard Buchanan, 76, passed away June 2. He became an SIU member in 1977 when he sailed aboard the Long Lines. A deck department member, Brother Buchanan last sailed on the Intrepid. He went on pension in 2007 and lived in Reno, Nevada. JOSEPH FRANCIS Brother Joseph Francis, 43, died May 8. Signing on with the Seafarers in 2003, he first shipped on the Observation Island. Brother Francis was a member of the steward department and last sailed aboard the USNS Charlton. He called Norfolk, Virginia, home. STEVEN GAGNON Brother Steven Gagnon, 52, passed away April 23. He started sailing with the SIU in 2012 when he shipped on the Bernard F. Fisher. A deck department member, Brother Gagnon last sailed aboard the Patriot. He lived in Palm Coast, Florida. ALPHONSO HOLLAND Pensioner Alphonso Holland, 76, died July 5. He donned the SIU colors in 1965 when he sailed on the Ridgefield Victory. Brother Holland primarily shipped in the steward department. He last sailed on the USNS Red Cloud before becoming a pensioner in 2004. Brother Holland was a resident of Chesapeake, Virginia. EVANS SMITH Pensioner Evans Smith, 88, passed away June 21. He signed on with the union in 1991 when he sailed on the Cape Florida. Brother Smith was a member of the deck department and concluded his career working for Crowley Towing and Transportation. He retired in 1999 and settled in Brooklyn, New York. 18 Seafarers LOG CHRYLE SYKES Sister Chryle Sykes, 59, died April 14. She began her career with the SIU in 1989, initially sailing aboard the Anders. Sister Sykes shipped in the steward department and last sailed on the USNS Gilliand in 2001. She resided in Norfolk, Virginia. HERBERT WON Pensioner Herbert Won, 90, passed away May 22. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1954, initially sailing on an Isco Inc. vessel. A deck department member, Brother Won last sailed aboard the Consumer. He began collecting his pension in 1993 and made his home in Honolulu. STANLEY ZEAGLER Pensioner Stanley Zeagler, 90, died July 7. He began his SIU career in 1953 when he worked for American Dredging. Brother Zeagler sailed in the deck department and also worked as a patrolman. He last shipped on the Leader, in 1987. Brother Zeagler lived in Nampa, Idaho. BRUCE ZENON Pensioner Bruce Zenon, 66, passed away June 7. He became an SIU member in 1989 when he sailed aboard the Champion. Brother Zenon shipped in the engine department and most recently sailed on the Safmarine Nimba. He called Gretna, Louisiana, home. INLAND PHILIP AUSTIN Brother Philip Austin, 38, died January 20. He joined the SIU in 2002 when he shipped with American Marine Corporation. Brother Austin sailed in both the deck and engine departments. He remained with the same company for the duration of his career and lived in Honolulu. CHARLES GARRISON Pensioner Charles Garrison, 84, passed away May 26. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1973 when he worked for Chesapeake and Ohio Railway. Brother Garrison continued to work with the same company for his entire career. He became a pensioner in 2006 and made his home in Seaford, Virginia. town, Florida, home. WILLIAM MCCONNELL Pensioner William McConnell, 75, died June 1. He began his SIU career in 1966, when he sailed aboard the Reiss Brothers. Shipping in the deck department, Brother McConnell concluded his career working for Mariner Towing. He retired in 2006 and settled in Rochester, Minnesota. HERMAN CERBANA Pensioner Herman Cerbana, 73, died June 29. He signed on with the union in 1972 and sailed in the steward department. Brother Cerbana’s first vessel was the President Pierce; his last, the R. J. Pfeiffer. He retired in 2009 and was a resident of Lakewood, Washington. EDWARD STRAUSS Pensioner Edward Strauss, 67, passed away May 22. He donned the SIU colors in 1977, initially working for National Marine Service. Brother Strauss was a deck department member. He last sailed with Moran Towing of Texas, and went on pension in 2013. Brother Strauss called Masaryk- PMA NMU PILAR HERNANDEZ Pensioner Pilar Hernandez, 79, passed away June 20. He joined the SIU in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. Brother Hernandez was a deck department member and last sailed aboard the Argonaut. He lived in Catano, Puerto Rico. JORGE RIOS Pensioner Jorge Rios, 86, died June 14. He sailed with both the SIU and the NMU before the unions merged. The deck department member frequently sailed aboard the American Condor. One of his first Seafarers vessels was the Sea Fox in 1989. Brother Rios retired in 1998. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. NAME AGE Chacon, Lucio 87 Del Valle, Samuel 82 Dunning, Stanley 90 Figueroa, Antonio 87 Guindon, Marie 92 Hingada, Flaviano 85 Jones, Eugene 70 Paige, Joseph 91 Tsimogiannis, George 79 Vega, Florencio 92 DOD 07/05/2019 06/23/2019 04/16/2018 06/01/2019 06/11/2019 06/12/2019 07/11/2019 09/30/2018 05/22/2019 06/09/2019 REAL ID: TWIC, MMC Unaffected, Remaining IDs May Need Revision The REAL ID Act, a bill passed by Congress in 2005, is set to come into enforcement in October of 2020. The act is the result of the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation that the Federal Government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses.” According to the Transportation Security Agency (TSA), “Beginning October 1, 2020, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States. REAL ID-compliant cards are generally marked with a star located in the upper portion of the card.” The effects of this change will be less for active mariners than other Americans, thanks to the prevalence of the Transport Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) and the U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential, which can be used This is a sample graphic of what a REAL ID compliant drivers license in place of other looks like. This one was issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. forms of identification. In addition, a U.S. passport or a passport issued by a foreign government is also a compliant form of identification. However, a mariner’s family members or a retired member with an expired TWIC should ensure that they obtain a REAL ID compliant card. The first step should be to visit your state driver’s license agency’s website, as the requirements vary by state. It’s worth noting that some states have been issuing licenses with stars for years, some of which may still not be compliant. August 2019 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings CHEMICAL PIONEER (USS Transport), April 14 – Chairman David Seeman, Secretary Richard Jones, Deck Delegate J Michael Nardella, Steward Delegate John Val Teodosio. Steward department was commended for a job well done. Educational director discussed importance of keeping documents current. He advised members to upgrade as often as possible at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew went over information related to new contract. Cook needed on ship. Next port: Lake Charles, Louisiana. USNS STOCKHAM (Crowley), April 15 – Chairman Munassar Ahmed, Secretary Shanita Flachbart, Educational Director Randy Slue, Deck Delegate Ethan Mims. Chairman advised crew to be safe and work together. Secretary reminded members to keep house clean and to wipe their feet upon entering. Crew is to wipe bulkheads down after touching with dirty hands. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested travel reimbursement when traveling with bags. Also requested new TV and new calendar in crew lounge. Crew asked that more apparel be offered at the SIU slop chest. Next port: South Korea. ENDURANCE (TOTE), April 27 – Chairman Dominic Marco, Secretary Gregory Johnson, Deck Delegate Kevin Stehlik, Engine Delegate Benjamin Stanley, Steward Delegate Sandra Vann. Members are to leave vessel only when a relief is present or after being cleared by master. Food is not permitted on decks or in staterooms. Chairman reported a smooth voyage and praised crew for getting ship in order. Steward 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. department was thanked for a job well done. Chairman reminded members to keep medical certifications up to date. New linen to be provided to crew as needed. Secretary asked members to wash their own linens and be mindful not to overload the washing machine. Crew was thanked for keeping house clean. Educational director reminded members to ensure better pay by upgrading at the Paul Hall Center. He directed crew to read the LOG for course schedule and urged them to keep documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested change in frequency for physical requirements and an increase to vacation days per trip. Crew requested new pillows for oncoming members and travel vouchers for each exiting member. Crew asked for update to video library and Wi-Fi access. Steward department was thanked again for great food. ISLA BELLA (TOTE), April 28 – Chairman Timothy Fogg, Secretary Robert Wilcox, Educational Director Mahare Kidane, Deck Delegate Paul Riley, Engine Delegate Landon Clemons, Steward Delegate Yoaquin Gonzalez. Members reviewed good and welfare from last meeting. Chairman reminded crew to stay on top of documents and thanked them for their hard work and professionalism. Secretary thanked members for a great job keeping accommodations clean. Educational director discussed new engine courses. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members read and discussed President Michael Sacco’s report in the Seafarers LOG. Chairman plans to check on details related to low flash-point course. Crew requested increase in optical and life insurance benefits. Members thanked Aboard Global Sentinel Pictured from left are SIU Baltimore Port Agent John Hoskins, SIU Piney Point Port Agent Victor Nunez, Capt. Carl Winter, Chief Steward Brian Bautista and SIU Baltimore Patrolman DeCarlo Harris. Photo was taken in Baltimore earlier this year while the ship was mobilizing for sea trials and a cable load in New Hampshire. The vessel is operated by Transoceanic Cable Ship Co. steward department for a job well done with food and service. OVERSEAS CHINOOK (Overseas Ship Management), May 5 – Chairman Arnaldo Fernandez, Secretary Jack Hart, Steward Delegate Christopher Kirchhofer, Engine Delegate Walter Sainvil, Steward Delegate Rocel Alvarez. Next payoff to be at sea. Chairman thanked steward department for a job well done. Secretary reminded crew to leave clean rooms for oncoming members. He urged members to donate to SPAD to help support the Jones Act. Educational director encouraged crew to attend upgrading courses at the Paul Hall Center and to keep documents up to date. He advised longer-tenured seamen to inquire about latest pension information with the union. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew expressed gratitude to union for securing more and more jobs. Members requested vacation pay to be given every 30 days and refrigerators be available in each room. Crew asked for increase to pension and health care benefits. Next port: Philadelphia. WEST VIRGINIA (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning), May 30 – Chairman John Cedeno, Secretary Milton Yournett, Educational Director Victor Martinez, Engine Delegate Paul Ianni. Chairman shared information following recent visit from Houston patrolman. He discussed various topics including new health care and benefits form, Jones Act, Seafarers Appeals Board, medical coverage, 401k participation, and rotary shipping. Crew was encouraged to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center and participate in 401k. Educational director reminded members to keep documents current and explained the importance of SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New microwave and speed bag received and installed. Chairman reiterated the importance of working safely. New pillows arrived. Water bottles and electrolyte popsicles available. Crew discussed issues with smoking on board. They requested increase in vacation days and optical coverage. Members would like 401k match for their contributions. Captain pleased with Recertified Bosun Cedeno and AB Joe Caruso for their work executing complete maintenance and paint job to entire lifeboat davit in only four days. Next port: Tampa. GREEN BAY (Central Gulf Lines), June 2 – Chairman Albert Williams, Educational Director Todd Williams, Deck Delegate Julius Thomas, Engine Delegate James Tolan. Chairman thanked crew for working well together. Educational director reminded members to keep papers in order and to upgrade at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew expressed concern with the quality of ship’s drinking water. Steward department was thanked for good food. 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 August 2019 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 19 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Upgrading Courses Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Marine Electrician August 10 October 4 Marine Refer Tech October 5 November 15 Pumpman November 9 November 15 Welding August 17 September 6 September 14 October 4 October 19 November 8 Steward Department Courses Able Seafarer Deck August 17 September 13 October 12 November 8 Advanced Galley Operations September 21 October 18 AB to Mate Modules Modules must be taken in order. Those who Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next are not in the mates program cannot apply class will start August 10. for these courses. Contact the Admissions Office for further details. Chief Steward October 19 December 6 ARPA September 28 October 4 Crane Familiarization October 5 October 11 ECDIS September 21 September 27 November 16 November 22 Galley Operations September 14 October 11 November 9 December 6 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 August 17 August 23 September 14 September 20 September 28 October 4 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 August 10 August 16 August 24 August 30 September 21 September 27 GMDSS August 31 September 13 October 5 October 11 Lifeboat August 24 September 6 Safety Upgrading Courses September 21 October 4 October 19 November 1 Basic Training/Basic FF September 21 September 27 November 16 November 29 October 19 October 25 December 14 December 27 November 2 November 8 Radar Observer September 14 September 27 Basic Training Revalidation August 9 August 9 August 30 August 30 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office Fast Rescue Boat August 17 August 23 RFPNW September 14 October 11 November 9 December 6 100 Ton Master October 19 November 8 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers July 13 July 26 BAPO September 14 October 11 November 9 December 6 FOWT August 17 September 13 October 12 November 8 Junior Engineer September 28 November 22 Machinist October 19 November 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 # and dates attended___________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation September 14 September 20 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting August 17 August 23 September 21 September 27 Government Vessels August 17 August 23 August 24 August 30 September 28 October 4 Medical Care Provider August 24 August 30 September 28 October 4 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL September 21 September 27 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG September 14 September 20 November 9 November 15 December 7 December 13 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, or 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. 8/19 August 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #849 – Graduated April 19 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): JaShon Adams, Brian Branch, Jamie Brown, Troy Hubbard, James Moody II, Sage Parrish, Charles Patchin, Shannon Peterson, Dalvin Storey and Eric Trinemeyer. Important Notice To All 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. Welding – Graduated March 8 (above, in alphabetical order): Rashawn Arrington, Austin Blake, Colton Edmiston, Alex Adelmir Oliva and Michael Smith. Class instructor Chris Raley is at the far left. Radar Observer – Graduated March 8 (above, in alphabetical order): James Brooks, Karleen Grenier, Brian Guiry and Chenequa Moet Rodriguez. Brian Moore, their instructor, is at the far left. FOWT (UAs and Upgraders) – Graduated March 15 (above, in alphabetical order): Samuel Ayers, Reco Bennefield, Eshrak El Sami Dewan, Elhassene Elkori, Casey Frederick, Mohamed Alam Gir, Luzern Hawkins, Trevor Johnson, Joshua Kraynak, Jorge Laboriel Lalin, Tresten Porter, Andy Salado, Mercelino Jose Santos Bermeo, Maksim Shpylyevyy, Jessica Valentin, Anthony Williams Jr., and Thomas Zamora. Class instructor Keith Adamson is at the far left. (Not all are pictured.) August 2019 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Tank Ship Familiarization DL – Graduated March 29 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Abdul-Ghaffar Abu-Bakr, Ali Ahmed, Evan Bradley, Ferdinand Malicay Cabanlit, Gary Davis Jr., Patrick Dean, Piotr Kwiatkowski, Morey Lewis, Thomas MacGregor, Daniel Afran Mensah, Efren Asdrubal Ramos-Sosa, Chenequa Moet Rodriguez, Ovidio Joana Santos, Terry Santure, Patrick Slade Jr. and David Tucker. Junior Engineer (Plant Management – Graduated March 29 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): John Abernathy, Ryan Cameron, Oliver Luc Especa, Marquez Fields, Christopher McAfee, Viliamu Milikini, Bryan Moreira, James Parker, Robert Pendarvis, Michael Smith, Boleslaw Tomasz Szatkowski and Keshawn Webster. Christopher Morgan, their instructor, is at the far right. Government Vessels – Graduated March 8 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Brandon Edward Cruz Aguigui, Gervacio Francisco Antonio Simon, Barry Bettis, Tekeisha Brown, Ana Marie Chona Razon Calma, Frederick Conroy, Jeffrey Gleason, Wilbert Hinton, Christopher McAfee, Darius McCastle, Luis Alberto Mejia, Nagi Ahmed Mihakel, Jony Morales Martinez, James Parker, Irvin Rowe, Rahjahn Travail Sorey, Orlin Thomas, Gerald Terria Toledo and Luis Armando Valerio Jr. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Graduated March 29 (above, in alphabetical order): Danilo Galos Achacoso, Glenn Valera Agustin, Towfiek Hassan Ahmed, Julien Arevalo, Jason Gregory Bentz, James Bleckley III, Michael Congress, Matthew Conyac, Clifford Cronan, Bebiana Eason, Christopher Eason, Thomas Flores, Brian Frederick, Benjamin Ines, Demarkus McNabb, Charles Ortiz Quinones, Suallah Osman, Robert Resurreccion, Kaishona Stimphil and Nigel Williams. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 22 Seafarers LOG August 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes SUA (Galley Operations) – Graduated October 5 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Alexandra Erickson, Paisami Gay, Daniel Howard, Lamarai Jones, Shadonna Jones, EsStonia Moore, Eugenia Porter, Noah Susumu SantiagoStephens, Warren, Jessica CombinedLareesa Basic & Advanced Firefighting – Graduated March 8 (left, in alphabetiWilliams, Kendra Williams and Jarid cal order): Carlton Banks, Angel Carrillo, Jason Connick, Thomas Jones and Mehdi Wilson. Youssef. Michael Roberts, their instructor, is at the far left. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated March 15 (above, in alphabetical order): Tekeisha Brown, Frederick Conroy, Wilfred Lambey and Juan Ramon Palacios Clother. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated March 22 (above, in alphabetical order): Jatniel Cesar Aguilera Santiago, Jorcell Davis, Ibrahim Abdelrauf Elsayed and Prasert Yowaka Mastrototaro. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated March 29 (above, in alphabetical order): Luis Salome Gonzalez, Jacob Parrilla, Valerie Russo and Manes Sainvil. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated March 22 (above, in alphabetical order): Rudolph Daniels, Sheryl Farmer, Avis Hawkins, Carlton McMiller II and Toney Morris. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated March 8 (above, in alphabetical order): Steven Dickson, Kenneth Hagan, Michael Kozak and Douglas Neubauer. Their instructor, Robert “RJ” Johnson, is at the far right. August 2019 n alphabetical order): Tommy BelWilliams. Certified Chief Cook – Arturo Montoya (above) graduated from this course March 22. LOG John23 Galley Operations – Graduated October 5 (above, from left): StevonSeafarers Taylor, Porcia son and Tuliga Fuega. �VOLUME 81, NO. 8 AUGUST 2019 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O With Seafarers Aboard Pride of America The SIU represents deck and engine crew members aboard the Pride of America – the only American-flag deep-sea cruise ship. These photos, provided by SIU Safety Director Amber Akana, were taken aboard the ship in May. AB Alan Eng, Recertified Bosun Renato Govico, AB Nick Sabuco Deck department members enjoy a barbeque as the vessel sails by the Na Pali coastline in Kauai. AB Bobby Licudine Paul Hall Center Apprentices Jacob Booth (left) and Johnny Matthews OS Majaddeen Alseraji, OS Patrick Anderson, AB Markee Meggs Asst. Electrician Henry Cacal SIU members gather for a photo after a union meeting. Assistant Carpenter Julee Quiapos EO Mohtasim Muthala OS Vener Dela Pena Pelayo � 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 2019 Description An account of the resource Headlines: USS SELECTS TRANSPORTATION SECRETARY ELAINE L. CHAO TO RECEIVE AOTOS AWARD MATSON CHRISTENS CONRO LURLINE IN SAN DIEGO DOMESTIC MARITIME CREATES 13,850 JOBS, $3.2. BILLION IN OHIO ECONOMIC GROWTH PORT COUNCIL HONORS DURKEE, SUOZZI, PARET SIU CREWS HELP CROWLEY EARN MARATHON'S ELITE VESSEL AWARD HEARING HIGHLIGHTS BENEFITS OF U.S. MARITIME USCG COMMANDER ADDRESSES AUTONOMOUS SHIPPING GREAT LAKES TOWING PREPS FOR ANNIVERSARY EVENT SEAFARERS STEP UP TO AID HOMELESS IN FLORIDA MSC CONDUCTS CHANGE OF COMMAND CEREMONY BILL HONORING WWII MARINERS WELL ON WAY TO HOUSE PASSAGE HOUSE LEGISLATION ADDRESSES WORKER RIGHTS SHORTFALLS INDEPENDENCE DAY TRADITION THRIVES ABOARD SIU-CREWED MIDNIGHT SUN WITH SEAFARERS ABOARD MAERSK MICHIGAN COAST GUARD ANNOUNCES LATEST MITIGATION EFFORTS CULINARY 2.0 AVAILABLE AT PHC REAL ID: TWIC, MMC UNAFFECTED, REMAINING IDS MAY NEED REVISION WITH SEAFARERS ABOARD PRIDE OF AMERICA Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 8/1/2019 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. 81, No. 8 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/a3b3abb5a6393326236a6807a037d602.pdf 8e2b1fe42e799d36e9b67f4c30c04b27 PDF Text Text JULY 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 7 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O National Maritime Day Salutes Past, Present And Future U.S. Mariners Maintaining a long tradition, the SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education turned out in force for this year’s National Maritime Day observance at U.S. Department of Transportation headquarters in Washington, D.C. Taken immediately after the ceremony on May 22, the large group photo below includes World War II mariners, Paul Hall Center apprentices, featured speakers, SIU officials and others. Among those pictured are (back row, from left) SIU VP Contracts George Tricker, Port Agent Victor Nunez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, President Michael Sacco, Gen. Stephen Lyons (USA, commander of the U.S. Transportation Command), Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby, SIU VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski and SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez. In the photo at right, Apprentice Shannon Gail Peterson is flanked by Gen. Lyons and Administrator Buzby as they display a life ring that was used during the ceremony. Pages 12-14. Matson Christens ConRo Lurline The SIU recently helped welcome the new Matson vessel Lurline, built by union members at the General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard in San Diego. The Jones Act ship is an 870-foot-long, 3,500 TEU, 44,200 deadweight metric ton, combination container ship/roll-on, roll-off (ConRo) vessel featuring LNG-capable engines. Christened and launched at the yard June 15, the Lurline is the lead ship of a twovessel contract. At right, the ship’s final grand block is eased into position in early February. The photo at left, taken by drone in May, shows the nearly completed ship. Visit the SIU website for additional information about the vessel and the ceremony. (Photos courtesy Matson) Jones Act News Pages 2, 4 ‘Maritime Heroes’ Page 3 USNS Gianella Feature Page 24 �President’s Report Fourth Arm of Defense Ready Global tensions were on the rise last month in the aftermath of attacks on two foreign-flag tankers in the Gulf of Oman. While I’m thankful the mid-June incidents, which happened in international waters, did not result in any serious injuries to the crew members, they definitely underscored the ongoing need for a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. If that sounds like an overstatement, here’s what the U.S. Central Command stated in response to the attacks: “The U.S. and our partners in the region will take all necessary measures to defend ourselves and our interests. Today’s attacks are a clear threat to international freedom of navigation and freedom of commerce.” History has taught us that it’s not a question of “if” the next conflict will occur, but when and where. That’s just reality. And that’s a big reason why our nation absolutely must be able to carry the fight and deliver the goods for our men and women in uniform. It’s usually a surprise to people who aren’t familiar with our industry when they learn that the U.S. MerMichael Sacco chant Marine delivered more than 90 percent of the materiel needed by our troops in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. But, as Seafarers know, American citizen mariners have answered the call dating back to the very earliest days of our country. The Central Command added, “The United States has no interest in engaging in a new conflict in the Middle East. However, we will defend our interests.” It goes without saying that my sincere hope is that these two attacks were isolated mistakes that won’t be repeated. And it also goes without saying that if the balloon goes up, the SIU will answer the call. We are proud to serve as America’s fourth arm of defense. That’s a role we’ve upheld – without exception – every time we’ve been needed since our founding in 1938. New Tonnage Not all of the recent news was stressful. A few days after the aforementioned incidents, the SIU helped welcome a new Matson ship in San Diego that’ll sail in the Jones Act trade. This union-built beauty, the Lurline, means ongoing job security for SIU members. Like other Jones Act ships, it boosts America’s national, economic and homeland security. Like many other new U.S.-built vessels, it has LNG-capable engines. Congratulations to Matson and to the union workers and executives at General Dynamics NASSCO in San Diego on the christening and launch. It’s a great milestone and a tribute to our industry’s shared commitment to produce state-of-the-art vessels that carry the world’s best-trained crews. Well-Earned Honors Be sure to check out our coverage of the new “American Maritime Heroes” campaign that recently was launched by the major coalition American Maritime Partnership (AMP). The first two honorees – U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao and, collectively, the U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II – are nothing short of fantastic, in my estimation. Secretary Chao is on a short list of greatest advocates our industry has ever known. That’s why I was incredulous when she recently came under attack by some in the press for having the audacity to be part of a politically active family. My bottom line is that Secretary Chao’s pro-maritime record speaks for itself, and that’s including crucial behind-the-scenes work for which she won’t take credit. As for our mariners from The Greatest Generation, their service and sacrifice remain unsurpassed in our industry. One of our late pensioners who sailed during the war managed to put a humorous spin on it. He’d often say, “Just remember, if it weren’t for us, we’d all be speaking German.” That always cracked me up but the truth in it is noteworthy. A hearty tip of the SIU white cap to Secretary Chao and to the U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II! O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 81 Number 7 The American Maritime Partnership (AMP) recently highlighted the positive effects of the Jones Act on the Pacific Northwest. The SIU is affiliated with AMP, the primary coalition representing all components of the domestic maritime industry. Citing a new study conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers on behalf of the Transportation Institute, AMP’s first announcement focused on the state of Washington. The domestic maritime industry in Washington ranks sixth among all American states for jobs and labor income relating to the Jones Act, according to the study, and employs more than 22,500 individuals. The industry also produces $6.12 billion for the local economy, and generates more than $1.5 billion in worker income. “The Jones Act is a juggernaut when it comes to helping us, and we are not talking about a relic, but a key tool in growing our economy for the future,” said U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Washington) while speaking at Seattle maritime event. “As shown in this report, the Jones Act has created 22,000 jobs here in Washington State, a 34 percent increase since the last report in 2014.” The second study focused on the state of Alaska, where the domestic maritime industry employs more than 6,500 individuals, produces $1.98 billion for the local economy, and generates $469 million in worker income. “In my state, a strong domestic maritime industry is not a luxury, it’s a necessity,” said U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska). “The welfare of our people and our economy is dependent on the U.S. maritime industry, providing over 6,000 Americans with maritime jobs that significantly contribute to the economies of Alaska and our nation. I proudly support the work of the Alaska and American Maritime Partnerships, and am pleased by the growth of maritime industry jobs in Alaska.” “The Jones Act is vital to maintaining a strong and stable domestic maritime industry that transports goods to Alaska and, as this study indicates, helps strengthen our economy by providing good-paying jobs,” said U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska). “Further, the Jones Act protects our homeland, ensuring that in times of dispute, Alaska and other states across our country will not be caught in the crossfire and held hostage by foreign-flagged vessels.” TOTE’s SIU-crewed North Star is one of many Jones Act vessels delivering economic benefits to the Pacific Northwest. July 2019 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2019 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. 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 AMP Underscores Maritime’s Positive Impacts on Alaska, Washington State “The Jones Act is vital for protecting the U.S. maritime industry and promoting a very important sector of Alaska’s economy,” said U.S. Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska). “Simply put, the Jones Act is critical to maintaining a strong maritime workforce and ensuring the U.S. has shipbuilding capabilities that can keep pace with our competitors. This study is further proof of its immense success and the importance of protecting the Jones Act. For the sake of our maritime industry, our jobs, and national security, we must continue to support the Jones Act for years to come.” Some of the largest domestic shipping leaders also spoke on the importance of the maritime industry to Washington and Alaska. “The new economic data is proof positive that U.S.-built vessels crewed by American mariners provide our communities and our country substantial benefits from jobs and investments,” said Tom Crowley, chairman and CEO of Seafarerscontracted Crowley Maritime Corporation. “This study shows the domestic maritime industry is integral to the economic success of Alaska, the Pacific Northwest and the entire nation. The men and women in the maritime industry also provide irreplaceable support to our military’s readiness and homeland security. These benefits demonstrate why experts and elected officials readily support the U.S. maritime industry and the legal framework protecting it.” TOTE Maritime Alaska President Grace Greene stated, “TOTE is honored to call Washington home and we are proud of the many contributions that our employees, vendors, contractors, partners and peers have made over the last 40 years to help drive one of the most significant economic engines in the Pacific Northwest, the domestic maritime industry. TOTE’s success, and that of our industry, is rooted in our commitment to safety, innovation and focused investments that create a significantly positive impact for those we serve and the areas in which we operate.” “The Pacific Northwest is a leader in the domestic maritime industry, supporting nearly 22,500 family-wage jobs and contributing over $6.12 billion to the local economy,” said James L. Henry, chairman and president of Transportation Institute. “The findings in our most recent study demonstrate the strength and necessity of the Jones Act, which serves as the backbone of the American maritime industry, the U.S. industrial base, and job creation for the hardworking men and women that crew the vessels delivering both in times of war and peace.” “Quite simply, the Jones Act is American security,” said Matt Woodruff, president of the American Maritime Partnership. “In addition to the job creation benefits detailed in this study, our American mariners are relied on by defense leaders to project American force overseas in a national emergency. Alongside our waterfront workers, they are the eyes and ears of homeland security on our nation’s coasts and waterways. Our American-controlled fleet provides economic security, ensuring that our nation’s internal freight transportation system is not subject to foreign interference. American maritime jobs always have and will continue to be vital in the never-ending task of keeping America safe, strong and prosperous for generations to come.” SIU Members Ratify Penn Maritime Pact Union Crews Approve New Three-Year Agreement SIU members working for Penn Maritime recently ratified a new three-year contract featuring annual wage increases while maintaining benefits. The agreement, approved by an overwhelming majority, took effect May 1 and lasts through April 2022. In addition to boosting wages, the contract maintains health benefits at the top level available to SIU members (Core-Plus); maintains Seafarers Pension Plan benefits; and increases company contributions to the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan. It covers approximately 200 Seafarers. The SIU bargaining team consisted of Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Assistant Vice President Michael Russo, Engineer Jeff Rydza, Mate John Harvard and ABT Mike Lyons. Soresi said, “The negotiations went well and we ended up with a good contract. I think the majority of the members are pleased with the outcome.” “I think it went really well,” said Lyons. “I’m very excited for the new contract, and very happy with it. There were some things that we didn’t get, but overall, I think the majority of the membership is pretty happy with the results.” Penn Maritime operates up to 15 tugboats and barges in the Gulf region, primarily moving asphalt along inland and coastal waterways. The company was acquired by Kirby Corporation in 2012. July 2019 �SIU Applauds Launch of ‘Maritime Heroes’ When the American Maritime Partnership (AMP) in early June announced the kickoff of its year-long celebration titled “American Maritime Heroes,” the SIU enthusiastically backed the first two honorees: U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao, and the U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II. In an online post applauding the selections, the union noted, “Secretary Chao is a tireless, unwavering advocate of the American maritime industry. Her effectiveness and commitment to our industry are unsurpassed. The SIU is proud and humbled to respectfully count her as a friend.” SIU President Michael Sacco described Chao as “someone who not only understands our industry, but also truly cares about the American worker. She is a tremendous leader and is universally respected, admired and trusted throughout our industry.” Chao’s support for American-flag shipping and U.S. mariners is nothing new. Beginning in 1986, when she became Deputy Administrator of the U.S. Maritime Administration, she has consistently advanced programs that boost the industry. This also held true during her service as Chairwoman of the Federal Maritime Commission (1988-89), as Deputy Secretary of Transportation beginning in 1989, and as Secretary of Labor from 2001-2009. The SIU further stated, “We are honored to have hosted Secretary Chao at our affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, in 2002, 2005 and 2017. We deeply appreciated her keynote remarks in October 2003 when the late SIU President Paul Hall was inducted to the DOL Hall of Fame. And we enjoyed celebrating together in June 2005 when she christened the Pride of America in New York City. More recently, we were heartened when one of her first official acts as Transportation Secretary was delivering DOT Secretary Elaine L. Chao speaks at the 2017 SIUNA convention in Piney Point, Maryland. keynote remarks in Beaumont, Texas, as the car carrier Liberty Passion formally reflagged under the Stars and Stripes in March 2017. Later that same month, SIU President Sacco was a featured speaker at a gathering in the nation’s capital that served as both a formal welcoming of Secretary Chao and an observance of the department’s 50th anniversary.” Sacco added, “There is nobody better qualified to be Secretary of Transportation than Elaine Chao, as she has demonstrated since day one. Throughout her time in government, she has been a steadfast friend to the SIU and to maritime labor. She has stood up to defend the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, cargo preference and the other key programs that keep our industry alive. She understands the importance of providing jobs to America’s work- ing families, and she has seen firsthand the value of the United States Merchant Marine to our nation’s defense and prosperity.” AMP’s other selection – the U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II – hits home with the union. More than 1,200 SIU members lost their lives to wartime service; their names are individually memorialized on a large plaque at the union’s affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Overall, the U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II proved nothing short of indispensable for the Allies. As noted by AMP in its kickoff of the American Maritime Heroes campaign, “Almost 250,000 merchant mariners transported tens of millions of tons of war supplies and more than seven million servicemen under the most challenging circumstances imaginable. As a result, they suffered the highest casualty rate of any service during World War II, with one mariner out of every 26 lost. Often defenseless against enemy vessels, these merchant mariners continued to sustain the war effort. A total of 8,241 merchant mariners died in World War II, and many others were captured and became prisoners of war. Today only about 2,000 remain.” The late SIU historian John Bunker wrote in 1951, “Before any of the nation’s armed services were ready for all-out duty in World War II, the merchant marine and the men who manned it were on the front lines of global action. No executive manifestos; no formal enlistment, no testings of loyalty or pledges of devotion to their country’s service were required to put SIU crews into action or prove their willingness to face danger – and death.” For more information on the campaign, which will culminate on the 100th anniversary of the Jones Act becoming law, visit https://americanmaritimeheroes.com/ Building Named in Honor Of Late SIU VP John Fay New residential facilities in the U.K. memorialize one of the SIU’s most steadfast officials. The union Nautilus International on May 29 dedicated the John Fay House at Mariners Park in Wallasey, England. Built with financial support from Nautilus and the International Transport Workers’ Federation’s (ITF) Seafarers’ Trust, the apartments are named after the late SIU Executive Vice President John Fay, who died in 2005 at age 73. In addition to his half-century of service with the SIU, Fay also was the first American ever to serve as chairman of the ITF Seafarers’ Section, a position he held from 1995-2002.  SIU Secretary-Treasurer and Chairman of the ITF Seafarers’ Trust David Heindel – Fay’s SIU successor and close colleague, and currently also chair of the ITF Seafarers’ Section – was a featured speaker at the ceremonial opening. Several of Fay’s family members attended, including his brother, Frank; his son John Jr.; daughter-in-law Christina Fay; daughter Kelly Fay; sister, Cathy Tompkins; and granddaughter, Shaina Fay. Nautilus (which represents members in the U.K., the Netherlands and Switzerland) described the dozen dwellings as “state-of-the-art independent apartments for retired seafarers and their dependents.” They were constructed as part of an ongoing program “to upgrade and expand” services for retired mariners and their families. (Two of the apartments in the July 2019 new block were built with a donation from the Aged Veterans Fund and are reserved for merchant seafarers who served alongside the armed forces at times of conflict or during national emergencies.) During the dedication, Heindel noted that he worked with John Fay for many years. “He became my mentor and someone I admired,” he recalled. “John was a true friend and one of those rare individuals who brought calm to any heated discussion. Whether it was contentious labor negotiations or dealing with political leaders, he had a way The expanded facility features 12 new state-of-the-art dwellings. of making people feel comfortable. And if needed, he had a way of intimidating his counterpart without raising his voice.” Heindel continued, “On a personal note, John loved his family. He was very proud of his children and the path they chose in life…. This building is a testament to John’s professional life.  I hope his spirit brings the peace and calm that made him the man that I came to know.” Nautilus International General Secretary Mark Dickinson said he was pleased to see the latest development in the 162-year history of the union’s welfare work. “We are rightly proud of our past, but we have never sat back and rested on our laurels,” he said. “Mariners Park bears witness to the process of constant change and reassessment to ensure that we Pictured at the dedication are (from left) SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, John Fay Jr., (Continued on next page) ITF Seafarers’ Trust Head Katie Higginbottom and Nautilus International General Secretary Mark Dickinson. Seafarers LOG 3 �NY Waterway Crew Rescues Helicopter Pilot Heroic Extraction Takes Place on Hudson River A NY Waterway ferry crew aboard the Gov. Thomas Kean on May 15 rescued the pilot after a helicopter crashed in the Hudson River. SIU member Capt. Adam Sciaino was carrying passengers between West 39th Street in Manhattan and 14th Street in Hoboken when he saw the helicopter go down at about 2:20 p.m. This is Sciaino’s second rescue in 10 years with the company. SIU member Deckhand Edwin Montoya deployed the Jason’s cradle rescue device off the bow of the ferry and pulled the uninjured pilot (Eric Morales) aboard. There was no one else on the helicopter. “It was just instinct – just another day for NY Waterway rescues,” Sciaino said. “We’re right here. Edwin Montoya is an outstanding deckhand. He moved instantly to the rescue.” Both Seafarers have completed safety training at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. According to preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), Morales had just refueled the helicopter and was trying to maneuver it to the pad where he picks up passengers when he felt “the loss of the effectiveness of the tail rotor.” Shortly thereafter, the aircraft started an uncontrollable spin, at which time the pilot deployed floats for a water landing. News reports quoted Morales as saying the helicopter functioned normally earlier that day, including a pair of landings. Montoya recalled, “We were just leaving the Jersey side and saw the helicopter spinning, and then it went down in the water. The pilot was hanging outside of it, standing on it.” The ferry was “very close” to the helicopter, and Montoya said they “approached very slowly and carefully. The whole thing only took three minutes. I asked him (the pilot) a couple of times if anyone else was on board and if he was hurt. He said he was okay and there was no one else. He was a little nervous but had good overall awareness.” Montoya also said that the Gov. Thomas Kean had passengers on board during the rescue “so we kept people inside the boat. We did the rescue and then dropped off the passengers in New York and continued our service.” In 32 years, NY Waterway crews Congressman Babin Backs Jones Act A United States congressman from Texas recently used a hypothetical image to drive home a very real point. U.S. Rep. Brian Babin (R-Texas) on May 16 spoke on the House floor to commend President Trump for not waiving the Jones Act and to express support for the nation’s freight cabotage law. The congressman’s office created a fictional image of a Chinese-flagged freighter navigating the Mississippi River under the St. Louis Gateway Arch to demonstrate what would happen if the Jones Act were waived or eliminated. “For the past 100 years, the Jones Act has brought strength and certainty to maritime commerce here in the United States,” said Babin. “It has protected the rights of American sailors, created and maintained American jobs, and has been one of the single largest factors in facilitating the strong American economy that we are enjoying. The Jones Act states that goods shipped between U.S. ports are to be built, owned, and operated by the citizens of the United States.” He continued, “Can you imagine a Chinese-built vessel, flying the Chinese national flag, and operated by Chinese citizens traveling through the American heartland to deliver goods to our ports? Although this is a hypothetical situation, it could easily become a reality if the Jones Act is waived. Our national security, economic growth, and our ability to provide American jobs would be in jeopardy. Worst of all, waiving the Jones Act would allow these foreignoperated ships into our waterways and could be opening the door to espionage. “We need the Jones Act, and I encourage those who want to repeal it to watch my speech and explain why the image that you see in the video would make for a better and stronger America,” he concluded. As reported in last month’s LOG, multiple news outlets had indicated the president was pondering an extended Jones Act waiver for moving American LNG to domestic ports. However, U.S. Senators Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), John Kennedy (R-Louisiana) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi) as well as House Minority Whip Steve Scalise (RLouisiana) met with the president May 1 and came away assured that he will fully stand behind the maritime law. A new study by PricewaterhouseCoopers found that the nation’s freight cabotage law helps sustain nearly 650,000 American jobs while contributing $154 billion to the nation’s economic growth annually. Moreover, 91 countries across the globe maintain some form of cabotage law. Capt. Adam Sciaino (left) and Deckhand Edwin Montoya have rescued almost 300 people from the waters of New York Harbor, including 143 people rescued from U.S. Air- ways Flight 1549 in “The Miracle on the Hudson,” the most successful marine rescue in aviation history. Facility Pays Tribute to Late SIU Official (Continued from Page 3) deliver not just quality services, but services that meet the real, changing and increasingly complex needs of our retired members and their partners.” Katie Higginbottom, head of the ITF Seafarers’ Trust, said the charity was delighted to support the new development. “My mission in the Trust is to learn from great examples such as this, and to do more work with unions to improve seafarers’ welfare around the world,” she said. John Fay Jr. stated, “I can’t begin to put into words the thanks and gratitude of the family. This really is a great honor for my dad.” John Fay joined the SIU as a teenager in 1949 and sailed in both the deep sea and in- land divisions. He came ashore in the mid1950s and continued working for the SIU for the next 49 years. He served as executive vice president from 1997-2005 after working as the union’s secretary-treasurer since 1990. Previously, the Boston native held various port-level positions in Philadelphia, Baltimore, Boston, Brooklyn and elsewhere.  While his contributions to the union’s advancement in the United States were substantial, he also played a pioneering role in fully involving not just the SIU but all of American maritime labor in international efforts to promote and protect mariners’ wellbeing. Beginning in 1975, he participated in forums and other activities involving the ITF; the International Maritime Organization; and the International Labor Organization. This plaque is displayed in the new building Coast Guard Issues New Radar Observer Rule Congressman Babin speaks on the House floor and uses an illustration to warn of the dangers of waiving the Jones Act. 4 Seafarers LOG The U.S. Coast Guard has published a final rule, titled: “Amendments to the Marine Radar Observer Refresher Training Regulations.” The rule amends the requirements for renewal of a Radar Observer Endorsement, eliminating the stipulation that a mariner actively using their MMC complete an approved or accepted refresher or recertification course to maintain a Radar Observer Endorsement. When the new rule enters into effect on July 22, 2019, any mariner who serves in a “relevant position” aboard a radarequipped vessel for one year in the previous five years will no longer be required to complete a radar refresher or recertification course to renew the endorsement. The official announcement and related links are posted on the SIU website – look under News, then Latest Posts. The article is dated June 11. The respective links go to the policy letter and the rule itself. July 2019 �SHBP Awards $132,000 in Scholarships Eight individuals – three active Seafarers and five dependents – are one step closer to realizing their educational aspirations thanks to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP). The SHBP’s 2019 Scholarship Committee on May 17 bestowed scholarships totaling $132,000 on the former group. Convening at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland, the committee selected OMU Terrell Cuffee and Mate Troy Janelle as recipients of a pair of twoyear scholarships worth $6,000 each. Junior Engineer Thomas Swayne was chosen to receive a four-year award worth $20,000. Dependents picked for four-year, $20,000 grants were: Muhab Abdelwahab, Emily May, Bjorn Soriano, Katherine Scott and Alana Thomas. OMU Terrell Cuffee Deep Sea OMU Terrell Cuffee hails from Chesapeake, Virginia. He signed on with the union in 2014 and was a member of Paul Hall Center Class 778. After completing his apprentice training, his initial voyage was aboard the Sealift, Inc.operated Advantage where he sailed in the engine department. When he applied for the 2019 SHBP Scholarship Program, he was a crew member aboard the LTC John U.D. Page, another Sealift, Inc. vessel. Cuffee is 2009 graduate of Chesapeake’s Oscar Smith High School. He was active in his community, dedicating numerous hours making positive contributions to neighborhood youths. Cuffee served as a youth leader, mentor and basketball coach. He also volunteered his time assisting in community center events. In his SHBP application package, Cuffee recalled that during his apprentice graduation ceremony, he made a promise to himself (and to the union) that one day he’d be sailing as a mate or an engineer. “Well, it’s now time for me to begin the process of fulfilling that promise,” he said. “I have been sailing for six years, and during that time, I have come to be knowledgeable enough to have the confidence to [say] that I will not only become an engineer, but a successful one.” Cuffee has applied for admission to Mid-Atlantic Maritime Academy, where he hopes to major in engineering. Mate Troy Janelle Inland Mate Troy Janelle (wife, Rebecca) was born in Portland, Maine, and currently makes his home in Dickinson, Texas. A 2005 graduate of Oak Hill High School in Wales, Maine, he posted an overall 3.502 grade point average (GPA) and ranked ninth in his class of 112 students. Janelle holds a bachelor’s degree in Community Recreation & Sports Management, having graduated from the University of Utah in 2010. Not long thereafter he landed what he thought was his dream job as a program coordinator at a Salt Lake City recreation center. As much as he loved his job, he quickly realized that he had amassed far too much student loan debt to prosper and enjoy life on his recreation center salary. At that point he began looking to the maritime industry as a solution. Janelle was accepted for admission at the Maine Maritime Acad- July 2019 emy (MMA) in 2012 and enrolled in the school’s Small Vessels Operations Program. Two years later, he earned an associate’s degree and his next move was to start sailing under the SIU banner. His current duties involve ship assist and escort services for the Texas Ports of Houston, Galveston and Corpus Christi. “I used my degree and licenses at MMA to get hired at G&H Towing Company as a mate where I have been employed for the past five years,” he said. “Changing professions turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made.” Since joining the maritime industry, Janelle said he has come to realize that “…the educational backgrounds of ashore office employees tend to be drastically different from the vessel personnel that they are overseeing. Often this results in hiring people with the educational background to qualify them for a position but they have no idea how the industry of ships systems actually works.” Janelle sees this situation as a divide that potentially could negatively impact a company’s productivity. “This disconnect between the company and its workforce is why I want to get my master’s degree,” he said. “I believe that getting more people to go from the ship to the office can only provide greater communication and cohesion between the different divisions of companies in our industry.” His goal is be accepted to the MMA’s master’s program in international logistics management. “[This] would allow me to use that degree and my work experience in the maritime industry to advance my career from the vessel to the office where I know that both … would be an asset to any organization.” In addition to MMA, Chanelle has applied for admission to Texas A&M Galveston, Grand Canyon University and Sam Houston State University. JE Thomas Swayne Deep Sea Junior Engineer Thomas Swayne (wife, Zakiah) is a native of San Leandro, California and a 1999 graduate of Oakland, California’s Skyline Senior High School. An avid athlete, he participated in football, track and field, and wrestling. As a community activist, Swayne contributed countless volunteer hours serving as an assistant in a senior citizen facility. Swayne joined the SIU in 2001 and successfully navigated the Paul Hall Center’s apprentice program. Since then, he has returned to the Piney Point, Maryland-based campus no fewer than six occasions to enhance his skills. Swayne earned his junior engineer rating in 2006 and currently sails aboard the Sunrise Operations LLC (Pasha) operated Horizon Enterprise. His first vessel was the Red River Carriers operated Black Eagle. “It’s been 20 years since I gradu- ated from high school and I always considered myself an overachiever,” Swayne shared in his scholarship application package. “I attended a community college hoping to succeed from the bottom up but quickly had to drop out to find employment to support my grandparents and their needs. “Soon after, I became a merchant marine, lived life, traveled around the world and started a family,” he continued. “In today’s society, it can be challenging to raise and teach two children, and there is a part of me that’s missing. For the last year I have been motivated to go back to school and fulfill a promise I made to myself and grandmother.” During his educational pursuits, Swayne said he hopes not only to obtain an associate’s degree but also a bachelor’s as well as master’s degree and “apply them all in the corporate world of my trade that I’ve been in for the past 18 years.” Ultimately his goal is to secure his engineering license and “be a better asset to any company in my field and influential to the next generation and my peers.” Swayne has applied for admission to the College of Southern Maryland, Cal Maritime and Cal State East Bay. His focus will be on engineering and business administration. Muhab Abdelwahab Muhab Abdelwahab is the son of Deep Sea Able Seaman Mohamed Abdelwahab (mother, Ehram) who sails aboard the Maersk Atlanta. He has three siblings who are ages 20, 25 and 28. Muhab is a 2019 graduate of Southwest High School in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he posted an overall 3.92 GPA. He participated in tennis, cross country, soccer and ping pong and held membership in a myriad of non-athletic student organizations. Included were: National Honor Society, Muslim Youth of North America, Muslim Student Alliance, Biology Club, Math Team and Choir. He spent numerous hours volunteering at a wide variety of Minnesotabased bodies such as Minneapolis Community Education, Habitat for Humanity and Hennepin Healthcare just to name a few. “Growing up as a first-generation American, I recognize the expansive opportunities that come with receiving a degree,” he said in his SHBP application package. “My father was the sole breadwinner for my family of six, and my sisters and I became profoundly aware of the obstacles that many immigrant families face. This early realization has motivated me to strive for academic success, taking the most challenging courses offered and involving myself with extracurriculars in high school with the eventual goal of attending college.” Muhab said that as a high school senior, his aspirations became broader: Members of the 2019 Calendar Year SHBP Scholarship Committee (above, from left) were Dr. Gayle Olson, University of New Orleans (retired); Dr. Trevor Carpenter, College of Southern Maryland (retired); Dr. Hank Toutain, dean of students, Kenyon College (retired); Dr. Marla Kohlman, professor, Department of Sociology, Kenyon College; Dr. Michael Glaser, St. Mary’s College (retired); and Dr. Keith Schlender, dean emeritus, college of graduate studies, University of Toledo College of Medicine. “I hope to establish programming, specifically targeted at elementary-aged students in underserved communities, to help promote excellence in academia and the professional workforce. I personally have experienced the disparity in our educational system, through the limited access I had to academic-based extracurriculars, and I believe that this type of programming would help elevate many underprivileged communities.” He has applied for admission to the University of Minnesota, Harvard College and Yale University. If accepted, “I will pursue a biological sciences major. These classes will give me hands-on opportunities to learn.” After college, Muhab hopes to attend medical school. Emily May Emily May is 2019 graduate of Alamo Heights High School in San Antonio, Texas. She ranked first in her class of 365 peers and posted a 105.94 GPA. The daughter of Inland Master Phillip May (mother, Nancy, a dietician) who works for G&H Towing, Emily was extremely active in extracurricular activities at her school. As a baton twirler she regularly entertained audiences during band performances at parades, football games and pep rallies. Emily earned superior ratings and top accolades in her craft during local, regional, state and national competitions. Included were a host of first place awards during American Twirling Federation and National Baton Twirling Association outings. She also is an accomplished musician (saxophone), having participated in her school’s varsity marching band, wind ensemble, jazz band and pep band. Emily was section leader during her junior and senior years and was an active member in a host of school clubs and organizations. Included were the science Olympiad, mayor’s fitness council, environmental club, and National Spanish Honor Society. In the community service arena, Emily spent countless hours enhancing the lives of San Antonio citizens. Among the organizations that benefitted from her service were: Animal Defense League of San Antonio, environmental club and Lake Canyon Sailing Club. She also reached out to fellow students, providing tutoring to freshmen and other students requiring help in geometry and preparation for standardized testing. “I plan to use my skills to study biochemistry for undergraduate and advanced degrees,” she said in her application package. “I am passionate about science and research. I see a direct path of influential discovery through cellular communications and am excited for my growth in the field through college and beyond. “ Emily has applied for admission to the University of Texas at Austin, Rice University and Baylor University. She plans to major in biochemistry/molecular biology. Bjorn Soriano Bjorn Soriano hails from Olympia, Washington, and is the son of Deep Sea ABG Leonard Soriano (mother, Eleanor, a certified nursing assistant) who sails aboard the Alaskan Navigator. A 2019 graduate of Timberline High School, Bjorn has one sibling. He accumulated a 3.92 GPA at Timberline and participated in both the tennis and swimming teams. Bjorn held membership in the National Honor Society, Key Club and Honor Guard. As a community activist, he donated time at a neighborhood middle school and served as a reader to elementary school children. During the holidays, he collected donations for the Salvation Army while serving as a bell ringer. “As a child of Filipino parents, I understood at an early age the value of education,” Bjorn said in his application package. “Realizing the sacrifice my parents made by leaving their homeland in hopes for a better life for their children, I made a commitment to myself that I would capitalize on the opportunities provided to me.” Bjorn plans to earn a degree in engineering. He has applied for admission at the University of Washington, Seattle University and Gonzaga University. Katherine Scott Katherine Scott was born in Galveston, Texas. She is a 2018 graduate of Ball High School and currently is attending Galveston College. She is the daughter of Inland Pilot Martin Scott (mother, Anne) who works aboard G&H Towing’s David B. She has one sibling. Katherine amassed an overall 3.72 GPA in high school and ranked 44 in her class, which numbered 460 graduates. She participated in golf and was a member of the National Honor Society, the student council and Key Club. As a volunteer, she donated many hours providing assistance to the Galveston Island Humane Society. Katherine also participated in a community endeavor dubbed the Big Event Beach Cleanup. On the collegiate level, Katherine has already completed five semesters of work and earned 28 credits at Galveston College. She has posted a 3.12 GPA and is majoring in kinesiology. Her ultimate goal to become a physical therapist. [After obtaining my degree in kinesiology] “I plan to continue on into physical therapy at the University of Texas Medical Branch and eventually become a physical therapist that specializes in pediatric therapy, in order to help children that need it for their everyday lives,” she said in her scholarship application package. Alana Thomas Alana Thomas is the daughter of Deep Sea GUDE Aaron Thomas (mother, Erinn, a process improvement analyst) who sails aboard Keystone Shipping Service’s Cape Domingo. She has three siblings. Alana hails from Jacksonville, Florida, and is a 2019 graduate of Atlantic Coast High School. At Atlantic, she amassed an overall 3.57 GPA and ranked 135 in her class, which numbered 562 graduates. Alana held membership in and was elected to office in both the National Honor Society and Spanish National Honor Society. As a volunteer, she logged more than 100 hours of service at the UF Florida Health Jacksonville Hospital. “I specifically want to become a nurse practitioner because it will allow me to expand the leadership qualities I already have and to become a better, more calm problem evaluator and solver,” she said in her SHBP scholarship application package. “These are skills I will need once I decide to open my own practice.” Alana has applied for admission to Florida State University, the University of Central Florida and the University of North Florida. She plans to major in nursing and minor in business. Seafarers LOG 5 �SIU Asst. VP Chester ‘Chet’ Wheeler Retires Spent 32 Years Sailing, 23 as Union Official Anyone familiar with longtime SIU Government Services Division Assistant Vice President Chester “Chet” Wheeler won’t be surprised by the fact he’s staying quite active in retirement. A tireless worker throughout his decades as a mariner and an official, Wheeler, 74, officially called it a career earlier this year. He’s enjoying the new lifestyle, but if the particulars of a given day have changed, the pace isn’t much different. “It’s fine and I’m busy,” said Wheeler, who lives with his wife, Becky, in Cobb, California. “I realize now all the things my wife did without me, and now those are my jobs. I’ve remodeled a house and was already helping out at a senior center, which I’m continuing. I’m service-oriented anyway, but it’s nice to be able to give back. There are some real characters there.” Wheeler also plans to accommodate his wife’s request for European travel – admittedly not a huge concession from someone who said travel was the highlight of his 32 years as a mariner. He cited “family considerations” as the driving force behind his retirement, which officially commenced March 28. Wheeler also said he thoroughly enjoyed both his time at sea and the years spent working as an official. SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone stated, “Chet had a very steady attitude towards his fairness and diligence in representing his mariners. He definitely was dedicated. He grew up in that fleet and was involved as a delegate under Buck Mercer (the late vice president of the union’s Government Services Division). Chet understood the complexities of the Military Sealift Command (MSC) and was able to navigate effectively through the various processes.” SIU Vice President Government Services Kate Hunt said, “Chet and I worked well together over the years. I always respected him as a union representative who really had the best interests of the mariners at heart.” Wheeler came ashore to work for the union in 1997, first as a representative and soon thereafter as an assistant vice president. Prior to the SIU’s merger with the National Maritime Union in 2001, he handled all West Coast representational efforts for MSC and the Suisun Bay reserve fleet. In fact, since 1997, Wheeler was involved in every MSC and Suisun Bay contract negotiation and “instruction and policy” negotiation. Colleagues described him as instrumental in ensuring the safety and health of mariners by negotiating afloat and ashore habitability agreements, watch hours, standards for shipboard water potability and air quality, and shipyard working conditions. He was a guiding force in the three-year negotiation of Civilian Mariner Personnel Instruction (CMPI) 610, a key document covering hours of work and overtime pay. Wheeler also played leading roles in representing mariners aboard joint high-speed vessels, and in securing significant compensatory time for travel for many CIVMARS. “Most importantly,” said retired SIU Counsel Deborah Kleinberg, who worked very closely with Wheeler, “Chet guided thousands of CIVMARS, wage mariners and Suisun Bay boat handlers, representing employees in grievances and disciplinary actions, and assisting employees who were injured or ill. He helped mariners leave their vessel assignments to attend to ill family members. He assisted many employees with the medical exam process, retirement counseling, workers’ compensation advocacy and making sure mariners could return home from afar when sick or injured.” Never one to worry about popularity, Wheeler definitely earned respect and appreciation both from fellow officials and from rank-and-file members. This was reflected by his having not one but two retirement parties – the first at the Oakland, California, SIU hiring hall in February, the second closer to his home in northern California in late April. At those gatherings, Wheeler received large binders packed with appreciative messages from people he represented and worked with through the years. Here’s a small sampling of those sentiments: “Thanks for all the advice, support, wisdom and guidance you so gracefully gave to all the mariners. You will be sorely missed.” – Bill Machie, Second Asst. Engineer “Thank you for looking out for us, your brother CIVMARS, all these years. You always commanded attention with your booming voice and no-nonsense talks about our rights. Many mariners benefited from your advice.” – Rob Cruz “I have known you for close to 20 years and have admired your work and indefatigable efforts to make the working conditions, quarters and lives of CIVMARS better. I have seen firsthand how CIVMARS and agency folks alike respected, liked and in some cases, loved you.” – Joe Vincenzo, SIU Asst. VP “It has been an honor to have worked with you. I have learned so much from you and am grateful for all of your efforts. Your dedication to the Seafarers is unmatched.” – John Madden, SIU Associate Counsel When presenting the albums, Kleinberg said, “If a person’s career is measured by how many people he has supported and helped during their life’s work, then your career is truly without measure. You were instrumental in helping me and all you have come in contact with, obtain a better understanding and appreciation of the unique working environment of federal mariners. Your extraordinary passion, hard work, persistence and exceptional dedication to seagoing workers and their families inspired me each day to live up to your example. I know for certain that your advocacy and unwavering efforts will never be duplicated.” Reflecting primarily on his time as an official, Wheeler said, “I’m proud of the representation we gave them. It was a 24/7 job and it’s a complicated unit. Also, issues affecting government services can also affect the Wheeler (left) is pictured with SIU President Michael Sacco in 2008. private sector.” Wheeler said Kleinberg was “the best support I could have,” and expressed solid confidence in Vincenzo as his successor. Moreover, Wheeler said that while he never was pressured to enter the maritime industry, it came naturally. “My great grandfather was an indentured servant in the Swedish merchant marine beginning when he was 10 years old,” he noted. “My uncles all went to sea and I grew up around water on the coast. I was surrounded by seamen. But I didn’t have to go to sea; I like it.” He said his fondest memory of shipboard life is “I got to travel a lot of places. In the old days, when I sailed, it took maybe a week or two weeks to unload. There were lots of adventures.” His advice for those entering the industry? “Get as much out of it as you can,” Wheeler replied. “It’s an adventure. Make this your adventure. The other thing is, learn everything you can. We have a great school (the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education). Keep going back and keep learning. It’s a wonderful occupation and I’m really glad I did it.” Retiring SIU Asst. VP Chet Wheeler (second from left in photo directly above) always felt most at home with fellow CIVMARS. He’s pictured at a 2016 MTD event in San Diego with members of the SIU Government Services Division and with other officials. The photo at right is a cover page in one of the two keepsake albums Wheeler received at a retirement gathering. 6 Seafarers LOG July 2019 �SALUTING WWII MARINERS, AUTHOR – SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez (right) surprises author William Geroux with a framed, declassified listing of the U.S. Merchant Marine convoys bringing supplies to the Soviet Union during World War II via the Arctic convoys to Murmansk and Archangel. Geroux recently published a book on the subject: “The Ghost Ships of Archangel – The Arctic Voyage That Defied the Nazis.” The event was hosted on Capitol Hill by U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) and U.S. Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska), both longtime backers of the maritime industry. WITH SEAFARERS ON WEST COAST – The SIU contingent at the yearly tribute in San Pedro, California, included Wilmington Port Agent Jeff Turkus (fourth from right) and (among others) GUDE George Galanas, GVA Kris Bechtel, Bosun Rick Barnhart, GUDE Hamza Jinah and Bosun Rudy Nuno. National Maritime Day Celebrated Coast to Coast The annual National Maritime Day ceremony hosted by the U.S. Department of Transportation always proves noteworthy, but it’s definitely not the only such observance. The SIU once again in 2019 also turned out for ceremonies in Texas, Virginia and California; some Seafarers also marked the occasion aboard ship. Additionally, a high-ranking SIU official made a surprise presentation at a pro-maritime gettogether in Congress. The photos on this page were taken at those respective gatherings. ABOARD HONOR – Vessel Master Capt. Shawn Hagerty reports: “On May 22nd at 1230 hours local, while at sea from Charleston to Bremerhaven, the M/V HONOR held an onboard National Maritime Day ceremony. The all-hands event included learning about the history of National Maritime Day from our Third Officer and hearing this year’s Presidential Proclamation read by both Kings Point and Maine Maritime Academy cadets. We ended with eight bells struck on the ship bell followed by a moment of silence.” Thanks to Capt. Hagerty for the photo, which features the whole crew of the TOTE Services-operated vessel. NORFOLK CEREMONY – Chief Cook Michele Woodley (left) and SIU Safety Director Anthony Houston (right) helped represent the union at the city’s Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center. GALVESTON GATHERING – Pier 21 was the site of the tenth annual National Maritime Day ceremony in Galveston, Texas. The group photo at right includes SIU Safety Director Kevin Sykes (third from left) with U.S. Coast Guard personnel. In the photo above, longtime SIU member Fr. Sinclair Oubre addresses attendees before the tossing of a memorial wreath. July 2019 Seafarers LOG 7 �USNS Maury Completes Whirlwind Voyage via Panama Canal RN/MSO Brandon Maeda, medical department representative aboard the USNS Maury provided the photos appearing on these two pages. The photos were taken during what Maeda described as the completion of roughly an 11,500 nautical mile voyage which had the Maury sailing from Florida to Hawaii via the Panama Canal. The return trip took the vessel and crew from Hawaii to California; once again through the Panama Canal and back to the East Coast. In his correspondence to the LOG, Maeda portrayed the Maury’s SIU crew as an interesting blend of mariners, a real microcosm of the United States. “We have seamen who are originally from America, Asia, [the] Caribbean, Africa, Arabia and the Pacific Islands,” he said. Included are “both men and women, young and old, from the east, west and gulf coasts with a sprinkling of military veterans.” The vessel is operated by Ocean Shipholdings, Inc. Bosun Kwesi Adu-Gyamfi AB Demilton Wheat ABG Eugene Evans ABG George Fababier In the photos below, the USNS Maury approaches, enters and exits the locks at the Panama Canal. 8 Seafarers LOG July 2019 �STOS Christian Mercado Nunez STOS Terrance Paige Oiler Zachary Cartwright Oiler Michael Ribeiro GVA Mason Abdulfattah Kamhed CC Brandon Hamilton July 2019 QE4 Daniel Resultan SKS Michael Dupee GVA Camilo Villafania Oiler Derrick Walker GVA Isaka Koanda SA Crystal Cobbs MDR Brandon Maeda Seafarers LOG 9 �CIVMAR MEETING – Members of the SIU Government Services Division met in mid-May in Norfolk, Virginia, with SIU VP Government Services Kate Hunt (standing fourth from left) and SIU Government Services Representative Sam Spain (standing far left). A-BOOK IN PINEY – Chief Cook Rachel Janssen (left) received her A-book June 5 from SIU President Michael Sacco (right) in Piney Point, Maryland. Janssen most recently sailed aboard the Horizon Spirit before heading to the Paul Hall Center. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD CROWLEY TANKER CALIFORNIA – These photos were taken in mid-April in Martinez, California. Pictured at the gangway (above, left) is AB Raymond Contreras. Chief Cook Najeeb Ginah (above, center) is shown in the galley, while the remaining photo includes (from left) Bosun Ruben Datu, Port Agent Nick Marrone II and QMED/Pumpman Joshua Zelinsky. BOOKS GALORE IN HONOLULU – Three members recently received their respective full B-books at the hall in Hawaii. AB Rolan Aguilar is at right in photo at left, with Shureen Yatchmenoff, administrative assistant. Assistant Storekeeper Tanya Awong stands at left in photo above, with Port Agent Hazel Galbiso. The photo at the immediate right includes Wiper Chanel Peters and Yatchmenoff. 10 Seafarers LOG A-BOOK IN JAX – QMED Samir Tarsha (left) gets his A-book from Safety Director Joseph Koncul at the hiring hall in Jacksonville, Florida, on May 9. The two were classmates in Piney Point (No. 736) and have been close friends ever since. July 2019 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU MILESTONES IN SAN JUAN – Steward department Seafarer Bernice Reyes (left) is pictured at the new hiring hall, proudly displaying her first vacation check and her first Maritime Defense League receipt after completing her initial voyage. Her next planned stop was the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland, for upgrading training. Pictured at right is Port Agent Amancio Crespo. FULL BOOK IN PINEY – Chief Cook Luis Perez Acosta (left) receives his full membership book from Port Agent Victor Nunez in early May. The Seafarer was enrolled in the certified chief steward course at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center. NEW CONTRACT APPROVED – Seafarers at the Association of Maryland Pilots have unanimously approved a new five-year contract featuring wage increases, seniority bonuses and per-diem gains. Pictured recently at the Solomons Island station are (from left) members Adam Xenides and Kevin Kuhne, and Port Agent Victor Nunez. Xenides is the shop delegate. ABOARD WEST VIRGINIA – Pictured recently on the Crowley tanker in Houston are (from left) Patrolman Kelly Krick and Recertified Bosun John Cedeno. July 2019 ABOARD SAFMARINE NGAMI – Pictured from left are AB Saidu Sesay, AB Orlando Da Cruz, Bosun Leroy Sierra, AB Roberto Flores and AB Ron Ramos. Their chief mate submitted the photo in early June and noted, “I’ve been sailing master and mate for almost 20 years. This is one of the most productive teams I’ve encountered.” The vessel is operated by Maersk Line, Limited. DELIVERING FOOD AID – Bosun Jerrold Foke submitted these photos of fellow Seafarers aboard the Crowley-operated Ocean Glory. The snapshots were taken in April while the heavy lift ship was in Djibouti, delivering U.S. food aid (wheat grain) ultimately bound for Yemen. Pictured at the gangway (above, left) is AB Daniel Mensah. AB Lomarro West is shown in the photo at center, while the photo at right features Chief Steward Johnny Palencia. TAKING THE OATH IN HOUSTON – AB Nexlon Colon Diego (right) is sworn in for his full B-book by Patrolman J.B. Niday at the hiring hall in late May. Seafarers LOG 11 �Rear Adm. Margaret Kibben (USN, Ret.) Rear Adm. Mark Buzby (USN, Ret.) Maritime Administrator Gen. Stephen Lyons, USA Commander, USTRANSCOM Jennifer Boykin, President Newport News Shipbuilding Rear Adm. Timothy Gallaudet, Ph.D. (USN, Ret.) Deputy NOAA Administrator SIU Celebrates National Maritime Day in Nation’s Capital T he SIU made a typically strong showing for this year’s National Maritime Day observance in the nation’s capital. Union officials and an enthusiastic group of apprentices from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education – two of whom played key roles in the ceremony – were on hand at Department of Transportation (DOT) headquarters for the annual gathering May 22. The SIU contingent included President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski and Port Agent Victor Nunez. Paul Hall Center Apprentice Shannon Gail Peterson served as the official wreath-tender while fellow Apprentice Charles Patchin sounded eight bells, consistent with tradition. Hosted by the DOT’s Maritime Administration, the ceremony drew hundreds of people from all segments of the industry. This year’s theme was “Empowering Women in the Maritime Community.” Speakers were (in order) Deputy Maritime Administrator Richard Balzano (master of ceremonies); Rear Adm. Margaret Kibben, USN (Ret), who also gave the invocation; Maritime Administrator Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, USN (Ret); Gen. Stephen Lyons, USA, commander of the U.S. Transportation Command; Rear Adm. Timothy Gallaudet, Ph.D., USN (Ret), assistant secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and deputy NOAA administrator; Jennifer Boykin (keynote), president, Newport News Shipbuilding; and The Hon. Jenniffer Gonzalez Colon, commissioner, Puerto Rico. Awards were presented to: Capt. Arthur R. Murray Jr. for his service as a merchant mariner during World War II; Andrew Bouchot of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, who saved the life of a stowaway while training at sea; and Catherine Morrison, a real-life “Rosie the Riveter” who worked as a welder during World War II. The administration also showed a video highlighting the historic role women have played in various components of the American maritime industry. The speakers covered an array of maritime topics. In addition to remarks consistent with this year’s theme, many also reinforced the ongoing, indispensable role of the U.S. Merchant Marine as America’s fourth arm of defense. Several recognized the Paul Hall Center apprentices and thanked them for attending. Buzby during his remarks relayed greetings from Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao, a maritime stalwart who was in Germany that day. He continued, “As we celebrate our industry today, I salute all the women from the maritime industry, afloat and ashore, who continue to make a difference…. Maritime Day celebrates our indispensable industry and commemorates a historic yet largely forgotten technological achievement: the first trans-Atlantic crossing of a ship under steam power, the SS Savannah. Its voyage from Savannah, Georgia, to Liverpool, England, that took place began on May 22, 1819, and marked the passing of the era of sail power and the coming of the first industrial age, which would transform the speed of commerce and the entire nature of naval warfare. That’s part of why Maritime Day is so important. It’s a time to honor those who served, too many of whom gave their lives as patriotic merchant mariners.” He said the day offers a chance “to pause to remind ourselves of just how critical maritime issues are to the security and prosperity of this island nation of ours – something that’s generally out of the public’s focus. It’s also up to us to ensure that there is always a new generation of American mariners prepared to relieve the watch. Jenniffer Gonzalez Colon Commissioner, Puerto Rico “Two centuries on from the historic cruise of the Savannah, America’s strength still rises and falls with the health of the maritime community,” Buzby concluded. “We will need it to meet the challenges ahead, and I have great confidence in the future because of the people here today.” Lyons opened his speech by “recognizing the hard-working men and women of the United States Merchant Marine and the maritime industry that have made and continue to make significant economic and national security contributions to the United States of America in peace time and war.” He recalled the crucial service of World War II mariners specifically and the U.S. Merchant Marine in general through the centuries, which he said “has made significant contributions to our nation’s survival.” Lyons noted that upwards of 9,000 civilian U.S. seamen died in World War II (including more than 1,200 SIU members), either during the formal hostilities or afterward as a result of injuries sustained. Continued on next page Paul Hall Center Apprentice Shannon Peterson carries a life ring, used this year in lieu of a wreath. SIU President Michael Sacco is at the right. From left: SIU President Michael Sacco, Exec. VP Augie Tellez, VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel stand for the Pledge of Allegiance. 12 Seafarers LOG The U.S. Coast Guard Ceremonial Honor Guard arrives. The U.S. Coast Guard Ceremonial Honor Guard posts the Colors. July 2019 July 2019 Paul Hall Center Apprentice Charles Patchin prepares to ring “eight bells.” Seafarers LOG 13 �President Trump Issues Proclamation for National Maritime Day 2019 On National Maritime Day, we honor the men and women who, throughout our history, have served with professionalism, dedication, and patriotism in the United States Merchant Marine. We recognize these seafaring merchant mariners for helping to fuel our economy, maintain our sea power, and support our national security. Merchant mariners extend goodwill into all parts of the world, serving as a peaceful United States presence on international waterways. Today, American mariners facilitate the import and export of billions of dollars of goods, including fuel, agricultural products, and raw materials through the Marine Transportation System. They are also among the first to respond to help their fellow citizens in the wake of national disasters. During times of war, merchant mariners courageously sail into combat zones to provide sealift for the Department of Defense, carrying weapons and supplies to America’s fighting forces. In every con- Event Theme Recognizes Importance of Empowering Women in Maritime Industry Continued from Page 13 “Fast forward to today,” he stated. “The DOD and TRANSCOM continue to depend on U.S.-flag merchant ships, their incredible trade networks, and our incredible mariners – exceptional mariners who sail. These ships that carry important exports in peace time rapidly transition to a Navy auxiliary in war time, delivering the vast majority of supplies and equipment to protect and sustain our military forces globally.” He described the merchant marine as “an essential part of our DOD war plan. This is why I remain a strong advocate of Administrator Buzby and MARAD’s selfless work to preserve emergency preparedness programs like VISA, and incentive programs like the Maritime Security Program. It’s vitally important to the United States of America to retain the viability of a fleet of ships that sail underneath the U.S. flag. This fleet provides assured access to the United States Transportation Command and the Department of Defense, and these programs and the work that MARAD does are critical to our national security.” He concluded, “To all the merchant mariners around the globe, thank you for your patriotism, for your support, and your unwavering commitment to defend our great nation. Together, we deliver.” Boykin, who overseas a union shipyard with 24,000 employees, discussed changing times in the maritime industry and how she recognizes the significance of having become the first woman president of Newport News Shipbuilding. “There’s never been a more exciting time to be a shipbuilder,” she said. “For the first time in over a decade, all of our available drydocks are full…. We have more work under contract than we’ve had in two decades.” (For ex- flict, United States citizen mariners have answered the call to duty and risked their lives. Some have sadly made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Because the United States Merchant Marine plays a central role in bringing American goods to market and in bolstering our military readiness abroad, we must encourage more people to pursue career opportunities on America’s waterways and the oceans of the world. For this reason, I recently signed an Executive Order to help veterans of the Armed Forces transition seamlessly into civilian careers in the United States Merchant Marine by allowing them to apply relevant military training and experience toward becoming credentialed merchant mariners. This will help support a robust, well-equipped, and safe merchant fleet crewed by well-trained mariners. The Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 20, 1933, has designated May 22 of each year as “National Maritime Day” to commemorate the first ample, the yard recently signed a contract to build two aircraft carriers. That means 14 years’ worth of work, she explained.) Gonzalez-Colon saluted America’s rich maritime history and emphasized the reliable service provided by Jones Act ships to Puerto Rico. She recalled Hurricane Maria and credited the domestic maritime industry for timely delivery of all the supplies needed to survive and rebuild. She said it was a transoceanic voyage by a steamship in 1819 by the S.S. Savannah. By this resolution, the Congress has authorized and requested the President to issue annually a proclamation calling for its appropriate observance. NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 22, 2019, 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 twentieth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand nineteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-third. DONALD J. TRUMP “lifeline” and that the “American shipping industry” made recovery possible. Domestic maritime is “a loyal, dependable partner” with the territory, she stated. Gallaudet, a Navy veteran, recalled serving on an aircraft carrier during Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. “We could have done none of that without the sealift and supplies from our merchant marine,” he said. Catherine Morrison (second from right), age 95, worked as a welder during World War II to support the war effort. She’s pictured with (from left) Gen. Lyons, Jennifer Boykin and Maritime Administrator Buzby. SIU VP Contracts George Tricker (standing, center) and SIU Piney Point Port Agent Victor Nunez (standing, left) chat with Paul Hall Center apprentices before the ceremony. 14 Seafarers LOG July 2019 �Urgent Notice/Reminder Culinary 2.0 Training Available at Paul Hall Center As previously reported, the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education continues to offer Culinary 2.0 classes designed to help students boost their skills while complying with a new rule that takes effect next year. Completing the coursework also is intended to aid individual shipping opportunities. Shipping Rule 5.A.(6), which will go into effect January 1, 2020, states, “Within each class of seniority in the Steward Department, priority shall be given to those seamen who possess an advanced Culinary 2.0 certificate from the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, in the event such program is being offered and that the seaman is registered in Group I, Steward Department.” While every new member of the steward department who completes their apprenticeship at the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship will have successfully passed Culinary 2.0, it’s important to remember that those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards must also take the coursework in order to exercise preference and priority beginning next year (unless they have received training after January 1, 2017 at the Piney Point, Maryland-based campus). For those seamen currently employed as permanent stewards aboard commercial vessels, they must attend Culinary 2.0 in order to maintain their current employment status. For those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards, there are two new revalidation courses that have been designed to ensure a consistent level of culinary training and efficiency: Orientation/ Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 and Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0. The courses are being offered regularly, but spaces are limited, so members are encouraged to plan ahead and enroll as soon as possible. For more information, contact your port agent and/ or the school’s admissions office. Correction An article in the June LOG misidentified the union affiliation of Christopher Kalinowski. He’s a member of the International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots (MM&P). July & August 2019 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: July 16, August 13 Jersey City........................................Tuesday: July 9 , August 6 Norfolk...........................................Thursday: July 11, August 8 Oakland........................................Thursday: July18, August 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea May 16, 2019 - June 15, 2019 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 Contribute To The Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD Works For You. July 2019 Total Shipped All Groups A B Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 18 6 1 11 6 0 5 29 12 2 4 1 1 1 0 1 2 5 2 2 7 4 1 1 3 0 1 8 4 2 27 15 3 18 10 1 10 35 20 6 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 0 0 13 3 2 4 5 1 3 22 4 3 6 7 1 3 5 0 2 15 6 1 46 20 13 42 24 6 29 93 35 17 33 19 6 23 19 1 20 54 28 10 39 10 4 25 11 3 13 61 14 8 3 3 0 2 3 1 0 4 4 1 11 10 2 7 5 1 6 17 9 4 25 10 5 15 9 6 13 43 18 19 15 3 4 7 5 1 7 18 4 5 1 4 0 1 4 0 2 4 2 1 4 6 1 4 3 0 4 4 7 1 8 2 1 4 0 0 3 16 8 2 20 11 5 20 12 2 18 55 14 5 2 0 2 2 0 2 2 3 2 2 30 10 6 17 8 1 13 53 21 11 313 144 58 208 132 27 153 543 214 102 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 2 0 4 0 0 2 0 5 0 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 2 2 1 5 3 0 2 4 3 1 9 11 1 6 9 0 7 15 12 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 2 0 1 5 0 4 1 0 3 4 5 0 5 6 1 8 2 1 1 15 7 2 20 9 4 11 6 2 9 34 13 5 22 14 2 10 7 1 10 31 26 3 12 6 2 8 7 0 7 20 8 2 2 0 1 1 0 0 2 3 1 3 4 4 1 3 8 0 1 5 3 3 15 13 9 16 13 4 11 21 14 9 4 6 1 6 0 0 3 10 7 3 3 2 1 1 3 0 1 2 2 1 4 3 0 2 2 0 1 2 3 0 3 5 0 4 1 0 2 9 8 0 11 7 2 9 4 0 3 28 8 2 3 0 0 1 1 1 0 3 3 0 10 10 2 7 7 2 7 21 15 4 133 105 32 102 75 13 70 235 141 41 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 0 0 1 2 4 0 7 2 0 7 1 0 7 16 5 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 5 2 2 3 1 1 2 8 1 1 9 1 1 4 0 0 2 22 0 1 20 4 1 18 5 1 9 38 4 2 22 9 0 17 7 0 9 32 18 1 7 1 1 10 0 2 2 16 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 2 0 3 0 0 2 7 5 0 10 6 3 11 8 1 5 22 9 5 15 5 1 11 3 1 5 34 4 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 6 0 0 2 3 3 0 1 3 2 3 4 0 2 1 0 0 3 0 2 7 5 0 11 0 2 7 2 1 5 16 8 3 2 0 1 1 0 0 0 3 0 1 11 7 1 10 3 0 7 35 25 2 133 46 16 104 34 10 60 276 98 20 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 2 6 16 1 3 9 1 4 10 13 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 1 7 1 0 0 2 0 0 2 1 0 1 2 0 3 2 0 3 2 2 0 6 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 2 3 0 1 0 0 1 5 4 0 6 2 1 3 2 1 0 9 2 2 14 11 1 6 4 4 5 26 15 1 24 25 1 21 14 6 2 40 43 0 19 8 2 10 6 2 0 27 11 0 1 2 0 0 1 0 0 2 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 15 25 0 11 27 4 0 26 35 1 12 10 2 4 5 7 4 24 12 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 3 0 0 2 2 3 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 2 2 0 0 2 10 10 4 6 0 2 7 17 19 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 16 11 4 12 4 5 3 40 24 13 136 128 17 83 81 40 31 243 187 GRAND TOTAL: 592 431 234 431 324 131 323 1,085 696 350 C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Philadelphia................................Wednesday: July 10, August 7 Port Everglades.............................Thursday: July 18, August 15 Total Registered A All Groups B C Seafarers LOG 15 �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 Kate Hunt, 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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by members of the most recent class of recertified stewards. Question: Why did you join the SIU, and why have you remained with the union? Frank Ramones Recertified Steward I joined the SIU because of the opportunities that I got. I was able to send my daughter to graduate school, thanks to the economic stability afforded by the union. Plus, I travel the world for free! I enjoy everything this organization has done for me. Robert Owens Recertified Steward After a 10-year stint in the Navy, I wanted more adventure. I’ve traveled to all parts of the world thanks to the SIU. The union has provided me and my family a most beautiful life, and joining has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. Rocky Dupraw Recertified Steward My parents decided to send my younger brother to Piney Point, and asked if I wanted to go. It was the best decision I’ve ever made. The SIU has provided my family and me with a better quality of life. Angela Robertson Recertified Steward I decided to join the union to travel, and meet people from different parts of the world. Continuing to travel and meet new people keeps me sailing SIU. Fakhruddin Malahi Recertified Steward I joined the union in 1998 in San Francisco, and joined the steward department. I started from the bottom, and built my way up to recertified steward. The SIU is a great union, and works with the best maritime school in the U.S. Ali Munsar Recertified Steward I joined the union because my dad was in the union, and he told me how nice it was to go to sea, and that was the truth. I love it, and I am going to get my kids to join the union. I want to thank everyone in the union for everything you’ve done for me. 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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 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 Pics 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 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (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) 549-400 These 1984 photos were taken during and after the SS Inger paid off in New Jersey. The inset features then-SIU Representative Kermett Mangram (now a retired VP). The larger image shows Bosun Stanley Jandora and his wife “happily reunited,” according to the original caption. 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 2019 �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 AUBREY BENJAMIN Brother Aubrey Benjamin, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1997, initially sailing with Crowley Towing and Transportation. A member of the deck department, he last worked with Maersk Line, Limited when he sailed on the Constellation. Brother Benjamin makes his home in San Diego. MICHAEL BREWLEY Brother Michael Brewley, 71, became a member of the union in 1974 when he shipped on the Arizpa. He primarily sailed in the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Brewley most recently sailed on the Maersk Memphis. He resides in Bayonne, New Jersey. LAWRENCE CLINE Brother Lawrence Cline, 65, joined the SIU in 1975, first sailing on the Arecibo. He sailed in all three departments and upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Cline last shipped on the Voyager and lives in Ashford, Washington. JOAQUIM FIGUEIREDO Brother Joaquim Figueiredo, 68, began sailing with the union in 2003, first shipping on the Maersk Maine. In 2010, he enhanced his skills by upgrading at the Piney Point school. A member of the engine department, Brother Figueiredo most recently sailed aboard the Maersk Columbus. He calls Palm Coast, Florida, home. KEVIN GIBBONS Brother Kevin Gibbons, 65, embarked on his SIU career in 1978. His first ship was the Santa Maria and he sailed in both the deck and steward departments. Brother Gibbons concluded his career sailing on the Reliance. He resides in San Francisco. DANIEL HAEGELE Brother Daniel Haegele, 66, joined July 2019 the union in 1991 when he sailed on the USNS Tenacious. He was a deck department member and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Haegele’s last vessel was the Balboa. He calls Woodbury, Minnesota, home. RICHARD HICKS Brother Richard Hicks, 63, donned the SIU colors in 1976, initially sailing aboard the Sealand Resource. A steward department member, he upgraded on numerous occasions at the maritime training center located in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Hicks most recently sailed on the Maersk Columbus. He resides in West Palm Beach, Florida. DONALD HUFFMAN Brother Donald Huffman, 65, became an SIU member in 1978 when he shipped on the Pisces. He was a member of the steward department and upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Huffman last shipped on the Green Lake. He lives in Jacksonville, Florida. LEROY JENKINS Brother Leroy Jenkins, 71, signed on with the SIU in 1968 and first sailed on the La Salle. He upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center and sailed in all three departments. Brother Jenkins most recently sailed aboard the Cape Island. He makes his home in Tacoma, Washington. JOHN MCMURTRAY Brother John McMurtray, 65, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1979 when he sailed on the Arecibo. A deck department member, he upgraded on multiple occasions at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. Brother McMurtray last sailed aboard the Beaver State. He resides in St. Helens, Oregon. FRANCISCO RAMILO Brother Francisco Ramilo, 69, became a member of the union in 2003, initially sailing aboard the Cape Horn. An engine department member, he upgraded his skills on several occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Ramilo most recently sailed on the Pennsylvania. He makes his home in College Station, Texas. DEREK ROSS Brother Derek Ross, 65 joined the Seafarers in 1992. His first vessel was the USNS Denebola and he primarily sailed in the deck department. Brother Ross enhanced his skills in 1999 when he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center. He last shipped on the Maersk Denver before settling in Brooklyn, New York. AHMED SHARIF Brother Ahmed Sharif, 67, signed on with the SIU in 1982, initially sailing aboard the Maunalei. He was a steward department member and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Sharif most recently sailed aboard the John Boland before settling in Dearborn, Michigan. ROBERT TANAKA Brother Robert Tanaka, 65, began his career with the Seafarers in 1980, first sailing on the Oceanic Independence. He shipped as a steward department member and last sailed on the Independence in 1992. Brother Tanaka is a Las Vegas resident. EMMANUEL WABE Brother Emmanuel Wabe, 67, donned the SIU colors in 1993 when he sailed on the Global Mariner. A member of the deck department, he upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Wabe most recently sailed on the Corsica. He makes his home in Baltimore. GREAT LAKES ROSS WAISANEN Brother Ross Waisanen, 65, started shipping with the union in 1996, initially sailing on the Steel T. Crapo. The deck department member enhanced his skills in 2005 when he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center. He last shipped on the John Boland and resides in Minneapolis, Minnesota. INLAND STEPHEN HATHORN Brother Stephen Hathorn, 62, began sailing with the SIU in 1976 when he worked for Crescent Towing and Salvage. A deck department member, he remained with the same company for the duration of his career. Brother Hathorn makes his home in Kenner, Louisiana. PETER MADDEN the SIU colors in 1978 when he sailed with Hvide Marine. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Madden most recently shipped aboard the Liberty and resides in Virginia Beach, Virginia. ROBERT MCDERMOTT Brother Robert McDermott, 65, signed on with the union in 1979, initially working for G&H Towing. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother McDermott concluded his career with Moran Towing of Texas in 1992 and lives in Anahuac, Texas. JAMES NEWCOMB Brother James Newcomb, 65, joined the SIU in 1971, sailing first on the Wacosta. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments and upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1978. Brother Newcomb was last employed with Atlantic Towing. He resides in Virginia Beach, Virginia. MANUEL PIMENTEL Brother Manuel Pimentel, 62, became a member of the SIU in 1977 when he worked for Crowley Puerto Rico Services. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1979. Brother Pimentel worked for the same company for the duration of his career. He lives in Tampa, Florida. ANTHONY PRIMEAUX Brother Anthony Primeaux, 62, donned the SIU colors in 1975, first shipping with Higman Barge Lines. A deck department member, he continued his employment with the same company for his entire career. Brother Primeaux calls Lufkin, Texas, home. RAYMOND RICHARDSON Brother Raymond Richardson, 59, started sailing with the SIU in 1981, initially working for Red Circle Transport. He upgraded at the unionaffiliated Piney Point school on multiple occasions and was a member of the deck department. Brother Richardson most recently shipped with Crowley Towing and Transportation before settling in White Springs, Florida. GEORGE ULLYOT Brother George Ullyot, 66, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1973, sailing first with McAllister Towing of Philadelphia. A deck department member, he upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Ullyot was last employed by Mariner Towing. He resides in Waterford, New Jersey. STEVEN WOODS Brother Steven Woods, 61, began shipping with the SIU in 1996, initially working for Crescent Towing and Salvage. He sailed in both the engine and deck departments and upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Woods continued to work for the same company throughout his career. He lives in Foley, Alabama. JOHN ZENTS Brother John Zents, 64, joined the SIU in 1974 when he worked for Moran Towing of Maryland. He sailed in the engine department and remained with the same company for his entire career. Brother Zents makes his home in Baltimore. NMU RODOLFO AGUSTIN Brother Rodolfo Agustin, 65, signed on with the union in 2001. He sailed with the NMU prior to the SIU/NMU merger. Brother Agustin sailed in the engine department. He is a resident of Chula Vista, California. JOEL EDWARDS Brother Joel Edwards, 66, became a member of the SIU in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. He was an engine department member and first sailed aboard the Cape Horn. Brother Edwards’ last vessel was the Maersk Nebraska. He is a resident of Brooklyn, New York. PILAR HERNANDEZ Brother Pilar Hernandez, 79, joined the SIU in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. He was a deck department member and last sailed aboard the Argonaut. Brother Hernandez lives in Catano, Puerto Rico. Brother Peter Madden, 62, donned Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA PATRICK CARROLL Brother Patrick Carroll, 51, died May 5. He joined the SIU in 1991, sailing first on the Gus W. Darnell. An engine department member, Brother Carroll last sailed aboard the Mykonos. He made his home in Cypress, Texas. ELEX CARY Pensioner Elex Cary, 85, passed away May 31. He became an SIU member in 1966 when he sailed aboard the Mt. Vernon Victory. A deck department member, Brother Cary last sailed on the Enterprise. He went on pension in 1998 and lived in Milpitas, California. RICKEY CAVENDER Pensioner Rickey Cavender, 62, died May 15. Signing on with the Seafarers in 1970, Brother Cavender first shipped with Michigan Tankers. He was a member of the engine department and last sailed aboard the Thompson Pass. Brother Cavender started collecting his pension in 2007 and called San Pedro, California, home. EUGENE CIPULLO Pensioner Eugene Cipullo, 89, passed away April 8. He started sailing with the SIU in 1969 when he shipped on the Red Arrow. An engine department member, Brother Cipullo last sailed aboard the John Paul Bobo. He retired in 1994 and settled in Largo, Florida. ROY CONN Pensioner Roy Conn, 80, died April 27. He began his career with the SIU in 1992, initially sailing aboard the USNS Assertive. Brother Conn shipped in the deck department and last sailed on the Jack Lummus. He became a pensioner in 2006 and resided in Fort Worth, Texas. 18 Seafarers LOG GARY DOYEN Pensioner Gary Doyen, 76, passed away May 18. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1967, initially sailing on the Commander. An engine department member, Brother Doyen last sailed aboard the Horizon Consumer. He began collecting his pension in 2007 and made his home in Downey, California. SAMUEL ESHUN Brother Samuel Eshun, 69, died May 6. Born in Ghana, he became an SIU member in 2004. Brother Eshun’s first vessel was the Cape Diamond. He shipped in all three departments and most recently sailed on the Maersk Sentosa. He called East Orange, New Jersey, home. ALFONSO GARCIA Pensioner Alfonso Garcia, 74, passed away May 9. He joined the union in 1985 when he sailed aboard the Constitution. A deck department member, Brother Garcia last sailed on the Endurance. He became a pensioner in 2010 and lived in Pico Rivera, California. JOHN HOPKINS Brother John Hopkins, 92, died March 27. Born in Oklahoma, he donned the SIU colors in 1979 when he shipped on the President Adams. Brother Hopkins worked in the steward department and last sailed aboard the Rover in 1999. He lived in Portland, Oregon. RAYMOND JONES Pensioner Raymond Jones, 71, passed away May 17. He signed on with the SIU in 1969, initially sailing on the Hattiesburg Victory. Brother Jones was a steward department member and concluded his career on the Richard G. Matthiesen. He retired in 2008 and settled in Haines City, Florida. CLIFTON MAINERS Pensioner Clifton Mainers, 96, died May 22. He joined the union in 1955 when he worked for Z Maritime Operations. An engine department member, Brother Mainers last sailed aboard the Puerto Rico. He retired in 1982 and lived in Pinson, Tennessee. JOAQUIN PASSAPERA Pensioner Joaquin Passapera, 78, passed away June 5. He began his career with the SIU in 1962, initially working with Waterman Steamship Corporation. Brother Passapera sailed in the deck department. He last shipped on the Perseverance before retiring in 1999. Brother Passapera was a resident of Humacao, Puerto Rico. LAWRENCE ROSE Pensioner Lawrence Rose, 84, died March 29. Initially sailing on the Cape Horn, he joined the SIU in 1990. Brother Rose was an engine department member and last sailed on the Harry Martin. He went on pension in 2005 and made his home in Melbourne, Florida. KYLE SCHULTZ Pensioner Kyle Schultz, 59, passed away June 8. He donned the SIU colors in 1978, first sailing on the Great Land. Brother Schultz was a deck department member. He last shipped on the Ocean Crescent and became a pensioner in 2016. Brother Schultz resided in Livingston, Texas. WILLIAM WILLIAMS Pensioner William Williams, 77, died June 3. He joined the union in 1964, initially sailing with McAllister Towing of Virginia. Brother Williams primarily sailed in the engine department and concluded his career on the Stonewall Jackson. He went on pension in 2006 and settled in Dupont, Louisiana. HOWARD YAEKEL Pensioner Howard Yaekel, 78, died May 15. Born in Brooklyn, New York, he became an SIU member in 1961. Brother Yaekel was a deck department member and first shipped on the Steel Artisan. He retired in 2001 after sailing on his final vessel, the Quality. Brother Yaekel lived in Deerfield Beach, Florida. GREAT LAKES DONALD GIMPEL Pensioner Donald Gimpel, 84, passed away April 13. He embarked on his SIU career in 1967, when he worked for Price Brothers. Brother Gimpel was last employed with Great Lakes Towing before his retirement in 2001. He resided in Duluth, Minnesota. MERTON LYONS Pensioner Merton Lyons, 92, died June 7. He joined the Seafarers in 1963 and first sailed with Inland Lakes Management. Brother Lyons was a deck department member. He concluded his career on the Steel T. Crapo and became a pensioner in 1992. Brother Lyons made his home in Alpena, Michigan. INLAND JOHN DANIELS Pensioner John Daniels, 76, passed away April 24. He joined the SIU in 1961 when he shipped with Interstate Oil. Brother Daniels last worked for IBC Company before going on pension in 2005. He was a resident of Belhaven, North Carolina. WILLIAM MEYER Pensioner William Meyer, 70, died May 16. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1985 when he worked for Sheridan Transportation. Brother Meyer sailed in the deck department and remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He became a pensioner in 2011 and resided in Dania Beach, Florida. TED MILLIGAN Pensioner Ted Milligan, 86, died April 13. He signed on with the union in 1961, initially sailing with Bethlehem Steel. Brother Milligan last sailed aboard the Lemmerhirt. He became a pensioner in 1995 and lived in Brimley, Michigan. ANTHONY NOCELLA Pensioner Anthony Nocella, 91, passed away May 18. He began sailing with the SIU in 1961 when he worked for P.F. Martin. Brother Nocella last shipped with McAllister Towing of Philadelphia. He retired in 1989 and settled in Haddonfield, New Jersey. WILLIAM SHUBERT Pensioner William Shubert, 87, died May 19. He embarked on SIU career in 1973 when he worked for National Marine Service. Brother Shubert was a deck department member. He continued to work for the same company until he became a pensioner in 1994. Brother Shubert lived in Bessemer City, North Carolina. JAMES WOODS Pensioner James Woods, 65, passed away May 19. He joined the union in 1994, first working for Piney Point Transportation. Brother Woods worked in the engine department and last sailed with Allied Transportation. He went on pension in 2012 and made his home in Charlotte County, Virginia. NMU GEORGE MORAN Pensioner George Moran, 84, died May 2. Born in Baltimore, he was an NMU member before the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. Brother Moran began collecting his pension in 1990 and was a resident of Jacksonville, Florida. EDWARD QUIGLEY Pensioner Edward Quigley, 76, passed away May 16. He sailed with the NMU prior to the 2001 merger with Seafarers International Union. He retired in 1999 and lived in Plymouth, Massachusetts. FRANCIS WOJCIK Pensioner Francis Wojcik, 86, died May 19. Born in Maryland, he shipped as a member of the NMU before the SIU/NMU merger. Brother Wojcik became a pensioner in 1993 and resided in Bel Air, Maryland. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. Name Age Aguilar, Donald 82 Alonzo, Julio 98 Burton, Earl 91 Chisholm, Davis 77 Cross, Alvin 79 Cruz, Jaime 99 Gaines, Paul 90 Garcia, Francisco 96 Gibbs, Arthur 90 Goodo, Henry 85 Konieczny, Peter 92 Ladd, Leon 86 Thompson, Roland 78 DOD 06/07/2019 06/24/2018 05/18/2019 07/18/2018 05/24/2019 05/27/2019 05/16/2019 05/06/2019 06/01/2019 06/05/2019 05/17/2019 04/12/2019 05/26/2019 July 2019 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings ENDURANCE (TOTE), March 14 – Chairman Dominic Marco, Secretary Robert Davis, Deck Delegate Richard Grubbs, Engine Delegate Benjamin Stanley, Steward Delegate Sandra Vann. Crew discussed old business including December visit from SIU representative during vessel’s last arrival in Jacksonville, Florida. Union representative found no issues. Chairman went over new working rules regarding duties assigned while on watch. Duties will be assigned as master deems necessary and during regular shift, not overtime. Secretary advised members to use ship computer to get on SIU website to find new postings regarding jobs, medical requirements, or documentation. He reminded crew to replace linen when leaving the vessel. Educational director urged members to check expiration dates of documents and to upgrade often at Piney Point. Crew brainstormed ways to spend ship’s fund and mentioned purchasing two bicycles and tire repair kits. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members ask for company provided work gear or reimbursement for work gear. Crew noted lack of Wi-Fi availability. Members requested upgrades to computers and entertainment system. Steward department was thanked for a job well done. Members expressed gratitude to counter staff at hiring halls. Next port: Corpus Christi, Texas. USNS STOCKHAM (Crowley), March 16 – Chairman Munassar Ahmed, Secretary Shanita Flachbart, Educational Director Randy Slue, Deck Delegate Ethan Mims. Chairman advised crew to have all current documents and shipping cards upon arrival to vessel. Secretary reminded members to wipe their feet when entering the house. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed travel reimbursements, 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. ventilation repairs and costs of transporting baggage to vessel. They requested new contents for vending machine as well as a new coffee maker. Crew requested new washing machine, microwaveable covers for plates, and bikes to ride to and from gate. Members would like fewer days to be required in order to qualify for pension. Next port: South Korea. Celebrating New Tonnage HORIZON RELIANCE (Pasha), April 6 – Chairman Kissinfor Taylor, Secretary Mark Cabasag, Educational Director Jason Powell. Chairman discussed new policy regarding random drug testing. Secretary suggested crew renew their documents six months ahead of expiration. He reminded everyone to keep rooms clean for oncoming crew. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. HORIZON PACIFIC (Pasha), April 9 – Chairman Daniel Ticer, Secretary Donald Irvine, Educational Director Thomas Flynn, Deck Delegate Antjuan Webb, Steward Delegate Mercurion Abuan. Chairman commended crew for a job well done bringing the ship out of the yard. Educational director reminded members of necessary LNG course for new generation ships and encouraged them to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requests availability of satellite and Wi-Fi aboard ship. Members were thanked for cleaning up the ship safely. Next Port: Oakland, California. LIBERTY PASSION (Liberty Maritime), April 21 – Chairman David Campbell, Secretary Abraham Mills, Steward Delegate Nilsa Manaiza. Crew was thanked for a safe voyage. Ship payoff will be at next port. Steward department was thanked for keeping the The SIU helped welcome Matson’s new containership Kaimana Hila on May 3 during a reception in Seattle. Pictured from left are ACU Saleh Sewileh, SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone, Matson CEO Matt Cox, Shoregang Bosun Steve Ackley, Chief Cook Alberto Insong and SIU Port Agent Warren Asp. ship clean and for their cooperation. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman encouraged crew to go to SIU meetings for updated information. Members expressed gratitude to SIU President Mike Sacco for a great job leading the way to excellent contract. Crew requested pensioners be given a cost of living increase every two years. They would like an increase in vacation pay and vacation days. Members request availability of Wi-Fi and satellite phone on ship. Replacement DVD player needed for crew. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food. Next Port: Freeport, Texas. 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 July 2019 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 19 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Junior Engineer September 28 November 22 Machinist October 19 November 8 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Engine Department Upgrading Courses FOWT August 17 September 13 October 12 November 8 Marine Electrician August 10 October 4 Able Seafarer Deck August 17 September 13 Marine Refer Tech July 13 August 23 October 12 November 8 Pumpman July 20 July 26 AB to Mate Modules Modules must be taken in order. Those who November 9 November 15 are not in the mates program cannot apply for these courses. Contact the Admissions Welding July 20 August 9 Office for further details. August 17 September 6 ARPA September 28 October 4 Bosun Recertification July 20 August 5 Crane Familiarization October 5 October 11 ECDIS September 21 September 27 November 16 November 22 Fast Rescue Boat July 20 July 26 August 17 August 23 September 14 October 4 October 19 November 8 Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Operations September 21 October 18 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start July 15. Chief Steward July 27 September 13 October 19 December 6 Galley Operations July 20 August 16 GMDSS July 20 August 2 September 14 October 11 August 31 September 13 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 July 20 July 26 Lifeboat July 27 August 9 August 3 August 9 August 24 September 6 September 21 October 4 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 July 13 July 19 October 19 November 1 July 27 August 2 November 16 November 29 December 14 December 27 Safety Upgrading Courses Radar Observer September 14 September 27 Basic Training/Basic FF July 13 July 19 July 27 August 2 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW July 20 August 16 September 14 October 11 November 9 December 6 100 Ton Master September 7 September 27 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers July 13 July 26 BAPO July 20 August 16 September 14 October 11 November 9 December 6 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 # and dates attended___________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG Basic Training Revalidation July 26 July 26 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation September 14 September 20 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting August 17 August 23 Government Vessels July 27 August 2 August 17 August 23 Medical Care Provider August 24 August 30 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL July 27 August 2 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG July 20 July 26 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, or 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. 7/19 July 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #848 – Graduated March 22 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Thomas Bateman, Roche Aurea Bonita, A’trenique Tramani Deamus, Jalen Jaquan Denson, Susha Dore, Jason Hill, Christian Kalinowski, Chauncey Kukahiko, Deshante Luchien, Tyler Maddox, Shawn McDowell, Corey Reseburg, Lydia Robinson, Randy Slue, Calvettta Taylor, Anthony Timmson-Brown and Joel Williams. Important Notice To All 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. Junior Engineer (Basic Refrigeration) – Graduated February 22 (above, in alphabetical order): Patrick Dean, Vincent Freeman, Deondre Gardner, Arvin Tarroza Heras and Yves Mbuiti Nsuami. Instructor Christopher Morgan is at the far right. RFPNW (Phase III) – Graduated March 1 (above, in alphabetical order): Steven Ellis Jr., Joshua Gail, Jamel Smith and Lucas Tiderman. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the deck department of SIU-contracted vessels. BAPO (Phase III) – Graduated March 1 (above, in alphabetical order): William Alston III, Toren Bolden, Joshua Nino Bonita, Daveyon Burton, Micah Champion, Keilah Freeman, Marcel Gordon, Darius Jackson-Jordon, Dequan Joe, Brady Martin, Ivan Meza, Orion Milazzo, Kirk Puchert, Quinton Sashington, Betram Solomon Jr., Anias Stanford and Demario Walter. Each plans to work in the engine department aboard union-contracted vessels upon the completion of their training. July 2019 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Government Vessels – Graduated February 15 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): James Abilad, Barry Bettis, Roni Anival Castillo, Juan Amilcar Colon, Deirick Coltrane II, Daniel Davenport, Dominic Gilmartin, Eric Jackson, Mahare Kidane, Stephen Martin, Jeffrey Nicholson, Guiomar Rancel, Jameel Robinson, Ben Skuban and Eric Williams. (Note: Not all are pictured.) MSC Storekeeper – Graduated February 22 (above, in alphabetical order): Jason Bentz, Carlos Enrique Gibbons, Enchantress Charmaine Johnson, Paul Klear, Demarkus Antoine McNabb, Robert Resurreccion, Douglas Vaughn and Beverly Williams. Instructor Matthew Rogers is at the far left. Small Arms – Graduated February 15 (above, starting second from left): Brett Van Pelt, Abraham Dionela Tunguia and Will Jordan. Instructors John Thomas and Leonard Wayne Johnson Jr. are at the far left and far right, respectively. Tankship Familiarization DL – Graduated February 22 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Barry Bettis, Joel Boyd, Roni Anival Castillo, Dominic Gilmartin, Maurice Henry Jr., Hussein Kareem Howe, Niven Hurlston, Eric Jackson, Christopher McAfee, Thomas McClure Jr., Jason Newsham, Jeffrey Nicholson, Atm Zahid Reza, Lamont Robinson, Darryl Roundtree, Wilson Ruiz, Tyler Unkle, Oscar Vencer, Travis Williams Sr., and Eric Williams. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Graduated February 11 (above, in alphabetical order): Francisco Mecator Amada, Alex-Stephen Amarra, Jarrett Andrews Jr., Sandra Baker, Nahun Moises Bernardez Bernard, Albert Chandradat Bharrat, Jack Boscia, Charles Villamia Catunao, Richard Dogcio Digman, Danilo Cabrera Fullante, Tyrone Hernandez, Nadzeya Mikhailovna Kuptsova, Ruthellen McDonough, Jessie Azurin Parente, Kyle Parson, Rolly Aguilar Pascua, Casey Pearson, Antonio Rico Bragado, Wilson Ruiz, Jakeem Montreal-Rashad Simmons and Elston Sintok Yu-Mateo. 22 Seafarers LOG July 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes SUA (Galley Operations) – Graduated October 5 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Alexandra Erickson, Paisami Gay, Daniel Howard, Lamarai Jones, Shadonna Jones, EsStonia Moore, Eugenia Porter, Noah Susumu SantiagoBasic Self-Unloading – Graduated February Lareesa 8 (photo at left, in alphabetical Stephens, Warren, Jessica order): Desmon Graham, Maeen Abdulla Williams, Kendra and Jinah, Allen Ludlow,Williams Amer Mousa, Mo-Jarid hamed Omer, Tyrone Wilson and Husam Wilson. Ali Mohamed Yahya. Instructor Don Jaegle is at the far left. Advanced Self-Unloading – Graduated February 15 (above, in alphabetical order): Douglas Bellmore, Justin Bellmore, Allen Ludlow and Tyrone Simmons. Class instructor Don Jaegle is at the far right. BAPO – Graduated March 1 (above, in alphabetical order): Rodney Holmes, Joshua Kraynak, Lawrence Mills Jr., Tracy Mitchell Jr., Chanel Peters, Marcelino Jose Santos Bermeo and Jessica Valentin. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated March 1 (above, in alphabetical order): Christopher King, Antonio Mendez Cruz, Carlos Hugo Sanchez and Elston Sintok Yu-Mateo. Certified Chief Cook (Module 3) – Graduated February 22 (above, from left): John Kenneth De Borja Panuelos, Aaron Helton-Cox and Curtis Snow. July 2019 alphabetical order): Tommy BelWilliams. Galley Ops – Phase III Apprentice Myles Otis (above) graduated from this course March 1. Upon the completion of his training, he plans to work in the steward department of SIU-contracted vessels. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated February 8 (above, in alphabetical order): James Abilad, Sergio Nunez Castellanos, Oscar Anibal Gomez, Derrick Moore, Donald Spangler and Edward Echague Villanda. Seafarers LOG 23 Galley Operations – Graduated October 5 (above, from left): Stevon Taylor, Porcia Johnson and Tuliga Fuega. �VOLUME 81, NO. 7 JULY 2019 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O The Gianella (left in photo at left) performs an historic underway replenishment in 1992 with the aircraft carrier USS Independence. In the photo above, the Gianella (right) assists the USCGC Polar Sea (left) on a supply mission to Antarctica in 2002. USNS Lawrence Gianella Completes Final Voyage The last of the T-5 petroleum tankers, the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC)-owned, Ocean Ships-operated USNS Lawrence H. Gianella has completed its final mission for the U.S. Navy. The SIU-crewed vessel sailed to Norfolk, Virginia, as part of National Maritime Day, bringing the tanker’s storied history to a close. The vessel was crewed by SIU members in all three departments. The final crew of the USNS Gianella included Captain Robert J. Mills III, Chief Mate Robert Grove, 2nd Mate Tian Chi, 3rd Mate Dillon Davidson, 3rd Mate Jeffrey Harcq, Bosun Nicholas Hoffman, ABG Owen Hammond, ABG Lionel Hall, ABG Lloyd La Beach, ABG Matthew Furlong, ABG Adam Ropp, Chief Eng. Daniel Lee, 1st Asst. Engineer Jonathan Miller, 2nd Asst. Eng. Charlie Umali, Pumpman Richard Lawson, QMED Bernard Smalls, QMED Samuel Sanders Jr., DEU Eric Jackson, DEU Shawn Smith, Chief Steward Michael Sanders Jr., Chief Cook Linda McPhetridge, GSU Rhonda Williams and GSU Brandon E. Bob. ABG Hall remarked, “She was a great ship, and we’re sad to see her go. It’s weird being on a ship that’s about to get mothballed, sort of like putting a great old car out to pasture. We all figure with a spit shine and a fresh coat of paint, she’d be sailing another 40 years.” Chief Steward Sanders Jr. said that although the vessel’s service life is ending, “The galley was still nice. The galley and the mess halls were in great shape, not at all out of date.” Sanders added, “We were able to attend the Maritime Day event in Norfolk, Virginia, thanks to the company (Ocean Ships). That was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, to be there with the ship serving as the background, and see the vessel off.” Christened in 1986, the USNS Gianella’s primary role has been to perform point-to-point delivery of petroleum products to Department of Defense storage and distribution facilities worldwide. A 615-foot tanker, the Gianella had a capacity of 237,766 barrels and a top speed of 16 knots. “USNS Lawrence H. Gianella is the last and longest-serving U.S. government-owned champion class T-5 tanker,” said Matthew Sweeney, MSC tanker project officer. “As the longest-serving T-5 Tanker she moved more petroleum for the U.S. military than any other vessel in U.S. military history.” “USNS Lawrence H. Gianella was the last of five T-5 tankers built,” said Capt. Mills III, USNS Lawrence H. Gianella’s ship master since 1998. “The Gianella is a liaison between commercial petroleum terminals and Department of Defense fuel facilities around the world.” The other T-5 tankers in the U.S. Navy’s inventory were the SIU-crewed MV Gus. W. Darnell, USNS Paul Buck, USNS Richard G. Matthiesen and USNS Samuel L. Cobb. The vessel has a long and interesting history, all involving SIU crews since the ship was christened. The Gianella has provided direct support to U.S. troops in multiple wars, performed notable rescues at sea, and took part in almost countless military exercises. Additionally, “USNS Lawrence H. Gianella is fitted with reinforced framing on the hull which allowed us to sail through icy waters to support the annual resupply missions Operation Deep Freeze in Antarctica and Operation Pacer Goose at Thule Air Base, Greenland, in the Arctic,” said Mills. “We have supported a total of 11 of these missions.” The ship earned a passage in the U.S. military’s book of “first times” when a successful underway replenishment operation was completed with the aircraft carrier USS Independence in the Persian Gulf in 1992. The port-side-to-starboard-side fuel transfers while underway, which took place in late July, is believed to be the first time a civilian-operated tanker replenished a combatant ship of this class under operational conditions, according to a statement issued by the U.S. Navy’s chief of information. The Gianella was involved in a rescue in 2007, saving the lives of 13 Cuban refugees whose boat had suffered engine failure in the Gulf of Mexico. The rescued men and women were given medical attention, and fed and housed by the crew of the Gianella until they were transferred over to a Coast Guard boat. However, the vessel has primarily served in military operations throughout its history. It is capable of providing underway replenishmentat-sea services with combatants using the modular fuel distribution system (MFDS), according to Sweeney. “During the Iran-Iraq War in 1988, USNS Lawrence H. Gianella supported U.S. fleet and convoy operations in the Gulf of Oman and Persian Gulf by providing fuel consolidation CONSOL) support to MSC fleet oilers,” Sweeney said. “The ship also provided CONSOL and petroleum logistics support for Operation Desert Shield, Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.” “While in the MSC inventory, USNS Lawrence H. Gianella has incurred minimal down time and its length of time in service is a testament to how well this ship was built,” said Mills. “We have typically been crewed by 23 civilian mariners and occasionally travel with two maritime academy cadets. “We, the crew of USNS Lawrence H. Gianella, feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to serve aboard this ship,” Mills concluded. “Serving aboard this ship has been very much like serving with family.” Upon deactivation, the USNS Lawrence H. Gianella will be placed in layup in coastal Texas. The final crew of the USNS Lawrence H. Gianella � 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 2019 Description An account of the resource Headlines: AMP UNDERSCORES MARITIME'S POSITIVE IMPACTS ON ALASKA, WASHINGTON STATE SIU MEMBERS RATIFY PENN MARITIME PACT SIU APPLAUDS LAUNCH OF 'MARITIME HEROES' BUILDING NAMED IN HONOR OF LATE SIU VP JOHN FAY NY WATERWAY CREW RESCUES HELICOPTER PILOT CONGRESSMAN BABIN BACKS JONES ACT COAST GUARD ISSUES NEW RADAR OBSERVER RULE SHBP AWARDS $132,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS SIU ASST. VP CHESTER 'CHET' WHEELER RETIRES NATIONAL MARITIME DAY CELEBRATED COAST TO COAST USNS MAURY COMPLETES WHIRLWIND VOYAGE VIA PANAMA CANAL SIU CELEBRATES NATIONAL MARITIME DAY IN NATION'S CAPITAL CULINARY 2.0 AVAILABLE AT PAUL HALL CENTER USNS LAWRENCE GIANELLA COMPLETES FINAL VOYAGE 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 7/1/2019 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. 81, No. 7 2019 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/130fcfb218db34ec9b23e005587bcdb0.pdf aa6841dc17efc557e5c3cbc02c8002c7 PDF Text Text JUNE 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 6 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Crescent Boatmen Approve Contracts By overwhelming majorities, SIU crews employed by Crescent Towing have approved new two-year contracts featuring wage increases and other gains while maintaining all benefits. Voting took place in April aboard the boats and at fleet landings. The contracts are similar; one covers approximately 230 SIU boatmen working for Crescent in New Orleans and Savannah, Georgia, while the other covers 20 Seafarers based in Mobile, Alabama. Pictured aboard one of the boats in New Orleans are (standing, from left) Captain Delegate Terry Murley, SIU New Orleans Port Agent Chris Westbrook, David Clasen, Kyle McDermott, Viet Nguyen, Jamal Dix, Engine Delegate David Findley, Jamie Ortiz and (kneeling) Chip Kline. Page 3. Seventh Waterfront Classic Features Bountiful Catches, Camaraderie, Fellowship This year’s Seafarers Waterfront Classic proved successful on all fronts, from the weather to the catches, and from the fundraising to the camaraderie. The annual excursion raises donations for the American Military Veterans Foundation (AMMILVETS). Pictured at left is David Souders, AMMILVETS president, speaking at the seafood feast that followed the outing. The other photo includes (from left) Wayne Raley, SIU VP Contracts George Tricker (the event’s founder and main organizer), Andrea Gianni, Edivaldo Dos Santos, Dean Charbonnet and Gary Brunick. Overall, 125 anglers participated; they kept 134 fish and threw back hundreds more. Pages 12-14. Stewards Complete Recertification Course, Reflect on Union, School The Seafarers International Union’s newest class of recertified stewards offered insightful, often-poignant reflections during their respective graduation speeches May 6 in Piney Point, Maryland. The six graduates are pictured at left with family members, SIU officials and school personnel following last month’s membership meeting at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Page 6. Jones Act Updates Pages 2, 5 New Tonnage Page 7 SPP Funding Notice Page 8 �Trump Tells Legislators: No Jones Act Waiver President’s Report Good News on Ex-Im Bank It didn’t receive as much publicity as many other recent stories originating in the nation’s capital, but a potentially key development for our industry occurred in early May when the U.S. Senate voted to confirm three board members to the U.S. Export-Import Bank (Ex-Im). The immediate significance for the organization itself is that restoration of a quorum means the bank can authorize transactions larger than $10 million (which would be the vast majority of its dealings). It had been more than three years since the bank’s board had a quorum, which left it unable to approve larger projects – and which in turn stopped the bank from authorizing long-term financings. The Ex-Im Bank’s primary business is backing low-interest loans for the export of U.S.-made goods. As many Seafarers know, cargo generated by the bank is carried on American-flag ships, so that’s why the quorum restoration matters to us. But it also matters to our nation as a whole. Founded in 1934, the bank helps maintain good American jobs, and it generates significant money Michael Sacco for the U.S. Treasury. It’s an independent federal agency which, according to its mission statement, “promotes and supports American jobs by providing competitive and necessary export credit to overseas purchasers of U.S. goods and services. A robust Ex-Im can level the global playing field for U.S. exporters when they compete against foreign companies that receive support from their governments. Ex-Im also contributes to U.S. economic growth by helping to create and sustain hundreds of thousands of jobs in exporting businesses and their supply chains across the United States. In recent years, 90 percent of the total number of the bank’s authorizations has directly supported small businesses. Since 2000, Ex-Im has provided $14.8 billion to the U.S. Treasury after paying for all of its administrative and program expenses.” Those numbers make it all the more maddening when opponents claim to see the bank as so-called corporate welfare and a drain of tax dollars. The facts simply do not support their argument, but it still took years for Washington to do the right thing. By the way, there are 60 or so other nations with similar institutions to promote their goods for export around the world, which somehow is rarely if ever acknowledged by critics. In that regard, the fights over Ex-Im remind me of the battles concerning the Jones Act, our nation’s freight cabotage law. Opponents attempt to conveniently overlook the fact that 91 other countries maintain some form of cabotage regulation. As with other political scrapes involving laws and programs that boost the U.S. Merchant Marine, our work supporting the Ex-Im Bank definitely isn’t finished. The bank’s charter is up for renewal in September, and it’s a safe bet it’ll only happen if the American maritime industry and other backers step up with grassroots mobilizations. For now, though, the recent confirmations are worth celebrating. As Ambassador Jeffrey D. Gerrish, Ex-Im chairman and president put it: “This is a great day for U.S. exporters, their workers, and their suppliers across the country. Ex-Im has nearly $40 billion worth of export deals in the pipeline that can move forward in support of hundreds of thousands of American jobs. The Senate’s bipartisan votes today renew opportunities for U.S. exporters to compete on a level playing field in markets and industries where China and other nations are aggressively supporting their exporters. With Ex-Im restored to full functionality, our exporters again have a fighting chance to win export sales on the fair basis of quality and price instead of on the availability of government-backed financing.” Recertified Stewards I occasionally encourage LOG readers to check out specific articles, and this is one of those times. Take a look at this month’s coverage of the newest class of recertified stewards, and see what they say about the SIU as well as the Paul Hall Center. You certainly don’t have to complete a recertification class in order to have informed opinions on the union or school, but those members generally are experienced and insightful. They speak from the heart, and they always leave me feeling energized and encouraged about our future. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 o “No Jones Act waiver” was the message coming from six Senators and one Congressman as they left the White House following a meeting with President Trump on May 1. Several news organizations relayed the declaration after U.S. Senators Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), John Kennedy (RLouisiana) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi) as well as House Minority Whip Steve Scalise (R-Louisiana) met with the president after reports emerged a week earlier that some in the administration were considering an extended Jones Act waiver to move American LNG to domestic ports. The delegation advised the president that the Jones Act has strong bipartisan support on Capitol Hill. They said Congress would not support such a waiver of the nation’s freight cabotage law. “We thank President Trump for standing by the Jones Act and the hundreds of thousands of good American jobs associated with it,” noted SIU President Michael Sacco. “We also thank all the members of Congress who have remained steadfast in their support of the Jones Act.” According to Reuters, Cassidy told reporters, “He was going to oppose any changes to the Jones Act and any waivers. That’s what we went there hoping to get and that’s what we did get.” Cassidy also said in an online statement, “We cannot let the United States become dependent on foreign countries to transport energy and critical products within the United States. The Jones Act is essential to preserve our domestic shipping industry and protect our national and economic security.” Sullivan stated to Politico, “I would say he committed.” Kennedy stated, “After talking to President Trump, I am confident that he realizes how important the Jones Act is to Louisiana’s maritime industry and that no changes will be made. I made the case that the livelihood of Louisiana families is at stake. Louisiana is the greatest beneficiary of the Jones Act with thousands of jobs that depend on it. Our maritime industry is part of the lifeblood of Louisiana and the Gulf Coast economy. It would be foolish to push aside those jobs in favor of foreign made and foreign crewed ships.” A week before the meeting, Matt Woodruff, chairman of the American Maritime Partnership (to which the SIU is affiliated), stated, “The 650,000 Americans whose jobs depend on the domestic maritime industry would find it inconceivable that President Trump – who is committed to putting ‘America First,’ supporting U.S. jobs and manufacturing, and also just last month signed an executive order helping military veterans transition into the American maritime industry – would choose to favor foreign shipping interests over American workers. American maritime is the quintessential ‘America First’ industry and we are confident President Trump, who has championed and supported our American shipyards, mariners, and industrial base, would not start us down a path now that would cripple our national security.” Enacted in 1920, the Jones Act requires that cargo moving between domestic ports is carried aboard ships that are crewed, built, owned and flagged American. It enjoys strong bipartisan support in Congress as well as consistently ardent backing from top U.S. military leaders because it is vital to national, economic and homeland security. A new study by PricewaterhouseCoopers found that the nation’s freight cabotage law helps sustain nearly 650,000 American jobs while contributing $154 billion to the nation’s economic growth annually. Propeller Club Honors Richmond With ‘Salute to Congress’ Award Once again declaring himself “a strong supporter of the Jones Act” and “a strong believer of cargo preference,” U.S. Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-Louisiana) received the International Propeller Club of the United States annual Salute to Congress Award. During a dinner in northern Virginia on May 1, Richmond became the 35th elected official to be so honored. SIU attendees included President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel, Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski, Assistant Vice President Pat Vandegrift, Political and Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman, Senior Political Consultant Terry Turner and Consultant Lanier Avant. Richmond said that maritime’s “positive impact on the U.S. economy is real.” He noted that he helped create the Congressional Maritime Caucus (which he chairs) to raise awareness of the industry in Congress because “Democrats and Republicans come from every corner of the nation.” The five-term representative from New Orleans told the audience, “Any effort to chip away at the America First maritime policy is a step in the wrong direction. Maritime is imperative for the economic vitality of this nation.” Richmond also announced he is a proud sponsor of the effort to honor World War II merchant mariners with a congressional gold medal: “Now is the time for them to receive Congress’ highest honor.” The legislator received the 2018 Government Man of the Year Award from the Maritime Port Council of Greater New York/New Jersey and Vicinity. He addressed the 2013 Maritime Trades Department Convention. NO. 2 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 81 Number 6 June 2019 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, Nick Merrill; Piney Point Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2019 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. 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 SIU President Michael Sacco (right) and Executive VP Augie Tellez (left) are pictured at the awards dinner with honoree U.S. Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-Louisiana). June 2019 �Pictured at the conclusion of negotiations for the New Orleans/Savannah agreement are (from left) Crescent Towing Marine Administrator Steven Reeg, Crescent VP Savannah Hays Clark, Crescent VP New Orleans Edward Pinner, SIU Port Agent Chris Westbrook, Crescent Executive VP Keith Kettenring, SIU Captain Delegate Terry Murley, Crescent Senior Consultant Tad Willcutt, SIU Wheelman/Deckhand Delegate Charles Hammesfahr, SIU Wheelman/Deckhand Delegate Kevin McDermott, SIU Engine Delegate David Findley and Crescent New Orleans Operations Manager Benjamin Morvant. Crescent Crews Ratify Two-Year Contracts SIU inland members employed by Crescent Towing have approved new two-year contracts featuring wage gains and other improvements while maintaining all benefits, including company contributions to the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Voting took place in April aboard the boats and at fleet landings, and both agreements were approved by overwhelming majorities. The contracts are very similar. One agreement covers about 230 SIU boatmen working for Crescent in New Orleans and Savannah, Georgia, while the other covers 20 Seafarers based in Mobile, Alabama. All of the crews perform ship-docking operations aboard a total of 26 tugs. SIU New Orleans Port Agent Chris Westbrook headed up the union’s negotiating committees, assisted in Mobile by Port Agent Jimmy White. The rank-and-file delegates were as follows: in New Orleans, Captain Delegate Terry Murley, Engine Delegate David Findley, Wheelman/Deckhand Delegate Kevin McDermott, and Wheelman/ Deckhand Delegate Charles Hammesfahr. The Mobile team included members Captain Delegate Ronnie Walker, Engine Delegate Patrick McKibbon and Wheelman/Deckhand Delegate Josh Burns. The pacts include wage gains, and they maintain Core Plus health coverage along with pension benefits. Union negotiators obtained two additional vacation days for longer-term employees who are licensed, while making no concessions. Westbrook said the New Orleans/Savannah committee “was fantastic – one of the best I’ve had the pleasure of working with. They’ve all done it before, and they’re standup guys who spoke when needed and made good, legitimate points. There was a lot of substance to what they said, and some of the gains certainly are attributable to the expertise and experience of the rankand-file delegates. “With the Mobile committee, it was the same thing,” he continued. “They were terrific. Ronnie is a veteran of bargaining committees and he led the way; the other delegates were new but they also did a great job.” Westbrook further noted that the contracts feature strong incentives for unlicensed boatmen to upgrade. “Everything worked out great,” Walker said. “Chris and Jimmy did a good job. We got a good contract for the next couple years.” Murley stated, “We got what we thought was fair. Both sides came out happy.” Findley said the negotiations “were okay. There were a few little tight moments, but that’s to be expected. Chris is really good at what he does, and it’s great to have him. He was very focused.” The New Orleans and Savannah negotiations started April 1; contract ratification was complete April 11. In Mobile, bargaining started April 17, and ratification was finished April 23. Westbrook added that Crescent’s SIU crews are proud of their safety record. Last year, for example, they logged 750,000 man hours with only one lost-time injury (a minor one). “I think the contract packages reflect the experience and professionalism we have in this fleet,” he concluded. “They’re also doing a great job with the Subchapter M requirements that are coming online.” Bargaining committee members are pictured with other SIU boatmen as well as Port Agents Chris Westbrook and Jimmy White (standing fifth and sixth from left, respectively). The lineup, from left: Roy Saranthus Jr., Taylor Hurst, Roy Saranthus Sr., Mike Hurst, Westbrook, (kneeling) Jose Ojeda, White, Ronnie Walker, Matt Aucoin and R.J. Walker. Mobile committee members included (from left) Crescent VP Edward Pinner, SIU Captain Delegate Ronnie Walker, Crescent Marine Administrator Steven Reeg, SIU Engine Delegate Patrick McKibbon, SIU Port Agent Chris Westbrook, Crescent Executive VP Keith Kettenring, Crescent Senior Consultant Tad Willcutt, SIU Port Agent Jimmy White, Crescent Mobile Operations Manager Travis Stringfellow and SIU Wheelman/Deckhand Delegate Josh Burns. June 2019 Pictured from left aboard the Point Clear are Engine Delegate David Findley, Capt. Pat Cain and Engineer Jeff Adams. Seafarers LOG 3 �Attendees meet in the Maryland Room at the Paul Hall Center. Paul Hall Center Hosts Advisory Board Meeting Group Examines Latest Training Developments and More Both the SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) constantly strive for improvement – and there was plenty of progress to report during the most recent meeting of the school’s advisory board. The group gathered May 17 on the PHC’s Piney Point, Maryland, campus. Representatives from the union, PHC, Seafarers Plans, and SIU-contracted companies discussed several key topics and capped off the event with a detailed tour of the massively upgraded engine department training building. The agenda included formal addresses Tom Orzechowski PHC Acting VP from (in order) PHC Acting Vice President Tom Orzechowski; PHC Executive Chef John Hetmanski; Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen; and SIU Plans Medical Director Dr. Eric Schaub. Many others joined in the discussions, however, including several company executives who asked questions and offered feedback, SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker, PHC Director of Training Priscilla Labanowski and SIU Assistant Vice President Pat Vandegrift. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez informally briefed the board on the union’s latest efforts to promote and protect the industry on Capitol Hill; later, SIU President Michael George Tricker SIU VP Contracts Maggie Bowen Seafarers Plans Administrator John Hetmanski PHC Executive Chef Honored in ‘The Big Apple’ The SIU was well-represented both on the dais and in the audience April 25 in New York City, during the Seafarers International House’s 19th annual Setting the Course awards banquet. This year’s honorees were (from left) SIU ITF East Coast Coordinator Ricky Esopa; Lois Zabrocky, president and CEO, International Seaways, Inc.; SIU VP Government Services Kate Hunt; and Bill Woodhour, president and CEO of SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited. They each received an “Outstanding Friend of Seafarers Award” for helping improve mariners’ lives. The SIU was out in force for the event; attendees included President Michael Sacco, Executive VP Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, VP Contracts George Tricker, VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Asst. VP Pat Vandegrift, Port Agent Mark von Siegel, Safety Director Osvaldo Ramos, Patrolman Ray Henderson, Patrolman Edwin Ruiz, Seafarers Plans Administrator Margaret Bowen and SIU ITF Inspector Shwe Aung. 4 Seafarers LOG Sacco described some of the benefits of the improved training facilities. After Orzechowski briefly welcomed attendees, Hetmanski thoroughly reviewed the school’s various steward department classes. He explained the career path for mariners in that department and explained that training assessments at the school have become “a really big part” of the coursework. “Assessments are critical,” he said. No matter the specific class, though, Hetmanski said the school always emphasizes sanitation and safety. Concerning the new Culinary 2.0 classes for chief stewards and chief cooks, Hetmanski said that “all of the critiques (from students) have been extremely positive.” Dr. Eric Schaub SIU Plans Medical Director Bowen recapped training that recently had been provided to company personnel regarding utilization of their online portal. She showed examples of how to upload and access various shipping and medical documents and skills reports. Schaub discussed various requirements for vaccines and also touched on the company portal. He talked about how the medical department checks information on the portal and how they respond to various indicators in the documents. Tellez summarized recent developments in the fight to protect the Jones Act, a century-old maritime law that is vital to U.S. national, economic and homeland security. He also provided updates on the U.S. Maritime Security Program and the nation’s overall sealift capacity. Next, many of the board members visited the renovated machine shop (the improvements will be featured in an upcoming edition of the LOG). Union and school officials pointed out that the improvements are direct outcomes of past advisory board meetings. Labanowski added that around 2,000 hours were invested by school personnel during the past year-plus to redo some courses and add new ones while also identifying, acquiring and installing the best new equipment. Sacco said that the improvements further boost the value of hands-on training at the school, while individual PHC instructors gave demonstrations with some of the new gear and explained how it’s used in classes. Photo at left, from left: SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Keystone Shipping Executive Phil Fisher and SIU President Michael Sacco listen during the Paul Hall Center advisory board meeting. In the photo below, SIU President Michael Sacco (foreground, left) addresses board members during a tour and says the school’s practical training is invaluable. June 2019 �Bipartisan Coalition Voices Backing for Jones Act Legislators, Industry Leader, Cabinet Member All Favor U.S. Cabotage Law Strong bipartisan support for the nation’s freight cabotage law is continuing in the face of misguided attempts to weaken or repeal the critical statute. Legislators from both sides of the aisle, the head of a major industrial coalition, and U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao all recently spoke in favor of the Jones Act. The law helps sustain nearly 650,000 American jobs and is vital for national, economic and homeland security. During a budget hearing in early April, Chao was asked about the Jones Act and whether it hampered hurricane recovery efforts in Puerto Rico. The secretary noted that damaged infrastructure – not a scarcity of cargo – was the problem. “Periodically, the Jones Act is blamed and criticized and there are attempts to get rid of it,” Chao stated. “I’ve been in government service now for such a long time, it comes up, and this has come up, for example, in Puerto Rico. But, the problem with distribution of cargoes is not the problem of – due to the Jones Act, the vessels or the cost. Rather, it was due to the lack of warehouses and the devastation of the roads so that once the cargoes were unloaded in Puerto Rico, they could not be distributed.” She was speaking to U.S. Rep. John Rutherford (R-Florida), another ardent Jones Act supporter who weeks later published an op-ed in The Hill. Therein, he wrote in part, “This pillar of maritime policy is to credit for successfully pro- tecting our maritime economy and our national security for nearly a century…. While the American maritime industry supports many high-paying, skilled-labor jobs, not every country offers the same opportunities to its workers. For example, China exploits labor to build vessels at a fraction of the American cost. If we allow these vessels to sail between U.S. ports, our domestic maritime industry would have the impossible task of competing with China’s cheap labor and subsidized manufacturing. Removing the market certainty that the Jones Act provides would decimate the American maritime industry, putting our national security in jeopardy.” Rutherford continued, “Without a strong domestic maritime industry, the U.S. would be forced to rely on countries like China to sell us vessels, ship military supplies, and transport fuel and goods between U.S. ports – like the strong supply chain between Jacksonville, Florida, and San Juan, Puerto Rico. We must not overlook the importance of protecting these supply chains. By relinquishing control to foreign entities to build our vessels and transport our goods, we essentially auction our national security to the lowest bidder.” Around that same time in late April, maritime stalwart U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) posted an op-ed on the MarineLink website. Like Rutherford, Garamendi was responding to published reports indicating the White House was strongly considering a Jones Act waiver. Garamendi wrote, “I served as the top Democrat on the House Subcommittee of Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation for six years. Through that experience I gained a firsthand understanding of how vital the Jones Act is for our nation. Repealing it would prioritize foreign shipping interests over American workers while undermining America’s national security and economic development. “The Jones Act is the lifeblood for a U.S. maritime trade that supports 650,000 jobs and almost [$150] billion in annual economic impact,” he continued. “If the Jones Act did not exist, the U.S. maritime industry would be sharply undercut by foreign shippers with lower labor protections, environmental requirements, and safety standards. Not only would we outsource marine transportation along our coasts and inland waterways to the cheapest foreign bidder, we would also hollow out a key component of American industrial might and eliminate jobs in American shipyards, which employ 110,000 people in 26 states.” Garamendi also described the law as “essential for our national security and our war fighting capacity. Our military relies on privately owned sealift capacity and highly trained merchant mariners to transport and sustain our armed forces during times of conflict.” Moreover, Michael P. Balzano, executive director of the National Industrial Base Workforce Coalition, in early May SIU Executive VP Tellez Named To Key DOT Maritime Committee The SIU will continue to be represented on a noteworthy maritime advisory committee. U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao on April 24 announced the appointment of 29 members to the Maritime Transportation System National Advisory Committee (MTSNAC). SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, who first served on the committee beginning in 2011, again has been appointed as a member. Established in 2010, the MTSNAC “is made up of leaders from commercial transportation firms, trade associations, state and local public entities, labor organizations, academia, and environmental groups that advise the Secretary on policies to ensure that the marine transportation system can respond to projected trade increases,” the DOT reported. “This advisory committee will help strengthen and modernize our nation’s maritime capabilities, as we work to improve our waterborne transportation systems and our country’s gateway ports.” said Secretary Chao. In a news release, the DOT further noted, “The MTSNAC is composed of members from public and private entities whose purpose is to guide the Secretary of Transportation on matters relating to marine transportation and its seamless integration with other segments of the transportation system. This includes the viability of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Committee members will serve two-year terms, with no more than two consecutive term reappointments.” “The insights, experience, and perspectives of these committee members are essential to federal transportation decision-making,” said Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby. “The MTSNAC is a strategic resource needed to strengthen and re-energize the maritime industry, and I look forward to their bold ideas and strong recommendations.” Finally, in making the announcement, the DOT said it “strives to select dynamic individuals with in-depth knowledge of their respective industries or government sectors. Members are nominated through a full and open process published in the Federal Register.” In addition to Tellez, the committee members are Gary Adams (Walmart Inc.), Lindsey Brock (NE Florida Regional Transportation Commission), David Cicalese (International Longshoremen’s Association), Berit Eriksson (Sailors’ Union of the Pacific), David C. Fisher (Port of Beaumont, Texas) Joe Gasperov (International Longshore and Warehouse Union), John Graykowski (Maritime Industry Consultants), Daniel Harmon (Texas Department June 2019 Augie Tellez SIU Executive VP of Transportation), Jared Henry (Hapag-Lloyd USA, LLC), Robert Hughes (Cargill Inc.), Jim Kruse (Texas A&M – Transportation Institute), Paul C. LaMarre III (Port of Monroe, Michigan), Griff Lynch (Georgia Ports Authority), Brian Jones (Nucor Corporation), James Pelliccio (Port Newark Container Terminal), Bryan Ross (Missouri Department of Transportation), Gene Seroka (Port of Los Angeles), Scott Sigman (Illinois Soybean Association), Karl Simon (Environmental Protection Agency), Sean Strawbridge (Port of Corpus Christi Authority), Anne Strauss-Weider (North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority), Andrew Strosahl (The Lawrence Law Firm), Jack Sullivan (Matson Navigation Inc.), Capt. Richard Suttie (Center for Homeland Defense & Security), Robert Wellner (Liberty Global Logistics LLC), Thomas Wetherald (General Dynamics-NASSCO), Lisa Wieland (Massachusetts Port Authority), and Brian Wright (Owensboro Riverport Authority). penned a piece for the Washington Examiner that pointed out President Ronald Reagan’s support of the Jones Act. During Reagan’s 1980 campaign, Balzano served as his liaison with many unions. Balzano said Reagan “supported the Jones Act because he knew the national security consequences of losing the rest of the maritime fleet. In Reagan’s day, the Chinese did not have a merchant fleet or a navy. But now the Chinese carrying their own merchandised trade on their ships. They now have over 3,000 merchant vessels, all capable of carrying troops and military cargo, and a navy that includes aircraft carriers and submarines along with missiles that they claim can take out any of our warships. “The Chinese have converted atolls in the Philippine sea into mini aircraft landing strips and warned the U.S. to stay out of their newly claimed territorial waters,” he continued. “They are also building ports around the globe, increasing their ability to move throughout the oceans with impunity. Yet the number of U.S. merchant ships has fallen from the 500 that Reagan saw as a crisis to fewer than 100 ships today.” He concluded, “History tells us that wars are won or lost by a nation’s ability to put its boots on the ground. American boots in both World Wars were delivered by American ships…. Without a vibrant maritime industry, America will not be a global sea power in the 21st century. The loss of this industry will have consequences.” New AFL-CIO Report Reveals 275 Daily U.S. Worker Deaths in 2017 More than 5,000 working people were killed on the job in 2017, according to an annual report by the AFL-CIO. Released April 25, “Death on the Job: The Toll of Neglect, 2019,” stated that 5,147 working people were killed on the job and an estimated 95,000 died from occupational diseases in 2017. Each day, on average, 275 U.S. workers die from hazardous working conditions. According to the report, workplace violence is the third-leading cause of workplace death, accounting for 807 fatalities, including 458 homicides. For the third year in a row, workplace violence injuries increased, with nearly 29,000 workers suffering serious violence-related injuries due to assault on the job. The report found a small decrease in the overall rate of fatal job injuries in 2017 from the previous year – 3.5 per 100,000 from 3.6 per 100,000 workers. However, in recent years, there has been little overall change in the job fatality rate. Moreover, the most recent studies on the burden of occupational injuries and illnesses find that the toll of occupational disease deaths is much greater than previously estimated. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, the country’s top organized labor officer, expressed support for H.R.1309 – the Workplace Violence Prevention for Health Care and Social Service Workers Act. The legislation, if passed, can be instrumental in preventing workplace violence, he said. This marks the 28th year that the AFL-CIO has produced its report with findings on the state of safety and health protections for working people within the United States. The report shows the highest workplace fatality rates are in Alaska, North Dakota, Wyoming, West Virginia and South Dakota. Other notable components of the report show that Latino workers continue to have an increased risk of dying on the job and that the number of Latino worker deaths increased in 2017 to 903 from 879. Deaths among older workers also increased; workers 65 or older have nearly three times the risk of dying on the job as workers overall. The construction, transportation and agriculture industries remain among the most dangerous. In 2017, 917 construction workers were killed—the highest total of any sector. Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting was the most dangerous industry sector, with a fatality rate of 23 per 100,000 workers. Despite these disturbing findings, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) meager resources are declining. Currently, federal OSHA has only 752 inspectors—the lowest number since the early 1970s. It would take the agency 165 years to visit workplaces under its jurisdiction just once. Seafarers LOG 5 �Frank Ramones Recertified Steward Port of Oakland Rocky Dupraw Recertified Steward Port of Jacksonville Fakhruddin Malahi Recertified Steward Port of Oakland Angela Robertson Recertified Steward Port of Norfolk Ali Munsar Recertified Steward Port of Oakland Robert Owens Recertified Steward Port of Houston Six Stewards Ascend Ladder to Recertified Status Six SIU members recently achieved milestones in their respective careers by ascending the uppermost rung of the steward department’s upgrading ladder. They etched their names in SIU history May 6 during the union’s monthly membership meeting in Piney Point, Maryland, when they graduated from the Paul Hall Center’s (PHC) steward recertification program. Completing the three-week curriculum were: Rocky Dupraw, Fakhruddin Malahi, Ali Munsar, Robert Owens, Frank Ramones and Angela Robertson. Regarded as the school’s top steward department curriculum, the course covers a wide range of topics including computer technology, social responsibilities, leadership, Coast Guard updates, baking skills and other department-specific workshops on sanitation, nutrition and more. The course also offers insights on collective bargaining agreements, functions of the various departments within both the SIU and the Seafarers Plans, and the union’s affiliations with the Maritime Trades Department and its parent group, the AFL-CIO. In keeping with tradition, each of the newly minted recertified stewards addressed those in attendance at the membership meeting. During their presentations, they discussed their respective careers and offered valuable insights to the apprentices. They also expressed 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. Collectively, they also thanked the union leadership for its continued support, and the PHC vocational and hotel staffs for providing excellent instruction and accommodations, respectively. Following are highlights of the graduation speeches (in chronological order), supplemented in some cases by written comments submitted to the LOG. Frank Ramones Ramones was first to take the podium. A native of the Philippines, he signed on with the SIU in Honolulu and has been sailing since 1993. Currently, he sails out of the port of Oakland, California. “It is an honor and privilege to stand before you today,” Ramones said. “I am so honored to be a part of something so special. To be [selected to attend] recertification training is one of the greatest and sweetest moments of my life. “I just want to say thank you, Lord, for everything that you have done for me,” he continued. “Thank you for guiding me throughout my journey, and I know you will continue to guide me.” Ramones said that being a Seafarer has really changed his life. “It’s not just a profession, but also a way of life that demands a great deal of passion and service,” he said, adding that although he had encountered some minor setbacks along the way, ultimately, he was able to put everything into proper perspective and find true happiness in his career. “To the SIU, thank you for the opportunity that you gave me. I might not be who I am today if not for your endless support,” he said. Ramones sent a shout out to the officials in his home port of Oakland. “Thank you for believing in me and my talent,” he said. Turning to the PHC personnel, Ramones acknowledged the school administrators, faculty members and steward department chefs who helped him time and again during his training. “They never got tired of giving me their full support, sharing their techniques and imparting their knowledge,” Ramones said. “I want to thank Miss Jeri Draper, our computer 6 Seafarers LOG instructor, who also was very helpful and kind…. She brought out the best in me. “To the trainees, enjoy your stay but study hard, learn as a team and listen to your instructors while you are here,” he said. “Never be afraid to ask questions when you go on your first ship; one day you will be the best at your profession.” Ramones closed by reflecting on his early days as a Seafarer, and on his daughter. At a younger age, she “could not understand why I needed to go back to the ship; it tore me apart every time I had to say goodbye to her,” he shared. “Thanks to this union and your trust in me, she is now a degree holder. To all of you, I am grateful. God Bless everyone, Mahalo!” Rocky Dupraw Dupraw was a member of PHC Lifeboat Class 646 and went through the training program in 2003. He currently sails from the port of Jacksonville, Florida; however, he has also shipped out of the ports of Oakland and Piney Point. He thanked all hands at each of these ports for providing him with quality service while he was among their ranks. “I came through the training program when I was 24,” he told those in the audience. “My first ship was the El Yunque, my most recent was the John Page.” Dupraw added that to date, he had visited more than 35 countries while sailing aboard at least 25 union-contracted vessels. “I have come to realize the world is a beautiful place,” he said. Reflecting on his recertification training, Dupraw said that during the prior few weeks, he was afforded the opportunity to meet and sit down with all of the faces behind the names of people who currently occupy key positions at union headquarters and at the PHC. “And the one thing that I’ve noticed is everyone’s strong passion for the SIU,” he said. “It’s their love for labor that convinces me that we as a membership are in good hands. And it all starts with leadership. With that being said, I thank our executive board for dedicating their lives to the SIU. They fight for us daily, not only in Washington D.C., but also worldwide. That is why SPAD is so important. SPAD gives us a voice; it gives us a seat at the table to help push our agenda, which is protecting our jobs. A wise man once told me: If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu.” Dupraw said that in addition to supporting SPAD, it’s also important for union members to get involved in their hiring halls’ local activities. “I want you to remember that it’s not what your union can do for your but what you can do for your union,” he said. Dupraw offered heartfelt words for the school’s instructors and staff. “Thank you for treating me like family,” he said. “Special thanks to the culinary department. These men and women have provided me with the recipe to be successful. “To the trainees, when you get on the ship, pay attention to details and learn your trade,” Dupraw said. “If there’s a question, ask! We are here to help. Educate yourselves, take your sea project seriously and come back and upgrade as often as you can. Remember, stay safe out there and enjoy the ride!” He also encouraged the trainees to regularly read the union’s official newspaper (Seafarers LOG) and attend union meetings. “This is where you get your best information,” he said. In closing, Dupraw once again acknowledged the union for giving him the opportunity to provide a better quality of life for himself and his family. He also sent a special recognition to someone near and dear to his heart: his wife. “Thanks to my wife for supporting me in my career,” he said. “It’s not easy being a sailor’s spouse.” Fakhruddin Malahi Malahi is home-ported in Oakland and joined the SIU in 1996. “I came from a [long] line of family members who were in unions,” Malahi said as he addressed the audience. “My uncles were in the SIU during the 1960s, 70s and 80s; they got me in the union. My father was also a union member, too. “I enjoy sailing,” Malahi continued. “I have been on most of the Asian runs and also to all West Coast ports. But more importantly, I like our union and what it has accomplished for its members and the jobs it has provided. I want to thank President Mike Sacco and the executive board for giving me this opportunity and for building a strong union.” He described the recertification program as “an eye-opening experience. I learned more about contracts, pensions, and the day-to-day operations of the union. I send my thanks the PHC staff and the instructors for all that they did for me. “I also found out about the importance of SPAD donations,” he said. “In a way, it’s the backbone of the union because our leadership uses it to help keep jobs and secure our futures.” Malahi advised the upgraders and apprentices to unfailingly give their best while at sea. “Always give all you got and continue to make the SIU a strong force in the maritime industry,” he concluded. Angela Robertson Robertson hails from the port of Norfolk, Virginia, and was a member of PHC Class 490. She signed on with the union in 1991 and previously has upgraded her skills on five occasions at the PHC. “I feel privileged to be a part of such a strong union – a union that gives me stability, strength and hope for the future,” she said upon taking the podium. “The SIU enabled me to provide a good way of life for my daughter, who has graduated from Norfolk State University.” Robertson told the audience that during her career, she has encountered a myriad of challenges. “Some of them I wanted to face, others I did not. I often told myself, I can do it, I can do it … and I did. It’s been a long road but I persevered,” she said, “carrying with me these three words: believe, achieve and succeed.” Robertson then expressed her gratitude to the union leadership and the PHC personnel: “To the instructors and staff, all of you have gone above and beyond. President Sacco, executive board members and port agents, all of your hard work and dedication to the union have never gone unnoticed. Thank You!” Commenting on her training, she said, “In the past three weeks, I’ve consumed so much knowledge. I will leave here today with a better understanding of how the union works. I look forward to sharing this knowledge with my shipmates. “To my daughter, you have been there from day one,” she added. “We shared a lot of laughs, tears and goodbyes. Your understanding heart never ceases to amaze me. Thank you! To my husband, thank you for taking my hand, for understanding me and joining the ride.” Robertson told the trainees to always believe in themselves: “Set your goals high, higher than one would ever think imaginable. Further educate yourselves and volunteer some of your free time to a good cause and donate to SPAD. “You are the future,” she concluded. “Remember, we stand strong as one!” Ali Munsar Munsar became a Seafarer in 2001, signing on in San Francisco. He sails out of the port of Oakland. His father was a Seafarer, as were eight other members of his family. Prior to being a member of his recertification class, Munsar upgraded his skills at the PHC on six previous instances. “The union has been important in my life,” he told his brothers and sisters in the audience. “It supports my family by allowing me to make a good living. With the help of the SIU, I have sailed around the world, which helped me to learn many new things.” Munsar had words of praise for the PHC’s instructors and staff for being there during his training. “I really want to thank all the instructors and all the staff at the school, including the library staff, for all the hard work that they do,” he stated. “Piney Point is an awesome maritime school for Seafarers and trainees because it gives them the opportunity to improve their lives for themselves and their families. “I also want to thank the union leadership for all the hard work they do on behalf of the membership,” he continued. “They protect our jobs and our industry.” In closing, he encouraged everyone in the audience to do their part to preserve the union by donating to SPAD and voting in national elections. He urged the trainees present to study hard while in school and to learn all they could from their instructors. Robert Owens Owens was the final recertified steward to address the audience. A native of Birmingham, Alabama, he signed on with the SIU in 1994 in the port of Mobile after a 10-year stint in the U.S. Navy. Home-ported in Houston, Owens resides in Ft. Worth, Texas. “I have been part of the SIU for 25 years and sailed the world twice over,” he said. “The union has been important in my life and has allowed me and my family to live a most beautiful life.” Reflecting on his career as a mariner, Owens acknowledged a number of people who made lasting contributions to him along the way. “I thank all who have given me the opportunity to grow as a mariner,” he said. “This includes Bonnie Johnson from manpower who first shipped me, to all the great instructors and staff who had a hand in my training and development, my union hall which has supported me and fellow brothers and sisters who have guided me along the way. “I also extend a heartfelt thank you to President Sacco and the union leadership for their hard work and dedication in keeping our union strong, and securing and protecting our jobs,” Owens added. Turning to his upgrading experience, Owens offered: “My steward recertification training was truly an eye-opening experience. It provided me with an in-depth perspective on how the union as a whole operates and the dedicated people who keep this well-oiled machine running. The information I received on contracts, medical benefits, pensions and the money purchase plan will prove invaluable when I return to the ship and interact with my shipmates.” Owens told the audience that while the union’s officials do a great job in all respects, they still need assistance from the rank-andfile. “The leadership needs our help,” he said. “We need to donate to SPAD so our leadership can continue to work for us. I’ve seen firsthand how SPAD donations keep both our jobs secure and our industry safe. I ask you to continue your SPAD donations.” In closing, Owens addressed the trainees. “To the apprentices, I challenge each of you to be the very best mariner you can be. Learn your job, carry your load and make the union proud. “It’s up to you to take our union to higher heights,” he concluded. “You are our future; you are the SIU!” June 2019 �Pasha Hawaii Marks Construction Milestones For LNG-Fueled Ohana Class Containerships SIU-contracted Pasha Hawaii recently celebrated construction milestones on two new Jones Act vessels that signify new jobs for Seafarers. Company and shipyard executives along with dignitaries on April 30 attended the ceremonial keel laying of the M/V George III and the cutting of the first steel plates for the M/V Janet Marie. The event took place at Keppel AmFELS shipyard in Brownsville, Texas. Each LNG-fueled containership is 774 feet long. Both are slated for delivery next year, and will sail between Hawaii and the mainland United States. The ships, part of the Ohana Class, are named in honor of the late parents of The Pasha Group President and CEO George Pasha IV. “Construction of the new vessels continues to progress on schedule,” said Pasha. “These LNG-powered container- ships were designed to support the needs of shippers in the Hawaii trade lane, while minimizing environmental impact in the communities we serve. Adding George III and Janet Marie to our existing fleet will greatly enhance our service capabilities and on-time delivery, marking three generations of service to Hawaii.” The new vessels will operate fully on LNG from day one in service, substantially improving their environmental footprints. Energy savings will also be achieved with a state-of-the-art engine, an optimized hull form, and an underwater propulsion system with a highefficiency rudder and propeller, the company noted. “We are pleased to be able to support the Pasha Hawaii fleet with the design, engineering, and construction of the two new dual-fuel LNG containerships,” said Simon Lee, president of Keppel AmFELS. “Texas currently ranks third in the nation for domestic maritime jobs, and we are proud to support a thriving skilled workforce in our local community as a leading shipyard in the region. Our team will continue to execute this project safely and efficiently.” “The Maritime Administration supports the U.S maritime industry’s investment in the future by building Jones Act-compliant ships that run on cleanerburning liquid natural gas,” said U.S. Deputy Maritime Administrator Richard Balzano. “In addition, U.S.-built, U.S.owned and U.S.-crewed ships support America’s national and economic security. With LNG, the industry is also leaping over future regulatory barriers, responding to environmental challenges, and looking toward a more affordable and plentiful fuel.” “Today’s construction milestones at Keppel AmFELS are real evidence of the capability we have at shipyards across the U.S. to build any kind of ship,” said Matt Woodruff, chairman of the American Maritime Partnership, to which the SIU is affiliated. “These Jones Act ships being built at Keppel will be amongst the most modern, fuel-efficient containerships in the world, and are living and breathing proof that we have the know-how and the can-do spirit to keep America a global leader in shipbuilding innovation.” Pasha Hawaii is a wholly owned subsidiary of the family-owned global logistics and transportation company, The Pasha Group, one of the nation’s leading Jones Act shipping and integrated logistics companies, “and is proud to support U.S. shipyards,” the company said in announcing the recent milestones. Military Sealift Command Christens USNS Guam in Japan New jobs are on the way for SIU CIVMARS following the recent christening of a high-speed transport vessel. The U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) on April 27 christened the USNS Guam during a ceremony at Naha Military Port in Naha, Japan. Speakers included U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Harry B. Harris Jr.; Guam Rep. Michael San Nicholas; Lt. Gen. Eric M. Smith, commanding general, III Marine Expeditionary Force (III MEF); Rear Adm. Robert T. Clark, deputy commander of MSC; and Mrs. Bruni Bradley, a 25-year Navy veteran, the ambassador’s wife and the vessel’s sponsor. The vessel will carry SIU Government Services Division mariners. “The Navy has a glorious history of naming ships after heroes, epic battles and key places in the U.S., and this ship is no exception,” said Harris, who is also a retired Navy admiral. “Guam is the site of one of the bloodiest battles in the Pacific campaign (of World War II). “Although most of the greatest generation are no longer with us, we can hear their stories of duty, honor and courage,” Harris continued. “Their spirits walk among us, and with us, and call out to us. Today, we’ve answered their call with an innova- tive ship, which serves as a reminder of their heroism and a tribute to a beautiful place called Guam, U.S.A.” The ceremony concluded with the traditional breaking of a champagne bottle against the ship’s hull. The aluminum-hull catamaran, 373 feet long, was built in 2008 as a civilian fast ferry boat for the Hawaii Superferry company, capable of carrying more than 800 passengers and nearly 300 cars. It was acquired by the Navy from the Department of Transportation in 2012 and underwent renovations before it became operational in late 2017. The USNS Guam’s design allows for the ship to be fast, maneuverable and reconfigurable to fit a variety of military operations. The true value of the vessel, according to Smith, is this flexibility, which he described as “from supporting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief; to transporting Marines, Sailors and equipment throughout the Indo-Pacific theater. This ship is vital to us,” he said. “It carries the most precious cargo that there is: The Marines and Sailors of the III MEF.” Earlier plans to christen the ship in Guam were thwarted by unforeseen typhoons in the region, which necessitated the venue change to Japan. Bruni Bradley, sponsor of the USNS Guam, breaks a bottle of champagne during the christening ceremony. (Photo by Grady T. Fontana) June 2019 Marines walk past the high-speed transport USNS Guam after the christening on April 27. (Photo by Grady T. Fontana) Vessel Reflags Under Stars and Stripes The Safmarine Mafadi, replacement ship for the Maersk Kentucky, recently reflagged in the Bahamas. The first SIU crew (pictured with several officers) included Bosun Keller Gilyard, ABs Kevin Penrose, Hermen Crisanto, Devon Pullins, Eric Hurt and Robert Mack, QMEDs Christopher Eason and Domenick Longmire, GUDE Braulio Ente Jr., Steward/Baker Edward Porter, Chief Cook Juan Poblete-Inostroza and SA Dagoberto Guevara. Thanks to vessel master Capt. Chris Zimmerman for the photo. Seafarers LOG 7 �SHBP Offers COBRA Continuation Coverage to Union Members The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) is notifying 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 (800) 252-4674. Annual Funding Notice Seafarers Pension Plan Introduction This notice includes important information about the funding status of your multiemployer pension plan (the “Plan”). It also includes 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 required by federal law. This notice is for the plan year beginning January 1, 2018 and ending December 31, 2018 (“Plan Year”). How Well Funded Is Your Plan The law requires the administrator of the Plan to tell you how well the Plan is funded, using a measure called the “funded percentage.” The Plan divides its assets by its liabilities on the Valuation Date for the plan year to get this percentage. In general, the higher the percentage, the better funded the plan. The Plan’s funded percentage for the Plan Year and each of the two preceding plan years is shown in the chart below. The chart also states the value of the Plan’s assets and liabilities for the same period. Funded Percentage Valuation Date Funded Percentage Value of Assets Value of Liabilities 2018 January 1, 2018 142.9% $1,634,843,633 $1,143,708,805 2017 January 1, 2017 133.6% $1,467,872,431 $1,098,922,827 2016 January 1, 2016 136.9% $1,424,697,469 $1,041,022,333 Year-End Fair Market Value of Assets The asset values in the chart above are measured as of the Valuation Date. They also are “actuarial values.” Actuarial values differ from market values in that they do not fluctuate daily based on changes in the stock or other markets. Actuarial values smooth out those fluctuations and can allow for more predictable levels of future contributions. Despite the fluctuations, market values tend to show a clearer picture of a plan’s funded status at a given point in time. The asset values in the chart below are market values and are measured on the last day of the Plan Year. The chart also includes the year-end market value of the Plan’s assets for each of the two preceding plan years. The December 31, 2018 fair value of assets disclosed below 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. Fair Market Value of Assets December 31, 2018 December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 $1,547,000,000 $1,634,843,633 $1,467,872,431 Endangered, Critical, or Critical and Declining Status Under federal pension law, a plan generally is in “endangered” status if its funded percentage is less than 80 percent. A plan is in “critical” status if the funded percentage is less than 65 percent (other factors may also apply). A plan is in “critical and declining” status if it is in critical status and is projected to become insolvent (run out of money to pay benefits) within 15 years (or within 20 years if a special rule applies). 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 or critical and declining status, the trustees of the plan are required to adopt a rehabilitation plan. Funding improvement and rehabilitation plans establish steps and benchmarks for pension plans to improve their funding status over a specified period of time. The plan sponsor of a plan in critical and declining status may apply for approval to amend the plan to reduce current and future payment obligations to participants and beneficiaries. The Plan was not in endangered, critical, or critical and declining status in the Plan Year. If the plan is in endangered, critical, or critical and declining status for the plan year ending December 31, 2019, separate notification of the status has or will be provided. Participant Information The total number of participants and beneficiaries covered by the plan on the valuation date was 19,754. Of this number, 7,310 were current employees, 7,200 were retired and receiving benefits, and 5,244 were retired or no longer working for the employer and have a right to future benefits. Funding & Investment Policies Every pension plan must have a procedure to establish a funding policy for plan objectives. A funding policy relates to how much money is needed to pay promised benefits. 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. 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, the Investment Manager is a bank (trust company), insurance company, or registered investment advisor under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. Full discretion, within certain guidelines, is granted to each Investment Manager with regard to the sector and security selection and the timing of any transactions. 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 and Cash Equivalents Real Estate Target 50% 40% 10% Range 40% - 60% 30% - 50% 0% - 20% 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. 8 Seafarers LOG 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. 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): a. Preferred b. All other 4. Corporate stocks (other than employer securities): a. Preferred b. 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: a. Employer Securities b. Employer real property 16. Buildings and other property used in plan operation 17. Other Percentage 0 16 6 0 0 24 0 1 0 0 37 0 0 0 16 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 Pension plans must file annual reports with the US Department of Labor. The report is called the “Form 5500.” These reports contain financial and other information. You may obtain an electronic copy of your Plan’s annual report by going to www.efast.dol.gov and using the search tool. Annual reports also 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. Or you may obtain a copy of the Plan’s annual report by making a written request to the plan administrator. Annual reports do not contain personal information, such as the amount of your accrued benefit. You may contact your plan administrator if you want information about your accrued benefits. Your plan administrator is identified below under “Where To Get More Information.” Summary of Rules Governing Insolvent Plans Federal law has a number of special rules that apply to financially troubled multiemployer plans that become insolvent, either as ongoing plans or plans terminated by mass withdrawal. The plan administrator is required by law to include a summary of these rules in the annual funding notice. 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. 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. There are separate insurance programs with different benefit guarantees and other provisions for single-employer plans and multiemployer plans. Your Plan is covered by PBGC’s multiemployer program. 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 $600, 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 ($600/10), which equals $60. The guaranteed amount for a $60 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 addition, the PBGC guarantees qualified preretirement survivor benefits (which are preretirement death benefits payable to the surviving spouse of a participant who dies before starting to receive benefit payments). In calculating a person’s monthly payment, the PBGC will disregard any benefit increases that were made under a 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 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. For additional information about the PBGC and the pension insurance program guarantees, go to the Multiemployer Page on PBGC’s website at www.pbgc.gov/multiemployer. Please contact your employer or plan administrator for specific information about your pension plan or pension benefit. PBGC does not have that information. See “Where to Get More Information,” below. Where to Get More Information For more information about this notice, you may contact the Plan Administrator at: Seafarers Pension Plan, Attn: Margaret Bowen, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; (301) 899-0675 For identification purposes, the official plan number is 001 and the plan sponsor’s employer identification number or “EIN” is 13-6100329. June 2019 �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, 2018. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Supplemental vacation pay 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 $1,198,443 as of July 31, 2018, compared to $839,931 as of August 1, 2017. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $358,512. 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 $14,185,579, including employer contributions of $14,153,683, realized losses of $938 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $31,146 and other income of $1,688. Plan expenses were $13,827,067. These expenses included $348,196 in administrative expenses and $13,478,871 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; and 4. Transactions in excess of 5% 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., the plan’s administrator at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, telephone number (415) 7644990. The charge to cover copying costs will be $5.50 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, California 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 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, 2018. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Medical exam benefits paid 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 $(108,229) as of June 30, 2018, compared to $(80,274) as of July 1, 2017. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $27,955. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $704,068, including employer contributions of $702,442, earnings from investments of $89, and other income of $1,537. Plan expenses were $732,023. These expenses included $218,366 in administrative expenses, and $513,657 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; and 3. Assets held for investment. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Seafarers’ Medical Center Fund, the plan’s administrator, at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, California 94107, telephone (415) 392-3611. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.75 for the full annual report, or $.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and 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 administra- tor, 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, California 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. Annual Funding Notice - MCS Supplementary Pension Plan Introduction This notice includes important information about the funding status of your multiemployer pension plan (the “Plan”). It also includes 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 required by federal law. This notice is for the plan year beginning January 1, 2018 and ending December 31, 2018 (“Plan Year”). Funded Percentage The law requires the administrator of the Plan to tell you how well the Plan is funded, using a measure called the “funded percentage.” The Plan divides its assets by its liabilities on the Valuation Date for the plan year to get this percentage. In general, the higher the percentage, the better funded the plan. The Plan’s funded percentage for the Plan Year and each of the two preceding plan years is shown in the chart below. The chart also states the value of the Plan’s assets and liabilities for the same period. Valuation Date Funded Percentage Value of Assets Value of Liabilities 2018 January 1, 2018 275.26% $6,668,926 $2,422,758 2017 January 1, 2017 164.79% $6,678,855 $4,053,069 2016 January 1, 2016 164.72% $6,692,948 $4,063,143 Fair Market Value of Assets The asset values in the chart above are measured as of the Valuation Date. They also are “actuarial values.” Actuarial values differ from market values in that they do not fluctuate daily based on changes in the stock or other markets. Actuarial values smooth out those fluctuations and can allow for more predictable levels of future contributions. Despite the fluctuations, market values tend to show a clearer picture of a plan’s funded status at a given point in time. The asset values in the chart below are market values and are measured on the last day of the Plan Year. The chart also includes the year-end market value of the Plan’s assets for each of the two preceding plan years. The December 31, 2018 fair value of assets disclosed below 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. December 31, 2018 December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 Fair Market Value of Assets $6,465,879 $6,843,579 $6,685,248 Participant Information The total number of participants and beneficiaries covered by the plan on the valuation date was 750. Of this number, 306 were current employees, 312 were retired and receiving benefits, and 132 were retired or no longer working for the employer and have a right to future benefits. Funding & Investment Policies Every pension plan must have a procedure to establish a funding policy for plan objectives. A funding policy relates to how much money is needed to pay promised benefits. 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. Pension plans also have investment policies. These generally are written guidelines or general instructions for making 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 Prudential Life Insurance Company that pays a guaranteed rate of interest each year. Approximately 30% of the remainder of the Plan’s assets is invested in equity securities with the balance invested in fixed income securities. 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): a. Preferred b. All other 4. Corporate stocks (other than employer securities): a. Preferred b. 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: a. Employer Securities b. Employer real property 16. Buildings and other property used in plan operation 17. Other June 2019 Percentage 0 9 11 0 0 21 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 5 51 0 0 0 0 For information about the plan’s investment in any of the following types of investments common/collective trusts, pooled separate accounts, or 103-12 investment entities – contact Margaret Bowen, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746-4275, (301) 899-0675. Endangered, Critical, or Critical and Declining Status Under federal pension law, a plan generally is in “endangered” status if its funded percentage is less than 80 percent. A plan is in “critical” status if the funded percentage is less than 65 percent (other factors may also apply). A plan is in “critical and declining” status if it is in critical status and is projected to become insolvent (run out of money to pay benefits) within 15 years (or within 20 years if a special rule applies). 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 or critical and declining status, the trustees of the plan are required to adopt a rehabilitation plan. Funding improvement and rehabilitation plans establish steps and benchmarks for pension plans to improve their funding status over a specified period of time. The plan sponsor of a plan in critical and declining status may apply for approval to amend the plan to reduce current and future payment obligations to participants and beneficiaries.The Plan was not in endangered, critical, or critical and declining status in the Plan Year. If the plan is in endangered, critical, or critical and declining status for the plan year ending December 31, 2019, separate notification of the status has or will be provided. Right to Request a Copy of the Annual Report Pension plans must file annual reports with the US Department of Labor. The report is called the “Form 5500.” These reports contain financial and other information. You may obtain an electronic copy of your Plan’s annual report by going to www.efast.dol.gov and using the search tool. Annual reports also 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. Or you may obtain a copy of the Plan’s annual report by making a written request to the plan administrator. Annual reports do not contain personal information, such as the amount of your accrued benefit. You may contact your plan administrator if you want information about your accrued benefits. Your plan administrator is identified below under “Where To Get More Information.” Summary of Rules Governing Insolvent Plans Federal law has a number of special rules that apply to financially troubled multiemployer plans that become insolvent, either as ongoing plans or plans terminated by mass withdrawal. The plan administrator is required by law to include a summary of these rules in the annual funding notice. 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. 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. There are separate insurance programs with different benefit guarantees and other provisions for single-employer plans and multiemployer plans. Your Plan is covered by PBGC’s multiemployer program. 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 $600, 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 ($600/10), which equals $60. The guaranteed amount for a $60 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 addition, the PBGC guarantees qualified preretirement survivor benefits (which are preretirement death benefits payable to the surviving spouse of a participant who dies before starting to receive benefit payments). In calculating a person’s monthly payment, the PBGC will disregard any benefit increases that were made under a 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 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. For additional information about the PBGC and the pension insurance program guarantees, go to the Multiemployer Page on PBGC’s website at www.pbgc.gov/prac/multiemployer. Please contact your employer or plan administrator for specific information about your pension plan or pension benefit. PBGC does not have that information. See “Where to Get More Information,” below. Where to Get More Information For more information about this notice, you may contact the office of the Plan Administrator at:Margaret Bowen, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Maryland 20746; (301) 899-0675. For identification purposes, the official plan number is 001 and the plan sponsor’s employer identification number or “EIN” is 51-6097856. Seafarers LOG 9 �The Oldest Tugboat Man in Baltimore Editor’s note: This article was written by Rafael Alvarez, who spent 20 years as a city desk reporter for the Baltimore Sun. The son of a longtime member of the SIU’s inland division (pensioner Manuel Alvarez, 85), he has published numerous books in addition to briefly sailing with the union. This piece first appeared in Chesapeake Bay Magazine; it is reprinted with the author’s permission, under its original headline. The subject, Bill Bobac, is an SIU pensioner. Back in ’56, when the Port of Baltimore was booming and jobs were plentiful, Bill Bobac worked his family’s waterfront gin mill at Pratt and Light, a place called Vann’s catercorner from the infamous Elmer’s Musical Bar. One day, a tugboat man walked in and asked if he could cash a check. Bobac agreed. The next week, the same guy – an engineer on boats owned by the Arundel Corporation –returned with his paycheck and had a few. “Those guys could get pretty lit up, and that’s putting it mildly,” said Bobac, a used-to-be tough guy from Steubenville, Ohio, who aged into an affable, quick-to-laugh cream-puff after years of running with men who had names ripped from pot-boilers: “Skinny” Keller, Marion “Mugsy” Mugavero, a Polish guy named “Dutchie,” and Georgie “Bullets.” Bobac gave the man his wages (taking a small cut for the courtesy) and it occurred to him that the boatman was making more docking ships and pulling barges than he did serving ’em up from dawn to dusk. “I asked if they were hiring and he said to go down to the pier on such-and-such a day and speak to so-and-so,” recalled Bobac, sharp of memory at 97. “They needed an oiler on the [tug] Choptank.” Over in Fairfield, where the Arundel tugs tied up near Maryland Drydock, Bobac dropped the name of the guy who’d given him the hot tip and was hired on the spot. “My first day in the engine room, the chief told me to oil a piece of equipment,” said Bobac, who’d never been aboard a tug before. “I told him I didn’t know what to do. He said, ‘I thought you worked down below before.’” To which Bobac replied, “No sir, I’m a bartender.” The engineer threw up his hands, muttered a few choice words and kept Bobac on with strong encouragement to join the deck department. Thus were seafaring careers launched in the days before the most casual scrutiny. Bobac picked up the fundamentals of the engine room – some of the technology hearkened to the First World War – and moved to the deck department. Over the next 30 years, he handled lines on the Patapsco River, the Chesapeake Bay and Retired SIU member Bill Bobac is pictured at home in Essex, Maryland. (Photo by Jim Burger) at sea with long runs to India, the Far East, and South Africa. Bobac’s time with Arundel, during which he saw a deckhand put ashore during an electrical storm near Matapeake for daring Christ to strike him dead by lightning, lasted until 1962, when he shipped out deep sea as a galley messman in the days when both officers and crew on U.S.-flagged ships were served their meals. Like many local tugboat men who came of age during World War II (Bobac served with the Army in the Pacific), he retired from the Baker-Whiteley towing company in 1984 when management busted union contracts that had governed tug labor in Baltimore since the mid-1950s. “My first boat with Baker-Whiteley was working as a fireman and water tender on a steam tug called the Britannia,” said Bobac, who has an oil painting of the coal-fired vessel (built at Sparrows Point in 1899) in his Essex apartment, a small museum of all things baseball, Roman Catholic, and seafaring. Along with a liquor decanter in the shape of Brooksie (“the human vacuum cleaner” at third on 33rd) and framed photos of the old B-W fleet tied up at the City Recreation Pier – the Holland, the Scandinavia, and the America among them – all with white dots on dark red stacks, he displays what was once ubiquitous in Crabtown, especially along the heavily Catholic waterfront, and now seldom seen. “When St. Patrick’s school closed down on Broadway [at Regester Street], I bought some of those big rosaries the nuns used to wrap around themselves,” he said, a flea market maven who still gets around pretty well with a walker, his daughter Betty Jo Shifflett, and the help of friends with automobiles. A favorite outing is just around the corner from his home at Schultz’s Crab House on Old Eastern Avenue for a nice, hot, roast beef with mashed potatoes. “Make sure it’s hot,” he tells the waitress every time. Baker-Whiteley was established on South Clinton Street in industrial Canton in 1876 as a coal company with mines in Pennsylvania. It is long gone, like the Britannia and the firm’s last moorings at the Recreation Pier, a dormant municipal property which in 2017 opened as a luxury hotel, the rooms costing more per night than a vintage tugboat man made in a month. Coming aboard the Baker-Whiteley tugs in 1964, Bobac befriended a crew of unforgettable characters that included my father. Among them was Simone Garayoa, a veteran of the Spanish Civil War (loyal to the Republic) who owned a bar next to Jimmy’s Diner on South Broadway with his wife, Agnes Karcz. If Simone didn’t know you, he wouldn’t unlock the door. Also, Jerome “Romey” Lukowski, a first mate born and raised at 1718 Thames Street in the “Seaman’s Cafe,” his mother’s boarding house. Romey was known to drink his fill at the Cat’s Eye late Saturday night and make it to Mass around the corner at St. Stanislaus the next morning. And Bobac’s best buddy, William H. Miller (the H stood for “Hollingsworth” but we called him “Mister Bill”), who hosted decades of summer cookouts and card parties at his shore home near Sparrows Point High School and, between work shifts, could be seen leaning on the mailbox at Thames and Ann Streets with other men who quenched mighty thirsts at a fabled tavern called Zeppie’s. “That mailbox,” said Bobac, “had everybody’s elbows on it at one time or another.” Today, no seafarers hang on that mailbox; still there in front of the Penny Black, which had been the John Stevens, which had been Zeppie’s, which had been the Five Point Tavern, which had been … who knows just what in an age when St. Stanislaus is a yoga studio. All but Bobac and my father – Manuel, a retired chief engineer, now 85 – have made their final departures. According to Seafarers International Union officials, Bobac is at or near the top of their most senior pensioners and easily the oldest tugboat man in Baltimore. Born near the end of the Harding Administration, he gives a rueful chuckle and says, “I’m just about the only one left….” Spotlight on Mariner Health Melanoma Kills Thousands Annually in United States Editor’s note: The following article was provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. There are several types of skin cancer, but melanoma is the most dangerous. In 2018 alone, 178,000 cases of the condition were diagnosed in the United States. These cancerous growths kill an estimated 9,320 people annually. Melanoma affects people of all colors and races, although those with light skin who sunburn easily have a higher risk. These cancerous growths develop when unrepaired DNA damage to skin cells triggers mutations that cause the skin cells to multiply rapidly and form malignant tumors. Melanoma normally occurs in the skin, but can also manifest itself in the mouth, intestines, or eyes. These cancers originate in the pigment-producing melanocytes in the innermost layer of the skin’s epidermis and often resemble moles; some in fact can develop from moles. The majority of melanomas are black or brown in color; however, they can also be skin-colored, pink, red, purple, blue or white. Melanoma is usually caused by intense, occasional by exposure to ultraviolet radiation from sunshine or from tanning beds. The good news is that if recognized and treated early, melanoma is almost always curable. If it is not, the cancer then will advance and spread to other parts of the body, where it becomes much harder to treat. If a mole is suspected of being mela- 10 Seafarers LOG noma, surgery to remove the affected tumor is normally the course of action that doctors will pursue. When a mole is removed, it will be sent to pathology where a diagnosis will be made. If the mole is determined to be melanoma, the doctor will assign a stage to it. This tells clinicians how quickly the cancer is progressing and spreading. The higher the stage the more serious the melanoma. The doctor will also examine the thickness and appearance of the tumor and assign a Tstage. Lymph nodes are the first thing to be affected whenever cancer spreads. These nodes are located all over the body and are part of the immune system. The doctor will also give these nodes an N-stage as to where the cancer is located and how many nodes are affected. If the cancer has spread, then immunotherapy, biologic therapy, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy may be used improve survival rates. The best way to guard against melanoma is to become a “skin detective.” Get to know your body and check it monthly to become aware if something is changing. Be on the alert when a mole that has looked the same for years starts to change. This can be in color, size, shape, symmetry, and the border around the area. Get checked by a doctor if you have concerns. Also, remember to use a good sunscreen when going outside and reapply often. It’s also a good practice to wear sunglasses that protect from UV light. Healthful Recipe Broiled Salmon w/ Roasted Grape & Tomato Relish Servings: 20 Ingredients 5 pounds salmon filet, whole side, skin on 1 2/3 cups red grapes 1 2/3 cups green grapes 1 cup onion, chopped small 1 2/3 cups grape tomatoes, cut in quarters 1 2/3 tablespoons kosher salt 1 cup olive oil, separated in halves ¼ cup Mrs. Dash seasoning Green onion, chopped for garnish Preparation Cut the salmon in 4 oz filets. Place the fish in 2” hotel pans evenly. Season the fish with the Mrs. Dash seasoning. Talk half of the olive oil and drizzle it over the fish evenly. Mix together the grapes, tomatoes, garlic, salt, onion, and the other half of the olive oil in a large bowl. Place the mixture onto a sheet pan. Roast the mixture in a 325-degree F oven for 20-35 minutes. Take out of the oven and place in a container and cover with plastic wrap. Set aside. Bake the salmon in 375-degree F oven for 15-20 minutes until flesh is flaky and internal temperature is 145 degrees F. Top the fish in the pans with the grape relish. Garnish the pans with fresh chopped green onions. Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 248 calories; 15g fat (54.1% calories from fat); 23g protein; 5g carbohydrate; 1g dietary fiber; 59mg cholesterol; 548mg sodium. Exchanges: 3 lean meat; ½ vegetable; 0 fruit; 2 fat. Provided by Chef Robert “RJ” Johnson of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship. June 2019 �TALKING MARITIME WITH CONGRESSWOMAN – SIU Port Agent Todd Brdak (right) recently met with U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens (D-Michigan) (second from right) and others at the IBEW Local 58 training center in Warren, Michigan. Topics included the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, cargo preference and the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. Also pictured are Jason Dahl (left), director of the IBEW center, and Jeannette Bradshaw (second from left), IBEW Local 58 recording secretary/registrar. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU WELCOME ASHORE IN TACOMA – Bosun John McMurtray (left), pictured with Port Agent Warren Asp, picks up his first pension check at the hiring hall. ABOARD ALASKAN EXPLORER – SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (left in both photos) recently met with Seafarers aboard the Alaska Tanker Co. vessel in Richmond, California. In the photo at left above, he’s with SIU hawsepiper Detricke Kelly (center), currently sailing as first assistant engineer, and QE4 Kevin Kelly (Detricke’s brother, who recently earned his third assistant engineer license). ABOARD LIBERTY PASSION – Gathering for a snapshot in Freeport, Texas, just before a union meeting on the Liberty Maritime vessel are (from left) GUDE Brandon Reed, Recertified Bosun David Campbell and GUDE Eshrak Dewan. ABOARD LIBERTY PROMISE – Chief Cook James Cherico (right in photo at immediate right) serves up Japanese fried chicken (pictured in photo immediately above) to a fellow Seafarer aboard the Liberty Maritime vessel. June 2019 AT THE HALL IN PUERTO RICO – SA William Otero stopped by to register and brought his family. That’s his wife, Eunice Feliciano, at left, and welcome new addition Emma Otero Feliciano being held by dad. ABOARD MAGNOLIA STATE – Pictured from left aboard the Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning ship in Beaumont, Texas, are Recertified Bosun William Yurick, Paul Hall Center Apprentice Tyler Thompson and SIU Patrolman J.B. Niday. ABOARD NANCY FOSTER – SIU NOAA crew members are pictured on the research ship in North Charleston, South Carolina. From left are GVA Cody Higgins, AB Denek Salich, GVA Blair Cahoon, Junior Engineer Joseph Clark, Bosun Greg Walker and Second Cook Brent Townsend. According to the agency, the ship “supports fish habitat and population studies, seafloor mapping surveys, oceanographic studies, and maritime heritage surveys.” Seafarers LOG 11 �Seafarers Waterfront Classic: A Southern Maryland Tradition W hile the camaraderie and spirit of the Seafarers Waterfront Classic only grows larger each year, the actual fishing tournament is historically “feast or famine.” Thankfully, the seventh annual event - which took place on May 16 at the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center (PHC) in Piney Point, Maryland - was very much a bountiful day on the water, with 134 fish kept by the 125 participants. (Hundreds more fish were caught.) The outing, as in previous years, brought together event sponsors, maritime industry partners, SIU officials and members, PHC personnel and members of the American Military Veterans Foundation (AMMILVETS). Just after sunrise, 18 vessels left the docks, each fisherman hoping to land the biggest rockfish of the tournament. In the end, Nicholas Forsey (from Comprehensive Health Services) was named the winner of this year’s competition, landing a rockfish which weighed in at 11.7 pounds. Continued on next page AMA President Captain Bob Johnston and SIU President Michael Sacco Seafarers Plans Administrator Margaret Bowen manning the weigh-in station. She is also the event’s dock master. Tournament winner Nicholas Forsey from Comprehensive Health Services Pictured alongside the crew of the Shea-D-Lady: Wounded Warrior Joseph Kosty, Alan Sofge, Michael Cox, Jake Peters, Joe Bowen, Michael Glaser and Hank Toutain. 12 Seafarers LOG Tournament fishers aboard the Fin Finder II: SIU Assistant Vice President Pat Vandegrift, Wounded Warrior Joseph Steele, James Snyder, Tracy Singleton, Kristina Powell, Shawna Cutler and Nicholas Forsey. June 2019 June 2019 For more photos, see next page Seafarers LOG 13 �Crowley’s Lee Egland displays his catch. AMMILVETS President David Souder (left) receives an award from SIU Assistant Vice President Kris Hopkins. GCR’s Dean Charbonnet holds up his biggest catch of the day. Anglers Land 134 Keepers During Annual Classic Continued from Page 13 “This year’s event checked all the boxes: great weather, awesome catch, and the privilege of spending the day with 12 of our heroes,” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker, founder and chairman of the Seafarers Waterfront Classic. “Special thanks to our steward department, who blew people away from the moment they showed up until the day they left.” The day’s catch did include 14 catfish, which were larger but ultimately disqualified from bringing home the top prize. The award ceremony and dinner featured an art auction, with paintings from Nick Grassia that were graciously Ed Washburn holds up a massive (but disqualified) catfish. AB Joe Bowen displays his catch. 14 Seafarers LOG gifted to the PHC. AMMILVETS President David Souders, who won a few awards himself this year, expressed his gratitude to the event organizers, and explained how valuable support programs like the fishing tournament are to the veterans: “Since our founding, we’ve seen how important these programs and events are to our members. These programs are really needed. We’ve watched some of these [individuals] change their lives, back from a place where they were kind of closed off and not really wanting to do anything. Some had kind of given up on themselves, and were at that stage in life, and they are here today; they’ve come back around thanks to programs Crowley’s Kristy Benard shows off her catch. like this. And I really want to thank you, from the bottom of my heart. We all do.” After the awards ceremony, guests were treated to a delicious seafood feast prepared by SIU steward department members and staff at the PHC, showcasing their talents and the freshness of the day’s catch (along with tasty side dishes). Diners described it as an extravaganza, and noted the many different, scrumptious ways the fish were prepared. “This was a great year for the Seafarers Waterfront Classic,” said SIU Assistant Vice President Kris Hopkins, who helps to plan and orchestrate the annual event every year. “We have Recertified Bosun Ken Steiner holds up a rockfish. to thank the SIU leadership and all of the organizers that help make this very important event become a reality. Not enough can be said in relation to headquarters, the Paul Hall Center leadership and crew, and the many participants that get involved to help support the American Military Veterans and their members. It’s an honor for me to be involved in this extremely worthy cause and perform a small part in supporting our veterans.” “The weather was fantastic, and the fish were bountiful,” said Acting PHC Vice President Tom Orzechowski. “but the camaraderie was the best of all. It’s all for a great cause, and we were happy to host the event for its seventh year.” Maersk’s Marcus Logan poses next to his largest catch of the day. PHC employees David Hammett (right) and David Aud work diligently to prepare the fish for cooking. Joseph Soresi SIU VP Atlantic Coast Wounded Warrior Joseph Steele June 2019 �Notice/Reminder Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea Culinary 2.0 Training Still Available at Paul Hall Center As previously reported, the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education continues to offer Culinary 2.0 classes designed to help students boost their skills while complying with a new rule that takes effect next year. Completing the coursework also is intended to aid individual shipping opportunities. Shipping Rule 5.A.(6), which will go into effect January 1, 2020, states, “Within each class of seniority in the Steward Department, priority shall be given to those seamen who possess an advanced Culinary 2.0 certificate from the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, in the event such program is being offered and that the seaman is registered in Group I, Steward Department.” While every new member of the steward department who completes their apprenticeship at the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship will have successfully passed Culinary 2.0, it’s important to remember that those already sail- ing as chief cooks and chief stewards must also take the coursework in order to exercise preference and priority beginning next year (unless they have received training after January 1, 2017 at the Piney Point, Maryland-based campus). For those seamen currently employed as permanent stewards aboard commercial vessels, they must attend Culinary 2.0 in order to maintain their current employment status. For those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards, there are two new revalidation courses that have been designed to ensure a consistent level of culinary training and efficiency: Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 and Orientation/ Assessment Chief Cook 2.0. The courses are being offered regularly, but spaces are limited, so members are encouraged to plan ahead and enroll as soon as possible. For more information, contact your port agent and/ or the school’s admissions office. June & July Membership Meetings Piney Point.............................................Monday: June 3, July 8 Algonac....................................................Friday: June 7, July 12 April 16, 2019 - May 15, 2019 Total Registered All Groups B Total Shipped All Groups B C Trip Reliefs 1 1 3 1 0 2 0 12 6 4 0 1 11 3 1 0 0 3 0 4 53 Deck Department 6 3 1 2 0 1 13 9 1 2 9 4 6 3 41 15 25 17 26 5 1 0 8 2 9 13 9 3 3 4 2 0 4 7 23 11 1 0 27 14 215 115 0 1 2 1 0 1 0 9 4 1 1 2 4 1 1 0 0 2 0 1 31 0 0 7 10 2 2 3 12 14 8 1 5 12 2 1 0 3 3 2 12 99 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 2 2 0 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 5 17 Engine Department 0 0 1 0 2 4 11 7 0 1 1 3 4 1 10 7 19 15 5 7 2 0 2 0 5 9 5 1 2 2 5 0 2 1 11 4 1 1 11 7 99 70 4 0 2 12 1 4 9 24 19 12 0 6 20 15 2 5 2 9 2 18 166 1 0 0 4 2 1 0 3 9 2 1 4 13 3 0 3 3 2 0 7 58 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 8 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 4 0 0 0 0 0 1 5 1 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 7 1 2 25 8 3 1 3 2 4 3 16 19 11 1 0 12 15 2 1 1 9 1 14 126 3 1 3 3 1 4 3 3 17 2 1 0 25 5 0 1 0 2 1 10 85 GRAND TOTAL: 633 423 163 Port A Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 20 1 4 13 2 10 7 51 33 29 2 12 27 11 7 4 9 34 1 26 303 9 3 3 10 1 5 2 17 22 9 1 4 12 3 0 5 7 13 0 14 140 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 0 6 11 1 2 5 17 18 12 2 3 15 6 1 2 8 15 1 13 139 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS C 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, July 16 Jersey City..............................................Tuesday: June 4, July 9 Norfolk................................................Thursday: June 6, July 11 Oakland.............................................Thursday: June 13, July18 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 ATTENTION SEAFARERS Contribute To The Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD SPAD Works For You. June 2019 Registered on Beach A All Groups B C 1 2 1 11 0 2 0 23 19 12 0 6 9 8 1 2 5 19 0 16 137 27 4 4 27 4 14 21 106 54 60 4 14 35 17 4 5 13 62 4 42 521 12 1 3 19 0 7 4 35 35 19 4 6 21 7 2 7 6 20 3 17 228 3 3 2 5 0 4 1 18 7 8 3 3 23 4 1 0 2 5 2 13 107 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 11 0 0 2 6 0 2 1 7 11 3 0 2 6 1 2 2 3 6 0 6 60 2 0 10 13 1 5 17 26 23 18 1 4 21 14 5 0 14 25 1 21 221 0 0 4 13 2 3 4 17 29 9 2 9 21 4 3 1 5 6 5 15 152 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 4 1 1 1 2 4 2 0 0 0 3 1 11 32 Steward Department 3 0 0 0 1 1 15 7 1 2 4 2 6 2 11 5 9 3 10 3 1 2 0 1 14 9 5 4 1 0 4 2 1 3 9 1 2 0 15 5 112 52 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 5 0 0 0 8 0 2 3 6 7 5 0 0 9 3 1 0 2 8 0 6 60 5 1 3 14 2 9 16 34 32 19 0 9 23 31 4 2 5 20 4 29 262 1 0 1 6 1 0 4 9 17 2 0 3 15 4 0 2 9 6 1 22 103 0 0 0 1 0 2 0 2 2 2 2 0 2 1 1 0 0 4 0 2 21 Entry Department 2 4 0 1 0 0 1 2 0 2 0 1 0 0 6 12 2 14 2 9 0 0 0 0 0 12 2 7 0 2 0 0 0 1 3 8 0 1 0 9 18 85 3 0 3 2 2 0 3 3 12 5 0 0 11 3 0 2 1 10 0 4 64 4 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 5 4 0 0 5 3 1 4 1 4 0 0 36 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 6 5 2 0 1 0 5 1 0 1 11 1 12 50 9 5 1 8 1 3 8 21 46 26 1 1 23 17 2 1 0 15 0 38 226 13 3 3 3 0 5 4 18 59 15 1 2 46 11 0 3 1 18 2 22 229 111 293 1,054 709 389 A 444 322 Seafarers LOG 15 �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 Kate Hunt, 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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 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 This month’s question was answered by students who’d just completed either the Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 class or the Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 class (both part of the Culinary 2.0 curriculum) at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Question: What did you think of the class? Carlos Diaz Chief Cook It was very, very good. It’s basically retraining us and refreshing our skills. I especially liked the time-management lessons, which are part of the curriculum. On a scale of one to 10, it’s a 10. I liked it. Thalis Ealy Recertified Steward It was wonderful. The leadership aspect of it was what I liked. It measured up to my expectations fairly well. I would recommend it – learning is essential to job productivity. Ryan Gallano Chief Cook I think it’s very helpful and necessary. Especially in the steward department, we have to be on the computer, and sometimes older stewards and cooks don’t know how to use them, so this training is good. The leadership component is also very helpful for us – managing the department. Gerald Kirtsey Recertified Steward I thought I came up here and already knew it all, and I found out I didn’t. It boosted me and gave me motivation. This helped me take a step back, learn, and now I’m refreshed and ready to go again. It’s a wonderful class. Darryl McCoy Chief Cook I really liked it. In fact, I loved every minute of it. I learned how to use the computer – I wasn’t very computer-savvy. I also learned some things in the kitchen. I especially liked the leadership class. Overall, it was good and I needed it. Just Self Recertified Steward It was awesome. It was informative, and I’m definitely going to benefit from it. I especially liked the Word, Excel and managerial skills parts. The class met my expectations if not went beyond. It was challenging but good. Karen Smith Chief Cook It was very well put together. I enjoyed it. It helps all the cooks when they want to upgrade to steward – gives you a lot of insight into what’s next. Learning computers was a highlight. Overall, if you had a problem or needed more information, the instructors would go into great detail. Samuel Sinclair Chief Steward I thought it was outstanding, and I’m not trying to sugarcoat it for anybody or anything. It reinvigorated my passion for the job. The class reintroduced me to the fact that I’m a leader, and my position is important to the company and the union. 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 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (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 1979 photo was taken aboard the self-propelled hopper dredge Manhattan Island, not far from the stretch of land it was named after. Pictured from left are ABs Jack Wolos, Mark Jahn, Harry Daniels, Frank Rediker and Tan Ahjoon. 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 2019 �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 Goose Creek, South Carolina. LUIS ALVAREZ DONALD DEFLORIO Brother Luis Alvarez, 72, became a member of the union in 1994. He initially shipped aboard the Independence and sailed in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Alvarez upgraded on several occasions at the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center. He last sailed on the Alliance Norfolk, and settled in Jacksonville, Florida. Brother Donald Deflorio, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1992, initially sailing on the Jack Lummus. He was a deck department member and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Deflorio last sailed aboard the El Faro, in 2002. He resides in Randolph, Vermont. ILARIA AMAYA Sister Ilaria Amaya, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1998 when she sailed aboard the Gem State. She upgraded on multiple occasions at the maritime training center located in Piney Point, Maryland. A steward department member, Sister Amaya last sailed on the Maersk Virginia. She makes her home in Bronx, New York. JARED BLAVAT Brother Jared Blavat, 65, started his SIU career in 1990 when he shipped on the USNS Altair. He was a deck department member and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Blavat most recently sailed aboard the Alliance Fairfax. He lives in Jacksonville, Florida. DAN BUCKLEY Brother Dan Buckley, 66, embarked on his SIU career in 1971, first sailing aboard the Western Hunter. He primarily sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school within his first year. Brother Buckley last sailed on the Liberty Wave. He calls Metairie, Louisiana, home. RICHARD BUTCH Brother Richard Butch, 65, became an SIU member in 1972 when he shipped on the Detroit. An engine department member, he upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Butch concluded his career aboard the USNS Chesapeake. He is a San Francisco resident. RODRIGO CASTILLO Brother Rodrigo Castillo, 66, donned the SIU colors in 2005. He was a member of the engine department and first sailed on the Pride of Aloha. Brother Castillo most recently shipped aboard the Pacific Collector. He lives in June 2019 KASHMIR DHILLON Brother Kashmir Dhillon, 64, joined the Seafarers in 1989, first shipping aboard the Independence. An engine department member, he upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Dhillon last sailed on the Cape Mohican. He makes his home in Fairfield, California. JAMES EMIDY Brother James Emidy, 65, started sailing with the union in 1974 when he worked on the Eagle Traveler. He primarily sailed in the engine department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Emidy concluded his career on the Maersk Iowa and lives in South Kingston, Rhode Island. EUFEMIANO GOMES Brother Eufemiano Gomes, 66, joined the SIU in 2001 during the NMU/SIU merger. His first SIU vessel was the Maersk Maine and he sailed in the engine department. Brother Gomes upgraded often at the unionaffiliated Piney Point school. He last sailed on the Maersk Iowa before settling in North Bergen, New Jersey. JULIO GUITY Brother Julio Guity, 65, began his career with the Seafarers in 1990, first sailing on the USNS Bellatrix. The steward department member upgraded on multiple occasions at the maritime training facility located in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Guity’s last vessel was the Horizon Navigator. He calls Bronx, New York, home. WALTER HOLTON Brother Walter Holton, 62, joined the SIU in 2001, initially sailing with Crowley Towing and Transportation. He was a member of the deck department and concluded his career on the Maersk Memphis. Brother Holton resides in Jacksonville, Florida. WALTER LAUX Brother Walter Laux, 71, became an SIU member in 1991 when he shipped on a Pacific Gulf Marine vessel. He sailed in both the engine and deck departments and in 2001 upgraded at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Laux most recently shipped aboard the Cape Kennedy. He is a resident of Kenner, Louisiana. JOSE LIWAG Brother Jose Liwag, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1994, first sailing aboard the Global Sentinel. An engine department member, he upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Liwag’s final ship was the USNS Charlton. He calls Riverview, Florida, home. MELITON OROSCO Brother Meliton Orosco, 65, joined the SIU in 2007. He first shipped on the Pride of America, and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2009. Brother Orosco was an engine department member and sailed on the same vessel for the majority of his career. He resides in Honolulu. RODOLFO VECINO Brother Rodolfo Vecino, 68, joined the union in 1996, first sailing aboard the USNS Algol. He primarily worked in the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Vecino last sailed on the Honor and lives in Bridge City, Louisiana. GARY RHYNE Brother Gary Rhyne, 65, became a member of the union in 1978 when he sailed on the McKee Sons. A member of the deck department, he upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Rhyne last shipped aboard the Long Lines. He resides in Arbutus, Maryland. GREAT LAKES RANDY FRANK Brother Randy Frank, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1989, initially sailing on the Sam Laud. An engine department member, he concluded his career on the American Mariner. Brother Frank makes his home in Alpena, Michigan. JAMES HABERMEHL Brother James Habermehl, 64, joined the SIU in 1973 and first sailed aboard the J.B. Ford. He sailed in the engine department and most recently shipped on the Alpena. Brother Habermehl resides in Lachine, Michigan. INLAND LEROY ADAWAY Brother Leroy Adaway, 62, joined the SIU in 1998 when he worked with Penn Maritime. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2006. Brother Adaway remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He lives in Zavalla, Texas. NICHOLAS CANETTI Brother Nicholas Canetti, 62, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1978, initially sailing on an Amherst Shipping vessel. He upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center and sailed in the deck department. Brother Canetti concluded his career with Crowley Towing. He resides in San Pedro, California. JAMES JONES Brother James Jones, 71, started his SIU career in 2008, first working for Seabulk Tankers. He sailed in the engine department, most recently aboard Seabulk Towing’s Energy Hercules. Brother Jones makes his home in Rolling Fork, Mississippi. DONALD MCQUAID Brother Donald McQuaid, 62, signed on with the Seafarers in 1979, initially sailing with Dixie Carriers. He shipped in the engine department and last sailed with Moran Towing of Texas. Brother McQuaid settled in Land O’ Lakes, Florida. BRUCE MESGER Brother Bruce Mesger, 63, became an SIU member in 1978 when he worked for American Barge Lines. A steward department member, he upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Mesger most recently sailed on the Innovation. He lives in Bradenton, Florida. JACQUES MOUTTET Brother Jacques Mouttet, 61, joined the SIU in 1988, sailing first with G&H Towing. A deck department member, he upgraded on multiple occasions at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center. Brother Mouttet was employed with the same company for the duration of his career. He resides in Corpus Christi, Texas. SANTOS REYES Brother Santos Reyes, 67, joined the union in 1980 when he worked for G&H Towing. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Reyes was employed by the same company for his entire career. He makes his home in Houston. RICHARD WEAVER Brother Richard Weaver, 69, began sailing with the SIU in 2000, initially working for Riverboat Services. A deck department member, he upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Weaver most recently sailed on the Legacy. He calls Marathon, Florida, home. ERNEST ZEPEDA Brother Ernest Zepeda, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1970, first shipping on the Houston. He was a deck department member and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. He most recently sailed aboard a G&H Towing vessel before settling in La Marque, Texas. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA FLOYD BISHOP Pensioner Floyd Bishop, 66, passed away April 3. He began his career with the SIU in 1971, initially sailing aboard the Trans Hawaii. Brother Bishop shipped in the steward department and last sailed on the Sulphur Enterprise. He became a pensioner in 2017 and resided in Wilmer, Alabama. THOMAS BROOKS Brother Thomas Brooks, 68, died March 8. He joined the union in 1999 when he sailed with Moran Towing of Texas. Brother Brooks was a deck department member and most recently sailed on the Texas. He was a Miami resident. JON DILLON Pensioner Jon Dillon, 58, passed away April 28. He embarked on his career with the SIU in 1985, when he shipped with Orgulf Transportation. Brother Dillon was a deck department member and last sailed aboard the Isla Bella. He became a pensioner in 2018 and resided in Brooksville, Florida. MICHAEL EARHART Pensioner Michael Earhart, 65, died March 25. He signed on with the SIU in 1990, initially sailing on the Independence. Brother Earhart was a deck department member and concluded his career on the Pacific Collector. He retired in 2018 and settled in Yacolt, Washington. JOHN EMRICH Pensioner John Emrich, 74, passed away April 18. Initially sailing with Buckeye Steamship, Brother Emrich joined the SIU in 1968. He sailed in the deck department, most recently aboard the Horizon Consumer. Brother Emrich went on pension in 2007 and made his home in Whittier, California. EDWARD KING Pensioner Edward King, 81, died April 9. Born in Maryland, he became an SIU member in 1972. Brother King was a deck department member and first shipped on the Van Horizon. He last sailed aboard the Atlantic Guardian before retiring in 2003. Brother King lived in Pikesville, Maryland. 18 Seafarers LOG NORBERTO PRATS Pensioner Norberto Prats, 84, passed away December 21. He signed on with the SIU in 1968 when he shipped on the Merrimac. A deck department member, Brother Prats concluded his career on the Expedition. He became a pensioner in 2004 and was a resident of Ponce, Puerto Rico. RAYMONDE REGNIER Pensioner Raymonde Regnier, 94, passed away April 30. She embarked on her career with the SIU in 1978 when she worked for States Steamship. Sister Regnier was a steward department member. She last sailed on the President Madison before retiring in 1992. Sister Regnier made her home in Tempe, Arizona. JULIO ROMAN Pensioner Julio Roman, 77, died April 20. Brother Roman began shipping with the Seafarers in 1979, initially sailing on the President Pierce. He was a steward department member and most recently sailed aboard the Cape Jacob. Brother Roman retired in 2013 and lived in Federal Way, Washington. KENNETH STERNER Pensioner Kenneth Sterner, 91, passed away April 10. He joined the union in 1980 when he sailed on the Consumer. Brother Sterner was a deck department member and last sailed on the Senator. He began collecting his pension in 1993 and settled in Pompano Beach, Florida. passed away April 19. He became an SIU member in 1953, first sailing on the Ames Victory. Brother Todora was a member of the deck department. His last vessel was the OMI Leader. He became a pensioner in 1993 and settled in Garland, Texas. STEPHEN TREECE Pensioner Stephen Treece, 67, died April 30. Brother Treece joined the SIU in 1971 when he shipped on the Paul H. Townsend. He primarily sailed in the engine department and concluded his career on the Charleston Express. Brother Treece went on pension in 2014 and resided in Houston. GREAT LAKES FRANCIS BELLANT Pensioner Francis Bellant, 81, passed away April 22. Brother Bellant signed on with the union in 1961. He was a member of the deck department and last sailed with Luedtke Engineering. Brother Bellant retired in 1999 and lived in St. Paul, Minnesota. INLAND JIMMY BANNISTER Pensioner Jimmy Bannister, 62, died April 21. He embarked on his career with the SIU in 1977, working for Dravo Basic Materials. A member of the deck department, Brother Bannister remained with the same company until his retirement in 1990. He called Uriah, Alabama, home. CLORA DOOM Pensioner Clora Doom, 87, passed away March 27. She started her career with the Sea- farers in 1987. Sister Doom primarily sailed in the steward department, and worked for Orgulf Transportation for the duration of her career. She became a pensioner in 1998 and resided in Paducah, Kentucky. TIMOTHY PICKERING Brother Timothy Pickering, 42, died April 13. He began sailing with the SIU in 2017 when he worked for Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning. Brother Pickering shipped in the deck department and continued to sail with the same company for his entire SIU career. He was a resident of Salem, Massachusetts. MAURICE BOWIE Pensioner Maurice Bowie, 66, passed away April 25. He joined the SIU in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. A steward department member, Brother Bowie’s first vessel was the Chesapeake Bay. He last shipped on the Maersk Nebraska before retiring in 2009. Brother Bowie was a resident of New Orleans. JOHN HARDEE Pensioner John Hardee, 92, died March 11. Brother Hardee was born in North Carolina and became a pensioner in 1990. He lived in Norfolk, Virginia. PAUL PONT Pensioner Paul Pont, 71, passed away May 8. He joined the union in 1970, first working for Interstate Oil. Brother Pont worked in the deck department and sailed with the same company for the majority of his career. He went on pension in 2013 and made his home in Williston, Florida. MOISES JOHNSON Pensioner Moises Johnson, 87, passed away April 5. He was an NMU member before the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. Brother Johnson was a deck department member and last sailed aboard the Maersk Maine. He went on pension in 2003 and settled in New York. WENCESLAO VAZQUEZ Pensioner Wenceslao Vazquez, 77, died May 1. He signed on with the SIU in 1976 and primarily sailed in the deck department. Brother Vazquez worked for Crowley Puerto Rico Services for the duration of his career before retiring in 1998. He called Las Piedras, Puerto Rico, home. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. NMU GEORGE BERGER Pensioner George Berger, 89, died February 19. Brother Berger was born in Coatesville, Pennsylvania. He became a pensioner in 1995 and lived in Ardmore, Pennsylvania. Name Age Antalan, Raymond 74 Arce, Dagoberto 82 Arroyo, Roosevelt 82 Flynn, Willie 93 Huertas, Felipe 80 Hughes, Wade 80 Lopez, Justo 88 Melendez, Francisco 85 Merren, Richard 95 Mitchell, Willie 78 Moody, Arthur 93 Perez, Ricardo 84 Powery, William 83 Royere, Thomas 92 Santos, Marshall 97 Stephens, Paul 88 Torres, David 92 Young, Lee 103 Yung, Vee 96 DOD 04/29/2019 04/19/2019 03/24/2019 05/10/2019 05/11/2019 04/29/2019 04/13/2019 03/30/2019 05/05/2019 04/15/2019 04/01/2019 04/12/2019 04/28/2019 04/26/2019 11/15/2018 04/22/2019 05/11/2019 04/22/2019 04/03/2019 Aboard Kaimana Hila WALTER STEVENS Pensioner Walter Stevens, 92, died May 10. Brother Stevens began his career with the SIU in 1956, first working with Ore Navigation. He sailed in the engine department and concluded his career aboard the Navigator. Brother Stevens went on pension in 1994 and was a resident of Arnold, Maryland. CHARLES TODORA Pensioner Charles Todora, 91, Matson’s union-built containership Kaimana Hila is one of the newest vessels in the SIU-crewed fleet. Pictured from left to right aboard the vessel on the West Coast are ACU Saleh Sewileh, Recertified Steward Stephen Valencia and Chief Cook Alberto Insong. June 2019 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings HOUSTON (USS Transport), January 1 – Chairman Carlos Arauz, Secretary Fausto Aranda, Educational Director William Mercer, Deck Delegate Terrance Jones, Engine Delegate Noel Magbitang. Chairman thanked steward department for good food and variety of menu options. Secretary praised crew for a job well done. Educational director reminded members to check documents and upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New TVs for all rooms and Wi-Fi now available. HOUSTON (USS Transport), February 1 – Chairman Carlos Arauz, Secretary Bruce Johnson, Educational Director Jorge Lawrence, Deck Delegate Terrance Jones, Engine Delegate Noel Magbitang. Chairman reminded crew to keep ship clean and advised members to check credentials for expiration. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for a job well done. HOUSTON (USS Transport), March 1 – Chairman Carlos Arauz, Secretary Fausto Aranda, Educational Director Jorge Lawrence, Deck Delegate Terrance Jones. Crew requested to remove the required Anderson Kelly physical. Chairman encouraged members to attend upgrading courses at the Piney Point school. He reminded everyone to keep documents up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New refrigerator and new furniture aboard ship. Bosun thanked crew for keeping ship clean. The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. CAPE WRATH (Crowley), March 10 – Chairman William Dowzicky, Secretary Robert Brown, Educational Director Timothy Chestnut, Deck Delegate William Howell, Engine Delegate James Corprew. Chairman discussed schedule and upcoming payoff. He reminded C-card members that they are only guaranteed 60 days or one foreign voyage. Crew discussed changes to 2019 medical benefit. Members are keeping up with common areas. Educational director urged crew to upgrade as often as possible at the Paul Hall Center. He provided contact information to members needing assistance with course registration. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew went over details for GUDE position and GVA. GUDE has work availability in deck or engine department. GVA has work availability in any of three departments. Members were directed to fill out stateroom forms when broken items are in need of repair. Vote of thanks given to steward department for providing good meals. Next Port: Kuwait. GOLDEN STATE (Crowley), March 17 – Chairman Philip McGeoghegan, Secretary Michael Carello, Steward Delegate Terry Fowler. Ship vent systems need to be cleaned and house floor in need of repair. No Wi-Fi available for stateside crew. Great food on board. Secretary discussed tax forms. Educational director recommended members upgrade at Piney Point and keep documents in order. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman went over importance of Jones Act. Crew requested increase in both vacation and pension benefits. Members asked for TVs and refrigerators in staterooms. Crew discussed policy regarding “in lieu of day off” pay. EL COQUI (Crowley), March 31 – Chairman Abel Vazquez Torres, Secretary Juan Vallejo Hernandez, Educational Director Rodney Passapera-Barbosa, Deck Delegate Kemer Rojas, Engine Delegate Christian Rosado, Steward Delegate Bryan Alvarez. Crew discussed old business including vacation extension and Wi-Fi access. Chairman reiterated importance of safety and keeping documents up to date. He thanked steward department for great food. Members gave thanks to Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez and Port Agent Amancio Crespo for their work on Capitol Hill. Educational director encouraged crew to enhance their careers by upgrading at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members proposed changes for future negotiations, to include additional compensation for shared bathrooms and rooms. OVERSEAS MARTINEZ (OSG), April 19 – Chairman Billy Hill Jr., Secretary Carlos Sanchez, Educational Director John Groom. Chairman reminded members to leave clean rooms for oncoming crew and advised everyone to donate to SPAD. He emphasized importance of taking breaks and staying hydrated as warm weather approaches. A job well done by steward department with getting Welcome Ashore In Mobile Seafarer Steve Woods (left) picks up his first pension check at the hall in Mobile, Alabama (he’s pictured with Port Agent Jimmy White). Woods, an engineer, sailed with Crescent Towing from 1996 through March of this year. ship in order. Secretary reminded crew to bring all dishes back to galley. Educational director urged members to upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New pillows and DirecTV boxes received. Crew waiting for delivery of correct fans. Members request an increase in dental and vision benefits. Next Port: Tampa, Florida. INDEPENDENCE II (TOTE), April 21 – Secretary Christopher Amigable, Educational Director Ricardo Fuentes, Steward Delegate Thomas Cyrus. Payoff scheduled at sea. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep mess hall and lounge clean. He reminded members to put away any used items. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Piney Point and to contribute to SPAD. Members requested Wi-Fi and pay raise. Vote of thanks to steward department for a job well done. Next Port: Baltimore. LIBERTY PRIDE (Liberty Maritime), April 23 – Chairman David Martinez, Deck Delegate Wilfredo Guerrero, Engine Delegate Marcus Lopez, Steward delegate Gladiz David. Chairman reminded crew to work safely. He noted the union’s effort securing and maintaining jobs for members and encouraged crew to contribute to SPAD. Chairman discussed difficulties securing LNG-related certifications from Coast Guard. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new mattresses. AB reported fume from A/C vent in his room. 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 June 2019 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 19 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Gap Closing Courses Leadership & Managerial Skills June 29 June 22 August 17 October 12 AB to Mate Modules July 19 September 13 November 8 Modules must be taken in order. Those who are not in the mates program cannot apply for these courses. Contact the Admissions Office for further details. ARPA September 28 October 4 Bosun Recertification July 20 August 5 Crane Familiarization October 5 October 11 ECDIS September 21 November 16 September 27 November 22 Fast Rescue Boat July 20 August 17 July 26 August 23 GMDSS July 20 August 31 August 2 September13 Lifeboat June 29 July 27 August 24 September 21 October 19 November 16 July 12 August 9 September 6 October 4 November 1 November 29 Radar Observer September 14 September 27 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW July 20 September 14 November 9 August 16 October 11 December 6 September 7 September 27 100 Ton Master Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers July 13 July 26 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 # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG Start Date Date of Completion Engine Department Upgrading Courses BAPO July 20 September 14 November 9 August 16 October 11 December 6 Engineroom Resource Management June 22 June 28 FOWT June 22 August 17 July 19 September 13 Junior Engineer June 22 September 28 August 16 November 22 Machinist June 29 July 19 Marine Electrician August 10 October 4 Marine Refer Tech July 13 August 23 Pumpman July 20 July 26 Welding July 20 August 17 August 9 September 6 July 5 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck Title of Course Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Operations June 22 July 19 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start June 10. Chief Steward July 27 September 13 Galley Operations July 20 August 16 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 June 22 July 20 June 28 July 26 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 June 15 July 6 June 21 July 12 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training/Basic FF July 6 July 20 Basic Training Revalidation July 26 July 26 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation June 22 June 28 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting August 17 August 23 Government Vessels June 22 June 28 Medical Care Provider August 24 August 30 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL July 27 August 2 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG July 20 July 26 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, 45353 St. George Ave., Piney Point, MD 20674; 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, or 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. 6/19 June 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class 847 – Graduated February 22 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Leonard DeLeon, Jessina Fernandez, Christopher Fisher, Austan Fryar, Dakota Guthrie, Michael Howard Hutton, Frankinns Joseph, Timothy McDonald, Noah McHenry, Sheldon Mitchell, Joshua Rivers, Charles Sassone, William Storey II, Rhendall Thatcher, Daniel Ursitti, Montrell Wiggins and Arkala Williams. Important Notice To All 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. Water Survival – Graduated January 25: Jerome Aninion (above, left) and Nahun Moises Bernardez Bernard. Water Survival – Graduated February 22: Jamila King (above, left) and Ana Marie Chona Razon Calma. Crane Familiarization – Graduated February 15 (above, in alphabetical order): Marcos Humberto Arriola, Paul D’ugo, Emmanuel Kwesi Atta Essien, Rolando Guity, Reynaldo Bermudez Lacayo and Trevor Patterson. Class instructor Stan Beck is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Machinist – Graduated January 25: Dean Parks (above, left) and Eddie Solichin (center). Instructor Keith Adamson is at the right. UA to AS-Deck – Graduated February 1 (above, in alphabetical order): Jamil Andre Centeno-Rosario, Julien Kei Charlet, Jeffery Gullett Jr., Daniel Afran Mensah, Samuel Moore, Devon Pullins, Alton Robinson, Dzmitry Sasnouski, Chauncey Wilkerson and Javaris Wright. Government Vessels – Graduated January 11 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Paul Adams, Ali Nagi Alhadad, Jerome Verdon Aninion, Arles Ballestero, Christopher Bean, William Cassell III, Roni Anival Castillo, Rubenia Marina Flores, Carlos Enrique Gibbons, Arvin Tarroza Heras, Nathaniel Hunter, Adam Middaugh, Tracy Mitchell Jr., Primus Nkemnyi, Luisa Oben, Erwin Renon, Lamont Robinson, Denyse Sineath, Lucica Ulianov and Richard Wright. Class instructor Tom Truitt is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) June 2019 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes UA to FOWT – Graduated February 1 (above, in alphabetical order): Nicolas Brailsford, Caleb Donovan, Tianna Evans, Christian Fredrick, Raphael Henson, Daryl Hicks, Michael Lane, Eli Lopez, Montel Chevez MacKey, William Means, Eddie O’Bannon III, Shawn Smith, Thomas Tooke, Kevin Willis and Shawn Yancey Jr. Pumpman – Graduated February 1 (above, in alphabetical order): Michael Durango, Dean Parks and Eddie Solichin. Keith Adamson, their instructor, is at the far right. Medical Care Provider – Graduated March 1: Carlton Banks (above, left) and James Ross. Instructor John Thomas is at the right. Basic Training (Advanced Firefighting Revalidation) – Graduated January 18 (above, in alphabetical order): Keithley Andrew, Ryan Armstrong, Frederick Cleare, Douglas Crockett Jr., Oleg Derun, Robert Gratzer, Ronel Guerzon, Basil Messer Jr., Earnest Paulk III, Tyler Purdy, James Robinson, Igor Vasilevich Yakunkov and William Ziadeh. Instructor Joseph Zienda is at the far left. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Graduated February 8 (above, in alphabetical order): Jarrett Andrews Jr., Rex Bolin, Thomas Andres Caballero, Samuel Calder Jr., Farook Mohamed Essa, Denando Ewings, Ruthellen McDonough, Foaad Mousa Saleh, Kassem Mohamed Saleh, Jose Benjie Santos and Elston Sintok Yu-Mateo. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Graduated March 1 (above, in alphabetical order): Thommie Hampton, Andrea Hargrove, Bernadette Hill, Carlicia Jones, Vrysalyn Semetara Joy, Raymond Lackland, Miriam Merluzzo and Tyler Unkle. Class instructor Mike Roberts is at the far right. Government Vessels – Graduated February 22 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Abdulaziz Mohamed Nagi Alsinai, Kofi Asamani, Fontaine Barber, Deirick Coltrane II, Reginald Dillard, Harold Gerber II, Abdulla Ginah, Andrea Hargrove, James Hill, Leportre Jasper, Alexander Karre, Stephen Martin, Waleed Yahya Mohsin, Waverly Moore, Mark Pearson, Randy Pearson, Joey Roberts, German Teodosio, Robert Wagner Jr., William White III and Michele Woodley. 22 Seafarers LOG June 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated January 18 (above, in alphabetical order): Kirk Fisher, Sharon Hoffman, Mark Keller, Adele Messina and Nathaniel Simmons Jr. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated February 1: John Val Raz Teodosio. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated January 11 (above, from left to right): Jeffrey Beasley, Charles Brooks and Christopher Bacalso Amigable. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated February 15: Michele Woodley and Danilo Malcaba Florendo. Advanced Galley Operations – Graduated February 1 (above, from left to right) Jack Boscia, Bryan Onill Alvarez and Casey Pearson. Galley Operations – Graduated March 1 (above, from left to right) Diosdado Variacion Abugotal Jr., Gervacio Francisco Antonio Simon and Marcelino Pabito. June 2019 Certified Chief Cook (Module 6) – Graduated January 11 (above, from left to right) Walter Lent and Michael Poblete Certified Chief Cook (Module 1) – Graduated January 25 (above, in alphabetical order): Erwin Raphael Saludares Asinas, Zoe Felton, Dustin Haney, Aaron HeltonCox, Arturo Montoya and Dominique Villanueva-Kaaiahua. Certified Chief Cook (Module 2) – Graduated February 8 (above, from left to right): Andres Brown, Dijon Cuffee and James Fisher. Seafarers LOG 23 �JUNE 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 6 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Father-Son Teams Learn Aboard Freedom Star Apprentices Randy Slue and Christian Kalinowski recently experienced a unique period of training at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, when their fathers arrived at the school to work alongside them. QMED Randy Slue and SIU hawsepiper Third Mate Christopher Kalinowski (currently a member of the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers union) joined their sons aboard the Freedom Star - the school’s dedicated training ship - for a fast cruise, which is defined by the U.S. Navy as “a simulated underway period that prepares the crew for life at sea.” The four mariners used the time aboard the ship well, as both an opportunity to learn and a chance to visit with family. “Because we weren’t able to go out on the [planned voyage], we did a lot more instruction, line handling and such,” said Christopher. “At night, [my son] was on watch, so I spent that with him. And then we bunked together, so we caught up during those times as well. I was very fortunate for this time with him.” Randy was also thankful for the experience, saying, “I tried to give him (his son) a little advice on things to look out for on the job, stuff like that. We caught up as we worked on the ship, made sure he was getting along at the school and all that. It was nice to spend some time with him.” The sons also praised the experience of working aboard the training vessel, remarking on the value of learning on a real ship as opposed to exclusively in classrooms and on simulators. Christian said, “Being able to feel fresh air was a bonus. Feeling how hot an engine actually is was cool, it’s not really reflected in the simulators. It was much more realistic working aboard the Freedom Star.” Both second-generation mariners spoke of their fathers as inspirations for their career decisions. The younger Randy explained his reasons for following in his father’s footsteps, saying, “The stories From left: Apprentice Randy Slue, QMED Randy Slue, Third Mate Christopher Kalinowski and Apprentice Christian Kalinowski. he used to tell me when he got home really got me excited. He would tell me about his trips to Japan, and throughout Europe and all kinds of other countries. He showed me pictures and stuff from his travels, and told me what a great career it would be.” His father, who joined the SIU in 2003, remarked on his son’s path to becoming a mariner: “I’m pretty excited that he decided to do this. He made the decision all on his own, and I’m proud of him. The only thing I pushed him towards was getting a career instead of a job, something long-term. He came up with the plan, and he’s followed through. I was supportive of him no matter what, obviously, but he came to the decision on his own.” Christian was similarly inspired by his father’s career, and also hadn’t been pushed towards a life on the water by his father. Christopher praised his son’s decision, saying, “I’m extremely proud of him. He has become a man of great work ethic, and it’s almost comical how identical his footsteps are to mine. I was in lifeboat class number 500 as a trainee, and he’s following right behind me.” The older mariners also observed the many improvements to the school since they first trained at the facility in Piney Point, Maryland. “I was impressed with the Freedom Star,” said Christopher. “It’s a functional, sea-based platform, and when they do go out on a cruise, the things the trainees can do out there, they really won’t be able to do until much later in their career. It’s a great platform for teaching…. Not only did I get a look at the curriculum on the Freedom Star, I got to peek in at the simulators, and they are really something. It’s world’s different from when I trained here.” Randy was also impressed by the training vessel: “I think it’s awesome,” he said. “I think that it is a great opportunity to get hands-on experience with the instructors. You can get ignored sometimes when you’re working out at sea, and not receive the best on-the-job training, but on the Freedom Star, you really get a chance to get that quality training time on a ship.” The apprentices reflected on the advice their fathers had given them in preparation for attending the school, and how that advice had compared to the current facility and curriculums. “Everything that he really told me about it was to prepare me for the lifestyle and environment,” said Randy. “I knew it was going to be military-like, and I was ready for that, so I wasn’t too surprised. He prepared me before I even applied, while I was still in high school, so I was mentally ready for the training here. What stuck with me was that he said to stay focused, and not worry about what other people say. Know what you’re there for, and work hard to achieve your goals.” Christian recalled his father’s advice to him: “He told me to keep your head low, and said that people will try to shake you up, but just work hard and you’ll get through. He was here in the ’90s, class 500, but my dad was right on. It’s not as crazy as he said it was, but it’s certainly changed over the years. He had prepared me for barracks and spigot showers, but it’s way nicer than that nowadays. A lot has changed here since the ’90s.” Both apprentices emphasized their excitement to finish their training and travel the world. Randy expressed his desire to upgrade his skills and climb the ladder to third engineer, whereas Christian’s plan includes upgrading his deck department skills while sailing on as many different types of vessels as he can. “I’d really love to travel with my pops on a ship, if we can get on a ship together,” said Randy. “He’s really taught me a lot, even in the short time we worked together onboard the Freedom Star. I’ll always appreciate this time with him.” Apprentice Randy Slue (left in photo above) is pictured aboard the Freedom Star with his father QMED Randy Slue. In photo at left, Third Mate Christopher Kalinowski (second from left) and Apprentice Christian Kalinowski (right) are pictured with other mariners at the school. � 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 2019 Description An account of the resource Headlines: CRESCENT BOATMEN APPROVE CONTRACTS SEVENTH WATERFRONT CLASSIC FEATURES BOUNTIFUL CATCHES, CAMRADERIE, FELLOWSHIP TRUMP TELLS LEGISLATORS: NO JONES ACT WAIVER PROPELLER CLUB HONORS RICHMOND WITH 'SALUTE TO CONGRESS' AWARD CRESCENT CREWS RATIFY TWO-YEAR CONTRACTS PAUL HALL CENTER HOSTS ADVISORY BOARD MEETING BIPARTISAN COALITION VOICES BACKING FOR JONES ACT SIU EXECUTIVE VP TELLEZ NAMED TO KEY DOT MARITIME COMMITTEE NEW AFL-CIO REPORT REVEALS 275 DIALY U.S. WORKER DEATHS IN 2017 SIX STEWARDS ASCEND LADDER TO RECERTIFIED STATUS PASHA HAWAII MARKS CONSTRUCTION MILESTONES FOR LNG-FUELED OHANA CLASS CONTAINERSHIPS MILITARY SEALIFT COMMAND CHRISTENS USNS GUAM IN JAPAN THE OLDEST TUGBOAT MAN IN BALTIMORE MELANOMA KILLS THOUSANDS ANNUALLY IN UNITED STATES SEAFARERS WATERFRONT CLASSIC: A SOUTHERN MARYLAND TRADITION ANGLERS LAND 134 KEEPERS DURING ANNUAL CLASSIC FATHER-SON TEAMS LEARN ABOARD FREEDOM STAR 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 06/01/2019 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. 81, No. 6 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/9060c7e846ecb7bfc9853d2121f423e0.pdf 3d721f300f6606e3d2e3785aae322abb PDF Text Text MAY 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 5 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Jones Act Ship Delivered to Matson SIU-contracted Matson recently took delivery of the new containership Kaimana Hila, built by union members at Philly Shipyard. Page 4. (Photo courtesy of Matson) Jones Act Support Abounds A wave of Jones Act support has been evident throughout the first months of 2019, including during a recent event in Jacksonville, Florida. U.S. Rep. John Rutherford (R-Florida) is pictured at the podium March 22 as the Sunshine State celebrates how the nation’s freight cabotage law boosts its economy and security. Various Jones Act coverage appears on Pages 2, 3, 4 and 5. Marine Society Honors SIU President Sacco SIU President Michael Sacco (left) received a prestigious honor from the Marine Society of the City of New York for his lifetime of dedication to both the U.S. Merchant Marine and the American labor movement. He’s pictured at the awards ceremony with Capt. Bob Johnston (center), longtime executive at OSG, and Marine Society President Capt. Tim Ferrie. Page 7. White House Experience Page 6 Rule on Shore Access Page 12 Snapshots of NOAA Crews Page 24 �President’s Report Solidarity Prevails Again At press time, some 31,000 unionized grocery workers were reviewing a tentative new contract on the heels of an 11-day strike in Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. The agreement between the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) and Stop & Shop’s parent company, Netherlands-based Ahold Delhaize, preserves health care and retirement benefits, provides wage increases, and maintains time-and-a-half pay on Sunday for current members, the union reported. Strikes are always an absolute last resort, but in this case, workers had little choice. The company had proposed unreasonable cuts to workers’ take-home pay, health care and pension benefits. That’s despite management taking in more than $2 billion in 2018 and authorizing over $4 billion in stock buybacks from 2017 to 2019, the UFCW noted. In fact, Ahold Delhaize (which also owns the viciously anti-union Food Lion chain) sought to Michael Sacco cut pension benefits by more than 70 percent, raise health care premiums by nearly 90 percent and exclude spouses from health coverage. But the real story here is the workers’ solidarity and the outpouring of community support that buoyed members and their families from the five UFCW locals. Like the unionized teachers who’ve also stood up and stood together in recent years in numerous states, the grocery workers said enough is enough and proved grassroots action works. They demonstrated that unions very clearly still have power and relevance. The SIU supported this job action at rallies and with other assistance, and we’ll be there for our union brothers and sisters with money, marbles and chalk wherever and whenever needed. Autonomous Vessels Much has already been written about the possible use of autonomous ships, and several European-based firms currently are testing crewless vessels. Considering the news we often see about massive, global-scale hacking and data breaches, ransomware and more, hey, what could possibly go wrong on 1,000-foot ships totally controlled by computers? On a more serious note, fatalities in some of the early usage of driverless automobiles are the ultimate signal that caution is in order. Listen, we’ve never tried to stand in the way of progress. In our industry, the norm 30 years ago provided crews on containerships and tankers somewhere in the range of 35 to 40 mariners top to bottom. Today, as technology develops into automated systems, crew sizes for vessels three to four times larger are in the 18-22 range. But automation should be a tool to assist workers in making their jobs safer and more efficient – not a means to replace them. Very simply, workers and the need for jobs must be part of the discussion regarding automation. As systems and technology evolve, so must workers and their unions. We will identify the new opportunities that present themselves in the years ahead. We’ll develop and provide training and education to prepare our members for these new avenues. The SIU and the labor movement as a whole will make sure people are prominently considered as changes continue affecting everyday life. We’ll ensure that new technologies being introduced into our industry are done with safety in the forefront of planning, and we’ll stand up for our members and other workers to make sure they reap the benefits of such change and are not cast overboard. Even though autonomous ships on any sort of significant scale are many, many years away, our bottom line is that the human element must be as important as financial factors and convenience when change is considered and implemented. O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 81 Number 5 May 2019 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, Nick Merrill; Piney Point Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2019 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. 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 Legislators Pronounce Bipartisan Backing of Jones Act to President Attacks on America’s freight cabotage law – and the hundreds of thousands of U.S. jobs that go with it – are nothing new, but neither is solid bipartisan support for the century-strong statute. The latter point again came into focus March 13, in the form of a bipartisan letter sent by members of Congress to President Trump. U.S. Rep. Steven Palazzo (R-Mississippi) led a group of his House colleagues on the letter expressing strong opposition to temporarily waiving the Jones Act for the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico. The Jones Act requires ships moving between domestic ports to be American-crewed, Americanowned, American-built, and American-flagged. The act helps ensure thousands of shipboard and shipbuilding jobs aren’t lost to unfair overseas competition, while protecting U.S. national defense interests. A new study by PricewaterhouseCoopers (released earlier this year) found that the Jones Act supports nearly 650,000 American jobs and contributes $154 billion to the nation’s economy annually. Palazzo’s office said the letter “follows a short-sighted Congressional proposal to permanently repeal the Jones Act.” “Protecting our national defense is a sworn responsibility of every member in our legislative body,” the congressman said. “I believe that there are very few industries that are as important to the economic health and security of our nation as those who comprise our maritime industries. Understanding the potential ramifications associated with waiving the Jones Act and allowing foreign imports of any sort could seriously harm our national security. From both an economic perspective and a national security perspective, we cannot sit idly by as uninformed individuals in Congress attempt to erode our American maritime industry.” The full text of the letter is as follows: “We are writing in strong support of the Jones Act and to voice our opposition to waiving the Jones Act for Puerto Rico. The Jones Act has been the law of the land for nearly a century supporting our economy and protecting our national security. As Members of Congress that represent the maritime and shipbuilding industry, we are concerned that any consideration by your Administration for a long-term Jones Act waiver to provide liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Puerto Rico could severely damage our domestic maritime industry. The Jones Act provides that ships moving between American ports are U.S.-crewed, U.S.-owned, U.S.-built, and U.S.flagged. It sustains thousands of high-paying jobs and ensures the military has access to U.S. flagged ships for the delivery of vital military assets. Waiving the Jones Act would help foreign entities, harm our American maritime base, and risk our military readiness. A waiver for Puerto Rico is unnecessary and in direct conflict with existing law. For the next four years, Puerto Rico’s infrastructure lacks the capacity to receive large scale LNG deliveries. Instead of a waiver, we should look toward recapitalizing an American-built LNG carrier fleet. This option is consistent with your “Buy American, Hire American” agenda. Furthermore, the Jones Act may only be waived in the interests of national defense. Puerto Rico has no known national security justification for the waiver. Senior members of the military have consistently expressed the importance of the Jones Act to our national defense and sealift capacity. Vice Chairman of your Joint Chiefs of Staff, General (Paul) Selva has said, “I am an ardent supporter of the Jones Act,” and that it “supports a viable shipbuilding industry. “Thank you for your consideration of our perspective on the importance of the Jones Act. We look forward to working with you on this issue.” Signing the document were Palazzo and fellow Republicans Don Young (Alaska), Peter King (New York), Garret Graves (Louisiana), Duncan Hunter (California), Ralph Abraham (Louisiana), Clay Higgins (Louisiana), Michael Guest (Mississippi), David McKinley (West Virginia), Brian Fitzpatrick (Pennsylvania), Brian Babin (Texas), Tom Graves (Georgia), Lee Zeldin (New York), Mike Bost (Illinois) and Bradley Byrne (Alabama). Democrat signees were John Garamendi (California), Joe Courtney (Connecticut), Alan Lowenthal (California) and Donald Norcross (New Jersey). SIU Members Examine 2018 Files Financial Committee Approves Records Seven Seafarers have signed off on the SIU’s 2018 financial records. As mandated by the union’s constitution, a group of rank-andfile Seafarers (elected by fellow members) each year examines the organization’s financial records for the previous calendar year. Most recently, this process happened in early April – first with the financial committee’s election in Piney Point, Maryland, and then in the ensuing days when they reviewed the paperwork at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Maryland. The committee found that the SIU’s financial records for 2018 are in good order. Their report, filed with the secretary-treasurer’s office, will be read in all ports and presented for approval at the union’s May membership meetings. Serving on the committee were Recertified Bosun Karl Mayhew (chairman), QMED Riley Donahue, QMED Donald Lumpkins, QMED Ann Mensch, QMED Timothy Pillsworth, Recertified Steward Exxl Ronquillo and Recertified Steward Glenn Williams. They were elected April 8 at the monthly membership meeting at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. The members handled their tasks in accordance with Article X, Section 14-c of the SIU Constitution, which lists the duties of the annual financial committee along with rules and procedures for electing the group. In part, their report reads, “We, the committee, do hereby state that we have examined the procedure for controlling of the funds of the union and have found that the system of internal control is adequate to safeguard them properly…. We find that the headquarters of the union is taking all steps possible to safeguard union funds and to see that the disbursements of the union are in accordance with the authority delegated to them and that, at the same time, there is a striving effort to increase day-today efficiency of our operation.” The members reported that they met with representatives from the certified public accounting firm that periodically audits the union’s books and records. Those representatives explained their procedures for checking the secretary-treasurer’s financial report of the union’s records, and they also further discussed the SIU’s overall financial operation. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel also worked with the committee “and made himself and the records of his office available” to the group, according to the report. Pictured from left to right in the photo at left are (seated) QMED Donald Lumpkins, Recertified Steward Glenn Williams, Recertified Steward Exxl Ronquillo, (standing) SIU Asst. VP Pat Vandegrift, QMED Riley Donahue, Recertified Bosun Karl Mayhew, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, QMED Timothy Pillsworth and QMED Ann Mensch. In the other photo, committee members begin their work. May 2019 �U.S. Rep. John Rutherford (foreground) reaffirms his backing of the maritime industry. SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (at podium) addresses the Jacksonville crowd. Sunshine State Celebrates Jones Act Domestic Maritime Industry Creates 65,990 Jobs in Florida The SIU recently participated in a bipartisan celebration of the domestic maritime industry’s hugely positive effects on Florida. Members of both major political parties from around the state also joined the Florida Maritime Partnership (FMP) and the American Maritime Partnership (AMP) in Jacksonville and Tampa on March 22 to announce the 25 percent growth of domestic maritime industry jobs in Florida. SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey was a featured speaker at the Jacksonville event, which took place next to the SIU-crewed, Crowley-owned El Coqui. Corgey shared a story about his grandfather’s Navy ship being refueled by the U.S. Merchant Marine during World War II. “We have a merchant marine because of the Jones Act,” Corgey said. “God bless America, God bless my grandfather, and God bless the Jones Act.” According to the findings of a new report conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers on behalf of the Transportation Institute, Florida ranks second in the nation for the number of domestic maritime jobs, employing at least 65,990 individuals and generating more than $3.73 billion in worker income. The industry produces $14.6 billion annually for the Florida economy. “The importance of the maritime industry to both Florida and the United States cannot be overstated. A robust maritime industry means a strong economy, good jobs, and enhanced national security. I’m proud to support the work of the Florida and American Maritime Partnerships, and today’s effort to highlight the industry’s vital role to our nation,” said U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist (D-Florida). “The strength of Northeast Florida’s domestic maritime industry helps position our region as the logistics hub on the eastern seaboard. Our vessel-operating companies, shipyards, and maritime professionals create thousands of jobs each year and propel our economy forward. In Congress, I am proud to support pro-maritime policy such as protecting the Jones Act and investing in our seaports,” said U.S. Rep. John Rutherford (R-Florida). “Ports play a vital role in Florida’s economy and produce stable jobs for our workforce,” said U.S. Rep. Al Lawson (DFlorida). “This recent study is evident that Jacksonville’s maritime industry is essential to the state’s overall economic growth. Our hard-working men and women who crew the vessels work in this critical sector to ensure our national security, stimulate trade and promote economic prosperity.” “This is good news for Florida and the greater Tampa Bay area and demonstrates the impact the maritime industry has on our economy,” said U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-Florida). “With 15 deep-water ports, including Port Manatee, Florida has an in- The SIU-crewed El Coqui served as a backdrop at the Jacksonville gathering, as did containers from Seafarers-contracted TOTE Maritime. May 2019 SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (standing third from left) and Port Agent Ashley Nelson (standing second from right) pose with SIU members Recertified Bosun Abel Vazquez Torres, AB Victor Cortes, AB Christian Reyes Herencia, AB Manuel Rodriguez Maldonado, Recertified Steward Juan Vallejo Hernandez, Chief Cook Bryan Alvarez and SA La’Sonia Randolph. credible opportunity to grow its maritime industry to help diversify our economy, create jobs and move goods and services.” “The impact of the domestic maritime industry in the state is undeniable – delivering over 65,000 jobs and generating nearly $4 billion in income across Florida. The Jones Act ensures these jobs go to American workers, living and working in our communities. It is essential that we continue to uphold the law for these very real economic reasons,” said Florida State Senate Minority Leader Audrey Gibson (D-Duval). “Across Florida and the country, the hard-working men and women of the domestic maritime industry are delivering for a better tomorrow,” said Florida State Rep. Jackie Toledo (R-Tampa). “With nearly 65,000 jobs, over $14.6 billion in economic impact, and $3.73 billion in worker income, the domestic maritime industry is vital in building and expanding Florida’s thriving economy.” “The state of Florida is a leader in the domestic maritime industry,” said James L. Henry, chairman and president of the Transportation Institute. “The findings in our most recent study demonstrate the strength and necessity of the Jones Act, which serves as the backbone of the American maritime industry, the U.S. industrial base, and job creation for the hard-working men and women that crew the vessels delivering both in times of war and peace.” “Quite simply, the Jones Act is American security,” said Matt Woodruff, president of the American Maritime Partnership, to which the SIU is affiliated. “In addition to the job creation benefits detailed in this study, our American mariners are relied on by defense leaders to project American force overseas in a national emergency. Alongside our waterfront workers, they are the eyes and ears of homeland security on our nation’s coasts and waterways. Our American-controlled fleet provides economic security, ensuring that our nation’s internal freight transportation system, including fuel deliveries from American refineries to Florida, is not subject to foreign interference. American maritime jobs, guaranteed by the Jones Act, make this possible.” Thanks to the Jones Act, the domestic maritime industry now employs approximately 650,0000 Americans across all 50 states, creates $41 billion in labor income for American workers and adds more than $154.8 billion in annual economic output each year. Nationally, there are more than 40,000 American vessels – built in American shipyards, crewed by American mariners, and owned by American companies – that operate in U.S. waters daily. Seafarers LOG 3 �Matson Takes Delivery of Kaimana Hila SIU-contracted Matson took delivery of the second of two Aloha Class containerships, the Kaimana Hila, on March 28. The Jones Act vessel was built by union members at Philly Shipyard. Kaimana Hila is a Hawaiian transliteration for “Diamond Head,” the name of Hawaii’s iconic landmark crater near Waikiki Beach. The new vessel is the sister ship to the Daniel K. Inouye, which was christened in June 2018 and went into service in November 2018. The two vessels, at 850 feet long and 50,794 DWT, are the largest containerships ever built in a U.S. shipyard. Though bigger, the ships are also designed to accommodate future needs by being able to navigate safely into some of Hawaii’s smaller ports. Steinar Nerbovik, Philly Shipyard president and CEO, stated, “Matson is a firstclass customer and on behalf of all of the men and women of the shipyard, we thank them for their trust and confidence in us. By all measures, Kaimana Hila will be another wonderful addition to Matson’s fleet, servicing the containership trade between the U.S. West Coast and Hawaii.” The two ships are the first of four new vessels that Matson will put into its Hawaii service during the next 18 months. Kaimana Hila is the 30th vessel built at Philly Shipyard in the company’s 20-year history. “This is a proud day for everyone at Matson,” said Matt Cox, the company’s chairman and CEO, during a ceremony at the shipyard. “Daniel K. Inouye has performed well in its first four months of service, and we are excited to have Kaimana Hila joining it soon. These new vessels herald the beginning of a new era in our Hawaii service and will allow us to serve our customers better than ever for decades to come.” U.S. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (D-Hawaii) officially christened the vessel by breaking a ceremonial bottle of champagne against the ship’s navigation bridge superstructure on March 9. The ceremony was attended by approximately 70 representatives of Matson and PSI. When the first vessel in the class was christened, Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby spoke at the ceremony, saying, “America has a proud maritime history, but it has never been just about ships and ports. To me it’s more about the American mariner; the men and women who have advanced the American way of life by serving at sea, and the men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine. They are always among the first called to action to support and sustain our armed forces in national and international crises. Those same mariners will breathe life into this new ship and sail her confidently and competently for years to come.” The new vessels incorporate a number of “green ship technology” features that The union-built ship will carry an SIU crew. (Photo courtesy of Matson) help protect the environment, including a more fuel-efficient hull design, dual-fuel engines that can be adapted to use lique- Workmen Continue to Make Progress On Jones Act Containership in Texas Pasha Hawaii’s LNG-Powered MV George III Navigates Through Crucial Main Engine Test Seafarers-contracted Pasha Hawaii on March 5 announced factory-acceptance testing of the main engine has been completed for the MV George III, the first of two liquefied natural gas (LNG)fueled containerships being built in Brownsville, Texas. The two Ohana Class vessels will join the company’s fleet in providing service between Hawaii and the mainland U.S. The Jones Act ships are scheduled for delivery in 2020. According to Pasha, “Both the main and auxiliary engines for the MV George III were tested on LNG and diesel fuel, as the two new 774-foot containerships will operate fully on LNG from day one in service. Each vessel will carry 2,525 TEUs, with a sailing speed of 23 knots.” Pasha Hawaii, an independent operating subsidiary of The Pasha Group, operates a fleet of six Jones Act-qualified vessels out of multiple port terminals. The Jones Act guarantees that the transportation of merchandise between two U.S. points is carried out by vessels that are crewed, built, flagged and owned American. Supported by broad bipartisan majorities in Congress and top U.S. national security officials, the freight cabotage law promotes the maintenance of the nation’s vitally important maritime industrial base, ensuring that American jobs are not shipped overseas and that defense capabilities and readiness not outsourced to foreign nations. One day before Pasha’s announcement, the Transportation Institute reported that the domestic maritime industry now em- ploys almost 650,000 Americans across all 50 states and contributes $154 billion to the nation’s economic growth annually. That data comes from an extensive study by PricewaterhouseCoopers. The graphic directly above is an artist’s rendering of the new ship. The photo at right, above shows the dualfueled main engine of the MV George III will meet Tier III emission standards. (Graphic and Photo courtesy Pasha Hawaii) 4 Seafarers LOG fied natural gas (LNG), environmentally safe double-hull fuel tanks and fresh water ballast systems. Coast Guard Commandant: ‘The Jones Act is Important To the Security of the Nation’ The commanding officer of the U.S. Coast Guard recently left no doubt about his strong support of the nation’s freight cabotage law. During a March 26 budget hearing conducted by the House Appropriations Homeland Security Subcommittee, U.S. Rep. Steven Palazzo (R-Mississippi) asked Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Karl Schultz: “The Jones Act, why is it important to our economic and national security?” Shultz replied, “The Jones Act is important to the security of the nation, the merchant fleet here, and our ability to move military supplies and military out loads. Let’s say we had a large-theater war in the Pacific and that part of the world – that (The Jones Act) is important. I think economically, folks have invested in that. The Jones Act gets attacked that there’s cheaper ways to do business. “The Jones Act has been in place here for about 100 years, sir, and it serves a very important – continually important – service,” Schultz continued. “I think before there’s any meddling with the Jones Act, people should really step back and have an informed conversation about all the puts and takes and the impacts to national security.” The Jones Act requires that cargo moving between domestic ports is carried aboard vessels that are crewed, built, flagged and owned American. Last September, Seafarers’ Rights International (SRI), an independent center for mariner advocacy and research, released a report titled “Cabotage Laws of the World.” The findings of their global cabotage study provided the first independent analysis of maritime cabotage laws since the early 1990s. Based on extensive research involving 140 countries, the SRI report revealed Adm. Karl Schultz Commandant U.S. Coast Guard that 91 countries representing 80 percent of the world’s coastal United Nations Maritime States have cabotage laws restricting foreign maritime activity in their domestic coastal trades. Merriam-Webster defines cabotage as “trade or transport in coastal waters or airspace or between two points within a country.” May 2019 �Allies Testify on Future of Maritime Industry USCG Commandant, Maritime Administrator, FMC Chair Support Mariners During a recent hearing on “Federal Maritime Agencies: Ensuring a Safe, Secure, and Competitive Future,” the importance of the Jones Act and the U.S.-flag fleet remained at the forefront of the discussion. Providing testimony to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation Subcommittee on Security were Maritime Administration (MARAD) Administrator Mark Buzby, Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Karl Schultz and Federal Maritime Commission Chairman Michael Khouri. All three men provided a written testimony, then answered questions posed by the senators seated on the committee. Buzby said in his written statement, “Congress recognized long ago that a U.S. Merchant Marine composed of the best-equipped, safest, and most suitable types of vessels, constructed in the United States, and crewed by trained and efficient citizen mariners is critical to national defense and robust domestic and foreign commerce. MARAD’s mission is to foster, promote, and develop our maritime industry to meet the Nation’s economic and security needs. “The U.S. Merchant Marine is a fundamental component of our national defense strategy. Our strategic sealift relies on a Government-owned fleet and assured access to commercially operated U.S.-flag vessels, and the intermodal networks that these vessel operators maintain, to transport equipment and supplies to deploy and sustain our military forces anywhere in the world. Critical to both Governmentowned and commercial U.S.-flag vessels is an adequate supply of qualified U.S. mariners to crew them. Currently, we face readiness challenges because of aging Government-owned vessels, historically low numbers of U.S.-flag vessels operating in international trade, and ensuring we have a sufficient number of qualified U.S. mariners that would be needed in the event of a long-term national emergency,” he wrote. Schultz also addressed the importance of mariners, saying, “Service readiness starts with our most valuable asset – our people. We must continue to recruit, train, support, and retain a mission-ready total workforce that not only positions the Service to excel across the full spectrum of Coast Guard missions, but is representative of the diverse Nation we serve.... Adequate increases to depot maintenance funding, coupled with strategic human capital investments, are critical to addressing these readiness challenges.” In a brief summary, Khouri explained the Federal Maritime Commission’s relationship with the shipping industry: “The FMC is an independent agency with specialized experience in the international ocean transportation industry. We administer a focused antitrust regulatory regime tailored to the particular factors affecting the ocean liner trade.... While the Federal Maritime Commission is not charged with a national security role in the same sense as the U.S. Coast Guard or the U.S. Maritime Administration, America’s economic security very much depends on a competitive and efficient ocean transportation system. That is the Commission’s mission.” He also elaborated on cabotage laws, saying, “What economists call the ‘invisible hand’ is not the only force that guides the global shipping industry. Many nations throughout the world go to great lengths to support national ocean transportation companies, including use of indirect subsidies and direct capital infusion to maintain the national company’s solvency.... For the moment, such links between governments and national carriers hold the potential to provide lower freight costs and greater service choices for imports and exports. Some economists argue that such foreign state support tends to distort otherwise competitive markets.” In his testimony, Buzby also mentioned the state of the U.S.-flag fleet, saying, “As I stated earlier, the number of vessels in the U.S.-flag, oceangoing fleet has reached a low point. I am concerned that the current fleet size could impact our ability to quickly assemble an adequate number of qualified mariners with the proficiency to operate large ships (unlimited horsepower and unlimited tonnage) Senator Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi) Congressman John Garamendi (D-California) During the last Congress, Wicker and Garamendi introduced the Energizing American Shipbuilding Act. This legislation would guarantee that fixed percentages of all exported LNG and crude oil would travel on ships that are built, crewed and flagged American starting in 2025. If enacted, the proposal would grow the U.S.-flag fleet and support thousands of new jobs for American mariners, shipyards, and the domestic maritime industry. Wicker and Garamendi plan to reintroduce the bill this Congress. Continued on Page 7 Rep. Garamendi, Sen. Wicker Urge Support of American Maritime Bipartisan backing of the U.S. maritime industry remains evident in the nation’s capital. In one recent example, U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) and U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi) on March 26 sent a letter urging U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin to ensure that U.S.-flagged, U.S.-crewed vessels play a key role in the transportation of liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports to China. Recent reports indicate that an agreement to end the retaliatory tariffs between the U.S. and China will include substantial commitments by the Chinese to purchase U.S. LNG exports. Wicker’s and Garamendi’s letter urges the administration to use this opportunity to create new jobs in America and reinvigorate the U.S.-flag international fleet. “America is on pace to be the thirdlargest producer of LNG exports by 2020. If we don’t use these trade negotiations to require our LNG exports to ship on U.S. vessels, the United States will continue exporting its LNG on foreignflagged ships manned by foreign crews,” said Garamendi. “The U.S.-flag international fleet has declined 60 percent since 1991 to just 80 vessels. These negotiations give us the opportunity to reenergize American shipyards and rebuild our nation’s dwindling merchant fleet, which provides a vital economic stimulus and critical sealift capacity for our military. I look forward to establishing a dialogue with the administration on this matter, and I thank Senator Wicker for leading the effort in the Senate to grow the U.S.flag fleet.” “The United States should seize every opportunity to bolster our domestic maritime industry,” Wicker said. “As we pursue stronger trade agreements with China and other nations, I urge the administration to consider supporting the American merchant marine fleet by requiring liquid natural gas and crude oil exports be transported by U.S.-flagged and -crewed vessels.” Apostleship of the Sea Backs Jones Act, WWII Mariners The Apostleship of the Sea of the United States (AOS-USA) recently passed separate resolutions supporting the Jones Act and active U.S. Merchant Mariners, plus U.S. Merchant Mariners of World War II. During its annual conference last month in Dania, Florida, the organization emphasized that the Jones Act is vital to America. The AOS-USA also said it’s time to deliver on long-overdue recognition for the civilian mariners who were instrumental to Allied victory in the war. In its statement titled “A Resolution in Support of the United States Merchant Marine & the Jones Act,” the organization noted: “Whereas Catholic maritime ministry is called to focus on the needs of all seafarers, their families, and cadets. May 2019 “Whereas, United States Merchant mariners, their families and cadets are important members of our United States Catholic community. “Whereas the Jones Act is the law which requires that any cargo transported between two points in the U.S. by water move on American vessels crewed by American workers. “Whereas, the Jones Act helps support nearly 650,000 jobs across America, “Whereas, the Jones Act provides important national, homeland, and economic security benefits. “Be it resolved that the Apostleship of the Sea of the United States of America at its 18th Annual National Conference, joining together with The American Maritime Partnership, The Navy League, The Transportation Institute, United States maritime unions, and maritime shipping companies, expresses its continued support of the Jones Act.” The AOS-USA was no less compelling in its support of World War II merchant crews. That statement read in part: “Whereas Catholic maritime ministry is called to bring pastoral care to retired merchant mariners. “Whereas United States Merchant Marine Veterans from World War II are members of our community of maritime. “Whereas the World War II Merchant Mariner Veteran played a critical role in victory over Fascism. “Whereas unlike other veterans of the Greatest Generation, these veterans never received the wartime benefits that President Franklin Roosevelt promised for their service and sacrifice. “Whereas H.R. 154 would complete the long-overdue promise and properly recognize Merchant Mariner World War II service. The legislation would provide a one-time lump sum of $25,000 to each of surviving WWII Merchant Marines. “Whereas H.R. 550 would present the Editor’s note: The full letter is linked in a March 26 post in the Labor/Maritime News section of the SIU website. Congressional Gold Medal to World War II United States Merchant Marine veterans, and would be an appropriate way to shed further light on the service of the merchant mariners in World War II and the instrumental role they played in winning that war. “Whereas many of these veterans are now well into their 90s, and fewer than five thousand World War II United States Merchant Mariners still are living. “Be it resolved that the Apostleship of the Sea of the United States of America, at its 18th Annual Conference in Dania, Florida, calls on Congress to pass of H.R. 154 & H.R. 550, and endorses the efforts of the American Merchant Marine Veterans to gain these long-delayed benefits for these veterans.” The AOS-USA is self-described as “the professional association of Catholic Maritime Ministers, Cruise Ship Priests, Mariners and all those who support the ministry to the People of the Sea. AOS-USA provides mutual support, continuing education, and intercommunication for Catholic Maritime Ministers.” Seafarers LOG 5 �Paul Hall Center Apprentice Recalls Oval Office Experience Corey Daniel Reseburg’s first trip to the nation’s capital will be tough to top. An apprentice at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, Reseburg on March 4 participated in an Oval Office ceremony where President Trump signed an executive order aimed at facilitating military veterans’ entry to the U.S. maritime industry. A U.S. Army veteran, Reseburg was one of 18 people standing behind the president as he signed the order. Attendees also included Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao, Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta, Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby, Deputy Maritime Administrator Richard Balzano, and other mariners. Reseburg, 32, appreciated the experience but wasn’t overwhelmed by it. “I’d never been to D.C. before,” he recalled. “Just to be able to go the Oval Office and meet the president was quite the opportunity. Standing there in the office, there’s a lot of history. I felt honored, and it felt like the president was happy to sign the order and support veterans coming into the industry.” Reseburg said that although his time at the White House was “short and sweet, probably 15 to 20 minutes,” he got to meet “quite a few people.” That list included Chao, a longtime friend of the SIU and supporter of American maritime. “I got to speak with her, which was pretty cool,” Reseburg noted. “I also got to meet Admiral Buzby and got to see some colleagues from the Great Lakes.” Asked about his nerves, the Jacksonville, Florida, native replied, “I was a little nervous to speak to everybody and meet them for the first time, but not really very much. Being with a group of people, it wasn’t so bad.” He said Trump handed out markers Paul Hall Center Apprentice Corey Daniel Reseburg (second from right in photo above) joined other White House attendees for an impromptu news conference after the executive order’s signing. In photo below, Reseburg is pictured on the campus in Piney Point, Maryland. from his desk that he uses to sign bills, and Buzby got a signed copy of the executive order (one supported by the SIU). As for his post-Army career choice, Reseburg is optimistic. He separated from the service in 2008 and then “had been working dead-end jobs for a while,” Reseburg said. “I met a guy and asked him what he did for a living. He gave me the number to the SIU and the rest is history.” The connection wasn’t purely luck, though. Reseburg said that, living in a port city, “I had always had an interest” in the maritime industry. “I guess living in Jacksonville, seeing those big ships, I wondered, how do I get there?” His training at the school in Piney Point, Maryland, is “moving right along,” he said. He’s unsure which department he’ll choose but is “leaning engine.” Spotlight on Mariner Health People With Sickle Cell Disease Inherit Condition from Parents Editor’s note: The following article is provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. Sickle cell disease is a group of genetic blood disorders that are manifested when an individual inherits two abnormal copies of the hemoglobin gene, one from each parent. This gene occurs in chromosome 11. The most common type of Sickle cell disease is called, Sickle Cell Anemia. It results in an abnormality in the oxygen-carrying protein hemoglobin which is found in the red blood cell. Under certain incidences, this irregularity leads to a rigid, sickle-like shape in the cells. Under normal circumstances, red blood cells are flexible, round in shape and move easily through the blood vessels. In the case of sickle cell anemia, however, red blood cells become rigid, sticky and are shaped like a sickle or a half moon. These irregular-shaped cells can get stuck in the small blood vessels, and thereby slow down blood flow and oxygen to vital organs. Symptoms associated with sickle cell disease usually are seen during the infancy stages of an individual’s development, around five to six months of age. A number of health problems can arise during this period including pain, sickle cell crisis, anemia, edema of the hands and feet, bacterial infections, delayed growth, vision problems, acute chest syndrome, pulmonary hypertension and organ damage. A stroke is also possible. With respect to timing, sickle cell attacks can happen during periods when infected indi- 6 Seafarers LOG viduals are experiencing high levels of stress; are in environments with frequent temperature changes; or are experiencing dehydration. High altitudes are also regarded as triggering mechanisms. Once a sickle cell crisis has surfaced, it could last from five to seven days. Most individuals are hospitalized at this stage. People having only one copy of the previously cited abnormal gene usually don’t have any of the symptoms mentioned above. These individuals are said to have Sickle Cell Trait and are referred to as carriers. You must have both abnormal copies of the gene to have Sickle Cell Disease. Currently, there is no cure for this disease and, as a consequence, the more than 4.4 million people who have the disease must rely on preventative measures and treatment for relief. An estimated 43 million have the sickle cell trait. The care of people with Sickle Cell Disease normally will consist of the prevention of infections with vaccines, antibiotics, high fluid intake, folic acid, and pain medications. Other treatments may include blood transfusions and medications such as hydroxyurea. Sickle Cell Disease diagnosis is done by a blood test. Those who carry the sickle cell trait should see a genetic counselor before trying to have children. It is advised that both partners be tested. It’s always good practice to do the following: eat a healthy diet, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, take medications as directed, avoid stress as much as possible, and see your doctor at the first signs of a problem. Healthful Recipe Baked Chili Lime Rockfish Servings: 25 Ingredients 6 2/3 pounds rockfish fillets Marinade recipe: 2/3 cup lime juice 2/3 cup lemon juice 2/3 cup water 1/3 cup olive oil ½ cup cilantro, chopped 2 2/3 tablespoons garlic clove, minced fine 2 2/3 tablespoons chili powder, ground 1 tablespoon paprika 1 tablespoon granulated garlic 1 tablespoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon white pepper, ground Fresh parsley, chopped Lime cut into twists Preparation Place all of the marinade ingredients into a large bowl or container and whisk together to combine. Marinate the fish for at least 3 hr prior to cooking. Discard used marinate. Grill the fish on an oiled grill or flat top grill, on med-high heat 3-5 minutes on each side until done. Place in 2” hotel pans. (Fish can also be par-cooked on grill then finished in the oven) Cover and serve. Garnish with chopped parsley and lime or lemon twists. Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 150 Calories; 5g fat (30.3% calories from fat); 23g protein; 3g carbohydrate; trace dietary fiber; 42 mg cholesterol; 308 mg sodium. Exchanges: 0 grain (starch); 3 lean meat; 0 vegetable; 0 fruit; ½ fat. Provided by Chef Robert “RJ” Johnson of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship May 2019 �SIU President Michael Sacco (right) addresses the audience. (Photo by Howard Hill) Marine Society Honors SIU President Group Lauds Sacco’s Career Achievements A prestigious maritime organization recently saluted the outstanding career of the SIU’s top official. SIU President Michael Sacco on April 8 received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Marine Society of the City of New York for his years of dedication to the U.S. Merchant Marine. Marine Society President Capt. Tim Ferrie described Sacco’s accomplishments as “second to none.” The yearly event took place in New York City. In part, the award itself cited Sacco’s “distinguished service in the field of labor relations representing merchant mariners, industrial and government workers over a 50-year career…. Michael Sacco is a tireless supporter of Seafarers and their families, advocating for improved medical, education and retirement benefits…. Michael has given selflessly to benefit the merchant mariner through the years, quietly and without fanfare, as becomes a seafarer.” The framed certificate also noted some of the numerous gains that have occurred both within the SIU and at its affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, thanks to Sacco’s leadership. Capt. Robert Johnston, retired Overseas Shipholding Group executive, introduced Sacco and pointed out they have known each other for nearly 40 years. “Mike has led the SIU to new heights in jobs and benefit plans and is the unquestioned heavyweight of maritime labor,” Johnston said. “Mike works and fights hard for his sailors – for their jobs, their working conditions, their benefits, their pensions. Don’t ever get in the way of Mike fighting for his sailors.” Addressing the crowd of more than 200, Sacco stated, “My hat is off both to the Marine Society of New York and to Snug Harbor, which I know is a separate but closely aligned organization. Snug Harbor in particular has done so much great work to help retired mariners, including a lot of our old NMU retirees. And the Marine Society has helped people throughout our industry, largely through providing educational opportunities. “In that way, my union has a lot in common with you,” he continued. “We put a premium on training and education, because nothing is more important to the rank-and-file member. I’m sure the crew of the Green Lake would tell you that they couldn’t have saved those people without their safety training, much of it provided by union-affiliated schools. In fact, I’m proud to point out that every single SIU member on that ship when the rescue took place has trained at our school in Maryland.” (Editor’s note: The SIU-crewed Green Lake also was honored by the Marine Society for a rescue its crew executed Dec. 31, 2018, as reported in the February LOG.) He added, “I’m proud to have spent my life in this industry. The U.S. Merchant Marine is vital to America’s national, economic and homeland security. Who wouldn’t be excited to be part of it? And I’m grateful to have found a home with the SIU many years ago. Our union has been a source of good, family-wage jobs almost since our founding in 1938. We deliver the goods for our country, for our troops when needed, and for our own members.” Sacco concluded, “You’ve given me a lifetime achievement award – and my lifetime of experience tells me that we’ve still got many great days ahead in the American maritime industry. I can see it in the new members joining the SIU. I can see it in the new vessels being built in union yards across the country. We have tremendous potential for growth in the international trade, and we’ve got solid, bipartisan support on the domestic side as well. Our future is bright as long as we’re willing to work for it. And I can tell you for sure, the SIU is willing to work for it.” Jones Act, U.S.-Flag Fleet Receive Strong Backing During Senate Hearing Continued from Page 5 needed for surge and sustainment sealift operations during a mobilization that lasts more than six months. We may be short of the number of mariners needed to meet crewing requirements beyond those first six months. While, historically, the men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine have voluntarily shipped out in times of need, and even extended their time at sea beyond normal tours when called upon to do so, it is important to note that commercial mariners are under no legal obligation to do so. “MARAD is conducting a survey of mariners to as- May 2019 Marine Society President Capt. Tim Ferrie (right) congratulates SIU President Michael Sacco. certain with more certainty their potential availability and willingness to ‘answer the call.’ The results will help clarify the size of the pool of qualified mariners upon which our Nation could potentially rely in times of need,” he said. When asked by Subcommittee Chairman Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) about the prevalence of cabotage laws around the world, Buzby replied, “Over 98 countries that have their version of cabotage law, similar to the Jones Act.… A recent study revealed that. There are so many aspects where the Jones Act impacts our both economic security and national security. I would offer just one and that is that the operators of our Jones Act fleet that ply the waters every single day of this nation, inland waters, coastal waters, they are invested in our country. They are our countrymen. They know what normal looks like. They know when something doesn’t look quite right and it’s out of sorts. They will say something if they see something. You cannot say that about a foreign operator in our waters. They have no equity. They have no reason to want to report. Our people ply those waters every day. They make their living there. They are members of our community. If they see something, they will say something. That is a bona fide layer of our national security.” Khouri followed up on the administrator’s points: “I grew up in the U.S.-flag fleet inland, as the admiral knows. I had the opportunity after law school to work in this precise area, worked on trying to put together cabotage trades and trying to remember France, Germany, Venezuela, throughout the river system, Indonesia, and last, one of the most interesting, to move coal on the Grand Canal in China. And so, I have some hands-on experience in dealing with those cabotage rules with various countries as you mentioned, and they’re tough. They are not receptive to foreigners coming into their area. And so I agree with everything Admiral Buzby said.... I never have understood just the simplest fundamental point that with the thousands of miles of U.S. coastline and all the business that we have here, why would we unilaterally disarm ourselves to all of these other countries. That never made any sense to me.” Seafarers LOG 7 �MEMBERS WELCOME HQ OFFICIALS – Pictured recently at the New Orleans hall are (photo above, from left) SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, SA Abraham Pena, SIU President Michael Sacco, SA James St. Amand, Recertified Bosun Stanley Daranda, QMED Grant Simonson, AB Aurelio Ortiz, AB Arthur Price and AB Harold Christopher. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU CELEBRATING SAFETY – Recertified Bosun Oliver Balico (standing third from left) recently earned a monthly safety award from Maersk Line, Limited aboard the Safmarine Kuramo. He received it in front of the whole crew and was commended for continuous contributions and long-standing commitment to safety. ABOARD ISLA BELLA – Pictured on the TOTE Maritime vessel in Puerto Rico are ABs Victor Velez-Perez, Ricky Rivera-Martinez, and John Diaz-Hernandez, all Puerto Rico natives and residents of the island. 8 Seafarers LOG HAPPY REUNION – AB James Osei Bonsu (left) recently reconnected with his brother, Charles (right), in Bremerhaven, Germany, while the Seafarer was working aboard the Charleston Express (Marine Personnel and Provisioning). They hadn’t seen each other in 20 years. Charles lives in Hanover, roughly a two-hour drive from where the vessel docked. ABOARD ATB LIBERTY – Aboard the Crowley vessel in Texas City, Texas, are (from left) SIU Patrolman J.B. Niday, Capt. Kenny Graybill, Chief Mate Caleb Buckley, AB/Utility Filmore Solomon and AB/Cook Robert Leslie. May 2019 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU MILESTONES IN HAWAII – AB Rolando Pangan (right in photo at left, with administrative assistant Shureen Yatchmenoff) recently received his A-seniority book at the Honolulu hall, while SA Shana Zeidenberg (left in photo at right, with Safety Director Amber Akana) picked up her full B-book. SLNC GOODWILL CREW – Seafarers and officers are pictured in front of the Chesapeake Crewing vessel at Keppel Shipyard in Singapore. The SIU crew includes Bosun Wilson Trayvilla, AB Wallace William, AB Celso Gutierrez, AB Mario Loria, STOW Tommy Benton, Oiler Phil Leger, Oiler Mason McGowan, Steward/Baker Janelle Harper, ACU Nicoll Rodriguez, SA Fahd Saleh, Apprentice Samuel Reyes and Apprentice Robert Mason. ABOARD CAPE HORN – Pictured aboard the Matson-operated vessel in San Francisco are (photo at left, from left) Chief Steward Ali Munsar and SIU Port Agent Nick Marrone II. FULL BOOKS IN HOUSTON – Receiving their respective full books at the hiring hall are AB Juan Bermudez (left in photo at left, with Patrolman J.B. Niday) and AB Simon Valerio (center in photo at right, with VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, right, and Asst. VP Mike Russo). WELCOME ASHORE IN OAKLAND – Electrician Kashmir Dhillon (left) picks up his first pension check at the hall in Oakland, California. Congratulating him on retirement is Asst. VP Nick Celona. May 2019 LICENSE EARNED – Former Seafarer Carlos Sanchez displays his newly earned chief engineer’s license aboard the Crowley tanker Magnolia State. WELCOME ASHORE IN JAX – Picking up their respective first pension checks at the hiring hall are Chief Mate Conrado Abinuman (left in photo at left) and AB Jared Blavat (right in photo at right). Each is pictured with Safety Director Joseph Koncul. PROMOTING MARITIME IN JERSEY – Pictured at a recent fundraiser are (from left) NY Waterway Chairman Armand Pohan, SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-New Jersey), Port Agent Mark von Siegel and Patrolman Ray Henderson. FULL BOOK IN PINEY – AB Will Jordan (right) receives his full membership book in Piney Point, Maryland. He’s pictured with Port Agent Victor Nunez. Seafarers LOG 9 �NATIONAL GLORY SAFETY MILESTONE – The vessel recently celebrated seven years without a lost-time injury. The ship carries an SIU crew and AMO officers. It sails between Houston and Puerto Rico for National Shipping and is managed by Crowley Global Ship Management. Standing from left are Chief Cook Claudia Mauricio-Brice, Electrician Oswald Bermeo, AB Jose Bermudez, Recertified Bosun Robert Natividad, Oiler Abraham Moreira-Mejia, OS Nassor James and OS Stalyn Mena Avila. Kneeling from left are AB Paul Dooley, AB Gerardo Arroyo, Oiler Francisco Martinez and Recertified Steward Lionel Packnett. ABOARD MAERSK KENTUCKY – Thanks to vessel master Capt. Bill Imken for this snapshot of Seafarers during the last full day aboard the ship, which recently completed its final voyage. (The vessel is being replaced by a newer one, the Safmarine Mafadi, which will sail under the Stars and Stripes.) Pictured from left are GUDE Gil Lawrence, SA Rodrigo Cother, Bosun George Steube, AB Gremar Rio, QMED Antonio Watson, AB Thyron Dy, AB Walter Ott, Steward/Baker Jerome Jordan, QEE Monroe Monseur, Chief Cook Ricardo Arauz Rochez, AB William Kovacs and AB Timothy Heil. SPAD SUPPORT – SIU boatmen continue signing up for SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. This photo was taken March 20 in Freeport, Texas, aboard the G&H tug Zeus. Pictured from left are SIU Patrolman J.B. Niday, Chief Engineer Shawn Atkinson, Capt. Jarrad Williams, Oiler Michael Diggs and SIU Safety Director Kevin Sykes. The members had just signed up for SPAD checkoff. ARTISTIC SEND-OFF – Recertified Steward Christina Mateer (right in photo at left) received a unique gift from a friend’s daughter shortly before returning to work aboard the Maersk Ohio in late March. The daughter, Ava (left), “thinks my job is really cool,” Mateer reports. With that in mind, Ava drew a likeness of the vessel and presented it to Mateer. MARINERS HONORED – Recertified Bosun Greg Jackson was pleasantly surprised to see the U.S. Merchant Marine included in the City of Semmes (Alabama) Honor Park. Greg sent these photos (at left and above) from his recent stop there. More info on the park is available at: https://cityofsemmesal.gov/our-community/honor-park/ 10 Seafarers LOG May 2019 �Snapshots from Puerto Rico CONGRESSMEN, MAYOR DISCUSS CABOTAGE – Gathering for a photo after a hearing in San Juan that included discussions about FEMA and the Jones Act are (from left) SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo,U.S. Rep. Al Green (D-Texas), U.S. Rep. Jesus Garcia (DIllinois), San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulin Cruz and U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Mississippi), who chairs the House Homeland Security Committee. MEETING WITH MAYOR – Jose Sanchez (right), mayor of Manati, is a longtime backer of the maritime industry. He met recently with SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo (left) to discuss the latest developments pertaining to the Jones Act, including how the law helps provide good jobs for Puerto Rico residents. CONGRESSMAN ATTENDS ENERGY SUMMIT – U.S. Rep. Ted Yoho (R-Florida) (second from right) toured Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority facilities as part of a recent discussion concerning new energy sources for the island. He’s pictured with (from left) TOTE Services VP Ben Christian, SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo and TOTE Maritime VP Eduardo Pagan. MARITIME COMMUNITY MEETS WITH SENATOR – U.S. maritime advocates on April 8 conducted a meeting with the Hon. Nelson V. Cruz Santiago (second from left), a member of the Puerto Rico Senate. They discussed the vital role the Jones Act has played in the territory’s economy. Pictured with him (from left) are SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo, TOTE Maritime VP Eduardo Pagan, Jose Nazario and A. Rivera of Crowley, Teamsters Local 901 President Carlos J. Marrero and Josue Montijo of the Puerto Rico AFL-CIO. TALKING JONES ACT WITH SENATOR – SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo (right) meets with the Hon. Angel Chayanne Martinez, a member of the Puerto Rico Senate, to discuss the numerous ways the Jones Act benefits the territory and its citizens. RECRUITING TRAIL – Seafarers helped promote the union and its affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, during a mid-March job fair in Carolina. Pictured from left are Recertified Steward Ismael Garayua, Chief Cook Christian Borroto and Chief Cook Jacob Parrilla. ENTHUSIASTIC DONATION – AB Leroy Sierra displays a dramatic photo of a sailboat that he donated to the new hiring hall in San Juan. A-BOOK AWARDED – AB Julio Perez (left) receives his A-seniority book at the hall. He’s pictured with Port Agent Amancio Crespo. May 2019 FAMILIES WELCOME – One of the improvements cited by Seafarers regarding the new hiring hall is its family-friendly location. Third Asst. Engineer Jose R. Encarnacion (right) brought his wife, Moraima (left) and their daughter, Leah, to the building in early April. Seafarers LOG 11 �SIU-Backed Final Rule Boosts Mariner Access A years-long effort strongly assisted by the SIU has resulted in new regulations aimed at benefiting mariners. The U.S. Coast Guard on April 1 issued a final rule titled “Seafarers’ Access to Maritime Facilities.” Published in the Federal Register, the rule requires “each owner or operator of a maritime facility regulated by the Coast Guard to implement a system providing seafarers, pilots, and representatives of seamen’s welfare and labor organizations access between vessels moored at the facility and the facility gate, in a timely manner and at no cost to the seafarer or other individuals. These access procedures must be documented in the Facility Security Plan for each facility, and approved by the local Captain of the Port. This final rule, which implements a congressional mandate, ensures that no facility owner or operator denies or makes it impractical for seafarers or other individuals to transit through the facility.” Compliance is required by June 1, 2020 (the rule’s “effective date” is May 1, 2019). Organizations and individuals from many sectors of the industry teamed up to push for this regulation. When the rule initially was proposed, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel testified on behalf of both the union and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (where he chairs the Seafarers’ Section) during a U.S. Department of Transportation public meeting in early 2015. At that time, Heindel said that shore leave and terminal access aren’t just matters of convenience – they’re crucial to maritime safety and the general wellbeing of mariners. They should also be consid- ered part of the cost of doing business as a maritime terminal, he stated. Additionally, Heindel thanked the agency for proposing the rule, and said it is imperative that if any additional costs arise for making it easier for mariners to go ashore, those costs must not be passed on to seafarers, either directly or indirectly. He noted that although that sentiment is consistent with the proposal’s stated intent, unions and other mariner advocates were on guard to make sure that’s how it is implemented. “The concern we have on the labor side and also with the ministry side is that the seafarers have access to shore in a timely manner and at no cost to the seafarer,” Heindel stated. “We think the terminal operators have a responsibility here. They have an obligation to make sure people have access through their terminals.” Heindel said foreign mariners in particular have “a very, very tough time getting ashore at a lot of different terminals,” and that a balance can be reached between proper security measures and reasonable treatment of seafarers. The SIU also submitted formal comments soon after the meeting. Meanwhile, the Coast Guard noted in the final rule, “Another benefit … is that it will conform to international conventions, which in turn benefits seafarers…. We believe this is a benefit to seafarers because if the U.S. does not adhere to these international conventions and denies shore leave to these individuals, other countries may engage in an act of reciprocity and deny shore leave to U.S. seafarers abroad.” According to the agency, 2,469 port facilities governed by the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 will update their respective facility security plans, while an additional 420 MTSA-regulated facilities will update both their respective plans and “facility operations.” The Coast Guard described some of the benefits of the final rule as enhancing “the safety, health, and welfare of seafarers, and the overall quality of life by allowing seafarers access to fundamental human services.” The last page of the rule spells out different considerations and options pertaining to mariner access. That page includes the following: C. Timely access. The facility owner or operator must provide the access described in this section without unreasonable delay, subject to review by the Captain of the Port (COTP). The facility owner or operator must consider the following when establishing timely access without unreasonable delay: n Length of time the vessel is in port. n Distance of egress/ingress between the vessel and facility gate. n The vessel watch schedules. n The facility’s safety and security procedures as required by law. n Any other factors specific to the vessel or facility that could affect access to and from the vessel. D. Access methods. The facility owner or operator must ensure that the access described in this section is provided through one or more of the following methods: (1) Regularly scheduled escort between the vessel and the facility gate that conforms to the vessel’s watch schedule as agreed upon between the vessel and facility. (2) An on-call escort between the vessel and the facility gate. (3) Arrangements with taxi services or other transportation services, ensuring that any costs for providing the access described in this section, above the service’s standard fees charged to any customer, are not charged to the individual to whom such access is provided. If a facility provides arrangements with taxi services or other transportation services as the only method for providing the access described in this section, the facility is responsible to pay any fees for transit within the facility. (4) Arrangements with seafarers’ welfare organizations to facilitate the access described in this section. (5) Monitored pedestrian access routes between the vessel and facility gate. A method, other than those in paragraphs (d)(1) through (5) of this section, approved by the COTP. If an access method relies on a third party, a back-up access method that will be used if the third party is unable to or does not provide the required access in any instance. An owner or operator must ensure that the access required in paragraph (a) of this section is actually provided in all instances. (e) No cost to individuals. The facility owner or operator must provide the access described in this section at no cost to the individual to whom such access is provided. The complete rule is linked on the SIU website, in the news archive (look under April 2019). Airlines Dub Luggage With Non-Removable Battery a ‘Big No-No’ People who own high-tech “smart luggage” and wish to travel with it aboard aircraft potentially could encounter problems. According to several sources, three airlines (American, Delta and Alaska) in early 2018 announced that passengers owning smart luggage with a non-removable battery built into it would not be able to take the baggage onto the aircraft. United and Southwest Airlines joined the three inaugural carriers in the ban shortly thereafter. “Customers who travel with a smart bag must be able to remove the battery in case the bag has to be checked at any point in the customer’s journey,” according to a statement issued by American Airlines. “If the battery cannot be removed, the bag will not be allowed.” The policy change applies to checked as well as carry-on bags that require lithium batteries to power features such as a USB charging station and a location tracker. The policy’s origin is the result of safety concerns surrounding lithium batteries. Lithium metal and lithium ion/polymer batteries are susceptible to emitting smoke, catching fire and even exploding. Between March 1991 and May 2017, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) documented 160 incidents involving lithium batteries that were being transported as cargo or baggage. The agency already prohibits passengers from checking spare lithium batteries used for personal electronic devices and portable rechargers, as well as several lithium-powered items such as e-cigarettes and vape pens. The FAA permits the items inside the cabin. For information on flying with hazardous materials, see the FAA’s Pack Safe guidelines at www.faa.gov/hazmat/ packagesafe/ 12 Seafarers LOG Students participate in the new course at the union-affiliated school in southern Maryland. New Course Joins Piney Point Lineup School Rolls Out MSC Ship Reaction Force Class A new addition to the course schedule at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is designed for those serving on government vessels. The MSC Ship Reaction Force class is a hands-on training course, and draws from the knowledge and expertise of Military Sealift Command and other military advisors. Acting Vice President of the Paul Hall Center Tom Orzechowski said, “Approved by the agency, this course is the latest in continuing improvements and additions to the curriculum here at the school. We’re confident that the skills learned in this course will prove invaluable to SIU mariners out at sea.” “This course provides tailored training and techniques for Military Sealift Command civilian personnel who may serve as a member of the security reaction team,” said instructor Wayne Johnson Jr. “To be enrolled in this class, students are required to have successfully completed Basic Watch Stander, Advanced Watch Stander, hold a current small arms qualification for 9mm pistol and/or M500 12gauge shotgun.” “I enjoyed the hands-on training,” said STOS Eric Reich. “The simulations teach you how to actually react and respond to an emergency. They did great!” Johnson Jr. described the course: “Students will learn to respond, move, and communicate tactfully and efficiently as a member of the vessel’s security reaction team. Classroom and practical exercises include, but are not limited to: non-verbal communication, tactical movements, room clearing, target acquisition, threat recognition, tactical response, hostage situations, bomb searches, and simulated force on force exercises. “Unfortunately, piracy is an issue in our industry,” he added. “What better way to thwart it than to have a better understanding of how to respond? This type of training is focused on the protection of one’s self, fellow crew members and the ship, which in my opinion is invaluable.” May 2019 �U.S. Ambassador to Timor-Leste Kathleen M. Fitzpatrick speaks with Capt. Randy Van Rossum, Pacific Partnership 2019 mission commander, during a tour of the CIVMARcrewed USNS Fall River following the ship’s arrival at the Port of Dili, Timor Leste. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Nathan Carpenter) The CIVMAR-crewed expeditionary fast transport ship USNS Fall River arrives at the Port of Kuching for Pacific Partnership 2019. (Photo courtesy Petty Officer 2nd Class Nicholas Burgains) SIU CIVMARS Support Pacific Partnership 2019 SIU Government Services Division members once again are answering the call, sailing aboard the Military Sealift Command expeditionary fast transport ships (EPF) USNS Brunswick and USNS Fall River in support of this year’s ongoing Operation Pacific Partnership. The annual multinational exercise began March 4; both CIVMAR-crewed ships will host the operation’s commanders at various times. According to the Navy, “Pacific Partnership, now in its 14th iteration, is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Each year, the mission team works collectively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase stability and security in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships across the Indo-Pacific.” “Pacific Partnership brings nations together to prepare in calm to respond in crisis,” Capt. Randy Van Rossum, the commander for Pacific Partnership 2019 and commodore of Destroyer Squadron 1, said in a statement. “Our mission team, made up of servicemembers and volunteers from around the world, reflects this enduring commitment to the region.” This year’s mission began with stops in the Republic of the Marshall Islands and the Philippines, Malaysia, the Federated States of Micronesia, Timor-Leste, Vietnam and Thailand. “The impact of disaster emergencies transcends borders and requires comprehensive preparation and coordination among nations for an effective disaster response,” said Capt. Rossum during the Kuching, Malaysia, mission stop. “I am confident that the planning and hard work we’ve invested thus far will show in our successful collaborative efforts for a longlasting impact here in Kuching.” “Pacific Partnership is about building trust and sharing knowledge,” said Rear Adm. Joey Tynch, commander, Task Force 73, the executive agent for Pacific Partnership 2019. “This mission shows that the U.S., our partners and hosts are working together to making this region better prepared for disaster response.” Experts in the fields of engineering, medicine and disaster response partner with each host nation to conduct civic-action projects, community health exchanges, medical symposiums, and disaster response training activities. The U.S., partner nation military members, and non-governmental organization volunteers are scheduled to take part in a variety of events including first aid training, preventive medicine training, various health care conferences, engineering projects, disaster response seminars, and community outreach engagements with the goal of improving the overall humanitarian and disaster preparedness in the region. “Malaysia and the United States have a comprehensive partnership, which is building every day on the things that we can do together to make the region safer and to enable our people in a more effective regional crisis response,” said U.S. Embassy Malaysia Deputy Chief of Mission Dean Thompson. Pacific Partnership began in response to one of the world’s most catastrophic natural disasters, the December 2004 tsunami that devastated parts of South and Southeast Asia. The mission has evolved over the years from emphasis on direct care to an operation focused on enhancing partnerships through host nation subject matter expert and civil-military exchanges. Working at the invitation of each host nation, Pacific Partnership is joined by partner nations that include Australia, Canada, Japan, Malaysia, Peru, the Philippines, South Korea, Thailand, and the United Kingdom to strengthen disaster response preparedness around the IndoPacific region. U.S. Navy Sailors conducting small boat operations approach the CIVMAR-crewed USNS Brunswick during Pacific Partnership 2019. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tyrell K. Morris) Aboard Seabulk ATB These photos were taken last month in Port Everglades, Florida, aboard (and near) the Sea Power, an articulated tug-barge that was instrumental in delivering fuel to Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. AB Doug Crawford May 2019 Chief Cook Roxanne Fike, SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins Seafarers LOG 13 �Free College The Union Plus Free College Benefit offers working families an accessible, debt-free and convenient higher education opportunity. You, your spouse, children, financial dependents and grandchildren, can all benefit from this exciting program. Find out more about this and other great Union Plus programs by visiting unionplus.org. Learn more at unionplus.org 14 Seafarers LOG CREDIT CARDS WIRELESS DISCOUNTS MORTGAGE PROGRAM CAR RENTAL 5/19 May 2019 �Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea March 14, 2019 - April 15, 2019 Upgraders hone their culinary techniques at the Paul Hall Center. Notice/Reminder Culinary 2.0 Training Still Available at Paul Hall Center As previously reported, the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education continues to offer Culinary 2.0 classes designed to help students boost their skills while complying with a new rule that takes effect next year. Completing the coursework also is intended to aid individual shipping opportunities. Shipping Rule 5.A.(6), which will go into effect January 1, 2020, states, “Within each class of seniority in the Steward Department, priority shall be given to those seamen who possess an advanced Culinary 2.0 certificate from the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, in the event such program is being offered and that the seaman is registered in Group I, Steward Department.” While every new member of the steward department who completes their apprenticeship at the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship will have successfully passed Culinary 2.0, it’s important to remember that those already sail- ing as chief cooks and chief stewards must also take the coursework in order to exercise preference and priority beginning next year (unless they have received training after January 1, 2017 at the Piney Point, Maryland-based campus). For those seamen currently employed as permanent stewards aboard commercial vessels, they must attend Culinary 2.0 in order to maintain their current employment status. For those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards, there are two new revalidation courses that have been designed to ensure a consistent level of culinary training and efficiency: Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 and Orientation/ Assessment Chief Cook 2.0. The courses are being offered regularly, but spaces are limited, so members are encouraged to plan ahead and enroll as soon as possible. For more information, contact your port agent and/ or the school’s admissions office. May & June 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, June 10 Mobile..........................................Wednesday: May 15, June 12 New Orleans........................................Tuesday: May 14, June 11 Jersey City............................................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 May 2019 Total Shipped All Groups A B Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu 1 Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 15 8 2 33 7 1 5 17 9 2 5 1 3 1 1 2 1 4 1 5 1 1 0 4 1 0 2 2 1 2 22 17 6 18 6 2 12 31 21 4 6 2 0 5 1 1 0 3 1 0 9 3 2 7 2 3 3 13 6 7 2 4 1 8 7 0 5 17 9 1 52 22 7 40 11 7 24 98 36 20 39 22 3 28 14 4 19 67 39 6 36 9 6 33 8 5 20 65 18 6 5 2 3 5 2 2 0 4 3 2 9 2 3 9 5 2 2 12 7 3 22 19 8 11 8 7 9 25 27 12 14 4 2 13 4 2 5 20 9 5 2 3 3 2 1 3 0 2 6 1 5 4 0 2 3 0 2 5 4 0 6 7 1 6 1 1 2 9 7 4 34 8 2 17 7 1 11 52 16 10 2 2 3 6 0 1 1 4 4 4 29 16 6 27 8 4 16 59 26 14 325 156 61 275 97 48 139 509 250 108 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 3 0 1 3 2 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 5 1 0 1 2 0 0 6 2 0 11 5 1 8 8 1 6 14 9 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 4 3 0 2 2 1 2 5 4 0 10 3 1 5 2 1 3 20 3 1 11 7 2 8 4 2 7 20 16 5 25 13 1 9 12 0 6 32 29 2 14 7 1 11 3 1 4 17 11 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 1 2 1 2 2 2 0 0 0 9 7 2 13 13 7 6 7 8 7 21 21 6 9 3 2 2 3 2 1 13 6 2 2 5 0 1 2 0 0 7 5 0 1 3 1 2 3 0 0 3 3 1 2 1 0 3 1 0 3 7 3 0 12 2 3 10 2 2 2 25 9 4 0 4 1 0 1 0 0 3 4 1 11 4 2 9 4 0 5 20 22 3 136 77 25 83 59 20 46 226 157 31 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 3 2 0 2 2 0 1 9 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 2 0 13 4 0 4 2 1 3 25 10 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 0 7 2 1 2 3 0 2 8 1 2 10 0 0 8 2 0 4 13 5 0 17 6 3 13 3 2 7 28 10 3 18 14 1 14 8 3 8 29 21 2 16 4 2 12 2 0 5 17 4 2 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 1 4 1 0 1 4 0 1 5 0 0 16 6 1 13 7 0 8 26 17 1 17 8 0 10 5 1 4 25 9 1 4 0 0 4 0 0 3 2 0 1 1 4 3 5 3 3 2 2 3 1 5 7 0 2 5 0 1 5 8 0 10 3 2 13 3 2 7 17 1 3 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 1 1 20 13 1 12 7 0 11 36 15 2 165 77 15 117 57 12 67 259 110 20 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 1 5 14 0 4 4 5 3 13 15 0 4 1 0 2 1 0 0 3 2 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 4 1 7 5 0 1 1 2 2 8 4 0 2 2 0 2 1 0 0 3 2 0 1 3 0 1 1 2 0 0 3 1 3 3 1 6 3 1 2 6 4 5 15 13 0 9 8 6 9 20 19 1 19 16 0 18 16 6 3 43 56 0 17 14 1 9 6 3 3 30 22 0 0 2 0 0 2 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 3 0 19 21 0 10 14 5 0 29 38 3 8 9 0 5 8 3 5 14 15 1 5 0 0 3 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 4 0 0 0 1 0 1 4 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 7 12 11 1 5 3 3 9 18 19 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 6 22 9 2 11 8 6 9 35 32 29 139 130 6 86 78 45 48 226 245 GRAND TOTAL: 655 449 231 481 299 158 297 1,042 743 404 C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Jacksonville........................................Thursday: May 9, June 6 Joliet................................................Thursday: May 16, June 13 Total Registered A All Groups B C Seafarers LOG 15 �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 Kate Hunt, 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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by SIU members at the hiring hall in New Orleans. Question: What was your favorite port and why? Stanley Daranda Recertified Bosun West coast of Africa. I was on a run for all the African ports. I got to try to figure out what the world was all about. I lucked out – right place, right time. I learned about African culture. Grant Simonson QMED I had fun in Singapore – great city, very clean. It is a whole bunch of little communities, so clean and safe. Lots of great experiences – pretty awesome. Harold Christopher AB I’m in my first year and only sailed along the East Coast. I like warm places, and if I could ship to Africa, that would be perfect. Shawn D. Jefferson Storekeeper Greece and Dubai. Spain was beautiful. The Mediterranean countries with the warm weather are nice. Aurelio Ortiz AB I like to learn. Africa, because it is something different over there than here. Adolfo Figueroa AB Got to be New Orleans. Very friendly here. And I live here. 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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 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 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 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (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 originally was published in the May 1977 LOG. It features SIU boatmen aboard the G&H Towing tug Tarpon in Houston. From left are Oiler Harold Moore, Deckhand Tony McDuffy, Deckhand Ervin Jeffery, Capt. Harris “Toots” Morgan and Chief Engineer Fred Hickman. (There’s also an unidentified member in the background, mostly obscured.) 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 2019 �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 BORRO Brother Robert Borro, 65, joined the SIU in 2001, initially sailing on the Patriot. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Borro most recently sailed on the Endurance. He makes his home in Barstow, California. DONALD BOUSSON Brother Donald Bousson, 65, signed on with the union in 1977. A deck department member, he first sailed aboard the Overseas Aleutian. Brother Bousson upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions and concluded his career on the Leader. He calls Merritt Island, Florida, home. FAROOK ESSA Brother Farook Essa, 70, began his career with the SIU in 1973 when he shipped on the Transuper. He sailed in all three departments and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Essa’s last vessel was the American Pride. He resides in Houston. MARIO FERNANDEZ Brother Mario Fernandez, 69, joined the union in 2001. His first vessel was the Atlantic and he was a member of the steward department. Brother Fernandez last sailed on the Overseas Houston. He lives in Miami. ments, he upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Lee concluded his career on the Overseas Cascade and resides in Aventura, Florida. MICHAEL LOCKHART Brother Michael Lockhart, 67, joined the union in 1999 when he sailed on the Global Mariner. The deck department member upgraded on multiple occasions at the maritime training center located in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Lockhart most recently sailed on the Pride of America. He calls Southfield, Michigan, home. BOGUSLAW MIKULA Brother Boguslaw Mikula, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 2005. He was a deck department member and initially shipped on the Energy Enterprise. Brother Mikula’s last vessel was the Maersk Idaho. He is a resident of Phoenix. MICHAEL PERRY Brother Michael Perry, 58, joined the SIU in 1977 when he shipped on the Columbia. Brother Perry upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center and was a member of the deck department. He last sailed on the Yorktown Express, and settled in Port Orange, Florida. RODNEY ROBERSON Brother John Jaradat, 65, joined the union in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. A deck department member, he first sailed aboard the Maersk Maryland. Brother Jaradat upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center within his first year. He last shipped on the Buffalo and settled in Brooklyn, New York. Brother Rodney Roberson, 59, donned the SIU colors in 1989, initially sailing on the USNS Assurance. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Roberson’s last ship was the American Pride. He makes his home in Claymont, Delaware. NATHANIEL LAMB CHARLES RUMBLE Brother Nathaniel Lamb, 61, became an SIU member in 1977 when he sailed on Waterman’s A Middleton. He shipped in all three departments and upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Lamb’s final vessel was the Green Ridge. He is a resident of Jacksonville, Florida. Brother Charles Rumble, 65, embarked on his career with the union in 2006 when he shipped on the Philadelphia Express. He upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center and sailed in the steward department. Brother Rumble’s last vessel was the Maersk Pittsburgh. He resides in Portsmouth, Virginia. JOHN JARADAT May 2019 RICHARD LEE GILL SICKLES Brother Richard Lee, 70, signed on with the Seafarers in 1998, initially sailing aboard the USNS Henson. Shipping in both the deck and steward depart- Brother Gill Sickles, 71, signed on with the Seafarers in 2005, initially sailing aboard the Noble Star. The deck department member upgraded on multiple occa- sions at the maritime training center located in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Sickles most recently sailed on the Cape Mohican. He calls Anchorage, Alaska, home. Transportation for the duration of his career. He lives in Jacksonville, Florida. SAMUEL UYATEDE Brother Richard Anderson, 62, signed on with the Seafarers in 1997, initially working for Crowley Towing and Transportation. Shipping in the deck department, he was employed with the same company for his entire career. He calls Pensacola, Florida, home. Brother Samuel Uyatede, 69, joined the union in 2002. His first vessel was the Developer; his last, the Houston. A deck department member, Brother Uyatede upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions. He is a resident of Houston. EDDIE WASHINGTON Brother Eddie Washington, 68, began sailing with the SIU in 1968, initially aboard the Steel Architect. In 1981, the deck department member enhanced his skills by upgrading at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. Brother Washington last sailed on the Falcon Champion. He lives in Mobile, Alabama. GREAT LAKES EDWARD CARLSON Brother Edward Carlson, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1989 when he worked for Luedtke Engineering. An engine department member, he upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Carlson continued his employment with the same company for the majority of his career. He is a resident of Bear Lake, Michigan. RICHARD LALONDE Brother Richard Lalonde, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1974. He was a steward department member, first sailing with Inland Lakes Management. Brother Lalonde concluded his career on the Alpena and resides in Alpena, Michigan. INLAND CONRADO ABINUMAN Brother Conrado Abinuman, 72, joined the SIU in 2003. He was a deck department member and upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Abinuman worked for Crowley Towing and RICHARD ANDERSON BRIAN BOWMAN Brother Brian Bowman, 65, joined the SIU in 1991 when he worked for Piney Point Transportation. He upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school and was a deck department member. Brother Bowman last sailed with Penn Maritime. He resides in Jennings, Louisiana. JOHN COYLE Brother John Coyle, 63, donned the SIU colors in 1978, initially sailing aboard the Columbia. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1980. Brother Coyle last worked for OSG Ship Management. He resides in Audubon, New Jersey. WILLIAM HARVELL Brother William Harvell, 67, joined the union in 1989, first working with Interstate Oil. He upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center and was a deck department member. Brother Harvell most recently sailed aboard the Courage and settled in Mollusk, Virginia. ANTHONY HUGHES Brother Anthony Hughes, 62, became an SIU member in 1977 when he worked for Meyle Towing. He sailed in both the deck and steward departments and last worked for Taylor Marine. Brother Hughes resides in Marmora, New Jersey. TIMOTHY HURST Brother Timothy Hurst, 62, began his career with the union in 1989, initially working for OSG Ship Management. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Hurst most recently sailed on the Honor. He lives in Athens, Tennessee. DAVID JORDEN Brother David Jorden, 62, signed on with the Seafarers in 1977 when he worked for Crescent Towing and Salvage. The deck department member upgraded in 1980 at the maritime training center located in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Jorden continued working for the same company for his entire career. He calls Hammond, Louisiana, home. RANDY LEDET Brother Randy Ledet, 62, joined the union in 1976 when he worked for Crescent Towing and Salvage. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center the following year and shipped in the deck department. Brother Ledet remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He calls Covington, Louisiana, home. JAMES MCCLURE Brother James McClure, 66, became an SIU member in 1989 when he sailed on the Manhattan Island. Brother McClure was a deck department member. He concluded his career working for Alabama Pilot Inc. and lives in Dauphin Island, Alabama. JOSEPH RAVARY Brother Joseph Ravary, 62, began his career with the Seafarers in 1976, first sailing with Inland Tugs. A member of the deck department, he upgraded his skills in 1976 at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. Brother Ravary concluded his career working with OLS Transport. He is a resident of Erie, Michigan. PAUL RIGGS Brother Paul Riggs, 69, donned the SIU colors in 2005. He first was employed with Penn Maritime and upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. A member of the deck department, Brother Riggs remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He lives in Brenham, Texas. JAMES STEWART Brother James Stewart, 64, joined the union in 1976 when he worked for G&H Towing. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1995. Brother Stewart remained with the same company for his entire career. He lives in Ingleside, Texas. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA RUBEN ACEVEDO Brother Ruben Acevedo, 95, passed away December 21. He began his career with the SIU in 1979, initially sailing aboard the Santa Maria. Brother Acevedo shipped in the steward department and sailed last aboard the Defender. He resided in Torrance, California. DAVID BECKER Pensioner David Becker, 70, died March 3. He signed on with the SIU in 1992, initially sailing on the USNS Vindicator. Brother Becker was an engine department member and concluded his career on the Pathfinder. He retired in 2014 and settled in North Point, Alabama. ARMANDO BUSTAMANTE Pensioner Armando Bustamante, 81, passed away January 31. He became an SIU member in 1990, first sailing aboard the Independence. Brother Bustamante primarily sailed in the steward department. His last vessel was the Maersk Arizona. He went on pension in 2003 and lived in San Leandro, California. MICHAEL CASANUEVA Pensioner Michael Casanueva, 94, died April 3. He signed on with the SIU in 1951 when he shipped aboard the Alcoa Ranger. Sailing in the deck department, Brother Casanueva concluded his career on the Willamette. He became a pensioner in 1981 and was a resident of Pelzer, South Carolina. STEPHEN CASTLE Pensioner Stephen Castle, 70, passed away March 29. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1967, initially shipping aboard the Inger. Brother Castle was a deck department member and last sailed on the Horizon Tacoma. He retired in 2010 and resided in Suquamish, Washington. JOHN COLEMAN Pensioner John Coleman, 69, died February 3. He joined the union in 1967 when he shipped on the Neva West. Brother Coleman was a member of the engine department, and last sailed aboard the Cape Hudson. He became a 18 Seafarers LOG pensioner in 2016 and lived in Berkeley, California. JOSAN CONSTANTIN Pensioner Josan Constantin, 66, passed away February 3. He began shipping with the Seafarers in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. The deck department member’s first SIU vessel was the USNS Heezen. Brother Constantin last shipped aboard the Maersk Kensington before going on pension in 2018. He resided in Ridgewood, New York. DAVID DUNKLIN Brother David Dunklin, 65, died December 16. He started his SIU career in 1977, initially shipping aboard the Overseas Natalie. An engine department member, Brother Dunklin last sailed on the Shughart. He was a resident of Metairie, Louisiana. MICHAEL DUNN Pensioner Michael Dunn, 65, passed away March 12. He joined the union in 1973, when he shipped aboard the Overseas Aleutian. Brother Dunn sailed in the deck department. His last vessel was the Liberty Spirit before his retirement in 2007. Brother Dunn called San Francisco home. RALPH GOSNELL Brother Ralph Gosnell, 62, died November 10. He donned the SIU colors in 1982, initially sailing aboard the LNG Taurus. An engine department member, Brother Gosnell last shipped aboard the Cape Wrath. He lived in Westminster, Maryland. JUSTO GONZALEZ Pensioner Justo Gonzalez, 89, passed away March 29. He began shipping with the SIU in 1963 when he sailed on the Petrochem. Brother Gonzalez primarily sailed in the engine department. He last shipped on the Overseas Harriette before retiring in 1998. Brother Gonzalez was a resident of Blythewood, South Carolina. KARL HERMANSEN Pensioner Karl Hermansen, 81, died February 5. He embarked on his SIU career in 1966 when he shipped on the Steel Apprentice. Brother Hermansen was a deck department member. He last sailed on the Beaver State before becoming a pensioner in 2002. Brother Hermansen lived in Norway. IDOWU JONATHAN Brother Idowu Jonathan, 60, passed away February 9. He joined the SIU in 1992, first sailing on the USNS Denebola. Brother Jonathan sailed in the deck department. He most recently shipped on the Santorini and resided in Houston. JAMES MASTROKALOS Pensioner James Mastrokalos, 84, died February 1. He signed on with the SIU in 1961 when he shipped on the Arizpa. Brother Mastrokalos was a deck department member and also worked on shore gangs. He became a pensioner in 1990 and settled in Jackson, New Jersey. LINWOOD PRICE Pensioner Linwood Price, 84, passed away March 8. He joined the union in 1954, first working for Sprogue Steamship. Brother Price shipped in all three departments and concluded his career aboard the Sam Houston. He began collecting his pension in 1994 and made his home in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. WAYNE SHINDLER Pensioner Wayne Shindler, 81, died March 3. He became a member of the union in 2001 when he sailed on the USNS Dahl. Brother Shindler shipped in the steward department and concluded his career on the USNS Watkins. He became a pensioner in 2013 and resided in Albany, Oregon. JOE SMOLER Pensioner Joe Smoler, 68, passed away February 1. He started his career with the SIU in 1991, first sailing on the Sealift Antarctic. Brother Smoler was a deck department member and last sailed on the Prentiss Brown. He retired in 2015 and lived in North Las Vegas, Nevada. PAUL STUBBLEFIELD Pensioner Paul Stubblefield, 83, died March 11. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1968 when he worked on the Bradford Island. Sailing in the steward department, Brother Stubblefield concluded his career aboard the Liberty Spirit. He retired in 2000 and made his home in Jacksonville, Florida. PAUL TITUS Pensioner Paul Titus, 60, passed away March 22. Upon joining the SIU in 1981, his first vessel was the Cove Engineer. Brother Titus shipped in the engine department and concluded his career on the Maersk Chicago. He became a pensioner in 2015 and called Delmar, Maryland, home. FEDERICO VIDAL Brother Federico Vidal, 80, died January 28. The steward department member began shipping with the SIU in 1978 when he sailed on the Santa Mariana. Brother Vidal’s last vessel was the President Kennedy. He resided in Walnut Creek, California. EDWARD WINNE Pensioner Edward Winne, 79, passed away March 3. He embarked on his SIU career in 1979, initially sailing on the Santa Mercedes. A member of the steward department, Brother Winne last sailed aboard the Maersk Arkansas. He went on pension in 2006 and made his home in New York City. GREAT LAKES TERRANCE PYRLIK Pensioner Terrance Pyrlik, 70, died January 31. He joined the SIU in 1990 and first shipped on the Presque Isle. Brother Pyrlik was a deck department member and last sailed aboard the Sam Laud. He went on pension in 2013 and settled in Brookston, Minnesota. INLAND ANDRES BRITO Pensioner Andres Brito, 77, passed away February 6. He started shipping with the Seafarers in 1980 when he worked for Crowley Towing & Transportation. Brother Brito was a steward department member and last shipped on the USNS Denebola. He retired in 2011 and resided in Jacksonville, Florida. EDWIN CARTER Pensioner Edwin Carter, 90, died March 6. He signed on with the SIU in 1962, initially working for Gulf Atlantic Transport. A deck department member, Brother Carter sailed last with Mariner Towing. He became a pensioner in 1992 and lived in Moyock, North Carolina. 79, passed away March 3. He became an SIU member in 1996 and sailed in the deck department. Brother Dougherty was employed with Crowley until his retirement in 2003. He was a resident of Glenolden, Pennsylvania. JOHN MICKLOS Pensioner John Micklos, 64, died January 29. He began his career with the Seafarers in 1977 when he shipped on the Long Lines. Brother Micklos primarily worked in the deck department, sailing last with Allied Transportation. He retired in 2016 and made his home in Beverly Hills, Florida. PAUL ROACH Pensioner Paul Roach, 86, passed away February 15. He signed on with the union in 1988, first working for Energy Ammonia Transportation. Brother Roach sailed in the deck department, most recently with Crescent Towing and Salvage. He retired in 2004 and called Mobile, Alabama, home. GERALD STONE Pensioner Gerald Stone, 67, died March 9. He joined the SIU in 1990 when he worked for OLS Transport. A deck department member, Brother Stone was employed with the same company for the duration of his career. He started collecting his pension in 2013 and lived in South Fulton, Tennessee. NMU DONALD TYLER Pensioner Donald Tyler, 78, passed away February 2. He was an NMU member before the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. Brother Tyler was an engine department member and sailed last aboard the Liberator. He began collecting his pension in 2004 and was a resident of North Port, Florida. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. Name Arana, Alejandro Banks, Carlos Beckles, Aubrey Carrasquillo, Pedro Chavis, Sylvester Cristello, Nicholas Dones, Jose Feurtado, Clord Hinds, Sandy Jackson, George Manifold, Robert Martinez, Ruben McCoy, James Moreira, Julian Stalf, Johann Age 94 100 87 92 101 96 93 87 80 85 80 96 94 92 83 DOD 01/28/2019 02/06/2019 03/05/2019 02/07/2019 03/21/2019 03/26/2019 03/17/2019 03/10/2019 03/10/2019 01/20/2019 03/08/2019 03/17/2019 03/06/2019 02/07/2019 11/09/2018 WILLIAM DOUGHERTY Pensioner William Dougherty, May 2019 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings OVERSEAS NEW YORK (Overseas Ship Management), January 17 – Chairman David Graves, Secretary Thomas Smith, Educational Director Kenneth Spivey. Crew discussed upcoming arrival in Tampa. Educational director urged members to stay up to date on documents and upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members seek verification regarding vacation accrual for 60-day rotation as well as information on union benefits. Crew requests a patrolman at first available time and requests a new refrigerator. JEAN ANNE (Pasha), January 31 – Chairman Thomas Johnson, Secretary Ismael Garayua, Educational Director Joseph Letang, Engine Delegate Servando Canales. Ship sailing smoothly. Secretary noted government shutdown and reminded members to keep documents and Piney Point classes up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman discussed new union hall in Puerto Rico and new SIU-contracted vessels. He encouraged members to support Jones Act and went over the president’s report from Seafarers LOG. Members request increasing pension benefits while decreasing time needed in order to retire. HORIZON SPIRIT (Sunrise Operations), February 3 – Chairman Sanjay Gupta, Secretary Rene Guity, Educational Director David Watkins. Chairman advised crew to stay safe. Educational director reminded crew that union halls are closed 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. on Saturdays and recommended members upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Honolulu. LIBERTY EAGLE (Liberty Maritime), February 4 – Chairman Albert Konning, Secretary Gerald Joseph, Deck Delegate Washington Williams, Steward Delegate Santiago Amaya. Members reviewed old business including Wi-Fi access, monthly pay vouchers and requests for new washer and dryer. Educational director reiterated importance of keeping shipping documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed benefits relating to both maternity leave and pension. OVERSEAS MARTINEZ (Overseas Ship Management), February 12 – Chairman Anton Sulic, Secretary Marlon Battad, Educational Director Anthony Hulsey, Deck Delegate Michael Ross, Engine Delegate Alfredo Nieto, Steward Delegate Mauricio Castro. Crew waiting for new pillows, new DVDs and Wi-Fi access on board. Chairman reminded members to leave clean rooms for oncoming crew and to stay current on all paperwork. Secretary asked crew to put all linen in appropriate white bags for departing crew members and that all galley plates and cups be returned. Chairman encouraged crew to attend upgrading courses at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members went over reimbursement policy for steel-toe boots and discussed resolutions for pension benefits. Crew requested new furniture for lounge and new TVs for staterooms. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done during long voyage overseas. Next Port: Texas City, Texas. WEST VIRGINIA (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning), February 27 – Chairman John Cedeno, Secretary Wilma Jackson, Educational Director Scott Fuller, Deck Delegate Christopher Dickens, Steward Delegate Amelia La Beur. Crew reviewed announcements including 10year charter of Jones Act tanker Oregon Voyager. Ship to be renamed to Overseas Key West. Also discussed new Crowley and Matson ships entering SIU fleet. They noted the union has launched a revamped, mobilefriendly member portal as part of overall website redesign. Secretary reminded members to keep rooms clean for oncoming crew. Educational director urged members to check all documents and credentials. He recommended upgrading at the maritime training center in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Due to interior wear and tear, microwave removed from crew mess. Members requested new refrigerator and freezer appliances, new pillows/pillow cases as well as hypoallergenic covers. Crew requested a match to 401K as well as an increase to vacation time. Steward department was thanked for positive attitudes during meal hours. Next Port: Garyville, Louisiana. ALASKAN NAVIGATOR (Alaska Tanker Company), February 27 – Chairman Adel Ahmed, Secretary Marcelo Param, Educational Director Leland Peterson, Steward Delegate Bob Tuilaepa. Chairman encouraged crew to keep documents up to date. He directed members to the SIU website for benefit information. Chairman reminded crew to keep rooms clean and to pay dues on time. Secretary recommended members upgrade at Piney Point and renew documents ahead of their expiration dates. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members would like an increase to vacation time while decreasing working time needed to accrue. Next Port: Valdez, Alaska. EL COQUI (Crowley), March 3 – Chairman Abel VazquezTorres, Secretary Juan Vallejo Hernandez, Educational Director Rodney Passapera-Barbosa, Deck Delegate Kemer Rojas, Engine Delegate Christian Rosado, Steward Delegate Bryan Alvarez. Crew discussed vacation benefits and upgrading. Chairman reiterated importance of safety and thanked steward department for job well done. Secretary commended SIU executive board for their work on Capitol Hill. He praised Port Agent Amancio Crespo and SIU Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez for their help in educating Puerto Rico residents and politicians about the Jones Act. Educational director urged members to keep documents current and to upgrade at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. ALLIANCE FAIRFAX (Maersk Line, Limited), March 6 – Chairman Victor Eligio, Secre- tary Robert Seim, Educational Director Paul Pagano, Deck Delegate Milan Taigan, Engine Delegate Medardo Valerio, Steward Delegate Elida Miguel. Chairman reported a safe and well-working ship and announced payoff. Educational director reminded crew to keep documents in good standing. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks to all three departments for good teamwork. Next port: Houston. AMERICAN PHONEIX (Phoenix Crew Management), March 8 – Chairman Juan Ruiz Manaiza, Secretary Norman Jackson, Deck Delegate Edward Gavagan, Engine Delegate Latiffe Brooks. Ship arrived in port Monday. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew was advised to check out union’s revamped website. As per contract, members aboard vessel should be paid room sanitation. AMERICAN PRIDE (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning) March 11 – Chairman Felsher Beasley, Secretary Cynora Hunter, Educational Director Daniel Chisum-Coffey, Deck Delegate Mario Baja, Engine Delegate Marcus Brown. Chairman reviewed shipping rules and commended crew for job well done. Educational director reminded members to attend upgrading courses at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed new tonnage and Jones Act. Members expressed interests in increasing B-book tour to two years. 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 May 2019 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 19 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Engineroom Resource Management June 29 BAPO May 25 June 21 July 20 August 16 June 22 June 28 FOWT June 22 July 19 August 17 September 19 Gap Closing Courses Leadership & Managerial Skills Engine Department Upgrading Courses July 5 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Junior Engineer June 22 August 16 Machinist June 29 July 19 Able Seafarer Deck June 22 July 19 Marine Electrician May 18 July 12 August 17 September 13 October 12 November 8 Marine Refer Tech July 13 August 23 AB to Mate Modules Modules must be taken in order. Those who MEECE June 1 June 14 are not in the mates program cannot apply for these courses. Contact the Admissions Pumpman July 20 July 26 Office for further details. ARPA May 25 May 31 September 28 October 4 Welding May 18 June 7 June 8 June 28 Steward Department Courses Bosun Recertification July 20 August 5 Advanced Galley Operations Crane Familiarization October 5 October 11 ECDIS June 1 June 7 Fast Rescue Boat June 1 June 7 July 20 July 26 August 17 August 23 GMDSS July 20 August 2 Lifeboat June 1 June 14 June 29 July 12 July 27 August 9 August 24 September 6 September 21 October 4 Radar Observer September 14 September 27 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW May 25 June 21 July 20 August 16 September 14 October 11 November 9 December 6 100 Ton Master September 7 September 27 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers May 18 May 31 July 13 July 26 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 # and dates attended___________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG June 22 July 19 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start May 13. Chief Steward July 27 September 13 Galley Operations May 25 June 21 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 May 18 May 24 June 8 June 14 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 June 1 June 7 June 15 June 21 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training/Basic FF May 25 May 31 Basic Training Revalidation May 24 May 24 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation June 22 June 28 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting June 8 June 14 Government Vessels June 8 June 14 Medical Care Provider June 1 June 7 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL June 8 June 14 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG June 1 June 7 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, 45353 St. George Ave., Piney Point, MD 20674; 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, or 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. 5/19 May 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #846 – Graduated January 25 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Dominick Bach, Keegan Brown, Campbell Busbey, Evan Dize, Kevin Johnson Jr., Juwan Jones, Sophia Lewis, Paul Mena, Emir Omar Quinones Torres, Osmar Luis Ramos, Anthony Simpkins and Joseph Vaccarino. Important Notice To All 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. Welding – Graduated November 16 (left in photo above): Isaac Nugen. Chris Raley, his instructor, is at right BAPO – Graduated December 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Clark Quimada Castrodes, Christian Fredrick, Helen Zenaida Martinez, Nicholas Sampson, Brian Wiley and Denard Williams. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BAPO – Graduated December 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Phase III Apprentices Dominique Archibald, Timothy Jones, Wayne Linnette IV, Marcus Lopez, Joshua Mann, Nelito Ronie Monteiro, Brandon Reed, Hyuk-Joong Kim Seeman, Harry Whitney IV and Kevin Willis. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Celestial Navigation – Graduated December 21 (above, in alphabetical order): Glenn Valera Agustin, Robert Bryson III, Shoal Nervo, Harry Schrefer III and Gavin Scott. Brian Moore, their instructor, is at the far left. UA to FOWT – Graduated November 16 (above, in alphabetical order): Rahsaan Alexander, Alberto Luis Alvarez-Gonzalez, Dion Cheeseborough, Francois Emmanuel Doucet III, Christopher Hinton, Sherman Kennon Jr., Cody Klekar, Justin Krainis, Tommy McGahe, Dillon Nelson, Philip Pete, Tyler Summersill and Camonte Terrell. Class instructor John Wiegman III is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Graduated December 7 (above, in alphabetical order): Ritche Asumbrado Acuman, Secundino Abel Arzu, Steven Blair, Francis Brown, Roger Chrappa, Shardaysha Giles, Nassor Naeem James, Ty Lewis, Paul Newman, Bernardo Perez, Courtney Turner, Justin Enrique Valencia Rodriguez, Juan Jose Vallejo Hernandez, Oscar Jan Vencer, Raul Cabrera Ventanilla and Brian Wilder. May 2019 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes RFPNW – Graduated December 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Phase III Apprentices Patrick Anderson Jr., Bradley Bagwell, Thomas Burch, James Douglas, Darren Elder, Mitchell Laskowsky, Christian Miguel Mercado Nunez, David Franz Pelczmann, Mykel Potter, Cole Vose and Seamus Woods. RFPNW – Graduated December 14: Eduardo Jaculan Jorge (above, left) and Javaris Wright. Advanced Refer Container Maintenance – Graduated December 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Elliot Duncan, Julio Gomez, Michael Gray, David Kelch, Mahare Kidane, Ann Mensch and Guiomar Rancel. Class instructor Mike Fay is third from the left. Tankship Familiarization LG – Graduated December 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Arles Ballestero, Jeffrey Pacaldo Berame, Steven Blair, Rigoberto Boggeano Herrera, Randolph Cash Jr., Derrick Clark, Gregory Eady, Manolito Gener Garcia, Rene Fernando Guity, Nassor Naeem James, Dominique Johnson, Mohamad Mahmoud Kammoun, James Martin Jr., Bashir Mohamed Nasser, Michael Papaioannou, Juan Jose Vallejo Hernandez, Oscar Jan Vencer and Edvaldo Cantao Viana. SUA (Galley Operations) – Graduated December 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Ronald Antonio Allamby, Nathan Brailsford, Daniel Cage, Jasmine Donahue, Paul Erickson Jr., Ronda Jackson, Gil Serrano and Lekesha Stevenson. 22 Seafarers LOG Basic Training (Basic Firefighting Upgrader) – Graduated December 7 (above) : Yolanda Williams. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting Upgraders) – Graduated November 9 (above, in alphabetical order): Jason Beckford, Matthew Brown, Carlos Omar Diaz-Torres, Robert Joyce, Ali Saleh Naser, Phillip Spencer Nichols, Erwin Renon, William Sulivan Jr., Clyde Sundberg and Denard Williams. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated December 7 (above, in alphabetical order): Charles Atkins, Todd Curry, Jordan Harris and Algie Mayfield Jr. May 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Advanced Galley Ops – Graduated December 7 (above, in alphabetical order): Jatniel Cesar Aguilera Santiago, Jason Beckford, Reno Ibanez Duque, Gregory McNiel, Lonnie Myers Jr. and Ian Schluder. Galley Ops – Graduated December 14 (above): Phase III Apprentices Erjay Dimalanta Velasco (left) and Brian Kluth Jr. Certified Chief Cook Module 2 – Graduated November 16 (above): Gregory Watts (left) and Mohamed Ahmed Nour. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated November 9 (above, in alphabetical order): Gerald Archie, Toni Johnson, Frank Acoba Ramones, Dennis Skretta and Leanne Smith. Galley Ops – Graduated December 14 (above): Destany Howard (left) and Ama1do Paulito Estimada Angeles. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated December 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Alexander Banky III, Michael Carello, Leola Johnson and Esper Jordan. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated November 30 (above, in alphabetical order): Rene Fernando Guity, Johnnie McGill Jr., Erwin Renon and Juan Jose Vallejo Hernandez. May 2019 Certified Chief Cook (Module 4) – Graduated December 14: Duane Washington. Seafarers LOG 23 �MAY 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 5 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O The photo at left shows the NOAA ship Gordon Gunter underway at sea. (Photo by Jennifer Gatzke) Aboard the vessel (photo above, from left) are Bosun Jerome Taylor, AB Angie Ullman, Fisherman Warren Brown, Junior Engineer Wynzavian Parker and Wiper Ty Ballance. With NOAA Crews in Mississippi Members of the SIU Government Services Division who sail aboard National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) vessels consistently meet the challenge of living up to the agency’s lofty goals. So said SIU Safety Director/Government Services Division Representative Sam Spain following recent visits to several NOAA vessels in their home port of Pascagoula, Mississippi. SIU Port Agent Jimmy White (based in Mobile, Alabama) also helped service the ships; the meetings included reviews of a new, five-year agreement covering the crews. According to the NOAA website, the agency, “enriches life through science. Our reach goes from the surface of the sun to the depths of the ocean floor as we work to keep the public informed of the changing environment around them. From daily weather forecasts, severe storm warnings, and climate monitoring to fisheries management, coastal restoration and supporting marine commerce, NOAA’s products and services support economic vitality and affect more than one-third of America’s gross domestic product. NOAA’s dedicated scientists use cutting-edge research and high-tech instrumentation to provide citizens, planners, emergency managers and other decision makers with reliable information they need when they need it.” SIU NOAA crews do their part, said Spain, who cited three of the vessels serviced in Pascagoula. Mariners from the Oregon II (one of the vessels serviced in Pascagoula) assist in operations related to conducting varies fisheries, plankton and marine mammal surveys in the Gulf of Mexico, Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Crews from the Gordon Gunter, operating in those same areas, help monitor the “health and abundance of fisheries resources and marine mam- mals,” according to the agency. And, NOAA crews also ably operate the Pisces, described by the agency as a “stateof-the-art, acoustically quiet fisheries survey vessel … built for a wide range of living marine resource surveys and ecosystem projects. The ship focuses primarily on U.S. waters from the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean, and South Atlantic to North Carolina.” The Oregon II (photo above) is pictured at sunset (NOAA photo). Pictured aboard the vessel in photo balow are (back row, from left) SIU Safety Director/Government Services Division Representative Sam Spain, Skilled Fisherman Charles Godwin, AB John Kent, Junior Engineer James McDade, (front) Wiper O.C. Hill, Lead Fisherman Chris Nichols and Fisherman Christopher Rawley. Aboard the Pisces (standing, from left in photo above) are Fisherman Christopher Rowly, Second Cook Dana Reid, GVA Austin Patti, (seated) GVA Michael Fountain, Junior Engineer Travis Martin, Chief Bosun James Walker and Charles Knott. In photo below, the Pisces is shown dockside in Pascagoula, Mississippi. � 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 2019 Description An account of the resource Headlines: LEGISLATORS PRONOUNCE BIPARTISAN BACKING OF JONES ACT TO PRESIDENT FINANCIAL COMMITTEE APPROVES RECORDS SUNSHINE STATE CELEBRATES JONES ACT MATSON TAKES DELIVERY OF KAIMANA HILA WORKMEN CONTINUE TO MAKE PROGRESS ON JONES ACT CONTAINERSHIP IN TEXAS COAST GUARD COMMANDANT: 'THE JONES ACT IS IMPORTANT TO THE SECURITY OF THE NATION' ALLIES TESTIFY ON FUTURE OF MARITIME INDUSTRY REP. GARAMENDI, SEN. WICKER URGE SUPPORT OF AMERICAN MARITIME APOSTLESHIP OF THE SEA BACKS JONES ACT, WWII MARINERS PAUL HALL CENTER APPRENTICE RECALLS OVAL OFFICE EXPERIENCE PEOPLE WITH SICKLE CELL DISEASE INHERIT CONDITION FROM PARENTS MARINE SOCIETY HONORS SIU PRESIDENT SIU-BACKED FINAL RULE BOOSTS MARINER ACCESS AIRLINES DUB LUGGAGE WITH NON-REMOVABLE BATTERY A 'BIG NO-NO' NEW COURSE JOINS PINEY POINT LINEUP SIU CIVMARS SUPPORT PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP 2019 CULINARY 2.0 TRAINING STILL AVAILABLE AT PAUL HALL CENTER WITH NOAA CREWS IN MISSISSIPPI 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 5/1/2019 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. 81, No. 5 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/16834018575180af75999267fcaa9084.pdf af9d493c6fec55e826df90de15efd4ce PDF Text Text APRIL 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 4 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Jones Act Means 650,000 American Jobs Cabotage Law Contributes $154 Billion to Nation’s Economy Annually – Page 2 MTD Charts Course for Strengthening Maritime Industry, Workers’ Rights The Maritime Trades Department (MTD) Executive Board tackled numerous key issues during its recent meeting in Orlando, Florida – a two-day session that energized attendees. While many important topics were discussed, some of the most prominent ones included the Jones Act, labor solidarity, grassroots political action, and helping American military veterans. MTD President Michael Sacco (left), who also is president of the SIU, addresses the audience members, many of whom are shown in the photo below. Our extensive coverage begins with President Sacco’s column on Page 2, and continues on Pages 12-17 and 28. Crowley’s Taíno Christened In Puerto Rico Seafarers on Feb. 22 helped celebrate the christening of Crowley Maritime’s new ConRo Taíno in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Vessel sponsor Clara Crowley is pictured below, while the group photo at right features SIU members, AMO officers, Crowley executives and the company’s terminal team. Page 3. (Photos courtesy Crowley Maritime) Matson Christens Vessel Page 2 Congress Voices Jones Act Support Page 3 ‘Sail-In’ a Success Pages 4-5 �President’s Report Uplifting MTD Meeting Anyone who attended the most recent meeting of the Maritime Trades Department Executive Board must have come away encouraged and energized. As reported in detail throughout this edition of the LOG, we heard from representatives of the administration, the military, the labor movement and Congress. Collectively, their remarks underscored support for the U.S. Merchant Marine, workplace safety and workers’ rights as well as the critical importance of grassroots political action. As an Air Force veteran and president of the MTD, I also appreciated speeches and discussions at the meetings centered on how to help our men and women from the armed forces find good jobs once they finish their service. The AFL-CIO Union Veterans Council is doing solid, meaningful work in this effort (the MTD is a charter member of the council), but it’s not a small task. On that note, I extend my thanks and appreciaMichael Sacco tion to President Trump for signing an executive order designed to help veterans transition into civilian maritime careers (see Page 6). Our military leaders have been sounding the alarm about a manpower shortage in our industry that threatens sustained sealift capability. The executive order – something the SIU has backed for a while – can only help ease that shortage. Credit and thanks also go to Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao, Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby, Deputy Maritime Administrator Richard Balzano and Dr. Peter Navarro, director of the Office of Trade and Manufacturing Policy. Each of them backed the order and helped advance it to the Oval Office. Meanwhile, what would one of these monthly columns be without an update on the Jones Act? For those of you reading the print edition, be sure to check out the article on this page about a new study from PricewaterhouseCoopers on America’s freight cabotage law. The research found that the Jones Act now supports almost 650,000 American jobs while contributing $154 billion to the U.S. economy each year. Keep that in mind as the misguided attacks against this law continue. While the study focused on jobs and economic impacts, the Jones Act is even more important than those eye-popping numbers suggest. It helps sustain our pool of dedicated, reliable, well-trained, U.S.citizen mariners. It keeps our country’s shipbuilding capacity afloat. It helps safeguard our coasts and inland waterways. That last point shouldn’t be overlooked. Michael Hebert from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency has stated, “There’s no way that we could enforce our national security laws without the Jones Act.” Despite all of those facts, our industry remains vigilant in defending the Jones Act, which has served our nation well for nearly a century. There are free-traders and foreign-flag interests that simply don’t care about the law’s value, and they’re out to weaken American security while eliminating U.S. jobs. We won’t let it happen, but our success depends on a combination of sustained political action and continuing to do reliable work every day aboard Jones Act vessels. Concerning the former point, be sure to read this month’s article about Congressmen Bennie Thompson (D-Mississippi) and Brian Mast (R-Florida) at the MTD, and see what they said about electing people who’ll listen to us and support us. Both congressmen also reminded us that we need to educate all elected officials about the maritime industry. (See our Sail-In coverage on Pages 4-5.) Brothers and sisters, I remain optimistic about the future of our union and our industry. As long as we’re willing to stand up for the U.S. Merchant Marine and put in the work, we’ll succeed. O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 81 Number 4 April 2019 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, Nick Merrill; Piney Point Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2019 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. 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 New Jones Act Study Confirms Economic Value, Job Growth Industry Employs Nearly 650,000 Americans A new study leaves no doubt that the Jones Act is vital for U.S. national, economic and homeland security. The Transportation Institute (TI) on March 4 announced that the domestic maritime industry now employs almost 650,000 Americans across all 50 states and contributes $154 billion to the nation’s economic growth annually. That data comes from an extensive study by PricewaterhouseCoopers. The Jones Act guarantees that the transportation of merchandise between two U.S. points is carried out by vessels that are crewed, built, flagged and owned American. Supported by broad bipartisan majorities in Congress and top U.S. national security officials, the freight cabotage law promotes the maintenance of the nation’s vitally important maritime industrial base, ensuring that American jobs are not shipped overseas and that defense capabilities and readiness not outsourced to foreign nations. SIU President Michael Sacco stated, “This report confirms what we have been saying for decades. The Jones Act is a vital and indispensable law that benefits American workers, the American economy and the American people.” The TI is a leading maritime association which advocates and works for sound national maritime policy in the United States. TI Chairman and President James L. Henry stated, “From shipyards to the high seas, the maritime industry is indisputably contributing to the American economy in a major way. This new study shows the spectacular impact that our industry has on our nation’s overall wellbeing, especially by providing livelihoods to 650,000 hard-working Americans, thousands of whom proudly served in our military. We simply would not be as strong as we are without the veteran community, and it’s a source of great pride that our growth is benefitting them and their families. Needless to say, the report underscores just how indispensable the Jones Act continues to be for the security and prosperity of our entire country.” According to the study, the Jones Act creates $41 billion in labor income for American workers each year and adds $72 billion annually to the value of U.S. economic output. The study further finds that one shipyard job creates four jobs elsewhere in the economy The 40,000 vessels that comprise the Jones Act fleet move nearly one billion tons of cargo annually – or roughly a quarter of the nation’s freight – along U.S. internal waterways, across the Great Lakes, and over the oceans to Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. territories. Shipped goods include a variety of products, from raw materials and commodities like coal and crude oil to consumer products that fill the shelves of grocery stores nationwide. TI described the Jones Act as “the quintessential ‘Buy American, Hire American’ law, one that puts American workers first and is critically important for guaranteeing our national security and maintaining our defense industrial base.” Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (D-Hawaii) (front in photo at right) does the honors at the ship christening as Matson Chairman/CEO Matt Cox (left) looks on. Vessel is pictured at left late last year during its floatout. (Photos courtesy of Matson) Matson’s Kaimana Hila Christened Jones Act Vessel Built by Union Labor at Philly Shipyard New SIU jobs are on the way following the recent christening of a union-built containership. Matson’s Kaimana Hila formally was welcomed March 9 at Philly Shipyard. U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-Hawaii) served as the vessel’s sponsor. The new vessel is the sister ship of the SIU-crewed Daniel K. Inouye, which was christened in June and went into service in November 2018. According to Matson, Kaimana Hila “is a Hawaiian transliteration for Diamond Head, the name of Hawaii’s iconic landmark crater near Waikiki Beach.” Matson further reported that the two Aloha Class ships were built at a total cost of approximately $418 million, and are the first of four new vessels that Matson will put into its Hawaii service (part of the Jones Act trade) during the next 18 months. “This is a proud day for ev- eryone at Matson,” said Matt Cox, Matson’s chairman and chief executive officer, during the shipyard ceremony. “Daniel K. Inouye has performed well in its first four months of service, and we are excited to have Kaimana Hila joining it soon. These new vessels herald the beginning of a new era in our Hawaii service and will allow us to serve our customers better than ever for decades to come.” Steinar Nerbovik, Philly Shipyard president and CEO, said, “I’d like to extend my gratitude to Matson. Construction of the Kaimana Hila, and its earlier sister ship, has provided good, skilled work for nearly 1,500 people at Philly Shipyard over the last three years. We are immensely proud to provide another quality and safe vessel that Matson can be proud of for years to come.” The ceremony was attended by approximately 70 representatives of Matson and the shipyard. Weighing in at more than 51,400 metric tons, the 850-foot long and 3,600 TEU capacity Kaimana Hila and Daniel K. Inouye are Matson’s largest ships and the largest containerships ever constructed in the U.S. They are also Matson’s fastest vessels, with a top speed of nearly 24 knots. This feature helps ensure on-time deliveries in Hawaii from Matson’s three West Coast terminals in Seattle, Washington; Oakland, California; and Long Beach, California. In addition, both Aloha Class vessels incorporate the latest environmentally friendly technology, including dual-fuel engines that can be adapted to use liquefied natural gas (LNG), doublehull fuel tanks, freshwater ballast systems and a more fuel-efficient hull design. April 2019 �Jones Act Support Evident in Hearings SIU Exec. VP Testifies on Behalf of American Maritime Labor Two of the year’s first congressional hearings on the maritime industry reflected strong bipartisan support for the U.S. Merchant Marine as a whole and for the Jones Act in particular. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez testified on behalf of maritime labor during a March 6 hearing conducted by the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation. The hearing’s title was “U.S. Maritime and Shipbuilding Industries: Strategies to Improve Regulation, Economic Opportunities, and Competitiveness.” Tellez was on a panel that also included Rear Adm. Michal Alfultis, Ph.D, president, State University of New York Maritime College; Jennifer Carpenter, executive vice president and COO, American Waterways Operators; John Crowley, president, National Association of Waterfront Employers; and Michael Roberts, senior vice president and general counsel, Crowley Maritime, on behalf of the American Maritime Partnership. An earlier panel included Rear Adm. John Nadeau, assistant commandant for prevention policy, United States Coast Guard; and Rear Adm. Mark H. Buzby, (USN Ret.), administrator, Maritime Administration. SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez testifies at the March 6 House hearing. Meanwhile, the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation simultaneously conducted a hearing titled “The State of the American Maritime Industry.” Like others, Tellez addressed the manpower crisis facing the industry. Union-Contracted Crowley Christens LNG-Powered Taino in Puerto Rico Vessel Signals New SIU Jobs, Reliable Service for Territory Seafarers were on hand to help welcome a new, state-of-the-art Crowley vessel in Puerto Rico. The company on Feb. 22 christened the U.S.-flag combination container/roll on-roll off (ConRo) ship MV Taíno in San Juan. Clara Crowley, daughter of Chairman and CEO Tom Crowley and board member Christine Crowley, served as the ship’s sponsor and broke the ceremonial bottle of champagne on the bow of the Taíno at the company’s Isla Grande Terminal before several hundred employees, customers and dignitaries as well as crew members. It was the first time a container ship had been christened in San Juan in recent memory. SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo, who attended the event, stated, “This new Jones Act ship is a welcome addition not only for our union but also for the people of Puerto Rico. It means jobs for Seafarers and the continuation of a new era of what Crowley has rightfully called world-class supply chain services in the U.S. mainland-Puerto Rico trade.” “We are thrilled to christen this magnificent new ship here with our employees, customers and people of Puerto Rico, whom she will serve for many years to come,” said Tom Crowley. “Taíno is a source of pride for us all and in particular the men and women who built and/or crew her, many of whom are Puerto Rican.” The Taíno is among the first of its kind to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), like its sister Commitment Class ship MV El Coquí, which entered service in 2018. LNG is a substantially cleaner fuel source that provides industry-leading environmental performance. The Taíno is named for the native Puerto Ricans who lived off the land with He said that while the U.S. Merchant Marine always answers the call during crises, “we have to make sure that there is an industry in which to employ them” at all times. “We are at a critical time,” Tellez told the subcommittee. “To reverse that critigreat appreciation and respect for their environment, and the El Coquí is named for the popular indigenous frog on the island. Both ships are 720 feet long, 26,500 deadweight tons (DWT), and able to transport up to 2,400 twenty-foot-equivalent container units (TEUs) at cruising speeds of greater than 22 knots – offering fast, 55hour transits that reached an industry-leading on-time arrival rate of 98 percent in the first month of this year. Each ship has enclosed, ventilated decks with capacity for 400 cars and large vehicles, a feature unique in the Puerto Rico trade. Both Jones Act ships were constructed at VT Halter Marine in Pascagoula, Mississippi. To enhance supply chain velocity with these ships, Crowley also made significant investments in terminal and related infrastructure on the mainland and in Puerto Rico. At Isla Grande, the company added a new, 900-foot pier and three ship-to-shore gantry cranes – the first newly constructed cranes for San Juan Harbor in more than 50 years. The company also implemented a new terminal operating system and added container staging areas and handling equipment for both refrigerated and dry cargo – all while reducing gate turn times. cal situation, I think it’s time for some bold moves – boldness in the sense that it will create untold opportunities for American seafarers.” He called for strengthening cargo preference laws, including a boost to 100 percent of government-impelled, non-military cargoes. “Let every federal agency buy, build and ship American,” he declared. Tellez also urged extension and expansion of the Maritime Security Program, along with passage of an LNG-related bill introduced last year by U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) that would “create thousands of jobs on land in the shipyards, at sea, create a true trade for American companies to be involved in, and silence those Jones Act waiver demands for the transportation of energy.” He also described ways to be “creative in recapitalization and the utilization of our Ready Reserve Force.” He concluded, “The time is now to make these bold moves. We cannot wait.” Chair of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Peter DeFazio (D-Oregon) opened the hearContinued on Page 6 “This major investment, which is resulting in jobs, a positive economic impact, a cleaner environment and worldclass supply chain services for Puerto Rico shippers, would not have been possible without the Jones Act,” said Tom Crowley. “While the act ensures that we have a robust shipbuilding capability and skilled merchant mariners in the U.S. essential to our national defense, it has also created a commercial shipping market between the mainland and Puerto Rico that is highly competitive, customized and dedicated. We should be strengthening this critically important maritime law, not tearing it down as some special interest groups espousing highly inaccurate and misleading information would like to do.” Among the first SIU members to sail aboard the Taíno were Bosun Jamar Harley, ABs Iker Urruchi Lugo, Dominique Johnson, Emil Norales, Arthur Patterson, Julio Perez and Sonny Perez, Electrician Carlos Parrilla, QMEDs Sherrod Frazier and Victor Rios Lopez, Oiler Angel Cintron, Recertified Steward Kim Strate, Chief Cook Luis Perez Acosta, and SAs Nicoll Quinones-Rodriguez and Steven Lopez Ferrer. The LNG-powered Taíno is a Jones Act ship that helps boost U.S. national, economic and homeland security. In photo at left, SIU personnel including Port Agent Amancio Crespo (kneeling in front, right) gather near the vessel the day it was christened in San Juan. April 2019 Seafarers LOG 3 �‘Sail-In’ Sends Maritime Message to D.C. Annual Event on Capitol Hill Promotes U.S. Merchant Marine For the tenth year in a row, representatives from the SIU and other maritime industry leaders recently ventured to Capitol Hill for the annual Maritime Congressional Sail-In. The yearly grassroots event (the most recent one took place March 6) has become a crucial mainstay for the American maritime industry, which is heavily regulated. It consists of meetings with legislators from both sides of the aisle as well as their respective staffs. Each Sail-In group normally features representatives from different components of the industry, including labor, management and other partners. This year, 34 groups attended more than 180 meetings to discuss pressing maritime issues. Representing the SIU were Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone, Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Assistant Vice Presidents Nick Celona, Kris Hopkins, Bryan Powell, Mike Russo and Pat Vandegrift, Port Agents Todd Brdak, Amancio Crespo, John Hoskins, Nick Marrone II, Ashley Nelson, Victor Nunez, Mark von Siegel, Chris Westbrook, Joe Baselice and Jimmy White, Patrolman Ray Henderson and Political Consultant Terry Turner. This year’s Sail-In saw the most SIU participation in the event’s history, with representatives from the union in 21 of the 34 groups. In addition to the SIU representatives, the meeting groups included leaders from every major seafaring union, various Jones Act shipping companies and organizations, the Navy League of the United States, several state maritime academies and other allies of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Topics brought to the attention of the law- makers included proposals to extend and expand the Maritime Security Program; increase the required percentages for U.S.-flag transport of non-military, government-impelled cargoes; protect the Jones Act; and recognize World War II U.S. Merchant Mariners with a congressional gold medal. The Sail-In concluded with a rooftop reception at the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (MEBA) office. There, U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) addressed the guests, and reiterated his commitment to the maritime industry and U.S.-flag shipping. Maritime Lawyer Brad Gilman, MEBA’s Pat Bevers, and SIU Port Agent Jimmy White (right) pictured with a legislative aide from Senator Shelly Moore Capito’s (R-West Virginia) office. SIU Asst. VP Bryan Powell (second from right), Great Lakes Dredge and Dock VP William Hanson, MM&P VP Great Lakes Tom Bell and the Lake Carriers’ Association Director of Regulatory Affairs Tom Rayburn are pictured with members of Senator Martin Heinrich’s (D-New Mexico) staff. From left: Liberty Shipping Group President Robert Wellner, Transportation Institute Director of Operations Rich Berkowitz, Rep. Abby Finkenauer’s (D-Iowa) Legislative Director Tyler Wilson, SIU Port Agent Mark von Siegel and SUNY Maritime Executive Director of External Affairs Mary Muecke. From left: AFL-CIO Metal Trades Department President James Hart, AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Exec. Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan, Congressman Paul Cook (R-California) and Dutra Group Dredging Business Manager Will Wallgren. From left: Saltchuk VP of Government Affairs Chris Coakley, Congressman Tom Cole’s (R-Oklahoma) Deputy Chief of Staff Maria R.M. Bowie, SIU Port Agent Ashley Nelson and Crowley Director of Labor Relations Ira Douglas. From left: AFL-CIO Metal Trades Department President James Hart, Dutra Group Dredging Business Manager Will Wallgren, Congressman Don Young (R-Alaska), IBU of the Pacific President Marina Secchitano, ILWU Government Affairs Director Lindsey McLaughlin and AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Exec. Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan. SIU Port Agent Todd Brdak (second from right) is pictured with AMP’s Mark Ruge, Interlake Steamship Company President Mark Barker, International Shipmasters’ Association’s Scott Skrzypczak and a member of Rep. Bob Gibbs’ (R-Ohio) staff. From left: Crowley Maritime Capt. Nick St. Jean, Transportation Institute Vice President of Governmental Affairs Sara Fuentes, Congresswoman Betty McCollum’s Legislative Fellow Kristen A. Gibson, Navy League Congressional Relations Manager Ryan Simon and SIU VP Contracts George Tricker. 4 Seafarers LOG From left: TOTE Ship Management Director Eunice Young, SIU Patrolman Ray Henderson and AWO’s Patrick Parsons wait for their meeting with Representative Dustin ‘Dusty’ Johnson (R-South Dakota). SIU Asst. Vice President Pat Vandegrift (third from right), Navy League VP Legislative Affairs Jonathan Kaskin, Crowley VP Government Services J. Sanford Brickman, Bold Ocean LLC’s Chief Technical Officer Logan Hearn and two members of Congressman Peter Viscloskey’s (D-Indiana) office. April 2019 �From left: AMO Chief Engineer Mike Hoffman, American President Lines President Eric Mensing, TOTE Director of Communications Christopher Smith, Congressman Chris Smith (R-New Jersey), SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez and Maersk Vice President U.S. Government Relations Doug Morgante From left: Liberty Maritime Executive VP-U.S. Flag Chip Jaenichen, Robertson Monagle’s Sebastian O’Kelly, staffer from the Office of Senator Todd Young (R-Indiana), AMO Capt. Tomas Malo and SIU Port Agent Nick Marrone II. SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (center), APL Director Legislative Affairs Tim Perry, Council of American Master Mariners National President Jeff Cowan, MFOW President Anthony Poplawski and a staffer from Representative Katie Hill’s (D-California) office. SIU Port Agent Chris Westbrook (center), along with AMP’s Jim Sartucci, Louisiana Federal Pilots President Greg Bush, Seabulk Chief Mate Kitty Segert, Great Lakes Maritime Academy’s Mike Surgalski and Representative Russ Felcher’s (R-Idaho) legislative assistant Steve Ackerman. From left, SIU Consultant Lanier Avant, Senior Political Consultant Terry Turner and MEBA Branch Agent Jeff Duncan meet with a member of Congresswoman Gwen Moore’s (DWisconsin) staff. SIU Port Agent John Hoskins (second from right) is pictured with Maritime Institute Counsel Steve Wines, MEBA Secretary-Treasurer Bill Van Loo, Bold Ocean LLC’s Vice President Keith Zelinsky, MM&P Communications Director Lisa Rosenthal and a staff member from Representative Anthony Brown’s (D-Maryland) office. April 2019 SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (third from left), Central Gulf Lines Director of Internal and Government Business Shelton Metcalf, MEBA VP Gulf Coast Erin Neville Bertram, Meridian.us President Jonathan McConnell, U.S. Ocean LLC President and CEO Will Terrill and a staff member from Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart’s (R-Florida) office. From left: Crowley executive Anthony Naccarato, American Maritime Officers Service’s Brenda Otterson, staffer from office of Congressman Rick Crawford (R-Arkansas), Maersk Line, Limited VP Ed Hanley, ARC Senior Director - Sales and Marketing Chris Barber and SIU Port Agent Victor Nunez. SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo (second from right) is pictured along with AMP’s Darrell Conner, Crowley Vice Presidents Kerri McClellan and Art Mead, AMO Capt. Kevin Stith and a staffer from Representative Nydia M. Velazquez’s (D-New York) office. SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (third from right) and SIU Port Agent Joe Baselice (second from right), with MEBA Legislative and Political Director Erick Siahaan, MFOW Vice President Cajun Callais, MM&P Pacific Coast Agent Jeremy Hope, Sailors’ Union of the Pacific President Emeritus Gunnar Lundeberg and Congressman Matt Cartwright (DPennsylvania)(center). SIU Asst. VP Mike Russo (third from left), pictured with Bold Ocean LLC’s Government Affairs Director Jeff Williams, Bold Ocean LLC’s Marine Personnel Manager Michaela Burroughs Barker, Crowley Maritime Marine Recruiting Manager Jenny Johnson, SUNY Maritime Chief of Staff Mark Wooley and Congressman Dutch Ruppersberger (D-Maryland) (center). From left: American President Lines President Eric Mensing, Congressman Joe Courtney (D-Connecticut), Maersk VP U.S. Government Relations Doug Morgante, TOTE Director of Communications Christopher Smith and AMO Chief Engineer Mike Hoffman. Seafarers LOG 5 �President Trump displays the signed executive order on March 4. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao is standing fifth from left, while Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby is third from left. Paul Hall Center Apprentice Corey Daniel Reseburg is seventh from right. (Official White House Photo by Shealah Craighead) Executive Order Aims to Boost Maritime Industry An executive order signed by President Trump on March 4 will make it easier for military personnel to transition into the U.S. Merchant Marine. The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education was represented at the signing ceremony in the Oval Office. Apprentice Corey Daniel Reseburg was one of 18 individuals standing behind President Trump as he signed the order. Attendees also included Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao, Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta, Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby, Deputy Maritime Administrator Richard Balzano, and other mariners. The Supporting the Transition of Active Duty Service Members and Military Veterans into the Merchant Marine order states: “It’s the policy of the United States to support practices and programs that ensure that members of the United States Armed Forces receive appropriate credit for the military training and experience towards credentialing requirements as a Merchant Mariner. And it’s further the policy of the United States to establish and maintain an effective Merchant Marine program by providing sufficient support and resources to active-duty and separating service members who pursue or possess Merchant Mariner credentials.” According to Peter Navarro, who is assistant to the president for manufacturing and trade policy as well as director of the Office of Trade and Manufacturing Policy, the order “makes it easier for sea service veterans to get high-paying, high-skilled jobs as mariners by waiving government-issued li- Jones Act Receives Strong Bipartisan Support During Congressional Hearings Continued from Page 3 ing by addressing the recent executive order signed by President Trump that facilitates military veterans’ entry into the industry. “I applaud the President for signing an executive order on Monday to support the transition of active duty service members and military veterans to careers in the U.S. Merchant Marine,” he said. “It would be a cruel irony, however, if the next action taken by this administration were to waive the Jones Act and simultaneously eliminate future job opportunities for those very same veterans and separating active duty service members. I feel very strongly about the Jones Act.” 6 Seafarers LOG Subcommittee Chair Sean Patrick Maloney (D-New York) recognized the importance of the Jones Act, stating, “We cannot become complacent in our defense of the Jones Act, which remains a critical component of U.S. maritime strategy.” He also highlighted the importance of the Jones Act for providing the vessels and manpower in times of need: “The U.S. Merchant Marine acts as a naval auxiliary to deliver troops and war material to military operations abroad. Throughout our history, the Army has relied on U.S.-flagged commercial vessels to carry weapons and supplies and ferry troops to the battlefield. During Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, U.S.-flagged com- censing fees and by crediting military training in the National Maritime Center credentialing system.” In addition, Navarro wrote in an opinion piece for Fox News that the order “helps enable veterans apply their education and experience on military ships toward the mariner credentialing curriculum, thereby removing other costly barriers.” He added during a press call, “In these ways, it incentivizes our nation’s most experienced seamen to enter the U.S. Merchant Marine, which is sometimes called the nation’s Fourth Arm of Defense. Currently, we face a shortfall of Merchant Mariners that may have serious national security implications.” Veterans Administration Secretary Robert Wilkie noted, “By fast-tracking the transition into the Merchant Mamercial vessels transported 90 percent of sustainment cargoes moved to Afghanistan and Iraq.” Also expressing support for the Jones Act was Rep. Chris Pappas (DNew Hampshire), who asked, “What would the maritime industry look like without the Jones Act?” Buzby responded, “We would not have a maritime industry without the Jones Act. Quite plain and simple.” Pappas concluded, “The Jones Act seems to be working. I’m a big supporter.” During the Senate hearing, Chairman Roger F. Wicker (R-Mississippi) noted there are 41,000 Jones Act-qualified vessels operating in the domestic trades, adding that “properly enforcing the Jones Act is important for economic and national security.” Ranking Member Maria Cantwell (D-Washington) addressed the importance of a strong American domestic fleet to maintain a robust shipbuilding industry and industrial base, and urged the committee that “in addition to the strong support of the Jones Act, this committee should consider supporting investments in vessel recapitalization programs.” rine of trained and credentialed service members, President Trump is meeting an important national security need while providing meaningful, well-paying jobs to our nation’s heroes.” (Wilkie stated his grandfather had been a mariner.) The SIU has been working for years with the Defense Department and the military services to transition the skills and credentials earned while serving in the armed forces directly to civilian merchant mariner documents and licenses. The regularly has participated in the American Maritime Partnership’s “Military2Maritime” program that affords veterans the opportunity to maximize their professional strengths by meeting with representatives from maritime companies, training schools, unions and others to learn about careers in maritime industry. Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) highlighted the national security aspect of the Jones Act, noting the importance of “having the merchant mariners ready in case they are in need.” Sen. Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska) likewise acknowledged the significance of the Jones Act for military readiness, adding that the law is “vital to the security and safety of the United States.” Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisconsin) emphasized that the American maritime industry represents “a critical national security asset for the United States.” Baldwin went on to discuss a bill she introduced, the Made in America Shipbuilding Act, and revealed she plans on reintroducing it “very soon.” Reminding witnesses that a number of committee members sent a letter to the White House emphasizing the importance of the Jones Act, Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) highlighted the role of the Jones Act in national security and noted that Korea, China, and Japan all have laws that are like the “Jones Act on steroids” which are in place to protect domestic economies, jobs, and national security. April 2019 �Culinary 2.0 Classes Going Strong At Union-Affiliated Paul Hall Center The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education continues to offer Culinary 2.0 classes designed to help students not only hone their skills but also facilitate shipping opportunities. Specifically, while every new member of the steward department who completes their apprenticeship at the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship will have successfully passed Culinary 2.0, it’s important to remember that those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards must also take the coursework in order to exercise preference and priority beginning next year (unless they have received training after January 1, 2017 at the Piney Point, Maryland-based campus). This includes permanent stewards. All of the current steward department courses have been redesigned to the new standards of Culinary 2.0, which serves as a blanket term for the new galley classes and curriculums. For those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards, there are two new revalidation courses that have been designed to ensure a consistent level of culinary training and efficiency: Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 and Orientation/ Assessment Chief Cook 2.0. Shipping Rule 5.A.(6), which will go into effect January 1, 2020, states, “Within each class of seniority in the Steward Department, priority shall be given to those seamen who possess an advanced Culinary 2.0 certificate from the Seafarers Harry Lun- deberg School of Seamanship, in the event such program is being offered and that the seaman is registered in Group I, Steward Department.” According to SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker, “The intent of this assessment is not to disqualify a seaman’s ability to retain employment, but to identify targeted training needs and/or skills that require remediation. Individuals who do not receive the Culinary 2.0 Orientation/Assessment Certificate will still be eligible to return to their permanent position.” Mariners seeking to enroll in Culinary 2.0 courses should be aware that class size is limited, and should plan ahead in order to secure a spot. Notice/Reminder SHBP Offers Tobacco Cessation Benefits The advantages of quitting smoking are well known, but quitting is difficult. If you are thinking of quitting, the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) has a benefit to help you. The Plan offers tobacco cessation benefits, in partnership with CIGNA, to assist you in your effort to stop smoking or using tobacco. This program is available to all eligible members, their spouses, and their children over age 18. The program includes nicotine replacement, as well as coaching services, and other online tools and resources. Anyone who enrolls in the program will receive an eight-week supply of nicotine patches or 12 weeks of nicotine gum. To enroll, contact CIGNA/CareAllies at 1-866-4177848. Tobacco is the leading cause of preventable disease and death in the U.S. The benefits of quitting smoking include reduced risk of cancer, lung disease, stroke, heart disease, eye disease and osteoporosis. Smoking not only harms the smoker, but exposure to secondhand smoke increases health risk to non-smokers as well. Each year, thousands of young children and babies become ill because they live in the home of a smoker. More information about the risks of tobacco and the benefits of quitting are available at www.smokefree.gov. If you or a member of your family are trying to stop smoking or using tobacco, we encourage you to take advantage of this benefit, which was introduced in 2016. If you have any questions about this benefit, please contact the Plan at 1-800-252-4674. Chef John Dobson demonstrates proper technique to students in Piney Point, Maryland. Spotlight on Mariner Health Understanding Crohn’s Disease Editor’s note: This article is provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. Crohn’s disease belongs to a group of conditions known as inflammatory bowel diseases with chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. It affects about 3.2 per 1,000 people in Europe and North America. It tends to start in the teen years and early twenties, although it can occur at any age. Males and females are equally affected. Crohn’s disease is not the same as ulcerative colitis. The symptoms of these two diseases are similar, but the areas affected in the GI tract are different. Crohn’s most commonly affects the end of the small bowel (the ileum) and the beginning of the colon. It can also affect the entire thickness of the bowel wall. Signs and symptoms often include abdominal pain, diarrhea (which may be bloody at times), fever, weakness, and weight loss. Other complications may be seen outside the GI tract and include anemia, skin rashes, arthritis, and inflammation of the eyes. Bowel obstructions may occur as the complication of chronic inflammation increases. The cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown. It is thought to be from a combination of environmental issues, immune system problems, and April 2019 possibly bacterial factors in some genetically susceptible people. Tobacco smokers are twice as likely to develop Crohn’s disease as nonsmokers. It also can begin as gastroenteritis. Diagnosis is bases on biopsies, appearance of the bowel wall, medical testing and imaging, and the patient’s description of the disease. There are no medications or surgical procedures that can cure Crohn’s disease. Treatment is intended to help with symptoms, help to maintain remissions, and prevent relapse. Corticosteroids may be used for brief periods of time along with other medications to help relieve the discomfort of the condition. Colonoscopies are recommended every three to five years to keep a check on the bowels for possible complications of abscesses, bowel obstructions, and any development of the early stages of cancer. One in five people with this disease are admitted to the hospital each year. Half of those with Crohn’s disease will require surgery. A high-calorie, lactose-free and low-fat/low-fiber diet is recommended for these patients. Avoid foods with seeds in them and drink plenty of fluids daily. Keep a check on your weight, especially during flare ups. See your doctor as instructed and exercise regularly to keep up your strength. Healthful Recipe Asian Shrimp & Cashews Servings: 150 Ingredients 60 pounds shrimp, medium sized 50 cloves garlic, minced fine 6 cups olive oil 1 gallon celery, 1-2” pan-diagonally sliced 1 gallon onion, 1-2” pan-thinly sliced 4 cups red and green bell pepper ½ cup fresh ginger root, grated* 6 cups cashew, whole 1 gallon mushrooms, 1-2” pan-sliced 1 gallon water, cold 2 cups low-sodium soy sauce 3 cups white wine 1 cup lemon juice 4 cups peas, frozen 2 cups cornstarch Salt and pepper, to taste *One-fourth teaspoon ground ginger may be substituted and added with soy sauce Preparation Cook the shrimp over medium-high heat in batches. Set aside for later step. Heat garlic in oil in large skittle or wok for 1 minute; remove garlic. Add celery, onion and ginger; cook and stir 2 minutes. Add bell peppers and mushrooms; cook and stir 1 minute. Add in the cooked shrimp, peas, and the cashews. To make the sauce: combine water, soy sauce, wine, lemon juice, and cornstarch; cook and stir until sauce boils and thickens. Add the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Salt to taste. Serve over hot rice. Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 327 calories; 14g fat (40.6 percent calories from fat); 38g protein; 8g carbohydrate; 1g dietary fiber; 276mg cholesterol; 415mg sodium. Exchanges: 0 grain (starch); 5 lean meat; ½ vegetable; 0 fruit; 2 fat. Provided by Chef Robert “RJ” Johnson of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship Seafarers LOG 7 �At Sea and Ashore With the SIU SENATOR BACKS MARITIME – SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (left) is pictured with U.S. Sen. Kamala Harris (D-California) at a reception on the West Coast in February. A longtime friend of the SIU, the senator reiterated her strong backing of the U.S. Merchant Marine. ALOHA FROM PINEY POINT – These students at the union-affiliated school in southern Maryland found their way to Piney Point via the Marimed Foundation program for native Hawaiians. Pictured from left at the Paul Hall Center are Apprentices Rhendall Thatcher, Chauncey Kukahiko, Kirk Puchert and Jessina Fernandez, Chief Cook Dominique Villanueva-Kaaiahau and Wiper Chanel Peters. TALKING JONES ACT IN PUERTO RICO – SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo (second from right) on Feb. 25 participated in a meeting with the Hon. Larry Seilhamer (center), vice president of the Puerto Rico Senate, and others. They discussed the importance of the Jones Act and how it benefits the territory. Also pictured from left are Puerto Rico AFL-CIO President Jose Baez, TOTE VP Eduardo Pagan and Puerto Rico AFL-CIO Political Director Josue Montijo. MEETING WITH CONGRESSMEN – SIU Patrolman Ray Henderson (left in both photos) recently met with U.S. Reps. Albio Sires (above) (D-New Jersey) and Max Rose (below) (D-New York) to discuss the importance of the Jones Act. ACTIVE IN LAKES REGION – In photo above, a donation of $1,000 from the Michigan Maritime Trades Port Council is presented to the Greater Detroit Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers Association. The donation went to families who were suffering undue hardship during the government shutdown. Pictured from left are SIU Asst. VP Bryan Powell, Port Council President Jeannette Bradshaw, MKCS Eric Bonneau, OSCS Gabe Settel and SIU Port Agent Todd Brdak (who also services as secretary-treasurer of the port council). The photo below is from a meeting with Kevin Hrit, regional director for U.S. Sen. Gary Peters. The meeting took place at the Detroit Port Authority office. Pictured from left are Brdak, Hrit, Bradshaw and Powell. 8 Seafarers LOG April 2019 �SIU VP MEETS WITH CIVMARS – SIU VP Government Services Kate Hunt (standing at right) confers with members of the SIU Government Services Division in Norfolk, Virginia. At Sea and Ashore With the SIU SUPPORTING TEACHERS – Oakland, California-area Seafarers demonstrated with striking Teachers in late February and early March. The educators returned to work March 4, following a highly successful, seven-day job action. Among the SIU members pictured at the rallies are Recertified Bosun Artis Williams, Bosun Antjuan Webb, ACU Saleh Sewileh, Recertified Steward Joseph Gallo and FOWT Francisco Valle. SIU West Coast VP Nick Marrone and Port Agent Nick Marrone II also are pictured. April 2019 Seafarers LOG 9 �At Sea and Ashore With the SIU SEABULK BOATMEN BACK SPAD – A number of inland Seafarers from Seabulk Towing recently signed up to participate in SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. These photos were taken in Port Arthur, Texas. Among those pictured (photo at right, from left) are Mate Justin Briggs, AB Theron Brittain, SIU Asst. VP Mike Russo, Chief Engineer Richard Johnson and Capt. Jamie Norsworthy. ABOARD SAGAMORE – Pictured aboard the Sealift Inc. vessel in Concord, California, are (photo at left, from left) AB Mark Louie Manalansan and Port Agent Nick Marrone II, and (photo at right, standing) Chief Cook Rhonda Williams, AB Pedro Ambe, Bosun Neftali Erausquin, Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli, SA Eugenia Porter and (front) Steward/Baker Mohamed Nour. ABOARD ALLIANCE FAIRFAX – SIU members and MM&P members are pictured aboard the Maersk Line, Limited vessel. Photo includes Capt. Nicholas Anthony Marcantonio, AB Adbul Saleh, SA Monassar Saleh, Bosun Victor Eligio, Electrician Paul Pagano, Steward/Baker Robert Seim, Chief Cook Elida Miguel, AB Boyce Wilson, Second Mate Erik Gustafson and Third Mate Earl Nelson. ABOARD EVERGREEN STATE – Pictured from left aboard the Crowleyoperated vessel in Selby, California, are AB Paul Longley, SIU Oakland Port Agent Nick Marrone II, SA Tyrone Hall, Chief Steward Francisco Madsen, Chief Cook Ashley Nguyen, QEP Kyle Miller, AB Joseph Stea, AB Brian McCarty and AB Reginald MacOn. SUPPORTING FURLOUGHED FEDERAL WORKERS – These snapshots (above, at top right and immediately below) were taken at a second food drive (Jan. 29) for federal workers, hosted at the SIU hall in Honolulu. SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso reports that for this drive, there were 47 volunteers from the following organizations: SIU, AFGE, M M & P, M E B A , M F O W, HGEA, ILWU, Hawaii Masons & Plasterers, State AFL-CIO, Hawaii Port Council, Marimed, China Town Lyon’s Club, Salvation Army, and Congresswoman Gabbard’s staff. 10 Seafarers LOG NEW DECORATION IN SAN JUAN – As Port Agent Amancio Crespo (right) described it, this illuminated SIU logo is “a gift to remember.” It was given to the union by Crespo’s friend Raymon Vargas (left) for display at the new hiring hall. April 2019 �FULL BOOKS IN JACKSONVILLE – Receiving their full books (photo at left, from left) are SIU members Clarence Miller, Darius Edwards and Marcus Foster, and (remaining photo) Seafarers Lomarro West and Bernard Mainor. Port Agent Ashley Nelson administers the union oath in both photos. At Sea and Ashore With the SIU WELCOME ASHORE IN MOBILE – Recertified Bosun Calvin Miles (left) picks up his first pension check at the hiring hall in Mobile, Alabama. Miles began sailing with the SIU in 1975. He’s pictured with Port Agent Jimmy White. ABOARD EL COQUI – Pictured aboard the Crowley ship in Puerto Rico (photo above at left, from left) are Chief Cook Kevin Valentin, SIU Administrative Assistant Maria Gomez and Recertified Steward Juan Vallejo. From left in other photo are SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo, AB Kemer Rojas, Recertified Bosun Abel Vazquez, AB Victor Cortes and Vallejo. A-BOOK IN HONOLULU – Bosun Maximo Aguiran (left) receives his A-seniority book at the hiring hall. Congratulating him is Shureen Yatchmenoff, administrative assistant. MSC COMMANDER’S SURPRISE VISIT TO USS – The commanding officer of the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) recently stopped at the United Seamen’s Service (USS) center in Yokohama, Japan, to help present a plaque of appreciation. ABOARD HORIZON ANCHORAGE – Pic- Rear Adm. Dee Mewbourne (left) and Michael Morris (right), MSC director of total tured aboard the Matson ship in the Pacific force management, gave the commendation to Jack Spiwak (center) of the USS. Northwest is Steward/Baker Ingra Maddox. A-BOOK IN PHILLY – ACU Ragab Ayed (right) receives his A-seniority book from Port Agent Joe Baselice at the hiring hall. A-BOOK IN JERSEY – QMED William Harrison (right) picks up his A-seniority book at the hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. Congratulating him is Patrolman Ray Henderson. ABOARD MAERSK DENVER – Recertified Bosun James Walker (rear) and AB Roque Lambert appear unfazed by the snowy weather in Port Elizabeth, New Jersey. April 2019 APPRENTICE ON MAERSK IDAHO – Daniel Wood does his part to keep the vessel running smoothly. He’s an apprentice from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. GUARANTEED TO BRING A SMILE – Pictured above is Avery Bucalo, daughter of SIU Patrolman Adam Bucalo. The clothing was a gift from Avery’s birthday. At four months (and three days), she has now grown into it. Seafarers LOG 11 �2019 Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO Executive Board Meeting, February 21-22, Orlando, Florida MTD President Cites Labor’s Resurgence Sacco Urges Affiliates to Remain Vigilant in Ongoing Jones Act Fight When he opened the winter meeting of the Maritime Trades Department (MTD) executive board, Michael Sacco emphasized two ongoing struggles of paramount importance to working families. Sacco is president of both the SIU and the MTD – the latter a constitutional department of the AFL-CIO. The MTD is composed of 21 international unions and 21 port maritime councils in the United States and Canada representing nearly 5 million working men and women. The board met Feb. 21-22 in Orlando, Florida. “One of the most positive stories for the MTD and the entire labor movement, I believe, is how we’ve responded to last summer’s Supreme Court ruling in Janus vs. AFSCME,” Sacco said to the board members and guests. “This was supposed to be the beginning of the end for unions. But as one national columnist recently put it: ‘So much for the labor movement’s funeral.’” He pointed out that large unions including the American Federation of Teachers and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees have gained members since the ruling, which allows for free riders. “The Janus ruling is still a farce, and nobody is pretending it’s good news for labor,” Sacco continued. “But you know what? I think it shook us out of the doldrums in a lot of ways. It made us re-educate people about why unions are so important. It made us ramp up our engagement, and the results have been very positive…. I think we’re headed in the right direction.” He then focused on a relatively new, well-funded campaign aimed at repealing the Jones Act – a law that’s vital to U.S. national, economic and homeland security. The misguided attacks are “nothing new, even though they will be on a larger scale. We’re fighting this battle every day,” he said. Sacco wrapped up his opening remarks with a quick reflection on the recent government shutdown. “During that time, our affiliates and port councils really stepped up to support the people who were out of work and those who were forced to work without a paycheck,” he recalled. “We collected gift cards and food donations coast to SIU President Michael Sacco, who also serves as president of the Maritime Trades Depatment (MTD) addresses those in attendance at the Feb. 21-22 MTD executive board meeting in Orlando, Florida. coast and in Hawaii. We rallied in the streets and we marched at airports and elsewhere to stand up for the rank-andfile worker, no matter if they were union members or not. “There is no doubt that our collective actions and those of the affected workers themselves ended the shutdown,” he AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Focuses on Future of Work One of the top officials from the AFLCIO encouraged the MTD executive board to examine key aspects of evolving workplace technology while not losing sight of the power of solidarity. AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler opened her speech Feb. 21 by thanking MTD President Michael Sacco for his leadership. She then spoke about the important tasks that the MTD and its affiliates handle, referencing the session’s prior speakers. Shuler said, “The work that you do is truly leading our labor movement, as I watch the presentations and the slide shows and all of the cataloguing of the work that goes on in this country. You make this country run. I think it’s a little-known secret, and sometimes we don’t get to recognize and appreciate the work that you do enough.” She then spoke on the future of work, and preparing for the future of labor in America: “Work is changing ... and we need to think about how our unions are going to change with it. How AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler 12 Seafarers LOG are we going to modernize? How are we going to grow?” Shuler detailed several steps the federation is taking to incorporate cuttingedge technology for the betterment of workers. She said the labor movement supports efficiency and advancement, but also stands up for the roles of working families moving forward. The secretary-treasurer then described recent worker actions by teachers and hotel workers, respectively. The successful strikes serve as reminders that collective action is effective. “Even though there’s this narrative in our country around rugged individualism and people pulling themselves up by the bootstraps, yes, that is part of our culture as Americans,” she continued. “But we also know that we are stronger together. And no one knows this better than the labor movement. It’s what we stand for, especially the maritime trades unions.” She also credited the MTD and its affiliates and port councils for their hurricane relief efforts that began in 2017. “When Hurricanes Irma, Harvey and Maria hit, you sprang into action,” Shuler recalled. “And it can’t be said enough, the contribution that you made, because even before the storms hit Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, your members were loading and unloading U.S.-flagged and -crewed ships and barges to help the islands prepare for the storms. That was before they hit. And then after the storms, you came through again, working with Jones Act, union-contracted companies to deliver and offload more than 40,000 containers full of equipment to help restore the continued. “We showed our strength, but we also showed solidarity and compassion for our fellow man. That’s what the labor movement is all about. That’s what the MTD is all about. And that’s why I know we’ll always have a bright future as long as we’re willing to stand together and work for it.” islands’ power and water and infrastructure and public services, not to mention life-saving supplies. Thank you. “But you didn’t stop there,” she added. “Of course, U.S.-flag ships with Seafarer crews worked with our friends at the AFT to provide more than 100,000 water filters to the people of Puerto Rico. That was well after the storm, and of course you delivered more than 15,000 books to the schoolchildren in the Virgin Islands, all while fending off attacks on the Jones Act. We all know, during disasters, that’s when they come attacking bedrock labor protections. We’ve seen it before, and I’m sure we’ll see it again.” Shuler pointed out that public opinion of unions is at a 20-year high, with 62 percent of Americans saying they back organized labor, according to a recent Gallup poll. Additionally, she provided data on union training, and used the SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education as an example, saying, “The labor movement is the second-largest provider of training in this country, behind the U.S. military.... We’re the ones training and upgrading people’s skills to get them into better jobs. And every time I go to the Paul Hall Center out in Piney Point, Maryland, I am reminded of this. And I marvel at the technology you use and the programs you have. More than 70 U.S. Coast Guard-approved courses, more than 17,000 apprentices trained, more than 135,000 skills upgrades and more than 2,000 high school diplomas. That deserves a round of applause!” She concluded, “Our role in creating the highly skilled, best-trained workforce in this country is the key to the future of the labor movement. I say that because we have our apprenticeship programs, we have our job training programs. When those programs grow, and we get more workers in, the labor movement grows with it, and employers are supplied with the highest-caliber workers that labor can offer.” April 2019 �2019 Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO Executive Board Meeting, February 21-22, Orlando, Florida U.S. Congressman Bennie Thompson (D-Mississippi) U.S. Congressman Brian Mast (R-Florida) Congressmen Back Jones Act, Emphasize Crucial Need for Grassroots Political Action U.S. Congressmen Bennie Thompson (D-Mississippi) and Brian Mast (R-Florida) have different public-speaking styles, but they offered similarly passionate messages when addressing the MTD executive board last month. Both of them expressed strong support for the Jones Act and the U.S. Merchant Marine. They also stressed the importance of grassroots political action. Thompson, chair of the House Homeland Security Committee, spoke Feb. 21 in his typically engaging, folksy style. He said the nation’s freight cabotage law “is fine (in terms of congressional support), but you have to be vigilant.” He then cited the misinformation campaign that happened after Hurricane Maria. “The moment it hit, the first consideration was to relax the Jones Act, because ‘we can’t get enough goods to help the good Americans who live in Puerto Rico’. Now, if you believe that comment, I’ve got some beachfront property I want to sell you in Oklahoma,” Thompson stated. “I went to Puerto Rico three days after Hurricane Maria, and I saw stuff on the docks delivered by Jones Act vessels. The question wasn’t how you get it there. The question was, once it gets there, what are you going to do with it? [People] blamed the Jones Act for a problem that had nothing to do with it.” Thompson also discussed his longstanding, positive working relationship with organized labor and mentioned his 100 percent labor voting record. “It’s important for you to invest in people who will tell you the truth,” he said. “A lot of us wouldn’t be in Congress without labor’s support…. Not only do you dance with the ones who brung you, you stay with them. It’s in your best interest to help send good people to Washington – good people who don’t forget how they got there and who sent them.” Thompson mentioned an upcoming trip he’s making to Puerto Rico and stated that, there and elsewhere in his travels, he always wants organized labor at the table. “That’s why it’s so important for you to convince your members that they should invest in your PACs,” he explained. “Because if you don’t invest in leadership, the enemy will defeat you. When I’m in the meeting and I hear the company line, I turn to my friends in labor and say, ‘Is that right, what he’s saying?’ That’s a powerful statement, but that’s also somebody not forgetting how they got where they are. “It’s important for you to convince your members that they have to support the political action committee, because that’s really part of your voice, and because if you cede that territory to the opposition, you’re going to have real problems,” he added. Thompson concluded by noting that Senator Sends Pro-Maritime Message U.S. Sen. Kamala Harris (D-California) sent a video greeting to the MTD executive board. She reiterated her strong support for the American maritime industry and workers’ rights. Above, board members and guests observe the senator’s video. April 2019 despite technological changes in the maritime industry, “Those folks who work on the docks and on the ships help keep America safe…. You are the eyes and ears that technology can never replace.” Similarly, Mast – brimming with enthusiasm and patriotism – said of the members of MTD unions, “Without your efforts to move bulk, to push barges, to ship cargo, to move containers like the Post Office moves letters around the country … moving autos, fuel … our economy and our way of life would grind to a halt.” He talked about trade policies and their complexities, adding, “I want equality for our country. We want free trade – we want reciprocal trade.” Turning his attention to the Jones Act, Mast said, “Our defense and support of the Jones Act is very important to me.” Mast, a U.S. Army veteran who earned medals including The Bronze Star Medal, The Army Commendation Medal for Valor, The Purple Heart Medal, and The Defense Meritorious Service Medal, said that when he served overseas, and for all veterans, “everything that we need to do that job – from World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan and all points in between – has been delivered by the trades that you all represent, the men and women you represent. If we get rid of the Jones Act, the next bit of policy, the next bit of work that you will see in the United States of America will be the United States of America’s ambassador to the UN going into the UN with his thumb in the air the next time that we’re in a conflict, saying, ‘Can I hitch a ride?’ That is not the policy we need in this country, and that is one of the most important reasons the Jones Act has to stay in place. To make sure that we are doing everything to defend our maritime industry from being destroyed.” Like Thompson, Mast urged the MTD to “elect people who are going to listen to what you have to say.” Mast added that policies have longreaching effects and take time to implement. He said there’s nothing wrong with honest debate and disagreement, but people should still be cordial. He concluded, “Keep doing what you’re doing. Keep up the fight.” Seafarers LOG 13 �2019 Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO Executive Board Meeting, February 21-22, Orlando, Florida ‘Vital to our National and Economic Security’ Maritime Administrator Buzby Optimistic About Industry’s Future The head of the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) thoroughly understands the challenges facing America’s maritime industry, but remains optimistic about its future. Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby delivered that message Feb. 21 as the first guest speaker to address the MTD executive board this year. The setting was nothing new for the retired U.S. Navy rear admiral, who formerly served as commanding officer of the U.S. Military Sealift Command. As Buzby appreciatively pointed out, he has been attending MTD meetings for a decade. “I’m very sincere when I say how much I’ve enjoyed working with and getting to know the leadership of the MTD over the years,” he said. “We have a level of trust that allows for some very frank discussions, and I think that’s for the benefit of all of us. Your executive committee provides an incalculable service to the maritime industry ashore and to the merchant marine afloat, promoting not only a comprehensive legislative agenda but, perhaps more importantly, educating the congress, the administration, the international community and the American public about a vitally important industry.” He reiterated the unwavering support of his boss, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao, another longtime friend of the SIU. Buzby detailed many of the obstacles the industry is dealing with, including a manpower shortage and an urgent need to recapitalize the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) vessels and other sealift ships. Nevertheless, he stated, “I really am optimistic. We’re making some real headway in getting our merchant marine strengthened. All of my energy and focus and that of my staff is to ensure that the U.S. Merchant Marine continues to move forward – that our story is told forcefully and truthfully. I can also promise that we’ll continue to work shoulder to shoulder with all of you for the benefit of our Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, (USN, Ret.) U.S. Maritime Administrator mariners, because it’s our mariners who often are taken for granted and are the key to our nation’s sealift.” He pointed out that the industry “did pretty well” in the recent appropriations bill, which included full funding for the Maritime Security Program and a boost for the RRF, among other positive outcomes. “I attribute our success this year to the great working relationships we have with labor and with all the facets of the maritime industry, and certainly key members of Congress who understand the importance of a strong maritime sector,” Buzby said, adding that the industry enjoys bipartisan backing. Specifically discussing the ages of various U.S.-flag military support ships, Buzby described the RRF as “a key part of TRANSCOM’s ability to execute its wartime mission of deploying and sustaining our nation’s combat forces. The Navy’s plan to recapitalize that force of 46 ships plus 15 sealift ships that MSC runs is gaining some headway. Congress gets it; they’re pushing hard. They want it to happen faster. We’ve had several members of Congress down on the ships to talk to our mariners and hear firsthand the challenges they have with maintaining these 44-and-a-half-year-old average-age ships. These are the ships we are going to depend on to move our armed forces overseas in a crisis or national emergency, and we have to be able to depend on them.” He also said RRF ships, most with SIU crews, in the last three years have been activated and used more than during any other peacetime stretch. Buzby has spent lots of time visiting vessels in the past year. Reflecting on those trips and interactions, he said. “A real bright spot in all this work that’s being done to maintain these ships is our mariners. They are doing a tremendous job. They totally understand the role they play in national security. They know that when they go out there and tear a pump apart or chip rust on deck to make sure that ship is ready to go, they are actually making a vital contribution to our nation’s security, should the call come – and it will come at some point…. They work their butts off. Their spirit is good, and there are smiles on their faces, and they understand the importance of what it is they do, and are happy to be doing it. I don’t think that’s something that’s unique to the RRF crews. Talk to our MSP mariners, talk to our Jones Act mariners, they get it, too. They understand how it’s all part of the web that is our maritime industry that is so vital both to our national and economic security.” The maritime administrator also said that the industry must continue defending the Jones Act, which faces a “recent heightened level of organized attacks…. We’re fighting at MARAD, and Secretary Chao has been tenacious in defending the Jones Act. There is no wavering in her at all…. The Jones Act is a bedrock, foundational piece of legislation for our industry.” He added, “I think Congress, by and large, is behind us. Everyone that I’ve spoken with is for it and understands it. There are a few voices out there that are crying in the wilderness, but we really can’t take that for granted. Clearly, we have to continue to drive home the criticality of the Jones Act, because the Jones Act is jobs. The Jones Act and national security go hand in hand.” AFT Reiterates Jones Act Support Dredging Contractors Express Solidarity Jessica Smith (above), chief of staff for the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), addressed the MTD board Feb. 22. A former SIU communications director and special assistant to SIU President Michael Sacco, Smith praised Sacco for his outstanding leadership, tenacity and compassion. She conveyed the solid support of AFT President Randi Weingarten for the Jones Act. Smith also reported that MTD affiliates, along with SIU-contracted TOTE, helped deliver more than 100,000 water purifiers to Puerto Rico as part of the project named Operation Agua. Additionally, she noted, Seafarers, members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers, and SIU-contracted Crowley have helped provide meals and school supplies for teachers in the U.S. Virgin Islands. She also thanked the MTD for backing several recent teacher strikes. William Doyle (above), CEO and Executive Director of the Dredging Contractors of America, addressed those in attendance at the MTD executive board winter meeting on Feb. 21. A marine engineer by trade, Doyle sailed as a U.S. Merchant Marine officer before earning his law degree. He also served in three different administrations as a Federal Maritime Commissioner where he led several trade delegations. He spoke on the importance of his current role, promoting a greater understanding of the benefits of taking care of our ports and waterways, as well as making sure the Jones Act stays protected. He also indicated that his organization, including its union employees, fully supports the important work of the American Maritime Partnership (AMP). 14 Seafarers LOG April 2019 �2019 Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO Executive Board Meeting, February 21-22, Orlando, Florida Coast Guard Rear Adm. Nadeau Thanks Industry, Reaffirms Agency’s Full Commitment to Safety A high-ranking U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) officer credited maritime labor for its all-around work and also described how the agency is constantly working to help ensure safety at sea. USCG Assistant Commandant for Prevention Policy, Rear Adm. John Nadeau, spoke on the second day of the MTD winter meetings, and began by acknowledging the maritime industry for its service and support. “Let me start by thanking you,” said Nadeau. “Thanking you for what you do for us, for what you do for all the veterans, for speaking out, taking care of us when we need it, taking care of those who have served, looking out and making sure we have the strong maritime community in this country which so dearly needs it. So, thank you.” He then turned to a topic those assembled were all too familiar with: the tragic loss of the El Faro. “Many of you know about the El Faro. It was a 40-year-old U.S.-flag steamship that sank on October 1, 2015,” he said. “And I know that there were 17 members of the SIU on board that were lost tragically. The vessel had no outstanding deficiencies, and it was inspected by the Coast Guard just six months before it got underway. ABS (American Bureau of Shipping), who we rely on for many surveys, had been on only three weeks before to do some boiler inspections.” After briefly describing the sinking, Nadeau focused on the Coast Guard’s Rear Adm. John Nadeau U.S. Coast Guard Assistant Commandant for Prevention Policy plans for averting a similar tragedy in the future. He said, “We want to learn from this, and we did. We learned a lot. The Marine Board [issued] 36 recommendations, a lot of which have to do with regulations, some of them policy.... Company Exec. Stresses Partnerships, Safety The top executive at a major U.S.flag shipping company told the MTD executive board he is confident that all components of the industry are working cooperatively to promote American mariners and vessels. Sam Norton, president and CEO of SIU-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG), addressed the board Feb. 21. Besides commending the collaborative efforts of labor, management and government, he described his company’s strong emphasis on safety. Norton also stated that OSG is committed to helping expand the U.S. tanker fleet as well as providing long-term job opportunities for American crews. “The main message that I want to share with you is, although I’m mindful that in history, it has not always been the case that labor and management have been seeing eye-to-eye, and there are definitely times when we each have our own respective positions that we have Sam Norton President and CEO, Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG) April 2019 One of the biggest things you’ll see is (eventual elimination of) open lifeboats. Unfortunately, this vessel still had open lifeboats. They’re still allowed, it was within regulation, but if you look back to the Marine Electric, back to the midto mind. Nonetheless, my experience at OSG has left with me a very strong feeling that our partnership with labor today is as strong as it’s ever been,” Norton said. He mentioned working on several issues together with labor, including SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, and finding success. Next, Norton explained that OSG maintains more than 450 billets that support more than 1,100 union jobs. The company is an owner/operator of tankers and ATBs, 19 of which sail in the Jones Act trade. “We’re very proud to be a very large employer and a supporter of the unions,” he noted. He then described safety as “our biggest job: making sure that our ships are well-managed, safe working environments and that everyone who participates in those environments understands the significance of keeping an eye out for all of the people that work around them and maintaining a high level of situational awareness of all times.” Norton said that communications are “where I think our interests are indeed most closely aligned. Recognizing the things that are very important to the Jones Act, the U.S. flag, national security, making sure that we work together to communicate our priorities and communicate the things that make our organizations work well together.” Describing OSG’s future, Norton reported they are building two new vessels in Korea that will be flagged American; building two new, large barges in the U.S.; and also working to expand possibilities for U.S. vessels outside of the Jones Act fleet. He said the industry as a whole must address what is “a recognized significant shortfall of tanker capacity to support readiness and sealift requirements.” 80’s, it also had open lifeboats. We had tried to get rid of open lifeboats, we were not successful, as we could not – believe it or not – justify the cost of outfitting all ships with open lifeboats with closed ones.” He also discussed some of the additional testing done by the Coast Guard on board U.S.-flag vessels that had already passed their inspections. “We’re committed to continuing this work,” Nadeau stated. “The industry has been extremely receptive to us, and we are working in partnership with everyone to raise the level of safety.” Changing subjects, he closed by saying, “This nation has a gift. And that gift consists of 95,000 miles of coastline, 25,000 miles of inland waterways, 50,000 aids to navigation markings, 360 ports throughout that allows thousands of vessels to move safely every single minute of every single day. And because we’re able to do that safely in this country – which most countries don’t have that gift – they generate $4.6 trillion in economic activity for this country every year. This system supports 23 million U.S. jobs. That is a tremendous gift, most people in this country don’t realize that, and we celebrate that and are proud to be a part of the team that stands up to protect this gift. To make sure it’s there in perpetuity, so that we have that gift.... This gift is crucial, not only to the economic prosperity of this country, but to our national defense.” Expanding U.S. tanker fleet is “an area where I see a confluence of our primary objectives – yours and ours – together with MARAD’s,” Norton said. He added, “It is our very strong contention that the single greatest resource that needs to be developed in anticipation of meeting the needs of the Defense Department and national security in the future is developing experienced and qualified manpower to be able to man the equipment that would be needed in a time of crisis.” “It has not always been the case that labor and management have been seeing eye-toeye, and there are definitely times when we each have our own respective positions that we have to mind. Nonetheless, my experience at OSG has lef t with me a very strong feeling that our partnership with labor today is as strong as it’s ever been.” - Sam Norton, president and CEO of Overseas Shipholding Group Just as Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby discussed earlier the same day, Norton touched on the need to recapitalize the sealift fleet. He also stressed “the importance of being able to provide credible employment opportunities.… This is something that is really critical to all of our futures and something that we as an organization are committed to…. We want to work in partnership with MARAD and with you to be able to provide the means and the ongoing commercial ability to operate those ships so that we can build those jobs.” Seafarers LOG 15 �2019 Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO Executive Board Meeting, February 21-22, Orlando, Florida Robert Scardelletti President TCU Paul Doell President AMO James Conigliaro General Vice President Machinists Jim Given President SIU of Canada Levi Allen Secretary-Treasurer Mine Workers Jack Hayn Asst. to the President Painters Brett McCoy UA Director of Metal Trades Bernie Hostein Asst. to the President Steelworkers Scott Reeves Port Maritime Council Philadelphia Jeannette Bradshaw Port Maritime Council Michigan MTD President Michael Sacco (right) welcomes U.S. Congressman Brian Mast (R-Florida) to the podium. Looking on at left is MTD VP Jerry Abell. Glenn Middleton Vice President AFSCME Larry Holbert International Rep. SMART Karen Horton-Gennette National Director UIW Hazel Galbiso Port Maritime Council Hawaii James Henry Chairman & President Transportation Institute David Heindel Secretary-Treasurer SIU Nick Marrone VP West Coast SIU Dean Corgey VP Gulf Coast SIU Tommy Orzechowski VP Great Lakes SIU Joesph Soresi VP Atlantic Coast SIU 16 Seafarers LOG Gunnar Lundeberg President Emeritus SUP Joseph Condo Vice President TCU Anthony Poplawski President MFOW James Hart President Metal Trades Steve Bertelli Secretary-Treasurer Bakery Workers Lisa Bolton VP Telecommunications CWA Daniel Duncan Secretary-Treasurer MTD Patrice Caron Executive VP SIU of Canada Geoge Tricker VP Contracts SIU Dr. Everette Kelley Secretary-Treasurer AFGE Augie Tellez Executive VP SIU Kate Hunt VP Government Services SIU April 2019 �2019 Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO Executive Board Meeting, February 21-22, Orlando, Florida Union Veterans Council Leader: ‘Being in a Union Means Dignity’ Will Attig, the executive director of the Union Veterans Council, AFL-CIO (to which the SIU is affiliated), used his time at the Maritime Trades Department winter meeting to discuss the importance of supporting and enabling veteran workers though union membership and grassroots movements. A combat veteran, Attig began by thanking those assembled for unanimously voting to adopt a resolution which supported troops and veterans. He then said, “Labor has a strong history that runs hand in hand with our veterans community. We trace our original unions in America to Civil War veterans coming home to major cities after fighting together to preserve this nation, and banding together for another fight, and that was workers’ rights.” He continued, “It’s no surprise that in 2019, in 15 states, veteran union density is over 18 percent. That’s something to be proud of.... And the highest number of veterans in unions, the industry that represents the most, is the transportation industry, and I think you all need a round of applause for that.” Next, he offered up a question to the assembled crowd: “What’s the most important thing that a union gives to you? Or, if you’re an industry person who’s here to support our workers, what does having a stable job with good benefits mean to you?” He then played To join the Union Veterans Council, visit www.UnionVeterans.org a video featuring union veterans describing their union experiences. “Right now, there are 1.2 million active working veterans inside of labor,” said Attig. “And they’ve reaped the benefits of what we do in rooms like this every single day, by being able to provide a stable, gainful life to their families, and achieve the American Dream they went and fought for. “When I sum up what being in a union means to me, it’s dignity,” he continued. “It’s the ability to live out my life, enjoy it, work hard for my country that I fought for, and be stable.” He then described his life and career, both in the military and after he left and entered the civilian workforce. Unions make a difference for veterans in many ways, he said, not the least of which is fighting for and securing good pay. “Our unions are leading the way,” Attig stated. “On average, if you’re a veteran that has a union card in your pocket, you make $12,000 more a year (compared to unrepresented veteran workers). That’s because of all the fighting that we do.” Attig wrapped up his presentation by highlighting the various ways the Union Veterans Council is working to protect working veterans, and emphasized the need to identify those workers who are already union: “Go back and tell your veterans about the Union Veterans Council. Get them to sign up.... Because if we give our veterans just a little push, it means a lot.” MTD President Michael Sacco, a U.S. Air Force veteran, also spoke about two examples of the SIU taking care of veterans and active-duty military families: “For the last seven years, my union – the SIU – has sponsored an annual fishing tournament in Maryland called the Seafarers Waterfront Classic. This event generates money for a group named the American Military Veterans, whose members were wounded in the line of duty. During that time, we have raised more than $400,000 for the veterans. They’ve used the money to help provide different forms of therapy for their members. They’ve used some of it to grow from a small office to Will Attig Executive Director, Union Veterans Council, AFL-CIO a 3,000-square-foot facility in Cape Coral, Florida. And they’ve used some of it to host feeding programs and other outreach for those less fortunate in the veterans community.” Sacco continued, “The SIU’s Tacoma operation participates in a program called Santa’s Castle. This is a toy drive for military families, mostly lower-enlisted ranks. We’ve been part of it for 12 straight years, and during that time, our members and officials and our companies have collectively donated around $100,000 worth of Christmas presents for military children.” The MTD is a charter member of the Union Veterans Council. For More MTD Coverage, See Page 28 Port Councils Ramping Up Allen Addresses Pension Crisis MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan (above) tells the executive board that the department is increasing grassroots efforts in the U.S. and Canada, primarily through its port councils. The MTD has 18 such councils in the U.S. and three in Canada. Duncan reported that long-dormant port councils have restarted or are already in the process of doing so in Baltimore; Norfolk, Virginia; Jacksonville, Florida; and San Juan, Puerto Rico. The MTD also is starting a new council in Nova Scotia. “While labor cannot compete financially with big-money donors, we have manpower,” Duncan said. “As more and more money gets involved in campaigns, it’s going to take more and more manpower to counter it. We are the manpower to counter it.” United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) Secretary-Treasurer Levi Allen (above) spoke Feb. 22 and largely focused on the pensions of the UMWA members, specifically describing an ongoing court case with Mission Coal Company. He briefly mentioned the UMWA’s fight with the Pension Benefits Guaranty Corporation (PBGC), and the greater importance of that looming insolvency: “You know what an undertow is. You know when a big ship goes down, it’ll drag you down with it. If the UMWA 1974 Pension Fund becomes insolvent in 2022, it’s going to drag the PBGC down with it. What that will do is cause $5.8 billion annually in benefits that come out of the PBGC to be in jeopardy of not being paid out anymore…. You didn’t cause this. None of the unions in this room caused this. There are scams out there that have allowed people to get out of the debts that they owe to American workers, and we’re fighting against that.” April 2019 Seafarers LOG 17 �With Seafarers on the Great Lakes The photos on this page were submitted by SIU Algonac Port Agent Todd Brdak, and were taken during servicing visits to the SIU-crewed H. Lee White and Joyce VanEn- kevort. The H. Lee White is operated by American Steamship Company and the Joyce VanEnkevort is operated by VanEnkevort Tug & Barge. H. Lee White AB Mohamed Ali (left) poses for a photo with Port Agent Todd Brdak. Chief Cook Najeeb Ginah AB Wheelsman Norman Rodriguez Crew members climb aboard the H. Lee White. SA Hussein Al-Qari displays a fruit tray. Joyce VanEnkevort SIU Asst. VP Bryan Powell (left) chats with AB Pete VanEnkevort. 18 Seafarers LOG Deckhand Brian Murray loads iron ore taconite pellets. The Joyce VanEnkevort takes on a cargo of ore in Two Harbors, Michigan. The Joyce VanEnkevort April 2019 �U.S. Coast Guard Issues Shutdown Update #4 Editor’s note: The following news release was issued by the United States Coast Guard on March 1. The text of the “attached letter” is included. Both of these items are posted on the SIU website (under the NEWS tab) and on the National Maritime Center website. Update 4 – Mitigation Efforts Due to Lapse in Fiscal Year 2019 Appropriations and Partial Government Shutdown To mitigate the impact caused by the lapse in appropriations and shutdown of National Maritime Center (NMC) operations, the following updated actions are being taken: Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMC) and Medical Certifications (National Endorsements only) that expire in December 2018, January 2019, February 2019, March 2019, or April 2019 are extended as valid until May 31, 2019. Mariners who are actively working on expired credentials that meet the expiration criteria must carry the expired credential with a copy of the attached letter. The following items that expire in December 2018, January 2019, or February 2019 are extended to April 30, 2019: Additional Information (AI) letters, Qualified Assessor (QA) letters, Designated Examiner (DE) letters, Proctor approval letters, Approval to Test (ATT) letters, and mariner training course certificates. For mariners whose 90-day testing cycles were interrupted by Regional Exam Center (REC) closures (starting on December 26, 2018), the days the RECs were closed will not count against the 90-day period. If you have questions, visit the NMC website, or contact the NMC Customer Service Center by using the NMC online chat system, by e-mailing IASKNMC@uscg.mil, or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662). Dear U.S. Mariner, Due to the federal government’s partial lapse in appropriations for fiscal year 2019, the Coast Guard is unable to process mariner credentials in a timely manner. To provide relief to impacted mariners and under the authority of 46 United States Code § 7507 and § 7508, the Coast Guard is granting extensions effective immediately to National Endorsements and Medical Certificates until May 31, 2019, for mariners whose credentials expire in December 2018, January 2019, February 2019, March 2019, or April 2019. All mariners sailing under the authority of their National Endorsement(s) should print and retain a copy of this letter with their Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) and Medical Certificate to produce it upon request by the U.S. Coast Guard, other agencies or officials. The National Maritime Center (NMC) does not intend to issue any separate or new MMCs to correspond to this extension for mariners sailing domestically. This extension does not apply to Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) endorsements. Applications submitted before or during the partial government shutdown will be processed as soon as possible once the NMC is reopened and is legally authorized to begin operations. If you have questions, visit the NMC website or contact the NMC Customer Service Center by using the NMC online chat system, by e-mailing IASKNMC@uscg.mil, or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662). K.R. Martin, Captain U.S. Coast Guard Commanding Officer April & May 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 Jersey City...........................................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 April 2019 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea February 13, 2019 - March 13, 2019 Total Registered Total Shipped All Groups A B Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 16 4 0 24 8 0 1 42 20 1 1 3 2 3 3 0 0 3 1 5 0 2 2 3 1 1 3 8 3 1 19 7 1 15 6 1 13 33 15 6 3 1 0 5 1 0 0 3 3 1 10 5 5 10 5 1 6 16 3 8 9 9 0 7 5 0 2 15 11 0 50 27 15 25 15 8 18 105 24 27 23 25 10 20 16 4 16 63 39 11 39 11 4 35 6 3 16 75 21 7 3 4 2 3 2 1 0 6 5 1 7 4 1 6 4 1 5 16 9 4 18 10 6 9 9 6 7 23 14 13 10 5 1 5 4 1 1 21 7 5 3 2 1 2 2 0 0 6 4 1 2 3 0 1 0 1 1 5 4 0 5 1 3 3 5 2 2 10 9 2 15 11 5 19 2 3 8 39 20 10 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 8 2 2 27 9 10 23 2 4 9 50 20 13 264 144 68 218 96 37 108 547 234 118 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTAL Engine Department 3 3 0 9 2 0 1 1 4 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 4 0 1 2 1 1 2 3 0 7 9 0 6 6 0 3 16 13 2 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 4 0 1 4 0 1 5 2 1 2 2 0 11 4 0 2 29 5 3 11 10 4 4 8 1 5 23 16 6 16 12 1 12 8 0 8 25 27 1 8 6 2 7 4 1 3 18 10 4 3 3 1 4 2 0 0 2 1 2 4 4 1 1 2 0 1 10 6 1 6 10 5 9 9 4 4 17 17 13 4 2 3 5 2 1 2 6 9 3 4 1 0 3 2 0 1 4 0 0 4 2 0 1 2 0 1 4 3 0 2 4 0 2 1 2 2 4 4 0 17 6 2 11 11 0 8 23 8 3 2 0 0 2 1 0 1 4 3 0 13 3 1 9 5 0 6 25 20 2 110 86 21 99 75 10 50 218 153 44 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 3 2 0 6 3 0 0 9 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 3 0 0 8 4 0 6 2 0 6 18 10 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 2 2 0 0 0 0 6 2 2 9 3 0 7 1 0 2 23 3 0 19 3 0 16 3 0 5 27 7 3 17 9 4 12 5 1 5 24 15 5 14 3 1 7 1 0 2 20 5 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 2 2 0 2 4 0 1 2 0 2 3 3 0 15 10 0 16 5 1 6 23 17 0 6 6 2 17 2 1 3 24 7 2 2 0 2 4 0 1 0 1 0 1 2 2 2 0 1 0 1 7 3 1 2 5 0 2 2 0 1 3 6 0 14 0 1 12 0 1 4 24 2 2 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 4 1 1 22 9 0 10 6 0 7 35 11 1 143 65 14 116 36 5 45 258 95 20 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 0 6 7 0 11 6 0 2 14 13 0 1 3 1 2 0 0 0 2 3 0 1 2 0 1 0 1 0 0 4 0 2 0 0 2 1 4 1 3 5 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 1 2 1 3 1 2 1 2 4 1 3 3 0 3 2 1 3 8 5 3 11 8 3 9 3 3 5 25 19 2 27 28 3 18 10 4 2 37 63 1 16 9 2 6 3 1 3 33 21 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 2 2 1 0 1 0 0 1 2 1 15 18 1 12 18 2 0 25 34 2 6 11 1 7 2 0 2 12 16 1 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 0 0 2 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 3 2 8 5 8 6 1 5 15 20 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 2 1 11 6 1 12 6 4 1 31 29 16 106 113 20 96 61 24 26 214 245 GRAND TOTAL: 533 401 216 453 303 113 227 1,049 696 427 C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C A All Groups B C Seafarers LOG 19 �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 Kate Hunt, 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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 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 This month’s question was answered by members in Piney Point, Maryland. Question: Why did you choose the maritime industry, and what do you enjoy about it? Chenequa Rodriguez AB I joined the SIU after a family member of mine was supposed to come to Piney Point but didn’t make it. I got curious, looked into it, and signed up. I graduated in 2009 – Class #706 – and I’m glad I did. I’ve stayed because I love the travel, meeting new people and experiencing new cultures as part of my job. Karleen Grenier AB I had wanted a career change, and a family member of mine told me about the union. They said I’d love working in the galley, but after beginning my training as an apprentice, I realized I was torn between being either a deck or engine member. I would definitely say that Piney Point is the place to go for training in this industry, and I’m so glad I joined. Macey Horne AB I joined because I have a lot of family in the union, and they all spoke highly of the SIU and the industry. Now that I’m a full AB, I love sailing and working on ships. I love seeing new places and meeting new people. I’m excited to be a mariner. Rashawn Arrington Oiler I chose the industry because I like to travel. I was looking for a career, found out about the SIU and joined. It was a great choice. Being in the union helps me stay focused on my career and my future. And seafaring is a career, not a job. It’s been a great experience so far. Tresten Porter Oiler I chose this industry as a good mix of travel, good pay and job security. Being a Seafarer is a great way to support my family, and gives me a career path I can follow to the top. As a graduate of Class #828, I can say the training here at the Paul Hall Center is a wonderful program, and really gets you in a good, focused state of mind for the work ahead. Erwin Asinas Chief Cook For one thing, I like the lifestyle of different ships and different places all the time. Those working on ships need to eat, and being able to help the crew is a great motivation. At the end of the day, the compensation is why you stay with any job, but you have to love what you do, otherwise it’ll be a terrible experience 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 45353 St. George Ave., Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (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 undated photo from the LOG archives is believed to be from the 1950s. It was taken at a United Seamen’s Service (USS) club in Genoa, Italy, where Seafarers Edwin S. Harris (center) and Gottfried Metting Jr. were shopping for gifts. Pictured at left is Ginetta Mafforni, a local USS staff member. The Seafarers were from the Liberty ship George A. Lawson, which was launched in February 1945 and sank in 1964. 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 April 2019 �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 LINDA BARBER Sister Linda Barber, 65, became a member of the union in 1997 when she shipped on the Long Lines. She primarily sailed in the steward department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Sister Barber most recently sailed on the California. She resides in Wauna, Washington. HECTOR BARNES Brother Hector Barnes, 68, joined the SIU in 1992, first sailing on the USNS Wilkes. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Barnes last shipped on the Horizon Pacific and lives in San Juan, Puerto Rico. MATHEW BEVAK Brother Mathew Bevak, 62, embarked on his SIU career in 1978. He first sailed aboard the St. Louis and was a member of the deck department. Brother Bevak upgraded at the union-affiliated Piney Point school on several occasions. He most recently shipped on the Safmarine Ngami and resides in Apache Junction, Arizona. WILLIAM CARNEY Brother William Carney, 66, became an SIU member in 2004 when he shipped on the Pride of Aloha. He worked in the deck department and upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Carney most recently shipped on the Maersk Atlanta. He lives in Bolton Landing, New York. ALFONZA DAVIS Brother Alfonza Davis, 65, signed on with the SIU in 2001 and initially worked on the Steven L. Bennett. He upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center and sailed in the engine department. Brother Davis concluded his career aboard the John Page. He makes his home in Cocoa, Florida. DAN DAVISON Brother Dan Davison, 68, joined the Seafarers during the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. His first vessel was the Mormac Sun and he sailed in the deck department. April 2019 Brother Davison enhanced his skills in 2001 when he upgraded at the Piney Point school. He last shipped on the St. Louis Express before settling in New Orleans. LEOPOLD DAWSON Brother Leopold Dawson, 67, began his career with the Seafarers in 2011, first sailing on the William R. Button. He shipped as an engine department member and most recently sailed on the American Liberty. Brother Dawson resides in Laplace, Louisiana. JOHNNIE EDWARDS Brother Johnnie Edwards, 61, donned the SIU colors in 1982 when he sailed on the LNG Virgo. A member of the deck department, he upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Edwards was most recently employed with American Service Technology. He is a Houston resident. RUBEN GAMBOA Brother Ruben Gamboa, 70, joined the Seafarers in 1999, initially shipping aboard the William Baugh. A deck department member, he upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Gamboa most recently shipped on the Franklin J. Phillips. He makes his home in Jersey City, New Jersey. ROBERTO GONZALEZ Brother Roberto Gonzalez, 65, signed on with the union during the 2001 NMU/SIU merger. He was a deck department member and first sailed on the Yorktown Express. Brother Gonzalez upgraded at the maritime training center located in Piney Point, Maryland. He concluded his career on the Charleston Express before settling in Guayanilla, Puerto Rico. ROBERT GRUBBS Brother Robert Grubbs, 60, became an SIU member in 1979 when he sailed on the Sea-Land Boston. He worked as a deck department member and upgraded often at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. Brother Grubbs last shipped on the El Morro. He resides in Jacksonville, Florida. GEORGE MAZZOLA Brother George Mazzola, 65, joined the union in 1972, when he worked for Interocean American Shipping. Primarily sailing in the deck department, he upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Mazzola last sailed on the USNS Denebola. He lives in District Heights, Maryland. WILLIAM MCGEE Brother William McGee, 64, donned the SIU colors in 1990. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother McGee’s first vessel was the Stephen W. Pless; his last, the Sunshine State. He resides in Monroe, Louisiana. ROBERT PACHECO Brother Robert Pacheco, 67, signed on with the SIU in 1972. He primarily worked in the deck department and initially sailed on the Seattle. Brother Pacheco upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school before concluding his career aboard the Horizon Pacific. He calls Durango, Colorado, home. NORA PORTER Sister Nora Porter, 65, became an SIU member in 2001 when she sailed on the Baldomero Lopez. She shipped in both the steward and deck departments and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Sister Porter’s final vessel was the Alliance St. Louis. She is a resident of Jacksonville, Florida. SANTA PATURZO STANLEY Sister Santa Paturzo Stanley, 66, embarked on her SIU career in 1978 when she sailed on the Santa Mariana. She was a steward department member and upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Sister Paturzo Stanley last sailed aboard the Great Land and makes her home in North Bend, Washington. ALULA TEFERI Brother Alula Teferi, 65, joined the union in 1992, first sailing aboard the Charles L Brown. He worked in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 1996. Brother Teferi last sailed on the Golden State. He lives in Houston. WILLIAM THOMAS Brother William Thomas, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1996, initially working with Moran Towing of Maryland in the inland division. He upgraded often at the Piney Point school and sailed in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Thomas concluded his career aboard the Liberty. He makes his home in Baltimore. GREAT LAKES JOSEPH HANCE Brother Joseph Hance, 62, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1978, aboard the Adam E. Cornelius. He sailed in the deck department and frequently upgraded at the Paul Hall Center. He concluded his career on the American Mariner and lives in Lorain, Ohio. BOYD MESSER Brother Boyd Messer, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1974, initially shipping on the Adam E. Cornelius. He primarily sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2008. Brother Messer last sailed on the American Mariner. He makes his home in Gulliver, Michigan. MICHAEL SLAGHT Brother Michael Slaght, 62, donned the SIU colors in 1974, initially working with H&M Lake Transport. He was a deck department member and concluded his career working for Great Lakes Towing. Brother Slaght resides in Marysville, Michigan. INLAND with HVIDE Marine. Brother Abshire’s final vessel was Seabulk Towing’s Buccaneer. He calls Hemphill, Texas, home. WILLIAM DAVIS Brother William Davis, 59, began his career with the Seafarers in 1981, first shipping with Orgulf Transport. He sailed as a deck department member and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Davis last worked for Key Marine and makes his home in Beaufort, North Carolina. WHITNEY HARGRAVE Brother Whitney Hargrave, 62, signed on with the Seafarers in 1987. He sailed in the engine department, and worked for G&H Towing. Brother Hargrave was employed with the same company for the duration of his career. He lives in Santa Fe, Texas. THOMAS POTTER Brother Thomas Potter, 68, signed on with the SIU in 1973 when he worked for Maritrans. He was a deck department member and last worked for Mariner Towing. Brother Potter is a resident of Plymouth, North Carolina. RAYMOND SCHWARTZ Brother Raymond Schwartz, 64, joined the SIU in 1979. A deck department member, he was employed with Crescent Towing and Salvage for his entire career. Brother Schwartz makes his home in Covington, Louisiana. JERRY YANCEY Brother Jerry Yancey, 65, began his career with the Seafarers in 2001 when he sailed on the Seabulk Power. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2013. Brother Yancey most recently sailed on Seabulk Towing’s Athena and resides in Woodville, Texas. CURTIS ABSHIRE Brother Curtis Abshire, 57, joined the SIU in 1984. He worked in both the deck and engine departments and was first employed Seafarers LOG 21 �Final Departures DEEP SEA MIGUEL AGUILAR Pensioner Miguel Aguilar, 90, died February 5. Born in Honduras, he embarked on his SIU career in 1972 when he sailed on the Platte. A steward department member, Brother Aguilar last sailed aboard the Leader. He went on pension in 1995 and was a resident of Rockingham, North Carolina. THOMAS COLBERT Pensioner Thomas Colbert, 78, passed away February 13. He became an SIU member in 1959, initially working with Boston Towing Boat Company. Brother Colbert was a deck department member and most recently sailed on the Sam Houston. He retired in 1993 and resided in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. departments. He last sailed on the Humacao before becoming a pensioner in 1992. Brother Gonzalez was a resident of Carolina, Puerto Rico. SHELDON GREENBERG Pensioner Sheldon Greenberg, 66, died February 4. He joined the union in 1978, first sailing aboard the Bradford Island. Brother Greenberg shipped in both the deck and engine departments, most recently aboard the Maersk Michigan. He began collecting his pension in 2010 and made his home in Orange Park, Florida. DOMINGO GUEVARA Pensioner Domingo Guevara, 87, passed away June 12. He donned the SIU colors in 1978 and first sailed aboard Marlin Steamship Compay’s Mary. Brother Guevara sailed in all three departments and last worked on the Newark Bay. He retired in 1995 and resided in Tumaco, Columbia. GUILLERMO DOMINGUEZ TONY HILL Pensioner Guillermo Dominguez, 93, died December 30. He started his SIU career in 1968, initially shipping aboard the Western Hunter. A steward department member, Brother Dominguez last sailed on the Patriot. He began collecting his pension in 1993 and settled in the Philippines. Brother Tony Hill, 48, died January 29. He became an SIU member in 1990 and first sailed on the USNS Pollux. Brother Hill sailed in both the steward and engine departments and most recently shipped on the Matej Kocak. He lived in Virginia Beach, Virginia. JAMES DRYDEN Pensioner James Dryden, 77, passed away January 21. He joined the union in 1961, when he shipped aboard the Yaka. Brother Dryden sailed in the engine department and also worked on shore gangs. He last sailed on the Long Beach and retired in 2002. Brother Dryden called Liberty, Texas, home. ALFONSA ELIGIO Pensioner Alfonsa Eligio, 69, died October 31. She donned the SIU colors in 2003, initially sailing aboard the Maersk Maine. Sister Eligio sailed in the steward department, most recently aboard the APL Cyprine. She retired in 2014 and made her home in Bronx, New York. CATALINO GONZALEZ Pensioner Catalino Gonzalez, 94, passed away February 3. He embarked on his SIU career in 1967 when he shipped on the Depauw Victory. Brother Gonzalez sailed in all three 22 Seafarers LOG HARLAN HULST Brother Harlan Hulst, 67, passed away January 5. He joined the union in 1996 when he shipped on the McDonnell. Brother Hulst was a deck department member. His last ship was the Green Bay, and he lived in San Diego. LEON JEKOT Pensioner Leon Jekot, 77, died February 22. Initially working for Sea Liberties, he became a member of the SIU in 1960. Brother Jekot was a deck department member and concluded his career aboard the USNS Capella. He went on pension in 2003 and resided in Jefferson City, Tennessee. HENRY JONES Pensioner Henry Jones, 85, passed away February 1. He began sailing with the SIU in 1964 when he worked for G&H Towing. Brother Jones was a deck department member and last shipped on the OMI Rover. He became a pensioner in 1996 and called Richmond, Texas, home. KENNETH LAWS Pensioner Kenneth Laws, 78, passed away January 12. Born in Philadelphia, he joined the union in 2002 when he sailed on the Cleveland Tankers ship Gemini. Brother Laws was a steward department member. He concluded his career aboard the Cape Knox and became a pensioner in 2012. He lived in Old Orchard Beach, Maine. EARL MACOM Pensioner Earl Macom, 75, died January 4. He was born in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, and joined the union in 1965. Brother Macom was an engine department member. His first vessel was the Topa Topa; his last, the USNS Chesapeake. Brother Macom lived in Morrill, Maine. JAMES SLOAN Pensioner James Sloan, 73, died February 10. He embarked on his SIU career in 1999, initially sailing on the Green Dale. An engine department member, Brother Sloan last sailed aboard the Marstan. He went on pension in 2015 and was a resident of Royersford, Pennsylvania. CARLOS SOLINAP Pensioner Carlos Solinap, 69, passed away February 15. He became an SIU member during the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. Brother Solinap’s first SIU vessel was the Green Cove; his last, the Shughart. The steward department member retired in 2015 and settled in Las Vegas. GERALD WESTPHAL Pensioner Gerald Westphal, 71, died February 5. He joined the union in 1969 when he shipped with H&M Lake Transport. Brother Westphal was a member of the deck department and also worked on shore gangs. He concluded his career on the Sea-Land Performance, and retired in 2002. Brother Westphal lived in West Allis, Wisconsin. RONALD WILLIAMS Pensioner Ronald Williams, 60, passed away November 19. He became an SIU member in 1978, initially sailing aboard the Allegiance. Brother Williams sailed in the engine department, most recently on the El Yunque. He retired in 2014 and called Jacksonville, Florida, home. Towing and Salvage. Brother Gegenheimer was a member of the deck department. He continued to work for the same company until becoming a pensioner in 2013. Brother Gegenheimer made his home in New Orleans. EUGENE HOLDER GREAT LAKES WILLIAM AGNELLO Pensioner William Agnello, 72, died February 7. He started his career with the SIU in 1970 when he shipped on the Otto Reiss. Brother Agnello worked in the steward department and last shipped on the Buffalo. He retired in 2007 and made his home in Lancaster, New York. MICHAEL LOCK Pensioner Michael Lock, 64, died December 21. Born in Port Huron, Michigan, he joined the SIU in 1976 when he worked for H&M Lake Towing. Brother Lock sailed in the deck department, most recently with Great Lakes Towing. He retired in 2017 and resided in Lambertville, Michigan. INLAND JOSEPH BABIN Pensioner Joseph Babin, 91, passed away December 25. Born in Galveston, Texas, he signed on with the SIU in 1962. Brother Babin sailed in the engine department and was employed with G&H Towing for the majority of his career. He became a pensioner in 1984 and called Spring, Texas, home. MICHAEL FURMAN Pensioner Michael Furman, 69, passed away February 14. He joined the union in 1967 and first worked for OSG Ship Management. Brother Furman sailed in both the deck and engine departments. He remained with the same company for the majority of his career before retiring in 2013. Brother Furman was a Baltimore resident. Pensioner Eugene Holder, 91, died January 9. He signed on with the union in 1965, first working for Allied Transportation. Brother Holder sailed in the deck department. After concluding his career with Mariner Towing, he retired in 1990. He called Danville, Virginia, home. ROBERT HURST Pensioner Robert Hurst, 76, passed away January 13. He joined the SIU in 1977 when he worked for Virginia Pilot Corporation. A deck department member, Brother Hurst was employed with the same company for the duration of his career. He started collecting his pension in 2007 and lived in Cobbs Creek, Virginia. NMU RUFINO ARZU Pensioner Rufino Arzu, 93, passed away August 19. He began his career during World War II in 1943 when he sailed aboard the Gracioso. Brother Arzu’s last vessel was the American Kentucky. After accumulating more than 10,500 days’ sea time, he retired in 1986 and lived in Westbury, New York. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. Name Antunez, Joselito Brooks, Andrew Brown, Alphonso Burns, Nehemiah Figueroa, Pablo Francis, Albert Garay, Richard Hall, Donovan Linley, Joseph Medrano, Juan Michael, Glenn Nealy, John Radomski, Frank Robles, Roman Shew, Robert Soper, Michael Villanueva, Pedro Watson, Shelton Age 91 94 98 85 103 98 91 82 82 92 94 92 93 88 99 69 75 91 DOD 12/26/2018 02/21/2019 12/23/2018 02/14/2019 02/24/2019 02/03/2019 02/11/2019 01/26/2019 01/04/2019 02/15/2019 02/23/2019 01/16/2019 02/23/2019 01/23/2019 01/06/2019 11/29/2018 02/05/2019 01/12/2019 TIMOTHY GEGENHEIMER Pensioner Timothy Gegenheimer, 67, passed away February 1. He became an SIU member in 1976 when he worked with Crescent April 2019 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings INDEPENDENCE II (TOTE Services), December 2 – Chairman David Denizac, Secretary Christian Borroto Lopez, Deck Delegate George Siegel, Engine Delegate Donell Criswell, Steward Delegate Todd Curry. Chairman advised all members to read president’s report in Seafarers LOG. Galley stovetops and ovens in need of repair. Educational director encouraged members to take advantage of upgrading opportunities at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. Crew expressed concern with slop chest merchandise, citing high prices and sale of expired items. OVERSEAS SANTORINI (Overseas Ship Management), December 9 – Chairman Paul Altenor, Secretary Donna Saling, Educational Director Kenneth Cabrera, Deck Delegate Gwendolyn Garcia, Steward Delegate Manes Sainvil. Chairman thanked deck department for their hard work and positive attitudes. Secretary reminded members to clean their rooms and exchange linen when departing ship. Educational director reminded crew to keep up to date on documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department also thanked for excellent work. GREEN BAY (Central Gulf Lines), December 15 – Chairman Robinson Crusoe, Secretary George Farala, Educational Director George Beaufils, Deck Delegate Tony Olaya, Engine Delegate Kevin Chenault, Steward Delegate Gizelle Jones. 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. Bosun encouraged crew to continue working safely. Secretary mentioned importance of good leadership as it relates to safe work practices. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Ship in need of a better oven. Members made request pertaining to time off. Next Port: Honolulu. SEABULK CHALLENGER (Seabulk Tankers), December 30 – Chairman Charles Hill, Educational Director Randolph Scott, Deck Delegate Joshua Gonzalez, Engine Delegate Roberto Sabio, Steward Delegate William White. Chairman pleased with crew. He urged all members to continue to support SIU. No beefs or OT disputed. Members asked for WiFi availability on crew deck. Crew requested more gym equipment. GOLDEN STATE (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning), January 3 – Chairman Philip McGeoghegan, Secretary Wendy Fearing, Steward Delegate Robeson Carrier. Crew discussed requests for new linens and pillows on board. Chairman reported a smooth-running ship – great crew and great food. Educational director reminded members to check expiration dates on documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members reviewed SIU President Michael Sacco’s column covering election results. Ship ventilation needs cleaning. Crew motioned for a raise in pension and wages. New microwave requested for mess hall; deck in need of repair in crew quarters. Next port: Port Arthur, Texas. OVERSEAS CASCADE (Overseas Ship Management), January 10 – Chairman Jovan Williams, Secretary Breon Lucas, Educational Director/Engine Delegate Richard Striverson, Deck Delegate Brian Gauntt, Steward Delegate Ambrose Gabriel Jr. Members reviewed contract and were reminded to keep documents up to date. Educational director suggested upgrading as often as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed desired changes to vacation benefits. Each member requests a refrigerator in their room as well as new mattresses and pillows. Steward department praised for a job well done during the holiday feast. CALIFORNIA (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning), January 14 – Chairman Kenneth Abrahamson, Secretary Shawn Fujiwara, Educational Director Joshua Zelinsky. Chairman went over new medical benefits information. He advised members to contact medical department for current information and to always use network-preferred provider in addition to touching base with them before seeking major medical attention. Chairman reminded crew to keep up with housekeeping and discussed crew laundry procedures. He asked members to keep room heaters on low and to consult with 1st engineer when purchasing personal heaters and refrigerators to avoid tripping electrical breakers. Members are encouraged to use union portal for latest updates on individual information. Chief steward thanked everyone for their ef- forts to keep ship clean. Educational director discussed effect of government shutdown. He urged crew to upgrade their skills at the Piney Point school to obtain better jobs. Educational director also encouraged members to use union portal for latest information including sea time. Members were encouraged to check accuracy of sea time. No beefs or disputed OT reported. OVERSEAS TAMPA (Overseas Ship Management), January 20 – Chairman Raymond Johnson, Secretary Alphonzo Berry, Deck Delegate Falando Williams, Steward Delegate Juan Palacios Clother. Members will soon have access to Wi-Fi and refrigerators in every room. Chairman advised members to keep up on documents and pointed out possible difficulty due to government shutdown. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade at Piney Point. Crew discussed new tonnage and election results. Members requested new washer and dryers. USNS PATHFINDER (Ocean Shipholdings), January 27 – Chairman Kelly Doyle, Secretary Donnell Lewis, Deck Delegate Jonathan Howard, Steward Delegate Lonnie Jones. Chairman reviewed new medical benefits. Educational director urged members to upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew has access to Wi-Fi and additional TV channels. ISLA BELLA (TOTE Services), January 30 – Chairman Timothy Fogg, Secretary Richard Jones, Deck Delegate Gary Boyd, Steward Delegate Adalberto Colon Rosa. Wi-Fi and cable connection improved. More routers added to ship. Secretary reported good morale on ship. Educational director discussed government shutdown. He encouraged members to upgrade as often as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for a job well done. Next Port: Jacksonville, Florida. TAINO (Crowley), January 30 – Chairman Wilfredo Velez, Secretary Kimberly Strate, Educational Director Carlos Parrilla, Deck Delegate Arthur Patterson, Engine Delegate Sherrod Frazier Steward Delegate Luis Santiago Sotero. Washing machines repaired. Members noted proper amount for laundry detergent. Drawer latches to be fixed as soon as possible. Educational director advised members to allow ample time for document renewals and certifications. Agencies are behind due to government shutdown. Deck delegate encouraged members to support SPAD and the Jones Act. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested Wi-Fi and an increase to the pension plan. NATIONAL GLORY (Crowley), January 31 – Chairman Robert Natividad, Secretary Steve Concepcion. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members were reminded that every issue of the Seafarers LOG is available online (in addition to the printed version). Dryer is being repaired. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. 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. The annual financial committee will be elected during the April 8 headquarters membership meeting to review the 2018 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 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 be- April 2019 tween the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Sea­farers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The execu- tive 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 23 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Gap Closing Courses Leadership & Managerial Skills June 29 April 13 MSC Supply Configuration Management May 4 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers May 18 May 31 BAPO May 25 June 21 Engineroom Resource Management June 22 June 28 FOWT April 27 May 24 July 5 Storekeeper Courses MSC Storekeeper Basic Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Junior Engineer June 22 August 16 Marine Electrician May 18 July 12 May 3 May 31 Able Seafarer Deck April 27 May 24 AB to Mate Modules Modules must be taken in order. Those who are not in the mates program cannot apply for these courses. Contact the Admissions Office for further details. Marine Refer Tech July 13 August 23 MEECE June 1 June 14 Welding May 18 June 7 June 8 June 28 July 20 August 9 Steward Department Courses Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start April 15. Advanced Meteorology May 4 May 10 Chief Steward April 27 June 14 Advanced Shiphandling May 11 May 24 Galley Operations May 25 June 21 Advanced Stability April 27 May 3 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 April 27 May 3 May 18 May 24 ARPA April 27 May 3 May 25 May 31 ECDIS April 13 April 19 Fast Rescue Boat June 1 June 7 GMDSS July 20 August 2 Lifeboat May 4 May 17 June 1 June 14 June 29 July 12 July 27 August 9 August 24 September 6 September 21 October 4 October 19 November 1 November 16 November 29 December 14 December 27 Radar Observer April 13 April 26 May 11 May 24 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW May 25 June 21 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 April 13 April 19 May 4 May 10 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training/Basic FF April 13 April 19 May 25 May 31 Basic Training Revalidation May 3 May 3 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation June 22 June 28 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting June 8 June 14 Government Vessels April 27 May 3 May 4 May 10 June 8 June 14 June 22 June 28 Medical Care Provider April 20 April 26 June 1 June 7 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL June 8 June 14 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG April 20 April 26 June 1 June 7 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 # and dates attended___________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 24 Seafarers LOG 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, 45353 St. George Ave., Piney Point, MD 20674; 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, or 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. 4/19 April 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #845 – Graduated December 28 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Juan Carlos Chevalier, Arielle Collier, Erl Jan Encina, Liam Flanagan, Solomon Foster Jr., Quandell Freeman, Lee Kinler, Thomas Koncul, Jahcoassy Jahmon Leo, Mark McCarthy, Samuel Ortiz Reyes, Jarek Stephan Ramon Santos, Cody Rawlings, Stewart Sykes Jr., Tara Trillo and Daniel Wood. Important Notice To All 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. Master 100 Ton – Graduated November 2 (above, in alphabetical order): Abdul Aziz, Carmelo Martinez and John O’Dowd. Leadership & Management Skills – Graduated October 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Norman Argallon Arquillano, Jose Roberto Encarnacion and Michael O’Connell. Instructor Christopher Morgan is at the far right. MSC Storekeeper Basic – Graduated October 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Annie Bivens, Daniel Bynum, Shardaysha Giles, Antrell Jordan, Michael Maldonado, Jamison McIntyre, Robert Ott and Thomas Caroline. Their instructor, Matthew Rogers, is at the far right. Engineroom Resource Management – Graduated October 12: Jose Roberto Encarnacion (center) and Norman Argallon Arquillano. Instructor Christopher Morgan is at left. Government Vessels – Graduated November 16 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Gery Byrd, Heberth Carvalho Da Cruz, Michael Gary, Olympia Harley, Alan Jacobson, Surait Hussein Kajuna, Abdullah Saleh, Fahd Hassen Saleh, Aleksey Gavrilovich Vigovskiy and Randy Estepa Wurr. April 2019 Seafarers LOG 25 �Paul Hall Center Classes Junior Engineer – Graduated November 23 (above, in alphabetical order): Christian Bryant, Paul Ianni, Paul Klear, Sebastian Krowicki, Nicolae Marinescu, Abdulkhalek Siddiq Mohsen, Mark Richardson, Josepy Ritchey, Isaac Stoutamire, Keon Sumlar and Kyle Williamson. Instructor Christopher Morgan is at the far left. FOWT (Basic Steam Plant Operation) – Graduated November 16 (above, in alphabetical order): Rashawn Arrington, Peter Durangparang, Merville Lariosa Gallema and Roy Villanueva. Instructor John Wiegman III is at the far left. Search & Rescue – Graduated November 9 (above, in alphabetical order): Glenn Agustin, Robert Bryson III, Johnathon Gager, Shoal Nervo, Harry Schrefer III and Gavin Scott. UA to Able Seaman (Deck) – Graduated November 16 (above, in alphabetical order): Jordan Bates, Mason Cook, Benjamin Curran, Kayla Doiron, John Hodges and Alphonso Johnson Jr. Instructor Walton Grooms is at the far right. MSC Supply Configuration Management – Graduated November 16 (above, in alphabetical order): Annie Bivens, Daniel Bynum, Shardaysha Giles, Antrell Jordan, Michael Maldonado, Jamison McIntyre, Robert Ott and Caroline Thomas. Matthew Thomas, their instructor, is at the far right. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Graduated October 12 (above, in alphabetical order): Cris Arceno Arsenio, Bradley Bagwell, Sharon Baham, Latiffe Brooks, Rodriques Carson, Carlos Jose Castillo, Glenard Chaney Jr., Daniel Davenport, Darren Elder, Memo Elfeky, Kelvin Johnson, Domenick Longmire, Michael Mahoney and Mykel Potter. Instructors Michael Roberts and Joseph Zienda are at the far right and far left, respectively. 26 Seafarers LOG Marine Refrigeration Tech – Graduated November 16 (above, in alphabetical order): Tousif Ahmed, Abdulaziz Mohamed Nagi Alsinai, Vernon Humbles, Carlos Mohler Vega, Jaquel Nesmith, Justin Nicholson, Michael Souza, Jeffrey Thrash, Kareem Walters and Edward Williams. Basic Training (Advanced Firefighting Revalidation) – Graduated October 12 (above, in alphabetical order): Robert CarrollKevin Cooper, Douglas Covil, Robert Kieffer, Jamie Norsworthy, Lewis O’Neal, Jonas Robinson, Rebecca Tallman and Michael Wilson. Joseph Zienda, their instructor, is at the far left. April 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes SUA (Galley Operations) – Graduated October 5 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Alexandra Erickson, Paisami Gay, Daniel Howard, Lamarai Jones, Shadonna Jones, EsStonia Moore, Eugenia Porter, Noah Susumu SantiagoStephens, Lareesa Warren, Jessica Williams, Kendra Williams and Jarid Wilson. SUA (Galley Operations) – Graduated November 2 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Reginald Howard, Billie Mahealani Kawelo, Alize Lassiter, Christian Louis, Gerardo Kaindoy Melano, Wilfredo Ramos Silva, James Scott, Tahn Stuart, Nicholas Tacy, Jalisa Williams and Derek Wilson. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated October 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Tommy Belvin, Karl Meyer, Mark Salvador Scardino and Velicia Williams. Chief Steward – Graduated November 9: (above, from left), Merly Ford, real Coronel and Delia Miral Peters. April 2019 Galley Operations – Graduated October 5 (above, from left): Stevon Taylor, Porcia Johnson and Tuliga Fuega. Certified Chief Cook (Module 3) – Graduated November 30 (above, from left): John Billington, Alvinmar Iremedio Aldana, Dindo Prellagera Reforsado and Norma Painitan Baucan. Seafarers LOG 27 �APRIL 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 4 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 25-27 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O MTD: America Needs the Jones Act Editor’s note: The following statement was unanimously adopted by the executive board of the Maritime Trades Department (MTD) during its winter meeting, which took place Feb. 21-22 in Orlando, Florida. See pages 12-17 for complete coverage of the meeting. Jones Act: More Vital Than Ever Without question, one of the highlights of last year’s MTD Executive Board meeting was the formal announcement by Seafarers’ Rights International Executive Director Deirdre Fitzpatrick that her organization had completed a years-long study on cabtage laws around the world. Fully released last September, the study revealed that 91 countries – representing 80 percent of the world’s coastal United Nations maritime states – maintain some form of cabotage law. The report states that these laws are not identical, and describes the Jones Act as the model for others. It also demonstrates that cabotage laws exist across all political, economic and legal systems. Last summer featured a major study specifically focusing on America’s freight cabotage law and Puerto Rico. Economists from Boston-based Reeve & Associates and San Juan-based Estudios Técnicos, Inc. on July 18 released a joint report, “The Impact of the Jones Act on Puerto Rico,” that concluded the Jones Act has no impact on either retail prices or the cost of living in Puerto Rico. In addition, the report found that the state-of-the-art maritime technology, Puerto Rico-focused investments, and dedicated closed-loop service offered by Jones Act carriers provide a significant positive economic impact to the island, at freight rates lower or comparable to similar services to other Caribbean Islands. These findings factually shot down claims from Jones Act opponents, who seemingly blame the time-tested law for every problem under the sun and whose main strategy apparently is to repeat lies loudly and often. Nevertheless, attacks on the Jones Act continue, both in the commonwealth and on Capitol Hill. Most visibly, the Cato Institute is waging an open campaign to weaken or repeal the law, one which is vital to America’s national, economic and homeland security. In fact, it sponsored a lightly attended forum a few months ago featuring none other than former FMC chairman Rob Quartel, an avowed enemy of the Jones Act. For years if not decades, the most common attacks on the Jones Act focused on the U.S.-build provision. This has long been seen as the proverbial “camel’s nose under the tent,” and the MTD has been at the forefront of successfully beating back those misguided efforts. Today, however, Puerto Rico is front and center. Since our last meeting, we’ve contended with everything from harmful proposed resolutions to threats of legislation that would exempt Puerto Rico from the Jones Act, either for a few years or permanently. In a few isolated cases, we’ve learned that some of the efforts to weaken or kill the Jones Act simply are based on a misunderstanding of the facts. In those instances, our movement and our industry collectively have done solid work in educating people and moving them to the truthful side of this issue. Far more often, however, the orga- nizations and individuals behind the attacks are just looking to score political points, and/or harm the U.S. Merchant Marine and American-flag operators while boosting foreign flags. They don’t let facts stand in the way. The facts are that the Jones Act has served the best interests of the United States for almost a century. It helps maintain nearly half-a-million American jobs by requiring that cargo moving between domestic ports is carried aboard vessels that are crewed, built, flagged and owned American. Fortunately, many supporters recognize the value of this venerable law. To cite just one recent example, here’s what the Congressional Black Caucus Institute’s 2019 Annual Report has to say: The Jones Act “keeps well-paying maritime jobs in American hands and serves as a homeland security force multiplier. Mariners on domestic vessels are fully vetted and credentialed U.S. citizens that serve as extra eyes and ears on the water, helping report and deter threats to homeland security. The U.S. Military Sealift Command depends on the country’s mariners to provide quick mobilization of sealift capacity in the event of a national emergency, and the Department of Defense has consistently emphasized the military importance of a strong domestic shipbuilding industry. In addition, vessels in the U.S. domestic trade are subject to the full array of U.S. safety, environmental, labor, immigration and tax laws, in contrast to foreign vessels that may operate under flags of convenience to avoid labor, regulatory and tax obligations.” Meanwhile, we would be remiss in not tipping our cap to the Seafarers International Union of Canada and the leadership of its president, MTD Executive Board Member Jim Given. Brother Given continues to lead a very successful battle to promote and protect cabotage laws north of the border. The results have included more jobs and job security for our brothers and sisters in Canada. The MTD, its affiliates and its Port Maritime Councils will continue to invest every possible resource in the fight to protect the Jones Act and indeed to defend cabotage laws around the world. Making Their Respective Marks During MTD Winter Meeting Although they never took the podium, those pictured in these three photos played significant roles during the Feb. 21-22 MTD executive board winter meeting in Orlando, Florida. Above is the cadre (not all are pictured) of individuals who served as Sergeants at Arms during the event. Included (from left) are Port Agent Jimmy White, Asst. VP Mike Russo, Port Agent Nick Marrone II, Port Agent Chris Westbrook, Port Agent Joe Baselice, Port Agent Mark von Siegel, Port Agent Victor Nunez and Asst. VP Nick Celona, their leader. In photo at left is SIU Executive Secretary Brittanie Potter, who captivated the crowd with her singing of the national anthem. The photo below shows members of the audience. Throughout the two-day event, they were attentive and courteous, giving each speaker and presenter their undivided attention. And, as the photo shows, they were not bashful when it came to showing their approval of the proceedings. For more coverage of the 2019 MTD meeting in Orlando, Florida, see Pages 12-17 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 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 2019 Description An account of the resource Headlines: NEW JONES ACT STUDY CONFIRMS ECONOMIC VALUE, JOB GROWTH MATSON'S KAIMANA HILA CHRISTENED JONES ACT SUPPORT EVIDENT IN HEARINGS UNION-CONTRACTED CROWLEY CHRISTENES LNG-POWERED TAINO IN PUERTO RICO 'SAIL-IN' SENDS MARITIME MESSAGE TO D.C. EXECUTIVE ORDER AIMS TO BOOST MARITIME INDUSTRY CULINARY 2.0 CLASSES GOING STRONG AT UNION-AFFILIATED PAUL HALL CENTER SHBP OFFERS TOBACCO CESSATION BENEFITS UNDERSTANDING CROHN'S DISEASE MTD PRESIDENT CITES LABOR'S RESURGENCE AFL-CIO SECRETARY-TREASURER FOCUSES ON FUTURE OF WORK CONGRESSMEN BACK JONES ACT, EMPHASIZE CRUCIAL NEED FOR GRASSROOTS POLITICAL ACTION MARITIME ADMINISTRATOR BUZBY OPTIMISTIC ABOUT INDUSTRY'S FUTURE COAST GUARD REAR ADM. NADEAU THANKS INDUSTRY, REAFFIRMS AGENCY'S FULL COMMITMENT TO SAFETY COMPANY EXEC. STRESSES PARTNERSHIPS, SAFETY UNION VETERANS COUNCIL LEADER: 'BEING IN A UNION MEANS DIGNITY' U.S. COAST GUARD ISSUES SHUTDOWN UPDATE #4 MTD: AMERICA NEEDS THE JONES ACT 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 4/1/2019 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. 81, No. 4 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/2a8eb15ce60b19c7e0a9a89dd82f276f.pdf de4100d0c093effbaec7e3382371908f PDF Text Text MARCH 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 3 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O SIU Jobs Secure Aboard USNS Montford Point, USNS John Glenn Ocean Shipholdings, Inc. recently was awarded an operating contract for the U.S. military support ships USNS Montford Point (above) and USNS John Glenn. If all options are exercised, the agreement will last until November 2024. The SIU-contracted company already operates both vessels for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. Page 3. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Peter Burghart) SIU President Addresses AMO Board SIU President Michael Sacco last month spoke to the executive board of the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers (AMO) in Dania Beach, Florida. He is at center in photo at the immediate right, with AMO National President Paul Doell (left) and Second Assistant Engineer Gregory Shepard, an SIU hawsepiper. The photo below includes Sacco (front row, second from right), SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins (back row, second from right) and former SIU members who are current AMO members or officials (from left) AMO East Coast Representative Todd Christensen; AMO National Vice President, Deep Sea, Joe Gremelsbacker; AMO National Executive Vice President Mike Finnigan; Chief Mate Jennifer Senner; AMO National Vice President, Inland Waters, Danny Robichaux; and Captain Timothy English. Labor Mobilizes to Support Gov’t Workers The SIU and the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO, joined with many other labor organizations to assist workers during the recent government shutdown that ended in late January. In photo above, Seafarers in Oakland, California, gather food donations for U.S. Coast Guard personnel. The other photo shows SIU members in Honolulu, Hawaii, demonstrating in support of workers who went without pay for weeks. Coverage starts on Page 2. Piney Point Update Page 5 Great Lakes Towing Page 8 Members React to New San Juan Hall Page 12 �President’s Report Power of Solidarity Both during the recent government shutdown and throughout the teachers’ strike in Los Angeles, union members showed the enduring power of collective action and solidarity. Grassroots mobilization, standing up for the truth, and having each other’s backs led to positive outcomes in both cases. Community outreach across the country also proved very uplifting, and unions were very involved in those efforts as well. Specifically concerning the shutdown, I’m proud of SIU members and our union collectively for making donations, rallying, and simply offering encouraging words along the way. In some cases, we were reaching out to our own: NOAA crews who are part of the SIU Government Services Division. Both the successful strike and the rank-andfile pressure that led to ending the shutdown underscored that when we stick together, we win together, as AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka often puts it. That’s a good lesson to remember Michael Sacco as we move forward in protecting workers’ rights and reminding folks about the power of collective action. America Needs the Jones Act Since the founding of our country, America’s Merchant Mariners have answered the nation’s call – no matter how big the task, no matter when. These men and women, including our own Seafarers, are America’s fourth arm of defense. On the books for nearly a century, the Jones Act helps ensure that the United States will have world-class American mariners ready and available at a moment’s notice to crew U.S.-flag ships around the world. We saw that in Puerto Rico when Jones Act vessels arrived within hours of the Port of San Juan reopening after Hurricane Maria. We saw that when U.S.-flagged vessels with American crews who had sailed aboard Jones Act ships along the coasts and on the Great Lakes formed a steel bridge of supplies to U.S. armed forces during Operations Desert Storm and Desert Shield. We saw that in 2009 when Jones Act crews immediately rescued passengers and crew after a US Airways jet had an emergency landing in the Hudson River. The Jones Act serves and protects our country. Anyone who says otherwise either doesn’t know the facts or has an agenda that’s contrary to the best interests of the United States of America. Keep that in mind as the misguided attacks against our nation’s freight cabotage law continue. Maritime Trades Department As of this writing, the Maritime Trades Department is preparing for the winter meeting of its executive board. We’ll have full coverage in next month’s LOG. If you’re new to the SIU or otherwise not completely familiar with the MTD, it’s a constitutional department of the AFL-CIO – and it’s one of our most important affiliations. The MTD, of which I also serve as president, has 23 affiliated unions with a combined membership of around 5 million. The MTD also has a network of 21 port maritime councils that function a lot like central labor councils or area labor federations. The port councils (who were among the organizations stepping up to support furloughed workers) help provide American and Canadian maritime workers with a strong grassroots presence in port and coastal cities and towns across both nations. Like our association with the AFL-CIO, the SIU’s affiliation with the MTD is a vital tool for amplifying our voice when we’re standing up for the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, cargo preference, workers’ rights and more. It gives us a greater chance of success for revitalizing and maintaining a strong U.S. Merchant Marine, and that’s why we proudly align with this indispensable department. Members of Congress meet with workers at the SIU hall in Honolulu. Standing in back, starting fourth from right, are Sen. Mazie Hirono, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, Sen. Brian Schatz and Rep. Ed Case. SIU, MTD Support Furloughed Workers Organizations Donate, Demonstrate During Historic Shutdown Unions were undeterred during a 35-day federal government shutdown that ended in late January. During that unprecedented closure, SIU members and officials as well as representatives from several port councils affiliated with the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO, energetically supported many of the 800,000 employees who were either temporarily out of work or were told to work even though their paychecks weren’t forthcoming. The SIU and MTD teamed up with donations to fellow union members, Coast Guard personnel and other government workers. They also participated in demonstrations in the nation’s capital; in Honolulu, Hawaii; and elsewhere. The SIU utilized its Disaster Aid Fund to assist members of the union’s Government Services Division who sail with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Many members relayed their thanks via emails to SIU Government Services Division Vice President Kate Hunt. One member wrote, “Thank you! Can’t tell you how much this helps. It also helps remind folks that the rougher things are, the more they need the union.” Another NOAA mariner said, “Thank you for supporting the members in this time of need!” Honolulu was an especially active area for the SIU during the shutdown. The SIU hosted multiple food drives in addition to welcoming members of Congress for informal discussions. Those members included U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono (D), U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz (D), U.S. Rep. Ed Case (D) and U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D), who were on hand at the hiring hall Jan. 18 to listen to workers and discuss their concerns. Many other labor organizations were involved in the effort in Hawaii, including the State AFL-CIO, AFGE, Teamsters Local 996, IBEW 1260, HGEA, MM&P, MEBA, MFOW, and the Hawaii Ports Maritime Council. Seafarers in Oakland, California, put together a food drive for Coast Guard personnel, while the Greater South Florida Maritime Trades Council, SIU, Port Everglades Association and Port Everglades Pilots donated gift cards and other items to Coast Guard members in that area. Although the threat of another shutdown in midFebruary loomed as of press time, the AFL-CIO and many pundits credited rank-and-file workers and their unions for ending the longest federal stoppage Continued on Page 4 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 81 Number 3 March 2019 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, Nick Merrill; Piney Point Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2019 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. Seafarers and other volunteers at the hiring hall in Honolulu, Hawaii, prepare food for delivery to furloughed workers. 2 Seafarers LOG March 2019 �A U.S. Marine Corps truck drives off a ramp during exercise Pacific Horizon 2017 aboard the SIU-crewed USNS John Glenn. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Roxanna Gonzalez) A military vehicle with a trailer (toward center of photo) drives up a ramp from one SIUcrewed ship (the USNS John Glenn, right) to another (USNS Dahl) during an exercise in the Pacific in 2017. (U.S. Marnie Corps photo by Sgt. Rodion Zabolotniy) Ocean Ships Inc. Awarded ESD Contract Union Jobs Secure Aboard USNS Montford Point, USNS John Glenn Seafarers will continue sailing aboard two expeditionary transfer dock (ESD) vessels, following a recent announcement by the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD). The DOD on Jan. 25 reported that SIU-contracted Ocean Shipholdings, Inc. has been selected to continue operating the USNS Montford Point and the USNS John Glenn for up to five-and-a-half years. Ocean Shipholdings already operates both of those ships for the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC). The newly awarded contract features a base period of one year, four 12-month option periods and a six-month option. If all options are exercised, the agreement will last until November 2024. “This announcement is a credit to SIU crews and to Ocean Shipholdings,” stated SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “The ships themselves as well as the mariners who crew them are vital to America’s sealift capabilities. With this agreement, our members can look forward to solid opportu- nities for ongoing job security.” The ESD ships (built by union shipyard workers) originally were called mobile landing platforms. According to the Navy, an ESD “is a highly flexible ship that provides logistics movement from sea to shore supporting a broad range of military operations. ESD-class ships leverage an existing commercial design of the Alaska-class crude oil carrier built by General Dynamics National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO), to ensure design stability and low developmental costs. These ships operate within Maritime Prepositioning Ship squadrons as mobile sea bases or as the component commander requires providing the U.S. Navy fleet with a critical access infrastructure that supports the flexible deployment of forces and supplies.” The vessels are 785 feet long and have 164-foot beams. They can sail at 15 knots and feature “commercial diesel electric propulsion,” according to MSC. The agency also notes that both ships “utilize float-on/float-off technology and a reconfigurable mission deck to maximize capability. Additionally, the ships’ size al- The USNS Montford Point (front) performs a skin-to-skin maneuver with another SIUcrewed ship, the USNS Fred W. Stockham, in 2016 near South Korea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Madailein Abbott) Port Council Planning in Puerto Rico Union representatives gather at the new SIU hiring hall in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on Jan. 22 to continue launch plans for the new Maritime Trades Department Port Council for the territory. Attendees included Puerto Rico AFL-CIO President Jose Rodriguez-Baez of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers; Capt. Eduardo Iglesias of the Masters, Mates and Pilots; Andres Lloret, president, UFCW Local 481; Carlos Marrero, president, Local 901 Teamsters of Puerto Rico; Carlos Sanchez, president, Local 1740 Longshoreman; and SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo (far left). Many topics were covered, including the ongoing need to promote facts about the direct, positive impact of the Jones Act on Puerto Rico. A follow-up meeting is scheduled for late February. March 2019 lows for 25,000 square feet of vehicle and equipment stowage space and 380,000 gallons of JP-5 fuel storage.” U.S.-Flag Great Lakes Fleet Finishes 2018 on Strong Note U.S.-flag Great Lakes freighters, many of them featuring SIU crews, carried 8.5 million tons of cargo in December, an increase of 17.5 percent compared to a year ago, the Lake Carriers’ Association (LCA) reported. Driving the surge was a 16-percent increase in iron ore cargos. Limestone and coal cargos also registered increases, 31 and 19.5 percent, respectively. For the year, U.S.-flag lakers carried 83.7 million tons of cargo, a decrease of 2.3 percent compared to 2017, according to the LCA. Iron ore cargos totaled 45.8 million tons, a decrease of 0.4 percent. “That the iron ore total essentially pulled even with 2017 is noteworthy; the delays that resulted from heavy ice in March and April had the trade 16 percent off 2017’s pace at the end of April,” the association noted in late January. “In fact, the U.S. and Canadian Coast Guards continued to break ice in Whitefish Bay at the eastern end of Lake Superior and the St. Mary’s River that connects Lake Superior to the lower four Great Lakes into May.” Coal cargos totaled 11.8 million tons, a decrease of 11.4 percent. Limestone loadings approached 22 million tons, an increase of 1.9 percent. Seafarers LOG 3 �SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins (left) helps present donations to Coast Guard personnel in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Maritime Community, Allies Rally to Aid Of Workers Hit by Government Closure Continued from Page 2 in U.S. history. They cited major demonstrations across the country along with working people regularly contacting their elected representatives. The federation noted, “After holding federal workers’ paychecks hostage for 35 days, President Donald Trump finally gave in to immense nationwide pressure and signed legislation to reopen the government on [Jan. 25]. As AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka (UMWA) said, ‘President Trump didn’t want to end this shutdown – the collective action of working people demanded it.’ The federation statement continued, “From the beginning of this manufactured crisis, working people throughout the labor movement and across the country have fought alongside our 1 million-plus brothers and sisters going without pay. From a massive rally and march in front of the AFLCIO’s headquarters to actions across the country, working people took to the streets to show our solidarity. “We flooded the halls and lit up the phones of Congress, to make our voices heard by those responsible for this debacle,” the AFL-CIO pointed out. “We lifted up the stories of struggling workers and demanded that politicians do their jobs so we could do ours. As this shutdown dragged on – and as workers still wait for back pay – we stepped up to care for each other in a time of forced hardship.” The AFL-CIO communication concluded, “By standing together, working people got each other through this shutdown. We mobilized, organized and proved the indispensable value of our labor to those who have tried to ignore us. Now we will fight for a long-term government funding bill and legislation to guarantee that all Seafarers prepare supportive signs at the Honolulu hall. workers are made whole.” Union members demonstrate at Daniel K. Inouye Airport in Honolulu, Hawaii. Union Membership Remains Fairly Steady During 2018 BLS Report Again Shows Union Members Get Better Pay The yearly report on union membership from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) showed very little change in 2018. According to the agency’s report, issued Jan. 18, membership declined slightly from 2017 to 2018, to a total number of 14.744 million. That’s a decrease of 73,000; union density in 2018 was 10.5 percent. The report again reinforced that union members usually earn more money than their unrepresented counterparts. Data from the BLS report shows that in 2018, the median union worker earned $1,051 per week, compared to $860 for the median non-unionist. (The median is the point where half of workers are above and half below.) Meanwhile, the AFL-CIO issued a press statement in advance of the report that read in part: “Here’s what the numbers alone won’t tell you: 2018 was one of the most substantial years for collective action in American history. The following are some significant 4 Seafarers LOG ways workers are standing together to improve our workplaces and communities, not included in today’s report: Tens of thousands of teachers going on strike for better pay and stronger schools in red and blue states, including more than 30,000 currently striking in Los Angeles (the teachers subsequently won numerous gains and voted to return to work). Google workers worldwide walking out for an end to workplace sexual harassment and a voice on the job. UNITE HERE hotel workers taking on Marriott, the most profitable hotel chain in the world, and winning higher wages, a safe work environment and a say on how technology is deployed. And, working people electing pro-worker candidates from coast to coast, including more than 950 union members. Private-sector union membership is up, despite the fact that Taft-Hartley, a labor law rigged to embolden anti-worker employers, has been on the books for more than 70 years. Workers from Boeing to JetBlue to Harvard University won union recognition in 2018. And 60 million workers – the population of New York and California combined – would vote to join a union today if given the chance. Public sector union membership essentially held steady, despite the Supreme Court’s ruling in Janus v. AFSCME, the case pundits predicted would be the labor movement’s death knell. In fact, some public sector unions saw membership growth in 2018. Shortly after Janus was decided, the people of Missouri overturned “right to work” by 2-1, the first-ever state to repeal this antiworker law by popular vote. In the face of unprecedented attacks, the labor movement continues to show tremendous resilience. Public approval of unions is soaring. And new organizing campaigns in non-union workplaces are gaining steam. Give working people a level playing field to join and form unions and there will be a dramatic spike in membership by the time the 2019 BLS numbers are released.” Additionally, Mark Gruenberg of Press Associates pointed out, “The agency reported that a slight majority of union members were in the private sector, 7.577 million, compared to 7.167 million in the public sector. The public sector was more heavily unionized, with one of every three workers – state and local government workers, teachers, fire fighters, and federal workers – unionized, compared to one of every 16 (6.4 percent) in the private sector. Teachers and protective services, each with even higher percentages, led the way.” As usual, union members were concentrated in the Northeast, the Great Lakes and the Pacific Coast states. The most uniondense states last year were Hawaii (23.1 percent), New York (22.3 percent), Washington (19.8 percent), Alaska (18.5 percent) and Rhode Island (17.5 percent). The biggest union numbers BLS calculated were in California (2.405 million, down 87,000 and with 14.7 percent density), New York (1.872 million, down 145,000, 22.3 percent), Illinois (786,000, down 86,000, 13.8 percent), Pennsylvania (701,000, up 36,000, 12.6 percent), Michigan (625,000, down 33,000, 14.5 percent), Ohio (639,000, up 4,000, 12.6 percent) and Washington (649,000, up 61,000, 19.8 percent). According to Gruenberg, “Washington was the biggest numerical gainer, but BLS calculated many of the other gains were in the least-unionized area, the South. Florida (plus 38,000), Georgia and Alabama (plus 28,000 each), Louisiana (plus 11,000) and South Carolina (plus 3,000) all added union members.” March 2019 �QMED Ann Mensch handles some equipment. QMED Guiomar Rancel inspects a panel. QE4 Michael Gray is behind him. QMED Guiomar Rancel works on a refrigerated unit. PHC Unveils Cutting-Edge Reefer Course The Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) is offering a new course in Advanced Reefer Container Maintenance (ARCM), which replaces the previous course. Mike Fay, a longtime mariner and electrician, was instrumental in the development of the new course and curriculum. He’s worked in the industry for over 40 years, much of that time spent with the Crowley shore gang in the Port of Philadelphia, where he worked with reefer units on a daily basis. Following last year’s PHC Advisory Board meetings, and responding to concerns of the industry, the school tapped into Fay’s knowledge and expertise in this field and asked him to evaluate and provide input on the ARCM course. “The new ARCM course is modeled after our training program in use by the Crowley shore gang in the Port of Philadelphia,” he stated. “This is a condensed course, focusing on unit operating systems and troubleshooting. The old course has been discarded and completely replaced with training that is directly in alignment with the job requirements on board the vessel.” Fay then addressed some of the specific additions made to the new course: “We added two more up-to-date reefer units, which were donated by SIU-contracted ship operators. In addition, there are now several benchtop microprocessors and keypads that allow the students to program controllers, update software and navigate the menu functions.” PHC Director of Vocational Training and Education Priscilla Labanowski compared the new course to the previous class, saying, “The course was written with more hands-on training. We have added additional reefer containers donated from shipping companies to allow for actual equipment from the ships to be used in our machine shop as learning tools. This will allow for a better-trained mariner being able to work under guidance of an instructor here at the school prior to performing the work required of them NMC Notices Concerning Documents, Shutdown Editor’s note: Following are the most recent communications from the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center related to the government shutdown. These notices were issued the night of Jan. 25, after an agreement was reached to reopen the government. Any additional updates from the NMC will be shared on the SIU website. Also, the “attached letter” mentioned below is linked on the SIU and NMC sites. STCW Mitigation Efforts Due to Lapse in Fiscal Year 2019 Appropriations and Partial Government Shutdown Due to circumstance of exceptional necessity, the United States is currently not able to process Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMC) or related endorsements issued under the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), 1978, as amended. Pursuant to STCW Article VIII, dispensations may be granted for continued service for mariners operating on endorsements that expired on or after December 1, 2018, providing a renewal application was submitted to the National Maritime Center (NMC) and the company applied to the Coast Guard for dispensation. Requests should be submitted via email to STCWDispensations@uscg.mil and should include the ship name, IMO number, mariner name, mariner reference number, capacity per STCW regulations, company name, company point of contact, and valid mariner e-mail. The Coast Guard will consider dispensation requests in accordance with the provisions of STCW Article VIII. If approved, dispensa- March 2019 on one of our contracted ships.” “I have shipped for years as an electrician, and found the following very helpful,” remarked one student who completed the course, before listing various elements of the curriculum that they found particularly useful. “Thorough description of capacity control and economizer operation, a detailed walkthrough of programming and configuration of a controller, detailed instruction of emergency bypassing of each unit, instruction for manual use and testing of the solenoid values, and the freeze/chill thresholds and operations.” PHC Acting Vice President Tom Orzechowski stated, “The school remains committed to improving all of our curriculum, in order to stay current with industry needs. Consistent with the physical improvements and additions made to the school, the Paul Hall Center will continue to provide first-class training at a first-class facility.” The next course is scheduled to start May 18. Students must have previously completed the Marine Electrician and Marine Reefer Tech courses in order to take Advanced Reefer Container Maintenance. Electrician Mike Fay (third from right) modifies refrigerated units at the Philly Shipyard. tions will expire May 31, 2019. Once the STCW dispensation letter is issued, mariners shall carry the letter and a copy of this bulletin with the MMC. Mariners who submitted applications for STCW endorsements prior to December 1, 2018, and are actively working or seeking employment may contact the NMC. Medical Certificates are only valid for 3 months from the expiration date in accordance with STCW Regulation I/9 and applications are being processed upon receipt. If you have questions, visit the NMC website, or contact the NMC Customer Service Center by using the NMC online chat system, by e-mailing IASKNMC@uscg.mil, or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662). Update 3 – Mitigation Efforts Due to Lapse in Fiscal Year 2019 Appropriations and Partial Government Shutdown To mitigate the impact caused by the lapse in appropriations and shutdown of National Maritime Center (NMC) operations, the following updated actions are being taken: „ Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMC) and Medical Certifications (National Endorsements only) that expire in December 2018, January 2019, or February 2019 are extended as valid until May 31, 2019. Mariners who are actively working on expired credentials that meet the expiration criteria must carry the expired credential with a copy of the attached letter. „ The following items that expire in December 2018, January 2019, or February 2019 are extended to April 30, 2019: Additional Information (AI) letters, Qualified Assessor (QA) letters, Designated Examiner (DE) letters, Proctor approval letters, Approval to Test (ATT) letters, and mariner training course certificates. „� For mariners whose 90-day testing cycles were inter- rupted by Regional Exam Center (REC) closures (starting on December 26, 2018), the days the RECs were closed will not count against the 90-day period. REC appointment calendars will be re-opened once appropriations are restored and RECs are fully operational. The NMC understands the partial shutdown may affect our industry customers and stakeholders and we apologize for any potential inconvenience. Dear U.S. Mariner, Due to the federal government’s partial lapse in appropriations for fiscal year 2019, the Coast Guard is unable to process mariner credentials in a timely manner. To provide relief to impacted mariners and under the authority of 46 United States Code § 7507 and § 7508, the Coast Guard is granting extensions effective immediately to National Endorsements and Medical Certificates until May 31, 2019, for mariners whose credentials expire in December 2018, January 2019, or February 2019. All mariners sailing under the authority of their National Endorsement(s) should print and retain a copy of this letter with their Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) and Medical Certificate to produce it upon request by the U.S. Coast Guard, other agencies or officials. The National Maritime Center (NMC) does not intend to issue any separate or new MMCs to correspond to this extension for mariners sailing domestically. This extension does not apply to Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) endorsements. Applications submitted before or during the partial government shutdown will be processed as soon as possible once the NMC is reopened and is legally authorized to begin operations. Seafarers LOG 5 �Notice/Reminders About SIU Text Message Alerts The union occasionally sends text messages to Seafarers (and others) who have signed up for such alerts. Those texts contain information relevant to members’ careers, including important news about the SIU, its contracted companies and the industry as a whole. The messages may include alerts about open jobs, information about grassroots campaigns, and other time-sensitive bulletins. The SIU does not charge for this service, but there may be costs associated with receiving messages, depending on an individual’s phone-service plan that they have with their provider. People can unsubscribe from SIU text alerts at any time, simply by texting the word STOP to 97779. To sign up for the alerts, text the word JOIN to 97779. Terms and Conditions By signing up for this service, you acknowledge that you understand there may be costs associated with the receipt by you of such text messages depending on the cell phone service plan that you have with your provider. You are providing your cell phone number and your consent to use it for these purposes with the understanding that your cell phone number will not be distributed to anyone else without your express consent and that this service will not at any time be used for the purpose of distributing campaign materials for official elections for union office. EARN YOUR COLLEGE DEGREE THROUGH THE HARRY LUNDEBERG SCHOOL! The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship (SHLSS) has partnered with the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) to offer 5HVLGHQW�FRXUVHV�DW�3LQH\�3RLQW�� -XQH�����������-XQH���������� an Associate of Applied Science degree in Maritime Operations Technology with a x Associate of Applied Science Degree concentration in either x Nautical Science (Deck department) x UA courses apply toward the degree -orx Marine Engineering (Engine dept.) x Fully accredited Students must complete a combination of academic general education courses and technical education courses in order to earn x Some courses held at SHLSS the degree. Courses completed during the Unlicensed Apprentice program apply toward the x Online classes degree. Students can complete English, Math and x Scholarships available Physics courses at SHLSS. The remaining general education courses can be completed online. The following classes will convene at SHLSS: June 3 – June 21, 2019 English 1011 – Composition and Rhetoric Math 1011 – Math for Technologies Enrollment Information 7 Credit Hours Please contact Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School Academic Coordinator Dale Rausch (301) 994-0010 Ext. 5411 -ordrausch@seafarers.org Includes: tuition, textbooks, room and board plus one hour of tutoring following each daily class session Union Member Rights, Officer Responsibilities Under The Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act 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. ■ Voice in setting rates of dues, fees and assessments. ■ Protection of the right to sue. ■ 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. ■ 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 Certain Discipline: A union or any of its officials may not fine, expel or otherwise discipline a member for exercising any LMRDA right. 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. ■ 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. ■ 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 Spotlight on Mariner Health Avoid Frostbite: Keep Moving, Dress in Layers With the winter months upon us and cold temperatures commonplace, people should be on guard for frostbite. Frostbite is an injury caused by the freezing of the skin and underlying tissues. It occurs mostly in the fingers, toes, nose, ears, cheeks and the chin. In short, frostbite occurs in skin that is exposed to cold, windy weather; and it could happen even when the skin is covered with gloves or other articles of clothing. For those who get frostbite, the skin will feel very cold and a pricking feeling will ensue. This usually is followed by numbness and changing tones in the skin ranging in color from red, white, bluish-white, yellow, to gray. Some may also experience clumsiness due to joint and muscle stiffness, intense shivering, slurred speech and drowsiness as a result of frostbite. In severe cases, blistering is possible after 6 Seafarers LOG rewarming affected areas. Those who get frostbite should seek medical attention right away, as the condition can damage skin tissue, muscles and bones. Complications from the condition include infection, nerve damage and possibly amputation of the affected area. Frostbite prevention is all about protecting the skin. People should limit their time outdoors during periods of cold, wet and windy weather. It’s also important to dress in several layers of clothing. Air trapped between the layers acts as an insulator against the cold. It is also recommended to wear: a hat that fully cover the ears; gloves to protect the fingers; socks that fit well; and boots that do not leak. Doing “keep moving” exercises is also a good practice as it will keep the blood flowing and help keep you warm. Healthful Recipe Shrimp and Snow Pea Stir-Fry Servings: 25 Ingredients 5 pounds shrimp, medium sized (21-25 count) 6 cloves garlic, minced fine ¾ cup olive oil 2 quarts celery, diagonally sliced 1-quart onion, thinly sliced 2 tablespoons fresh ginger root, grated *1/4 teaspoon ground ginger may be substituted and added with soy sauce. 2 quarts snow peas, cleaned **One package (10 ounce) frozen peas or 1-1/2 cups fresh, shelled peas may be substituted. 2 quarts mushrooms, sliced 2 cups water ¾ cup soy sauce 1 cup white wine ¼ cup lemon juice ¼ cup cornstarch Preparation Sauté the shrimp over med-high heat in batches. Set aside for later step. In a large skillet cook the garlic in the olive oil for about 1 minute then remove the garlic. Add celery, onion and ginger; cook for about 2 minutes. Add the snow peas and mushrooms; cook and stir 2 minutes. Add in the cooked shrimp. Combine water, soy sauce, wine, lemon juice and cornstarch; add to shrimp and vegetable mixture. Cook and stir until sauce boils and thickens. Salt to taste. Serve over hot rice. Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 201 calories; 8g fat (38.3% calories from fat): 20g protein; 9g carbohydrate; 2g dietary fiber; 138mg cholesterol; 665 sodium. Exchanges: 0 grain (starch); 20 ½ lean meat; 1 ½ vegetable; 0 fruit; 1 ½ fat. Provided by Chef Robert “RJ” Johnson of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship March 2019 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU HONORING DR. KING – Houston-area Seafarers on Jan. 21 participated in an annual parade honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Some of the SIU attendees are pictured in the photos at right. Houston Police Chief Art Acevedo is third from left in photo at the immediate right. The photo above features members of city council and other dignitaries, including SIU VP Dean Corgey (second from right on the float), who is a member of the Port Commission of the Port of Houston Authority. WITH BOATMEN IN THE GULF – Pictured in Houston aboard the G&H Towing tugboat The Deacon are (from left) Capt. Doug Scott, Mate Jake Fuller, Deckhand Madeline Thibeault, Patrolman Kelly Krick and DDE Pete Ntaamah. KUDOS TO APPRENTICE – Steward/Baker Donna Hickman submitted this photo of Apprentice Joshua Baily Glancy aboard the SNLC Goodwill (Chesapeake Crewing). Hickman said the Phase 2 student from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center “was a pleasure to work with and a great help in the galley. He was passionate about the work and has the skills to be an excellent addition to any SIU galley.” Glancy made pizza twice while on board, and also got excellent reviews for his Thai beef curry and orange chicken. AT THE NORFOLK HALL – Receiving their respective membership books from Port Agent Georg Kenny (left in both photos) are SA Delphine Simmons (photo at left) and GUDE Antonio Hamilton. March 2019 A-BOOK IN JERSEY – QMED Aleksander Djatschenko (left) picks up his A-seniority book at the hiring hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. He’s pictured with Port Agent Mark von Siegel. ABOARD DANIEL K. INOUYE – Pictured aboard the new Matson vessel on the West Coast are (from left) SA Domiciano Nonato, ACU Abdul Munasar and Chief Cook Khalid Mohamed. Seafarers LOG 7 �With Great Lakes Towing Crews The photos on this page were taken during servicing visits by SIU AlgonacPort Agent Todd Brdak. The Wyoming, the Cleveland and the Missouri are all tugboats operated by Great Lakes Towing. Cleveland AB Russ Lempke tosses a mooring line. AB and SIU Delegate Tim McKenna helps moor the Cleveland. The Cleveland’s new pilothouse Wyoming AB and SIU Delegate Tim McKenna checks the engine levels. Missouri ABs Eric Johnson (left) and Adil Hussein aboard the Wyoming The crew of the Missouri receives some engine room training. From left to right: Port Agent Todd Brdak, AB Cary Gimpel, AB Dave Willoughby and SIU Assistant VP Bryan Powell The tug Wyoming docks in Detroit. From left to right: AB Scott Rosseel, AB Jeff Davis and Port Agent Todd Brdak 8 Seafarers LOG The tug Missouri docks in Duluth, Minnesota. March 2019 �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 ESMEIL ABORADY Brother Esmeil Aborady, 72, became a member of the union in 1991 when he shipped on the Cape Canaveral. He was an engine department member and upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Aborady most recently sailed on the USNS Stockham. He resides in Mobile, Alabama. shipped on the Independence. The deck department member upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 2012. Brother Dwyer’s last vessel was the Horizon Pacific. He lives in Honolulu. DOUGLAS GANTENBEIN Brother Abdulla Alwaseem, 65, joined the SIU in 1979, first sailing on the Overseas Natalie. He primarily sailed in the deck department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Alwaseem last shipped on the Maersk Kensington and lives in Wilmington, California. CLIFTON AYARS ANTHONY HEINOLDT Brother Clifton Ayars, 66, embarked on his SIU career in 2001. He first sailed aboard the Cape Victory and was a member of the deck department. Brother Ayars upgraded at the union-affiliated Piney Point school in 2001. He most recently shipped on the Alaskan Explorer and resides in Nine Mile Falls, Washington. Brother Anthony Heinoldt, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1979. He primarily sailed in the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Heinoldt’s first vessel was the Guyama; his last, the Alliance St. Louis. He calls Palm Coast, Florida, home. ANDREW BELL Brother Andrew Bell, 65, signed on with the SIU in 2001 and initially worked on the Cape Farewell. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions and sailed in all three departments. Brother Bell concluded his career aboard the Alaskan Navigator. He makes his home in Federal Way, Washington. HOWARD BLANKS Brother Howard Blanks, 65, began his career with the Seafarers in 1990, first sailing on the Sealift Atlantic. He upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1998 and shipped as a deck department member. Brother Blanks most recently sailed on Maersk Sentosa. He is a New York City resident. WILLIAM DWYER Brother William Dwyer, 67, joined the union in 1989, when he March 2019 Brother Thomas Murphy, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1979. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Murphy’s first vessel was the Jefferson Davis; his last, the Freedom. He makes his home in Bonifay, Florida. RUBEN ONG Brother Douglas Gantenbein, 66, joined the SIU in 2001 during the merger with the NMU. A deck department member, his first SIU vessel was the Overseas Washington. Brother Gantenbein upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions. He last sailed on the Alaskan Legend and resides in Fallbrook, California. ABDULLA ALWASEEM THOMAS MURPHY KATHLEEN LANAHAN Sister Kathleen Lanahan, 65, became a member of the SIU in 1989 when she sailed on the Independence. She shipped in the steward department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Sister Lanahan concluded her career aboard the Overseas Nikiski. She is a resident of Northport, Washington. ANTONIO LIBO-ON Brother Antonio Libo-On, 66, joined the union in 1999, first sailing aboard the Independence. He worked in the engine department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Libo-On last sailed on the USNS Bowditch. He lives in San Diego. CALVIN MILES Brother Calvin Miles, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1974 when he sailed on the Pecos. He primarily sailed in the deck department. Brother Miles upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. He last sailed on the Overseas Martinez and is a resident of Mobile, Alabama. Brother Ruben Ong, 66, signed on with the union in 2002. He first worked on the Moku Pahu and was a member of the steward department. In 2004, Brother Ong upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center. He last sailed on the USNS Petersburg before settling in Stockton, California. DIMITRIOS PAPANDREOU Brother Dimitrios Papandreou, 71, joined the union in 1990. His first vessel was the Meteor. Brother Papandreou sailed in the deck department and upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school. He concluded his career on the Yorktown Express and resides in Houston. ROBERT RAGER Brother Robert Rager, 65, joined the SIU in 1987 when he sailed on the USNS Harkness. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills in 2001 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Rager most recently sailed on the SeaLand Pride. He makes his home in Marianna, Florida. STEVEN ROLLINS Brother Steven Rollins, 64, began his SIU career in 1981, first sailing on the Massachusetts. He worked in both the engine and deck departments. Brother Rollins upgraded on multiple occasions at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. He most recently shipped on the Marjorie C and resides in Bellflower, California. NAPOLEON SAN MARTIN Brother Napoleon San Martin, 63, donned the SIU colors in 1989 when he worked with Crowley Towing and Transportation. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother San Martin’s last vessel was the Mykonos. He makes his home in Houston. GERARDO VEGA Brother Gerardo Vega, 72, became an SIU member in 1970, first working for Michigan Tankers. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments and upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Vega concluded his career aboard the Ohio and settled in Clewiston, Florida. JUSTIN WHITE Brother Justin White, 75, signed on with the union in 2005, initially sailing on the USNS Bob Hope. He shipped as a deck department member. Brother White most recently sailed aboard the USNS Altair. He resides in Marrero, Louisiana. GREAT LAKES PETER BURNS Brother Peter Burns, 63, began his career with the Seafarers in 1977, first shipping with National Marine Service. He upgraded at the Piney Point school within his first year, and shipped as a deck department member. Brother Burns last worked for Crescent Towing and Salvage and makes his home in Daphne, Alabama. NORMAN DAUPHIN Brother Norman Dauphin, 68, signed on with the Seafarers in 2002 and first sailed aboard the Sumner. An engine department member, Brother Dauphin upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. He concluded his career working for Crowley Towing and Transportation and lives in Middletown, Connecticut. ROGER MILLS Brother David Knuth, 65, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1973. The deck department member sailed in both the deep sea and Great Lakes divisions, initially with Hudson Waterways. Brother Knuth upgraded often at the maritime training facility located in Piney Point, Maryland. He concluded his career on the Walter J. McCarthy and lives in Oscoda, Michigan. Brother Roger Mills, 60, donned the SIU colors in 1993, initially working with Piney Point Transportation. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Mills was most recently employed by Penn Maritime. He resides in Belleview, Florida. CHARLES RICHARDSON ROBERT SOLENSKI Brother Charles Richardson, 64, signed on with the SIU in 1974. His first vessel was the Adam E. Cornelius. He was a deck department member and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Richardson’s last vessel was the American Spirit. He calls Naples, Florida, home. Brother Robert Solenski, 63, signed on with the SIU in 1996 when he worked for Crowley. He remained with the same company for his entire career. Brother Solenski is a resident of Philadelphia. DAVID KNUTH INLAND STEVEN BRANNAN Brother Steven Brannan, 65, joined the SIU in 1979. He worked as a deck department member and was employed with McAllister Towing of Virginia for the duration of his career. In 2002, Brother Brannan upgraded his skills at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center. He calls Tyner, North Carolina, home. ROBERT TAYLOR Brother Robert Taylor, 63, began his career with the Seafarers in 2010. He started in the deep sea division; one of his first vessels was the Advantage. Brother Taylor was a deck department member and upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. He most recently shipped aboard the Resolve and lives in Aberdeen, Washington. Seafarers LOG 9 �Hands-on Training Remains Piney Point Staple Union-Affiliated Paul Hall Center Emphasizes Practical Coursework The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center (PHC) for Maritime Training and Education serves as a gateway to rewarding careers for experienced mariners and entry-level students alike. A state-of-the-art vocational school located in Piney Point, Maryland, the PHC opened as a bare-bones facility in 1967. Since that time, the maritime training and education hub has enjoyed more than a half-century of steady growth and has developed into a cutting-edge school with wide-ranging curriculums. One thing that hasn’t changed from the start is the center’s emphasis on practical training. Hands-on instruction is featured in virtually every one of the school’s 70-plus U.S. Coast Guard-approved courses. Many classes are departmentspecific (deck, engine, or steward), while numerous others provide comprehensive safety training for the entire crew. Similarly, the PHC offers entry-level instruction for those just embarking on their respective maritime careers, plus upgrading coursework for experienced Seafarers. Some hands-on segments take place aboard the modern training vessel Freedom Star, one of the most visible parts of the campus’ waterfront. Many also happen at the nearby Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, located on a satellite campus just a few miles from the main base. While the PHC mainly is known for vocational training – including its highly regarded apprentice program, which is registered with the U.S. Department of Labor – it also offers academic support along with separate programs for earning a high school diploma and a two-year college degree. The photos on these two pages show a small sample of practical coursework in Piney Point. Complete information about the school is available in the Paul Hall Center section of the recently improved SIU website. To access it, go to www.seafarers.org click on the Training and Careers tab, then navigate to Paul Hall Center. 10 Seafarers LOG March 2019 March 2019 Seafarers LOG 11 �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 Kate Hunt, Vice President Government Services Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by Seafarers at the new hiring in hall in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Question: What do you think of the new hall? Fernando Marques Chief Cook The new hall is great. We were waiting for this for a long time, and it was definitely worth the wait. This is a great thing for me and it’s a great thing for my family, too. We are blessed. Antonio Mendez Recertified Steward The union is showing the commitment they have to us with this new hall. I’m glad we have it. It’s showing the SIU is dedicated to Puerto Rico and to the Jones Act, too. Along with the new ships, this shows that our union and the Jones Act are strong. Noel Otero Recertified Bosun It’s beautiful – a nice place that was needed for a long time. Everyone feels comfortable and happy here. It’s a great place for every member and much better than the old hall. Marcos Rivera Bosun The new hall is in a good location that’s free of crime. Everything is new, including the technology. The parking lot is good, and so is the first level, where everybody can meet to find their jobs. I’d suggest this hall for any member to come and enjoy. Abel Vazquez Recertified Bosun The new hall is a new beginning for the SIU in Puerto Rico. It’s our new home, plus there are four new ships (sailing between the territory and Florida). The hall has boosted morale for all the guys. It’s the beginning of great things and solid for the industry, too. It’s just spectacular! Michael Cruz QMED It’s great! It makes me proud. You can come here with your family and when you see that building, you think, “That’s my building. That’s our building.” The location is great. It gives me more hope, along with the new ships coming out. I already brought my family here. 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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 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 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 45353 St. George Ave., Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (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 Pic From The Past Donn Pearce, the author of “Cool Hand Luke,” was an SIU member. He’s pictured at left in 1965 with the late LOG Editor in Chief Herb Brand. Pearce sailed with the SIU in the late 1940s before turning to a life of crime. His experiences in jail led him to write the novel, and he was later hired to write the screenplay for the iconic Paul Newman film adaptation. Pearce went on to a successful career as a novelist and journalist, and he’s still writing at age 90. (Editor’s note: Be sure to check out the SIU Facebook page every Friday morning for vintage photos. While we usually don’t repeat content between the printed LOG and the social media account, the background associated with the photo at right warrants an exception.) 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 12 Seafarers LOG March 2019 �IMB Issues Annual Piracy Report, Uptick In Incidents Noted Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea January 1, 2019 - January 30, 2019 Total Registered Port The International Chamber of Commerce’s International Maritime Bureau (IMB) has released their annual Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships report, in which the bureau notes that 2018 saw an uptick in incidents from previous years. In a departure from the recent trend, the center of the increased pirate activity was African nations, not South East Asian waters. The regions with the largest increases in acts of piracy were Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, and The Congo. In total, 201 incidents were reported in 2018, compared to 180 in 2017, and those reported off the coast of African countries accounted for 87 separate incidents. As stated by the IMB, “The Gulf of Guinea remains increasingly dangerous for seafarers. Reports of attacks in waters between the Ivory Coast and the Democratic Republic of Congo more than doubled in 2018, accounting for all six hijackings worldwide, 13 of the 18 ships fired upon, 130 of the 141 hostages taken globally, and 78 of 83 seafarers kidnapped for ransom.” The report shows that in the last three months of 2018, 41 kidnappings occurred in waters off Nigeria alone. In contrast, no ships were hijacked off the Somali coast, although two were fired upon by pirates. This shift in violence also comes with a different set of targets. According to the report, “Armed criminals are reaching further out to sea and targeting a wider variety of ships: bulk carriers, container vessels and general cargo vessels in addition to local attacks on tankers, oil industry support vessels and fishing vessels.” “There is an urgent need for increased cooperation and sharing of intelligence between the Gulf of Guinea’s littoral states so that effective action can be taken against pirates, both at sea and on-shore where their operations originate and end,” an IMB spokesman said. “There has been some improvement in the estimated number of unreported attacks in 2018, but at around 48 percent there is still a long way to go.” The report did contain relatively good news. While there were 241 reported instances of violence towards crews, no sailors were killed in the attacks. Additionally, attacks off the coast of Indonesia have dropped off significantly, and of those that did occur, the vast majority were low-level opportunistic thefts. No U.S.-flagged vessels were attacked in 2018, according to the report. March & April 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 A All Groups B Total Shipped C A Registered on Beach All Groups B C Trip Reliefs A All Groups B C 0 0 1 2 0 2 0 5 4 2 0 2 2 0 0 1 1 2 1 4 29 2 2 2 9 0 2 3 25 14 11 0 2 11 3 6 1 2 10 0 11 116 60 4 11 30 6 15 10 93 63 74 6 16 29 20 9 5 10 48 5 51 565 22 3 2 15 5 10 8 28 29 15 5 6 18 10 4 1 12 21 1 17 232 1 3 0 8 1 5 1 14 15 9 0 5 15 3 0 2 0 12 0 9 103 0 0 1 1 0 0 4 2 2 1 1 0 4 1 0 0 0 2 0 3 22 0 0 0 4 0 1 2 4 10 7 1 0 6 2 0 1 1 5 1 3 48 12 0 3 15 2 6 25 24 21 24 4 7 21 8 5 2 8 16 3 27 233 3 1 3 12 2 7 4 13 21 7 1 7 20 11 3 3 0 12 2 17 149 3 0 1 4 0 0 1 4 1 4 0 1 8 3 0 0 4 4 1 2 41 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 43 2 12 23 3 11 4 47 42 44 6 11 25 15 6 6 7 34 3 24 368 21 3 2 8 2 6 5 11 19 10 3 4 13 6 2 0 6 11 1 9 142 1 1 1 7 1 2 2 12 11 3 0 3 7 1 0 2 1 4 0 6 65 Deck Department 7 5 0 2 6 2 22 9 1 0 9 2 6 2 43 13 27 10 25 5 1 1 5 2 23 14 8 4 6 2 1 1 12 2 24 4 0 0 27 7 253 87 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 6 0 2 13 0 3 12 13 16 12 3 5 13 10 4 2 2 12 3 12 143 3 0 6 8 1 2 3 6 19 4 1 5 12 5 2 1 1 8 1 13 101 2 0 1 2 0 0 2 3 2 3 0 0 8 0 0 0 1 1 1 2 28 Engine Department 0 0 3 0 1 3 14 2 0 0 1 1 3 3 13 3 23 13 13 2 3 1 2 2 9 13 5 2 1 3 1 1 3 2 10 5 2 0 4 4 111 60 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 9 0 2 12 0 9 10 18 17 10 2 3 18 17 3 5 2 16 2 22 177 3 0 0 5 1 0 1 2 9 2 1 4 5 3 0 1 2 3 0 7 49 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 1 2 1 0 1 0 2 1 0 12 Steward Department 1 0 0 0 1 0 13 2 2 1 7 0 10 0 14 3 20 5 2 2 0 0 3 5 9 4 9 4 2 0 1 1 2 4 8 2 2 0 18 5 124 38 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 4 1 0 1 2 0 2 5 3 6 1 0 4 5 6 1 1 2 6 0 10 56 13 0 2 14 0 8 16 28 33 21 2 3 30 32 4 6 5 25 1 30 273 4 1 1 7 1 2 1 6 12 5 3 5 13 4 0 3 6 5 0 15 94 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 4 4 0 0 0 2 3 0 1 0 3 1 0 21 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 1 1 1 0 1 1 8 3 3 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 5 0 0 28 18 4 1 2 1 4 6 15 23 16 0 0 18 9 1 1 0 8 1 16 144 15 0 1 8 0 3 5 5 26 8 0 1 23 8 1 1 1 8 2 12 128 Entry Department 0 0 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 1 1 1 0 3 5 8 0 14 1 7 0 0 0 0 0 14 1 5 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 9 1 0 0 13 12 83 0 1 0 3 0 0 3 5 12 3 0 0 10 2 1 0 0 4 0 8 52 0 0 0 1 0 2 0 2 3 2 0 0 6 2 0 0 0 3 0 2 23 3 1 0 1 0 1 4 6 6 5 0 0 1 3 0 0 1 8 0 5 45 20 3 0 8 2 4 9 26 39 30 2 1 29 14 2 2 0 13 2 39 245 20 1 3 12 2 3 6 28 65 18 1 2 40 26 1 1 2 11 0 13 255 GRAND TOTAL: 716 436 233 107 243 1,116 720 420 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 Jersey City.........................................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 March 2019 500 268 Seafarers LOG 13 �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. Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings MAERSK HARTFORD (Maersk Line, Limited), November 10 – Chairman Anecito Limboy, Secretary Johnnie McGill, Educational Director Cirico Geonanga, Deck Delegate Gremar Rio, Engine Delegate Gregorio Blanco, Steward Delegate Jose Burgos. Chairman reminded crew to maintain their rooms. He announced upcoming plans for pilot pickup and encouraged members to contribute to SPAD. Payoff scheduled for next day. Secretary reported a smooth-sailing ship. Educational director advised crew to attend upgrading courses at Piney Point and to keep documents up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members raised questions regarding pay procedures in lieu of time off. Computer and new washing machine needed for crew. Members thanked steward department for a job well done. Next port: Charleston, South Carolina. OVERSEAS ANACORTES (Overseas Ship Management), November 11 – Chairman James Walker, Secretary Dana Paradise, Educational Director Cary Pratts, Deck Delegate Arthur Quinney, Engine Delegate Jr. Lee Eludo, Steward Delegate Jorcell Davis. Chairman thanked crew for their cooperation. Educational director reminded members to keep track of documents and upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Patrolman recently on board and discussed union news. New charter to start this month. Company offered to fly members out of preferred airport. Crew prefers flights back to airport of choice rather than port of engagement. Bosun thanked steward department for keeping ship clean and providing good food. Members requested ship to supply fresh stores every two weeks. Next port: Nederland, Texas. MAERSK COLUMBUS (Maersk Line, Limited), November 18 – Chairman Ion Irimia, Secretary Jerome Jordan, Educational Director Joaquim Figueiredo, Deck Delegate Michael Ratigan, Engine Delegate Keith Carswell. Chairman thanked crew for a safe voyage. Members gave vote of thanks to deck department. Payoff to take place in Newark, New Jersey. Secretary thanked all departments for their hard work and reminded them to leave clean rooms for oncoming crew. Educational director suggested upgrading the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew waiting for date of Wi-Fi installation and requested new dryer and bigger ice machine. Members discussed bringing back standby job for all vessels and asked for one day off per 30 days on. NORFOLK (Argent Marine), November 25 – Chairman Martin Baker, Secretary Jermell Hicks, Educational Director Dwight Hunt. QMED pay rate discussed, as was memorandum of understanding concerning standard freight agreement. Chairman seeking retroactive pay to resolve issue for members. Educational director encouraged crew to update as soon as possible. He reminded members of waiver for medical benefits while attending courses at Piney Point. HORIZON PACIFIC (Sunrise Operations), November 26 – Chairman Daniel Ticer, Secretary Kevin Dougherty, Educational Director Jason Powell, Deck Delegate Norberto Castillo, Engine Delegate Rommel Crespo, Steward Delegate Rudy Oliva. Chairman provided information for upcoming dry dock and announced a one-month layup near the end of January. He announced payoff date and advised members to contact captain if visas are needed for China. Educational director reminded members to keep documents current and to take advantage of upgrading opportunities at Piney Point. Schedule can be found in the LOG as well as online on the union’s website. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave a vote of thanks to SIU president and SIU staff for a job well done. Members were reminded to take LNG course in order to claim jobs on new Pasha ship as well as other LNG-fueled ships. Bosun thanked crew for their cooperation and consideration of others while keeping the ship safe. Next Port: Honolulu. PACIFIC COLLECTOR (Tote Services), November 26 – Chairman Richard Barnes, Secretary Rang Nguyen, Educational Director Rodrigo Castillo. Chairman thanked crew for doing a good job while working safely. Secretary reminded members to check Z cards and STWC for expiration dates. USCG medical certificate should also be current. Renew as soon as possible to avoid trouble for future ship- ping. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Piney Point. Course dates can be found in LOG and on the SIU website. Crew discussed overtime requirements and clarifications for time-off procedures. Members requested new pillows and mattresses. Crew expressed interest to raise pension benefits. Vote of thanks given to steward department for keeping ship clean and preparing excellent food for crew. Next Port: Honolulu. MAERSK OHIO (Maersk Line, Limited), December 2 – Chairman Arsenio Omabao, Secretary Christina Mateer, Educational Director Steven Miller, Deck Delegate Cheryl Lee, Engine Delegate Christopher Sykes, Steward Delegate Richard Torres. Chairman thanked crew for a great trip and reminded them to work safely. Secretary asked members to leave clean rooms for oncoming crew and encouraged everyone to invest in Seafarers 401k retirement plan. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Piney Point. He stressed importance of keeping documents up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew voiced concern regarding current relief requirements for entry-level positions. Members requested increase in pension, increase in vacation, Wi-Fi access on all decks and updated computers. Ship in need of new vacuum, carpet cleaning machine, and two new microwaves. Steward department was thanked for great Thanksgiving meals. Next Port: Norfolk, Virginia. MAERSK KENSINGTON (Maersk Line, Limited), December 9 – Chairman Wilfred Maurice, Secretary Philip Paquette, Engine Delegate Reinaldo Roman. Chairman reported a safe trip. Secretary reminded members to check documents when registering and to keep documents up to date. Deck gang would like personal protective equipment (PPE) issued when signing on. Crew experiencing difficulty receiving proper PPE during trip. Members praised galley gang for good food, especially barbecue and smoked meats. MAERSK SELETAR (Maersk Line, Limited), December 19 – Chairman Cleofe Bernardez Castro, Secretary Steven Dickson, Educational Director Robert Stafford, Deck Delegate Reynaldo Nugui, Engine Delegate Albert Riollano, Steward Delegate John Nunez. Hard drive for movies available in lounge. Chairman announced payoff in Newark, New Jersey. Secretary stressed importance of keeping documents current and allowing ample time to renew. Educational director noted pertinent information on union website. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members reviewed Election Day results. New refrigerator in crew mess. Requests for SAT phone and Wi-Fi in progress. New deck material for both walk-ins to come at next port. Crew requests more transportation to and from ship. Members seek changes in pension benefits and qualification requirements. Galley gang thanked for a job well done. Next Port: Newark. 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. The annual financial committee will be elected during the April 8 headquarters membership meeting to review the 2018 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 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 be- 14 Seafarers LOG tween the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The execu- tive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. March 2019 �Final Departures DEEP SEA ALI ABDULLA Pensioner Ali Abdulla, 80, died December 8. He signed on with the union in 1991 when he sailed on the William Baugh. Brother Abdulla was a steward department member and concluded his career aboard the Integrity. He became a pensioner in 2004 and settled in Melvindale, Michigan. RUSSELL BARRACK Pensioner Russell Barrack, 62, passed away January 18. He embarked on his SIU career in 1975 and shipped in the deck department. Brother Barrack first sailed with Hudson Waterways. His last vessel was the ITB Philadelphia. Brother Barrack retired in 2002 and lived in Edenton, North Carolina. MANUEL BASAS Pensioner Manuel Basas, 70, died July 15. Born in the Philippines, he joined the SIU in 1981. Brother Basas initially sailed on the Santa Maria and primarily worked in the steward department. He last shipped aboard the Cape Intrepid and made his home in Federal Way, Washington. KEVIN BERTEL Pensioner Kevin Bertel, 66, passed away January 14. He joined the union in 1973 when he shipped on the Bethex. Brother Bertel sailed in both the steward and engine departments and also worked on shore gangs. His last ship was the Tacoma. Brother Bertel retired in 2008 and resided in Tacoma, Washington. DAVID BLAND Brother David Bland, 63, died August 12. He started shipping with the SIU in 1978 when he sailed on the El Paso Southern. Brother Bland worked in both the deck and engine departments. He last shipped on the Pacific and lived in Richmond, California. GABRIEL BONEFONT Pensioner Gabriel Bonefont, 73, passed away January 6. He became an SIU member in 1964 and first sailed on a Rye Marine ship. Brother Bonefont was a deck department member and last sailed on the ITB Mobile. He became a pensioner in 2007 and resided in Houston. March 2019 ISAIAH GRAY Pensioner Isaiah Gray, 92, died January 4. Born in Plaquemine, Louisiana, he joined the SIU in 1961 and first sailed aboard the Del Compo. Brother Gray was a steward department member. He last shipped on the Arabian Sea and resided in Gretna, Louisiana. MOHAMAD JARADIE Pensioner Mohamad Jaradie, 93, passed away January 4. He began shipping with the Seafarers in 1966 and initially sailed on the Ocean Wave. Brother Jaradie was a steward department member and last sailed aboard the Integrity. He began collecting his pension in 1994 and settled in Topeka, Indiana. shipped on the Hennepin. Brother Maynard was a steward department member. He concluded his career aboard the St. Clair and became a pensioner in 2001. Brother Maynard called Tawas City, Michigan, home. the union in 1960 and first sailed aboard the Lasalle. Brother Wilson was a deck department member. His final ship was the Consumer. Brother Wilson retired in 1988 and lived in Saraland, Alabama. INLAND DEAN WOOSTER Pensioner Dean Wooster, 80, died January 16. He donned the SIU colors in 1960, initially sailing on the Oremar. Brother Wooster shipped in both the deck and engine departments. He last sailed on the Golden Monarch and went on pension in 2003. Brother Wooster resided in Interlachen, Florida. NMU UNIS MALAHI Pensioner Daniel Payne, 71, passed away December 16. Born in Morenci, Arizona, he embarked on his SIU career in 1990. Brother Payne first shipped on the USNS Hess and sailed in the steward department. He concluded his career aboard the Liberty Promise and lived in Richmond, Texas. Brother Unis Malahi, 26, died November 28. He started his SIU career in 2013, initially shipping aboard the St. Mary’s Challenger. An engine department member, Brother Malahi most recently sailed aboard the Terrapin Island. He resided in Dearborn, Michigan. Pensioner Elias Ruiz, 75, died January 17. He signed on with the SIU in 1978, initially sailing aboard the Mount Explorer. Brother Ruiz primarily sailed in the engine department and concluded his career aboard the El Faro. He began collecting his pension in 2008 and made his home in Houston. JOSEPH VALDES Pensioner Joseph Valdes, 95, passed away January 8. He began his career with the SIU in 1951, first working for Terminal Steamship Company. An engine department member, Brother Valdes last shipped on the Santa Maria. He started collecting his pension in 1984 and resided in Las Vegas. Pensioner Willie Istre, 85, died January 18. He became an SIU member in 1993 when he was employed with Higman Barge Lines. A deck department member, Brother Istre remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He retired in 2002 and settled in Morse, Louisiana. GREAT LAKES RAYMOND MAYNARD Pensioner Raymond Maynard, 75, passed away January 28. He signed on with the union in 1972 when he Pensioner Johnny McKee, 79, died December 20. He sailed with the NMU prior to the 2001 merger with Seafarers International Union. A deck department member, Brother McKee last sailed on the Cape Knox. He retired in 2008 and called Harvey, Louisiana, home. WILLIE ISTRE DANIEL PAYNE ELIAS RUIZ JOHNNY MCKEE FLORENTIN JOHNSON Pensioner Florentin Johnson, 80, passed away January 20, 2017. He was an NMU member before the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. Brother Johnson sailed in the engine department and last shipped aboard the USNS Henson. He began collecting his pension in 2007 and was a Houston resident. Editor’s note: In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. Name Age Alejandro, Marcos 91 Arzu, Rufino 97 Browne, Pilar 101 Castillo, Pedro 88 Lima, Jorge 88 Mason, Anthony 93 Montoya, Jose 89 Palmer, Alfredo 81 Patton, Jessie 88 Rieger, Elisabeth 93 Roberts, Raye 88 Romero, Jose 80 Rosario, Herminio 82 Velez, Jorge 94 DOD 01/07/2019 08/19/2018 12/18/2018 12/15/2018 01/10/2019 12/21/2018 01/12/2019 12/15/2018 01/13/2019 01/17/2019 01/10/2019 11/22/2018 01/02/2019 12/11/2018 Wilmington-Area Seafarers Converge In Piney Point When SIU Safety Director Gordon Godel participated in informational meetings late last year at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, he noticed a large contingent of upgraders from his home port of Wilmington, California. Many of them are pictured here. Chief Cook Todd Curry, AB Eduardo Jorge RICHARD WARDLAW Pensioner Richard Wardlaw, 87, died January 11. He joined the union in 1951 and first shipped aboard the Joseph Priestley. Brother Wardlaw sailed in the deck department and last shipped on the Atlantic. He retired in 1993 and called Cleveland, Texas, home. AUBREY WILSON Pensioner Aubrey Wilson, 74, passed away January 7. He joined OS Bernardo Perez From left: Chief Cook Ian Schluder, SA Michael Poblete, SA Ty Lewis, Chief Cook Dindo Reforsado, Chief Cook Reno Duque, ACU Amado Angeles, Chief Cook Alvinmar Aldana, Safety Director Gordon Godel, AB Jesse Sunga. Seafarers LOG 15 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Gap Closing Courses Leadership & Managerial Skills June 29 July 5 Storekeeper Courses Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers May 18 May 31 BAPO March 30 May 25 April 26 June 21 Engineroom Resource Management June 22 June 28 FOWT April 27 May 24 Junior Engineer March 16 June 22 May 10 August 16 MSC Storekeeper Basic April 13 May 3 Marine Electrician May 18 July 12 MSC Supply Configuration Management May 4 May 31 Marine Refer Tech July 13 August 23 MEECE June 1 June 14 Welding May 18 June 8 June 7 June 28 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck April 27 AB to Mate Modules Modules must be taken in order. Those who are not in the mates program cannot apply for these courses. Contact the Admissions Office for further details. Advanced Galley Ops March 30 Advanced Meteorology May 4 May 10 Certified Chief Cook Advanced Shiphandling May 11 May 24 Modules run every other week. The next class will start March 18. Advanced Stability April 27 May 3 Chief Steward April 27 June 14 ARPA April 27 May 25 May 3 May 31 Galley Operations March 30 April 26 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 March 23 March 29 Crane Familiarization April 6 April 12 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 March 16 March 22 ECDIS April 13 April 19 Fast Rescue Boat June 1 June 7 Basic Training/Basic FF April 6 April 12 GMDSS July 20 August 2 Basic Training Revalidation March 15 March 15 Lifeboat April 6 May 4 June 1 June 29 July 27 August 24 September 21 October 19 April 19 May 17 June 14 July 12 August 9 September 6 October 4 November 1 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation March 30 April 5 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting April 13 June 8 April 19 June 14 Government Vessels March 23 March 29 Medical Care Provider April 13 May 11 April 26 May 24 April 20 June 1 April 26 June 7 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL March 23 June 8 March 29 June 14 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG March 30 April 20 April 5 April 26 Radar Observer May 24 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW March 30 May 25 April 26 June 21 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 If yes, class # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? †Yes †�No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 16 Seafarers LOG Steward Department Courses April 26 Safety Upgrading Courses 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, 45353 St. George Ave., Piney Point, MD 20674; 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, or 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. 3/19 March 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #844 – Graduated November 30 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Caleb Andresen, Oswaldo Jose Barrera, Jaleel Brown, Ayen Negre Cabasag, Jacob Couvillon, Victor Duplesis, Taurean Harold, James Kooistra, Teva Kurth, Deshante Luchien, David May, Steven McKelvey, David Palumbo, Ghadir Sarkis, Benjamin Scott, Frederick Shows, Anthony Timmson-Brown, Blake Washington, Patrick Wheat and Trevion Williams. Important Notice To All 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. Water Survival Upgraders – Graduated November 30: Oscar Jan Vencer (left) and Bernardo Perez. Welding – Graduated November 12 (above, in alphabetical order): George Beaufils, Robert Bryson III, Earl Carlos Dimmick, Samuel Fagerness, Ethan Love, Isaiah Thomas and Stephen Venditti. Class instructor Chris Raley is at the far left. BAPO – Graduated October 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Abdul-Ghaffar Abu-Bakr, Christian Canci, Sean Yutaka Carter, Christopher Hinton, Eddie O’Bannon III, Fradarius Smith, Travis Sumpter and Jose Jess Jalog Yanez. John Wiegman III, their instructor, is at the far right. Radar Observer – Graduated October 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Chantell Dawson, Travis Golightly, Kevin Hanmont, Sterling McCosh, Yuriy Prytchak and John Reyes. Class instructor Brian Moore is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) March 2019 GMDSS – Graduated October 5 (above, in alphabetical order): Carlton Banks, Chantell Dawson, Todd Kasler and Sterling McCosh. Junior Engineer (Basic Electricity) – Graduated October 5 (above, in alphabetical order): Oscar Cesena, Justin D’Angelo, Terren Fields, Kalil Hughes, Tarrell Jones, Melchor Lagria Lapac Jr., Domenick Longmire, Samuel Sanders Jr., David Smart and Alvin Surrency. Instructor Christopher Morgan is at the far right. Seafarers LOG 17 �Paul Hall Center Classes RFPNW – Graduated October 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Phase III Apprentices Timothy Behnke, Tommy Benton, Joseph Crane, Carlos Omar Diaz-Torres, Luis Felipe Flores-Ramos, Rannie Fore II, Rahsean Lillard, Gus Papas, Andrew Porpora, Taylor Vertrees, John Wattam and Omaree Williams. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the deck department of union-contracted vessels. ECDIS – Graduated October 26 (above, in alphabetical order): Glenn Valera Agustin, Robert Bryson III, Johnathon Gager, Shoal Nervo, Harry Schrefer III and Gavin Scott. Marine Engineer – Graduated October 5 (above, in alphabetical order): Tousif Ahmed, Abdulaziz Mohamed Nagi Alsinai, Vernon Van Humbles, Carlos Mohler Vega, Jaquel Nesmith, Justin Nicholson, Michael Souza, Jeffrey Thrash, Kareem Walters and Edward Williams. BAPO – Graduated October 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Phase III Apprentices Jamal Akia Anders, Lavontat Anderson, Kevin Brown, Vincent Hall, Daniel Jaim Leon-Bruges, Robert Murphy, Pedro Antonio Rivera-Hernandez and Nicholas Simoneaux. Each plans to work in the engine department of SIU-contracted vessels when their training is complete. Instructor John Wiegman III is at the far right. Government Vessels - Graduated October 5 (above, in alphabetical order): Nabil Saleh Ahmed, Lindsey Austin, Joseph Bowen, Marsheta Brooks, Christian Bryant, Corey Covington, Lamont Faulks, Merville Lariosa Gallema, Joseph Garnett, Travis Golightly, Alfred Hogan Jr., Russell Horton, Vincent Ippolito Jr., Sheena Jumamil, Eileen Mendiola, David Amer Mohamed, Ryan Palmer, Philip Sharp, Mary Slade and Lawrence Todd Jr. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Graduated November 2 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Amado Paulito Estimada Angeles, Matthew Day, Bobby Dunn Jr., Phillip Harmon, Cameron Keating, Christian Oding, Jesus Geovannie Ortiz-Rivera, Neiman Pettis, Jorge Luis Roman Feliciano, David Smart, Leanne Smith, Simone Smith, Samuel Thatcher, Tyree Watkins Jr., Teena Werner, Rickey Yancey and Mary Young. Instructor Tom Truitt is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 18 Seafarers LOG March 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Graduated October 26 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Angel Manuel Berrios Jr., Carlos Jose Castillo, Jogene Reyes Cerezo, Glenard Chaney Jr., Travis Golightly, Antonio Hamilton, Phillip Harmon, Chris Linsley, Domenick Longmire, Josean Martinez Serrano, Yuri Adrian Oliveros, Neiman Pettis, Jorge Luis Roman Feliciano, Teon Shelton, David Smart, Leanne Smith, Simone Smith, Travis Sumpter and Steven Supplee. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Tankship Familiarization DL – Graduated October 10 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Angel Manuel Berrios Jr., Latiffe Brooks, Carlos Jose Castillo, Jogene Reyes Cerezo, Glenard Chaney Jr., Antonio Hamilton, Phillip Harmon, Brennon Hough, Kenneth Johnson, Reynaldo Bermudez Lacayo, Domenick Longmire, Josean Martinez Serrano, Karl Mayhew III, Neiman Pettis, Jorge Luis Roman Feliciano, Teon Shelton, David Smart, Leanne Smith and De’vine Washington. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Certified Chief Cook (Module 1) – Graduated November 2: St. Clair Brown Jr. (left) and Devin Bivins. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated October 26: Delbra Singleton-Leslie (left) and Donna Hickman. March 2019 Galley Ops – Graduated November 2: Phase III Apprentice Lebrena Simmons. Upon the completion of her training, Simmons plans to work in the steward department of union-contracted vessels. Certified Chief Cook (Module 6) – Graduated October 10: Shawn Cox (left) and Delmis David. Chief Cook 2.0. – Graduated October 5: Diani Rosana Melendez Castillo (left), Carlos Edgardo Suazo (center) and Wardell Paze. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated November 2: John Ward (left) and Jason Beckford. Seafarers LOG 19 �MARCH 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 3 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 17-19 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Snapshots from the West Coast Aboard Overseas Long Beach Chief Cook Latosha Love (left in photo at left) and Chief Steward Ernest Dumont prepare lunch. The OSG vessel (photo above) arrives in Richmond, California. Aboard Sagamore USMC Birthday Planning The Sealift, Inc.operated vessel (photo at right) docks in Concord, California, for cargo operations. Pictured following a union meeting (photo below) are Bosun Albert Williams, Chief Cook Rhonda Williams, Chief Steward Mohamed Nour, OMU Randall Craig, AB Mark Manalansan, AB Fayez Mohamed, AB Charles Turner, Oakland Port Agent Nick Marrone II, AB Pedro Ambe, SA Eugenia Porter and AB Robert Harlow. From left, SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona, San Francisco Giants Exec. VP Mario Alioto and First Sgt. Allen Lotanero, USMC, help plan for a Marine Corps birthday event this November that’s scheduled to take place at Oracle Park in San Francisco. At the Oakland Hall Recertified Steward Gerald Figg (photo at left) recently called it a career and picked up his first pension check. He began sailing with the SIU in 1979, aboard Delta Lines vessels. QMED Russell Bravo (left in photo at immediate right) displays his newly acquired A-seniority book while being congratulated by Port Agent Nick Marrone II. In the photo at the far right, ACU Ali Obad (left) receives his A-seniority book from Port Agent Nick Marrone II. � 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 2019 Description An account of the resource Headlines: SIU, MTD SUPPORT FURLOUGHED WORKERS OCEAN SHIPS INC. AWARDED ESD CONTRACT U.S.-FLAG GREAT LAKES FLEET FINISHES 2018 ON STRONG NOTE UNION MEMBERSHIP REMAINS FAIRLY STEADY DURING 2018 PHC UNVEILS CUTTING-EDGE REEFER COURSE NMC NOTICES CONCERNING DOCUMENTS, SHUTDOWN WITH GREAT LAKES TOWING CREWS HANDS-ON TRAINING REMAINS PINEY POINT STAPLE IMB ISSUES ANNUAL PIRACY REPORT, UPTICK IN INCIDENTS NOTED SNAPSHOTS FROM THE WEST 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 3/1/2019 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. 81, No. 3 2019 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/6e73299b9570f3c8d0a283055c14a88f.pdf 46dc47a861e66ce953f8fe27a9bcda81 PDF Text Text FEBRUARY 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 2 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O SIU Welcomes New Jobs Aboard Taíno LNG-Powered ConRo Sailing in Jones Act Trade Seafarers in late 2018 crewed up the new Crowley Maritime vessel MV Taíno (top right). The combination container/roll-on roll-off (ConRo) ship completed its maiden voyage to Puerto Rico on Jan. 11. SIU mariners and AMO officers are pictured on deck (immediate right). Recertified Bosun Wilfredo Velez (top left) loads stores, while Electrician Carlos Parrilla (top center) works on an AC unit. Page 3. (Ship photo courtesy Crowley Maritime. Additional photos available on the SIU Facebook page, @SeafarersInternational) Tacoma Seafarers Answer Call Again The spirit of giving remains alive and well in Tacoma, Washington, where SIU members donate each year to a philanthropic project named Santa’s Castle. The outreach provides gifts for families of U.S. military personnel. The union also hosts a related luncheon at the hiring hall; pictured at the 2018 gathering are Seafarers, military guests and volunteers from Santa’s Castle. Page 24. Updated Website, Portal Launched Page 2 Rescue at Sea Page 4 Tax Tips for Mariners Pages 12-14 �President’s Report Green Lake to the Rescue There is no greater example of our union’s motto, Brotherhood of the Sea, than the outstanding rescue efforts that were made by Seafarers aboard the Green Lake on New Year’s Eve. Our members were first on the scene of a tragic fire aboard a Panamanian-flagged vessel that caused its crew to abandon ship. As others joined in the rescue, union members from the SIU-crewed ship pulled seven mariners to safety. There were nine other survivors, while five individuals from the disabled ship didn’t make it. It’s a tragedy that could have been worse if not for the work of the SIU, MM&P and MEBA members from the Central Gulf Lines-operated Green Lake. Worth noting: All of the SIU members aboard that ship have trained at the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. And the bosun said the training definitely made a difference. Check out our coverage elsewhere in this edition, and in the meantime, I extend heartfelt kudos to the Green Lake crew along with condolences to the victims and their families. This particular rescue made international headlines, but for the SIU, it was just the latest of many. Our members normally assist in several rescues per year, and while not every incident receives prominent coverage, each Michael Sacco operation reinforces why I believe SIU members are the world’s best-trained mariners. Jones Act Fight Continues There should be a statute of limitations on ridiculous attacks against America’s freight cabotage law, but last month saw another round of falsehoods – specifically about the Jones Act’s effect on Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria. If you’re new to the industry or otherwise weren’t keeping up with this saga for the last year-plus, the short – and fully accurate – version is that Jones Act ships were first on the scene in the territory once the ports reopened. Because of the devastated inland infrastructure, relief supplies stacked up at the ports. The Jones Act not only didn’t delay or prevent any aid, it actually helped ensure timely deliveries. The Jones Act doesn’t prevent foreign-flag vessels from calling on Puerto Rico, which in fact normally receives about two-thirds of its cargoes from foreign bottoms. Also often lost in the bizarre retellings of Jones Act-related Maria stories is that a temporary waiver was granted. It didn’t make any difference because it wasn’t needed in the first place. As mentioned recently, we’re in the midst of what promises to be a long and tough fight. Jones Act opponents are throwing tons of money, other resources, and something I can’t mention in a family newspaper in a targeted attempt to sink this crucial law. But the facts are on our side, and we’ll keep swinging until we’ve won. Productive Dialogue One of our union’s most important affiliations is with the AFL-CIO, where I am the longest-serving member of the executive council, other than federation President Richard Trumka. Late last year, the council adopted a statement titled, “Solidarity Pledge for America.” The resolution reads in part, “Political extremism has become the norm in America. Constant conflict is cheered and polarizing ideas are reinforced, while conscience-driven compromise is dismissed as weakness. Defamatory mistruths and repugnant rhetoric are hurled from every direction and echoed across social media. We simply don’t listen to each other…. This complete and utter breakdown of civil discourse in America is a threat to our very democracy, and it must stop.” While that’s an unpleasant paragraph, it reflects the disturbing reality of our times. But as we in the executive council went on to say, the labor movement has a special responsibility to challenge and reject the current state of affairs. Our movement was created more than 130 years ago by a small group of workers looking to create change at work and more broadly in society. Throughout our long history, we’ve used our position as America’s diverse coalition of working families to beat back attempts to divide and destroy us. Unions are like crews on a ship. We come from different backgrounds but we work together to accomplish the goal. Our statement was about more than just being polite even when we disagree, but that’s not a bad place to start, whether you’re on a ship or at the hall or, yes, on social media. Take a deep breath, stick to facts, and stand up for what you believe in. Let’s keep working together to promote our industry, defend workers’ rights, and uphold the reputation of the Brotherhood of the Sea. O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 81 Number 2 Some of the sub-menus are visible in this screen shot of the new website. SIU Launches New Website, LOG Database Mobile-Friendly Member Portal a Highlight of Revamp The SIU late last year launched a new version of its website, www.seafarers.org, that’s easier to navigate from any device. As part of the project and like the main site itself, the member portal has been redesigned so it’s “fully responsive,” a tech industry term that basically means a site will look good and offer solid functionality whether the user is on a desktop, mobile device, tablet or laptop. Alongside the website, the SIU has rolled out another new online resource: the Seafarers LOG Digital Archives database. The database, seafarerslog.org, hosts every copy of the Seafarers LOG from the first issue in 1939 to the present day. Members, researchers, and the general public are free to view nearly 1,500 digitized issues on the browser of their choice, or they may download the PDF files to their electronic devices. Launched just before last Christmas, the Seafarers LOG Digital Archives was no small undertaking. LOG Content Curator Mark Clements has spent the past five years assembling, digitizing, uploading and describing the contents of each issue. With many of the older printed issues brittle from age, Clements had to turn to the Paul Hall Maritime Library’s collection of microfilm to safely create digital copies. “While the microfilm had its own limitations, I didn’t have to worry about the issues turning to dust in the scanner bed,” Clements said. Microfilm copies of the Seafarers LOG were only made up until 1994, and the roll of film covering 1984 to 1988 was either never made or has since gone missing. To fill in the gaps, Clements manually scanned LOG issues at his desk. Starting with 2002, the remaining issues in the database were the original born-digital PDF files the LOG staff sends to the publisher every month. Once the digital copies were made, Clements and Log Administrative Assistant Jenny Stokes (along with summer interns) read each issue from cover to cover to make note of any quality concerns. While the text of the issues is fully searchable, both the quality of the microfilm and the column layouts of the older LOG issues created problems with search accuracy. In light of this difficulty, Clements and Stokes generated a list of headlines for each issue for easy browsing. The database is powered by Omeka, a popular archival platform used not only by universities and museums but also organizations such as the Seamen’s Church Institute. Although Omeka itself is not optimized for mobile use, the LOG staff knows how important mobile access is to the membership. Bearing this in mind, the PDF files were compressed to file sizes that would be gentle on data plans – although access to the high-quality master files is available upon request. Now that the full run of Seafarers LOGS is online, the next step for the Digital Archives is uploading the LOG’S exhaustive collection of photographs, particularly those from early days of the SIU. Many of these images remain in good condition, despite changing physical locations several times and even surviving a fire. “Whether we’re talking about the Isthmian organizing drive or the General Maritime Strike in 1946, we can’t fully appreciate the SIU of today without its history seeing the light of day,” Clements added. The first installments of the photographic collections will be made available throughout the year, and those interested should check the SIU’s social media pages Continued on Page 5 Crew of Crowley-Operated Wright Honored SIU crew members sailing aboard the S.S. Wright, a Crowleyoperated, U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ship, were recently honored with Merchant Marine Medals for Outstanding Achievement for their actions in the wake of Hurricane Maria. The medals were presented by Jeff McMahon, MARAD ship operations and maintenance officer (SOMO) for Atlantic Operations, while the vessel, an aviation logistics support container ship, was in port in Morehead City, North Carolina. Along with the Maritime Administrator’s Professional Ship Award, these accolades recognize the crew’s participation in humanitarian operations in the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI), where the mariners provided onboard lodging for nearly 4,000 different emergency responders and almost 10,000 meals. In addition to offering berthing assets, the Wright carried an FAA mobile air traffic control tower, which was critical to enabling air transportation to and from the is- lands, as well as meals ready to eat (MREs), bottled water and tactical/ response vehicles. “The rapid activation and deployment of the S.S. Wright to St. Thomas and success of the mission was unprecedented, thanks to the cooperation and joint effort of afloat and shore-side personnel,” said Mike Golonka, Crowley vice president, Government Ship Management. “The entire effort was a true testament of how Crowley – and the maritime industry as a whole – can offer relief during times of great need.” February 2019 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, Nick Merrill; Piney Point Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2019 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. 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 Crew members and guests aboard the Wright, including SIU members, pose for a photo. February 2019 �Crowley ConRo Taíno Joins SIU Fleet SIU members are sailing aboard the new Crowley Maritime vessel MV Taíno following the Jones Act ship’s delivery late last year. The second of the company’s new combination container/roll-on roll-off (ConRo) ships, the Taíno completed its maiden voyage to Puerto Rico on Jan. 11. “Things are going well,” said Recertified Bosun Wilfredo Velez the day the liquified natural gas-powered vessel arrived in the commonwealth. “We have a good crew, and it’s smooth sailing so far. I like the run and the ship. Life is good, man!” Crowley hailed the maiden voyage as putting “a historic capstone on the company’s Commitment Class modernization project and begin[ing] a new era of worldclass supply chain services between the island commonwealth, U.S. mainland and the Caribbean Basin.” Like its sister ship, the MV El Coquí (which entered service in July 2018), the Taíno utilizes Jacksonville, Florida, as its mainland home port. Each ship is 720 feet long, 26,500 deadweight tons (DWT), and can transport up to 2,400 twenty-footequivalent container units (TEUs) at a cruising speed of more than 22 knots. The ships carry a wide range of cargo types and sizes, including: 53-foot by 102-inch-wide, highcapacity containers; up to 300 refrigerated containers; and 400 cars and larger vehicles in the enclosed and ventilated vehicle garages that are unique to the trade. The Taíno is named for the native Puerto Ricans who lived off the land with great appreciation and respect for their environment, and the El Coquí is named for the popular indigenous frog on the island. The vessels were constructed by VT Halter Marine at its Pascagoula, Mississippi, shipyard. When the Taíno was delivered, Crowley Maritime Chairman and CEO Tom Crowley stated, “I want to congratulate and thank all the men and women at Crowley and VT Halter Marine who helped to bring these marvelous new ships to life. They are shining examples of maritime innovation and craftsmanship available right here in the United States thanks to the Jones Act. From a business standpoint, Taíno and El Coquí are key components of our integrated logistics offerings that are bringing speed to market and creating a competitive advantage for our customers in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. With our own vessels and proprietary transportation and distribution network, we’re reducing friction and complexity while increasing the velocity of customers’ goods moving to market and reducing their landed costs.” Modernizations by Crowley include the Commitment class vessels along with investments at Crowley’s Isla Grande Terminal in San Juan, including three new shore gantry cranes, the first to be delivered in Puerto Rico in 50 years; a new 900-foot pier; container handling equipment; and efficiency improvements. Additionally, a proprietary feeder service has been launched to seamlessly link Puerto Rico to the Dominican Republic and other islands of the Caribbean Basin. The first SIU crew aboard the Taíno included Velez, ABs Dominique Johnson, Emil Norales, Arthur Patterson, Julio Perez and Sonny Perez, QMEDs Sherrod Frazier and Victor Rios Lopez, QEE Carlos Parilla, Oiler Angel Cintron, Recertified Steward Kim Strate, Chief Cook Luis Perez Acosta and SA Steven Lopez Ferrer. The new SIU-crewed ship (photo above) arrives in Puerto Rico on Jan. 11. (Photo courtesy Crowley Maritime) In photo below, Seafarers gather with SIU Port Agent Jimmy White (fourth from right) aboard the Taíno on New Year’s Eve in Pascagoula, Mississippi. New Jobs Aboard Matson’s Kamokuiki Late last year, Seafarers-contracted Matson launched a new direct U.S.-flag service between Honolulu and the Marshall Islands. The company purchased a 700-TEU containership for the route: the Kamokuiki (pictured at the immediate left), which is equipped with two 45-ton cranes, hydraulic folding hatch covers and high maneuverability. Pictured aboard the 411-foot vessel are (center photo, from left) SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso, Steward/Baker Tim Laird and Recertified Steward Ruti Demont. The other group photo includes (from left) Demont, Capt. Roland Hobson, Galbiso and the captain’s wife, Kelly. OSG Announces 10-Year Charter of Jones Act Tanker New jobs for SIU members are on the way following a Jan. 3 announcement by Seafarerscontracted Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG). The company reported that it has entered into a 10-year bareboat charter agreement for the Oregon Voyager, a tanker that was built in 1999 at Newport News (Virginia) Shipbuilding. OSG plans to utilize the 620-foot vessel in the Jones Act trade, beginning in the second quarter of 2019. “This is a welcome addition to the SIU fleet, and a clear vote of confidence in the professionalism of SIU crews,” stated SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “It also strengthens the Jones Act fleet overall, which benefits U.S. national, economic and homeland security.” OSG plans to rename the ship as the Overseas Key West. Previous names included HMI Ambrose Channel, Bristol Bay, and Seabulk Energy. OSG President and CEO Sam Norton February 2019 stated, “Following closely on our decision to extend all of the leases for our American Shipping Company (AMSC)-owned tankers, the addition of the Overseas Key West to our fleet of Jones Act tank vessels is an important and visible signal of OSG’s continuing commitment to sustaining our leading position in the markets which we serve. The extended duration of this new lease agreement is both an affirmation of our positive outlook for the future as well as a validation of OSG’s reputation as a preferred counterparty in operating Jones Act tank vessels to the high standards demanded by its customers.” OSG also operates the following SIUcrewed vessels for AMSC: Overseas Houston, Overseas Long Beach, Overseas Los Ange- les, Overseas New York, Overseas Texas City, Overseas Boston, Overseas Nikiski, Overseas Martinez, Overseas Anacortes and Overseas Tampa. The Jones Act requires that cargo travelling between domestic ports is carried aboard vessels that are crewed, built, flagged and owned American. On the books since 1920, the law helps maintain nearly 500,000 U.S. jobs. Last year, a new study was released by Seafarers’ Rights International revealing that 91 nations maintain some form of cabotage law. The Oregon Voyager is pictured near Port Everglades, Florida, in December 2017. (Photo by Vladimir Knyaz) Seafarers LOG 3 �Pictured aboard the Green Lake in the Pacific Northwest (photo above, from left) are Safety Director Ben Anderson, SA Jolanta Goch, AB John Rawlings, AB Bernardo Bartolome, AB Robert Calvo, Bosun Isaac Amissah, AB Paul Gottschling, AB Ted Thompson, OMU Mario Santos, SB Peter Schuetz and CC Jose Clotter. The two photos at right show the Sincerity Ace during the shipboard fire. MV Green Lake Rescues 7 in Deadly Car Carrier Fire The crew of the MV Green Lake, including SIU members sailing aboard the Central Gulf Lines-operated vessel, sprang into action on New Year’s Eve, using their rescue training to save lives in the Pacific Ocean. The Green Lake was the first vessel to respond to a Coast Guard alert from the Panamanian-flagged Sincerity Ace, a 2009built car carrier sailing from Yokohama to Hawaii. The master had reported a serious vessel fire, ongoing firefighting efforts and the intent to abandon ship approximately 1,800 nautical miles northwest of Oahu. The crew and officers of the Green Lake spent the next 18 hours battling poor weather conditions as they rescued seven mariners and searched for the missing. They were joined in the search efforts by three other merchant ships, as well as a U.S. Coast Guard Hercules HC-130 aircraft and a Navy 7th Fleet P-8 Poseidon. In total, the crews of the merchant vessels that responded to the disaster rescued 16 members of the Sincerity Ace’s crew. Five were not recovered, after a total of 13 searches covering 5,544 nautical square miles were conducted over a span of three days. The SIU crew of the MV Green Lake included Bosun Isaac Amissah, ABs Nicolas Bernardo Bartolome, Robert Calvo, Paul Gottschling, John Rawlings and Ted Thompson, OMUs Godofredo Manding Banatao and Mario Santos, Steward/Baker Peter Schuetz, Chief Cook Jose Felipe, and SA Jolanta Goch. All of them have com- pleted training at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center, located in Piney Point, Maryland. The deck officers aboard the Green Lake are members of the MM&P, and the engineers are represented by the MEBA. Bosun Amissah retold the event, saying, “We had left Yokohama maybe three days before, when we got the alert that a ship was on fire. When we got to the scene, the crew were spread out over the water, in life jackets.” He explained that the Green Lake retrieved seven men from the ocean, bringing them into warm areas on the ship to rest and recover: “By the time we pulled them out of the water, they were so tired. They’d been in the water for maybe eight hours by that point, so they needed to rest and warm up.” “Our training helped a lot,” he concluded, “especially the man-overboard drills. We’d be picking up one guy out of the water here, then the next guy would be three miles away, they were so spread out. Our training was really important in saving those seven lives.” “The entire crew did a truly incredible job under extreme conditions,” said Capt. William Boyce. “Winds were blowing a steady 25 knots, gusting to 30 knots, with a heavy 20-25-foot north-westerly swell. Due to the sea state and our high freeboard, it was very difficult to maneuver, bring the ship alongside each survivor, and get them on board with limited retrieval resources.” Boyce continued, praising the work of School Welcomes U.S. Senator The burning vessel is visible in this photo released by the U.S. Coast Guard. his crew: “MEBA Chief Engineer Joseph Tierney, First Engineer Shauna Glasser, Second Engineer Zac Pollock and Third Engineer Maria Asuncion assisted in retrieval and constant maneuvering for 18 straight hours. The entire SIU deck crew and bosun worked tirelessly from 0200 to 2000 to get the exhausted survivors on board. “The crew showed incredible perseverance, teamwork and determination,” he concluded, “constantly improvising with each survivor’s recovery in very difficult and dangerous conditions. I am proud of each and every one of this crew for saving seven souls that had experienced horrific condi- tions and were exhausted.” “We are very grateful for the assistance the crews of these vessels have given during the search and rescue efforts,” said a spokesperson for the Coast Guard. “These crew members went out of their way to aid their fellow mariners, and because of the remoteness of the incident, the outcome may have been very different had they not responded.” The Green Lake diverted to Honolulu to disembark the survivors once the search for additional survivors was called off. At last report, the Sincerity Ace was being towed to Japan. NY Waterway Crew Helps Save a Life The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) hosted U.S. Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland) for a tour on Jan. 4. Pictured at the school in Piney Point, Maryland, are (from left) SIU Political and Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Acting PHC VP Tom Orzechowski, Van Hollen, SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez and PHC ManagerConference and Lodging Howard Thompson. 4 Seafarers LOG On Dec. 19, Seafarers sailing on a NY Waterway ferry went above and beyond to prevent an attempted suicide by drowning. SIU members Capt. Ken Recine and Deckhands Travis Brumfield and Roberto Valdez Garcia put years of awareness training to use when, at around 9:30 p.m., Brumfield spotted a woman acting strangely as they prepared to dock at the Battery Park City ferry terminal. “I saw a lady who was sitting and looked kind of dispirited,” said Brumfield. “As Waterway employees, we are trained in security awareness. I decided to take precautions, so I asked her, did she want to board, and she said no, she’s alright.” When the ferry returned to the terminal, he realized they needed to act: “As we approached Brookfield again, she was approaching the wall next to the terminal, and these are the words that came out of her mouth, ‘I feel betrayed. I don’t want to live any more. There’s nothing for me.’” Brumfield and Garcia alerted the captain, who called the New York Police Department’s harbor patrol. “We were already headed into Slip 4, where we were supposed to dock, and I backed out and positioned the vessel over by where she was on the wall,” said Recine. “We were full of passengers at the time, but I didn’t even consider the schedule at that point. Someone’s life was in danger.” As the deckhands donned life vests and made ready the vessel’s hook and ladder lifesaving equipment, an off-duty ticketing agent ran up to the woman and began to talk her down. Recine said, “We returned to Jersey City to drop people off and by the time we turned around, there were police boats here, a helicopter in the sky, the fire department was at the wall. It took all of five minutes. They were quick.” The captain credited the awareness of his deckhands with spotting the distressed woman, and stated, “The only thing that prepared me for something like this was a lifetime in the boating industry, and being a team player. I’d encourage all mariners to be aware of your surroundings at all times, and look out for one another.” February 2019 �House Bill Aims to Honor WWII Mariners A bill saluting the service of World War II U.S. Merchant Mariners is under consideration in the new U.S. Congress. U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) on Jan. 15 introduced H.R. 550, the Merchant Mariners of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act, with U.S. Reps. Don Young (R-Alaska) and Susan Brooks (R-Indiana) joining as original cosponsors. This legislation would award a Congressional Gold Medal, one of the highest honors in the United States, to mariners who sustained our armed forces during World War II. “Throughout the Second World War, our armed forces relied on the merchant marine to ferry supplies, cargo and personnel into both theaters of operation, and they paid a heavy price in service to their country,” said Garamendi. “The merchant marine suffered the highest per capita casualty rate in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II. An estimated 8,300 mariners lost their lives, and another 12,000 were wounded, to make sure our service members could keep fighting. Yet, these mariners who put their lives on the line were not even given veteran status until 1988.” (More than 1,200 SIU members gave their lives during the war.) “Last year, I got the chance to meet with three World War II Merchant Mariners: Charles Mills of Texas, age 97; Eugene Barner from Kansas, age 92; and Robert Weagant from Illinois, age 92. These mariners put their lives on the line for this country, braving German and Japanese submarines in their Liberty ships as they delivered critical supplies to our service members in the European and Pacific theaters,” Garamendi added. “Unfortunately, their sacrifice is commonly overlooked. A Congressional Gold Medal would give them the recognition they deserve, and that’s why I’ve introduced this bill: to give these veterans and their families the honor and respect they are owed.” Christian Yuhas, vice president of the American Merchant Marine Veterans Rep. Garamendi (third from left) meets with WWII Merchant Marine Veterans and family members of deceased veterans in Washington, D.C. (AMMV) and a chief engineer, stated, “The time has come for our nation to provide a well-deserved thank you and honor the remaining Merchant Marine Veterans of WWII with a Congressional Gold Medal. This group of unsung heroes nobly served our country by operating the ships that transported critical supplies to front lines of the war, and in doing so suffered a casualty rate higher than any other branch of the military. In fact, one out of every 26 casualties during World War II was a volunteer merchant mariner. America would not be the great nation it is today without their valiant service of yesterday. I urge Congress to support this important bill and recognize this dwindling group of Merchant Marine Veterans that have served our NMC Issues Mitigation Update On Government Shutdown Aboard Empire State When this photo was taken in late December, crew members on the Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning vessel were celebrating Christmas as well as 3,000 lost-time-incident-free days, reports vessel master Capt. Kevin W. Griffith, who submitted the snapshot on behalf of Chief Steward Wilfredo Espinosa. Well done to the SIU crew and AMO officers. New Website Boasts Improved Features Continued from Page 2 or seafarerslog.org for updates. Meanwhile, the main SIU site has been reorganized and streamlined. There’s a site map linked at the bottom of every page, and the union’s social media accounts also are prominently linked at the top of every page. They include a relatively new Flickr site that hosts all available lifeboat class photos from the union’s February 2019 nation so admirably.” The Merchant Mariners of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act was introduced in the Senate simultaneously by U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska). The bill is currently awaiting action by the House Financial Services Committee, Garamendi’s office reported. affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Additionally, many of the PDF forms on the site have been modified so visitors can complete them online. (The fillable forms still have to be printed and sent to the intended recipients.) The SIU first launched a website in 1997, and started a mobile site in 2013. While cutting-edge at launch and for a while thereafter, the mobile site had some limitations that don’t exist with the new version. Editor’s note: The following news release (which ran under the headline: “Mitigation Efforts Due to Lapse in Fiscal Year 2019 Appropriations and Partial Government Shutdown”) was issued by the National Maritime Center on Jan. 8. At press time, it was the most recent communication from the agency concerning the partial shutdown. Check the SIU website for updates. The “attached letter” mentioned in the article is linked in the news section of the SIU site in addition to being available on the NMC website. To mitigate the impact caused by the partial lapse in appropriations and shutdown of National Maritime Center (NMC) operations, the following actions are being taken: Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMC) (National Endorsements only) and Medical Certificates that expired in December 2018 or expire in January 2019 are extended as valid until March 31, 2019. Print the attached letter and carry it with your credential. Additional Information (AI) letters, sent to mariners that expired in December 2018 or expire in January 2019 are extended to March 31, 2019. Approval to Test (ATT) letters and mariner training course certificates that expired in December 2018 or expire in January 2019 are extended until March 31, 2019. For mariners whose 90day testing cycles were interrupted by Regional Exam Center (REC) closures (starting on December 26, 2018), the days the RECs were closed will not count against the 90-day period. REC appointment calendars will be re-opened immediately once appropriations are restored. E-mail any course approval extension requests to NMCCourses@uscg.mil. The NMC understands the partial shutdown may affect our industry customers and stakeholders and we apologize for any potential inconvenience. If you have questions, visit the NMC website, or contact the NMC Customer Service Center by using the NMC online chat system, by e-mailing IASKNMC@uscg.mil, or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662). Seafarers LOG 5 �Seafarers Celebrate Holidays at Halls For the SIU, holiday get-togethers at the hiring halls are a time-honored tradition nearly as venerable as the union itself. As noted in last month’s LOG, some of the oldest photos in the union’s archives show Seafarers celebrating winter holidays at various halls. The most recent holiday season saw SIU gatherings across the country, both ashore and aboard numerous vessels around the world. Many of them have been featured in past issues and on the SIU’s social media pages. The photos on this page were taken at the halls in Jersey City, New Jersey; Norfolk, Virginia; Jacksonville, Florida; and New Orleans. Philanthropy is also a longstanding SIU tradition. In that spirit, the SIU in Jersey City conducted a volunteer toy drive benefiting local children who are less fortunate. Those gifts were delivered Dec. 20 (three days after the Christmas party, the cutoff for donations) to a century-old organization named Women Rising. In Norfolk, the annual Christmas party doubled as a fond farewell to Kermett Mangram, who’d recently retired from his post as vice president of the SIU Government Services Division. Mangram spent more than 40 years with the union. The other parties were traditional but no less enthusiastic. Editor’s note: See pages 8, 10, 11 and 24 for related photos and coverage. Norfolk Approximately 100 members, retirees and guests attended the 16th annual celebration in Norfolk, Virginia. Port Agent Georg Kenny, QEE Kevin Quinlan, Retiree Stanley “Butch” Vane, Recertified Bosun Robert Blackie Fraser Linsday Jr. Newly retired SIU VP Kermett Mangram (center) is pictured with family members, officials and staff. Jersey City New Orleans Port Agent Chris Westbrook (standing fifth from left) reports that seafood gumbo was among the menu items enjoyed by guests in New Orleans Jacksonville Chief Steward Jermaine Robinson baked this cake for the event in New Orleans. 6 Seafarers LOG AB Vicente Mansilungan went all-out with his dish for the potluck holiday lunch. Members and guests in the Jersey City hiring hall wave to the camera while waiting for the start of their Christmas Party. In photo below, Port Agent Mark von Siegel (left) delivers donations to Latoya Smith of Women Rising. Seafarer Ariel Lopez Albino helped with the delivery. According to the organization’s website, “For over 110 years, Women Rising has been helping women and their families. Our clients are in need – in need of jobs, safety from domestic violence, freedom from substance abuse, safe homes for children. Women Rising meets these needs by providing supportive counseling, crisis intervention, workforce development and job placement, shelter for victims of domestic violence, outreach, advocacy, and referrals. Women Rising is the foremost communitybased organization for women in Hudson County. Women Rising assists women and their families to achieve self-sufficiency and live safe, productive and fulfilling lives, through social services, economic development, and advocacy services.” February 2019 �Mariners and their guests gather near the Crowley-operated vessel. Children and their counselors are pictured with personnel from the ship. USNS Victorious Mariners Help Orphans in Philippines Editor’s note: The following article was submitted by Captain Jon Skoglund (a member of the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers), serving aboard the Crowley-operated USNS Victorious. The vessel is crewed by SIU members and AMO officers. While the Victorious was in Subic Bay, Philippines, during December 2018, mariners decided that we would look into how we might be able to help out a local orphanage. Chief Mate Robert Swinburne identified an orphanage for sexually assaulted girls in Olongapo. After touring the facility, it became evident these girls needed our help. Although the city of Olongapo had workers there installing new showers and a septic system, they lacked basic necessities, such as enough beds, fans for ventilation (there was no A/C in any part of the building), a washer for clothes, storage for their clothes, bedding and towels…. The list goes on. The chief mate did some research and found that four beds and a washer would cost $679. The good people aboard the Victorious raised $1,400 in just two days. In addition, the Crowley Business Unit donated $679 to cover the initial expenses, and the fantastic folks that are a part of the Crowley Jacksonville Team donated another $445 to the cause. With this extreme generosity and the hard work of Chief Mate Swinburne, 1AE Nick Swanson, 2AE Jenna Palaschak and QMED Deven McCoy, we were able to make the girls’ home a safer and more pleasant place, while providing them with the basics that most of us take for granted: five bunk beds, a new washing machine, a freezer (full of food), six fans, sheets, towels, blankets, plates, cups, silverware, cleaning supplies, personal hygiene products and lastly, we had enough money left over to fill the cupboards with dry goods. We were also lucky enough to host the girls and their counselors aboard the Victorious for a tour and a pizza night. You could tell by the smiles that both the girls and the crew enjoyed our time together. As it turns out, no matter where you are in the world, pizza and ice cream are popular with a crowd! Thank you all for your help! A heartfelt Happy Holidays from the crew of the Victorious. The tour is a hit with these visitors. QMED Deven McCoy (left) and 1st Engineer Nick Swanson volunteer at the orphanage. Some of the donated items are delivered to the orphanage. Camera shyness isn’t a problem on deck. February 2019 Residents and employees enjoy their gifts. Seafarers LOG 7 �Members roll bicycles onto the truck. Seafarers team up and transport toys from the hall to a truck. AB Obaid Ali Union Stages Another Successful Santa’s Castle Outreach Continued from Page 24 deserve help when they need it. It was nice to meet some of the people from our installation at JBLM, and I’m really proud of our union and glad I had the chance to join.” AB Michael Bell stated, “I think it went great. When you walk in there and see all those toys, it really brings a good feeling, knowing the members are doing something for somebody else. I really enjoy doing it. We didn’t have a lot when I was growing up; myself, and I know, a lot of the other guys like to make sure kids have a good Christmas – have at least one thing under the tree.” Bell added compliments to Vincenzo, Safety Director Ben Anderson, Patrolmen Warren Asp and George Owen and Administrative Assistant Brenda Flesner for their work on the project. “I take my hat off to them,” Bell said. “They all do a great job getting this thing going and keeping it going. They deserve an ‘attaboy’ because they’re the driving force behind it. It’s one of the highlights of the entire year, and I think a lot of people look forward to it every year. You see a lot of smiles.” Addressing Seafarers and Army personnel, Vincenzo recalled a moment from decades earlier. “I remember as a young PFC at Fort Riley, Kansas, home of the Big Red One (1st Infantry Division), an older gentleman toured the motor pool where I was working on an M577 (an armored vehicle). It was routine maintenance. The man thanked me for my service, but I did not feel that I had earned his thanks. Today so many years later, I still don’t – but today I understand his need to express his thanks and the genuine gratitude that he must have felt that day. And quite frankly, all these years later it is clear that his thanks were not necessarily or only about me but something much bigger and what I stood for, and still stand for today. It is an honor to be trusted with the capacity as your port agent to organize and advocate for this toy drive with the help of so many. You are the ones who even make this possible, and your generos- ity speaks for itself year after year.” Shelly Hinzman, president of Santa’s Castle, said, “Our season went great. I don’t have final numbers, but we did 850 to 900 families. Seafarers were a big part of that, because the donations that we receive from them – really, they’re awesome donations. We put them to good use. We always love going to the Seafarers luncheon, too; it’s a highlight of our season. They’ve always been great supporters and we’ve always felt very welcome every time we go. I’m not exaggerating – we just love them.” JBLM is located approximately nine miles southwest of Tacoma. Santa’s Castle is a private 501(c)(3) organization. According to their website, participating service members are identified “by their chain of command – commander, chaplain, 1SG and above – and referred to the program. Once accepted, the service member is scheduled for a shopping appointment where they come to Santa’s Castle to select gifts for their child or children.” Enjoying the gathering are SIU members (from left) Joey Lata, Saleh Ahmed, Carlos Noriega, Eric Hondel and Erwin Renon. Guests enjoy the luncheon at the hiring hall in Tacoma, Washington. Spotlight on Mariner Health Combating the Common Cold Editor’s note: The following article is provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. If you have a severe cough, a sore throat and your nose is stuffy, you may have a cold. It could, however, be something else. Regardless of what your condition could be, it’s a good idea to get a head start on the healing process. Getting rest, drinking lots of water and eating smaller but more frequent meals are all actions that should make you feel better. Taking Tylenol or anti-inflammatory medications will also help improve how you feel, provided you haven’t been told previously by your physician not to do so. If it is just a cold, your symptoms generally last for a period of three to 10 days. If your symptoms fail to subside during this time, and you also develop a running nose, watery eyes, constant sneezing and coughing that gets worse, it’s probably time to con- 8 Seafarers LOG sider calling a doctor. Such a call should be mandatory for someone who, in addition to having the forgoing symptoms, develops trouble breathing, fevers and body aches, severe vomiting, sinus pain, swollen glands, chest pains or pressure and feelings of faintness. Everyone should be aware that colds can cause swelling in the nose and lungs, which in turn can lead to sinus infections or exacerbate asthma and other lung problems. Colds can also weaken immune systems, thereby opening the door to other infections. There are a number of preventive actions individuals can take to improve the state of their overall health while also guarding against developing any of the foregoing conditions. Included are: getting proper rest, drinking lots of fluids, limiting alcohol intake, stopping smoking, exercising as often as possible, taking vitamins and required inoculations and eating a heart-healthy diet.. Healthful Recipe Grilled Chicken Santa Fe Servings: 25 Ingredients 10 pounds chicken breast without skin 2 tablespoons Mrs. Dash seasoning 3 teaspoons chili powder 2 teaspoons cumin 1 tablespoon granulated garlic 2 tablespoons olive oil Corn salsa: 2 cups frozen corn kernels, defrosted 2/3 cup red and green bell peppers, diced small ½ cup red onion, diced small 2 2/3 tablespoons cilantro, chopped 1 teaspoon olive oil 1 tablespoon honey Salt and pepper, to taste Preparation Grill the chicken on a medium-high heat grill or lightly oiled griddle. Cook the chicken halfway done. Place the chicken into 2-inch hotel pans evenly. Drizzle with olive oil. Mix all the salsa ingredients together in a large container. Bake the chicken in a 350-degree oven for about 15-20 minutes until internal temperature of 165 F is reached. Top the cooked chicken with the corn salsa. Cover and serve. Nutrition information: Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 191 calories; 3g fat (16% calories from fat); 34g protein; 5g carbohydrates; 1g dietary fiber; 84mg cholesterol; 99mg sodium. Exchanges: 0 grain (starch); 4 ½ lean meat; 0 vegetable; ½ fat; 0 other carbohydrates. Provided by Chef Robert “RJ” Johnson of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship February 2019 �With Seafarers on the Great Lakes The photos on this page were taken by SIU Port Agent Todd Brdak while servicing members aboard the American Steamship Company-operated John J. Boland and Indiana Harbor last year. The Boland was in Toledo, Ohio, while the Indiana Harbor was in St. Clair, Michigan. John J. Boland The John J. Boland lowers a boarding ladder. Bosun Saleh Mohamed Ahmed and AB Abdulaziz Faisal Zain Port Agent Todd Brdak and Chief Cook Bernard Lawes The John J. Boland loads cargo onto the ship. Indiana Harbor Chief Cook John Chaney AB Wheelsman Mohamed Mosed and Gateman Thomas McClure QMED Ameen Abdo Yahya and Port Agent Todd Brdak February 2019 ACU Dave Warner The Indiana Harbor docked in St. Clair, Michigan Safe operations are a source of pride aboard the Indiana Harbor. Seafarers LOG 9 �PROMOTING MARITIME TO CONGRESSMEN – Shortly before Election Day 2018, SIU Port Agent Mark von Siegel and Patrolman Ray Henderson helped reinforce support for the U.S. Merchant Marine in Congress. Pictured from left in photo at right are von Siegel, U.S. Rep. Albio Sires (D-New Jersey) and Henderson. Henderson is shown with U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-New Jersey) in the photo at left. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ON SEABULK ARCTIC – Pictured from left in photo above are AB Blake Braye, Recertified Bosun John Cedeno, Houston Patrolman Kelly Krick, AB Christopher Sanchez, Pumpman Brian Jackson, AB Marcos Rivera, Chief Steward Rafael Cardenas and Houston Patrolman J.D. Niday. The photo at right features AB Richard Benoit aboard the Seabulk Tankers vessel. AT SAN JUAN HALL – QMED Angel Cintron (left) made a bit of history last December when he became the first Seafarer to pick up a vacation check at the new hall in Puerto Rico. He was also the first A-seniority book member serviced at the hall, according to Port Agent Amancio Crespo (right). AT HOUSTON HALL – In photo above, inland Capt. Jamie Norsworthy (right) takes the union oath and receives his full book. The photo at right features members of the Chacon family – pensioner Jose (center) flanked by his wife, Ramona (left) and their daughter, Dr. Osana Chacon. Jose stopped by to pick up a pension verification letter; all three family members spoke favorably of the new hiring hall. ABOARD PELICAN STATE – Pictured from left aboard the Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning ship in Martinez, California, are Recertified Steward Gregory Lynch, GVA Abdulfata Shammam, SA Kassem Salem, QMED/Pumpman Alex Canada, QMED Derrick Clark, Oakland Port Agent Nick Marrone II, AB Nasser Kassim and Bosun Derik Rye. 10 Seafarers LOG February 2019 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU TALKING MERCHANT MARINE WITH CONGRESSMAN – U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell (DCalifornia) (center) conducted a community event Dec. 16 in Dublin, California, and SIU representatives were on hand to discuss the Jones Act, cargo preference, the Maritime Security Program and more. Pictured with the congressman are Port Agent Nick Marrone II (right) and Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli. ABOARD PRESIDENT CLEVELAND – Pictured aboard the APL vessel in Oakland, California, are (from left) ACU Jessie Espiritu, Recertified Steward Joseph Welle and Chief Cook David Rodak. UNPLANNED REUNION – Four friends who are recertified stewards (from left: Ed Viana, Juan Vallejo, Michael Carello and Alex Banky) took this photo outside the Paul Hall Center’s Mooney Pub to celebrate a rare reunion over the holiday. Vallejo said he submitted the photo to the LOG “so that the new generations understand the importance of our school that, in addition to educating us, finds us again.” He and Viana were in the same recertification class (in 2012). Banky completed the program in 2002, while Carello graduated in 2008. ALHOA FROM PINEY POINT – Six new recruits from the Marimed Foundation’s program for native Hawaiians are among those pictured, while recently enrolled in the apprentice program at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. Standing (from left) are SIU Honolulu Port Agent Hazel Galbiso, Apprentices Kalanihooulumoku Holt and Delson Smith, Marimed Program Coordinator Melissa Hebert, Apprentice Alika Kukahiko and Marimed President/CEO Matt Claybaugh. In front are (from left) Apprentices Kalae Huihui, Billie Kawelo and Noah Santiago. AT JACKSONVILLE HALL – In photo at left, Pumpman Steven Supplee (right) receives his Abook from Safety Director Joseph Koncul. AB Joseph Wattam is at right in photo at right, also with Koncul, receiving his full B-book. The below photo shows OS Jamila King in front of the podium, taking the oath and receiving her full B-book from Patrolman Adam Bucalo. ABOARD PERLA DEL CARIBE – Christmas spirit and excellent food are evident aboard the TOTE vessel. Pictured from left are SA Brandon Harvell, Chief Cook Jacob Parrilla and Steward/Baker Ingrid Ortiz. February 2019 Seafarers LOG 11 �What’s New for the 2019 Tax Filing Season Following are some of the changes that took effect in 2018 and 2019, along with provisions that remain in effect from 2017. Please check www.irs.gov before filing your return. Due date of return - File Form 1040 by April 15, 2019. Exemptions - For tax year 2018, the deduction for the personal exemption is reduced to zero. Standard Deductions – The standard deduction for married couples filing a joint return has increased to $24,000 for 2018. The standard deduction for single individuals and married couples filing separate returns has increased to $12,000 for 2018. The standard deduction for heads of household increased to $18,000 for 2018. The additional standard deduction for people who have reached age 65 (or who are blind) is $1,300 for married taxpayers or $1,600 for unmarried taxpayers. Itemized Deductions – Before 2018, an individual’s itemized deductions were reduced by 3% of the amount adjusted gross income (AGI) exceeded certain threshold amounts. This phaseout of itemized deductions was eliminated by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (“TCJA”), and therefore does not apply to 2018. State Itemized Deductions - The TCJA modified or eliminated several popular itemized deductions. It is important to note that although the federal deductions have been adjusted, you may still qualify for deductions at the state level. Medical Care Itemized Deduction Threshold - For tax year 2018, for all taxpayers, unreimbursed medical expenses may be claimed as an itemized deduction to the extent they exceed 7.5% of adjusted gross income. 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 2018: n Credit of $6,341 if you have three or more qualifying children and you earn less than $49,194 ($54,884 if married filing jointly) n Credit of $5,716 if you have two qualifying children and you earn less than $45,802 ($51,492 if married filing jointly) n Credit of $3,461 if you have one qualifying child and you earn less than $40,320 ($46,010 if married filing jointly), or n Credit of $519 if you do not have a qualifying child and you earn less than $15,270 ($20,950 if married filing jointly) For tax years beginning after 2015 – a TIN is not valid for EIC purposes unless it was used on or before the due date of the return. For Tax years beginning after 2017, you may be able to qualify for the EIC under the rules for taxpayers without a qualifying child if you have a qualifying child for the EIC who is claimed as a qualifying child by another taxpayer. Social Security and Medicare Taxes - The maximum amount of wages subject to the Social Security tax for 2018 is $128,400. There is no limit on the amount of wages subject to the Medicare tax. In 2018, 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, $125,000 for married filing separately, and $200,000 for all others. This additional assessment also applies to selfemployed workers. For 2019, the maximum amount of wages subject to Social Security tax is $132,900. Self-Employment Tax Rate and Deduction – The FICA portion of the self-employment tax is 12.4% in 2018. The Medicare portion of the SE tax is 2.9% not including the 0.9% additional tax on the amounts above the applicable thresholds as noted above. The SE tax rate for 2018 is 15.3%, and the deduction is equal to one-half of self-employment tax. Capital Gains and Losses - Continuing from 2012 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 2018, 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. New for 2018: For years 2018-2025, the personal casualty and theft loss deduction is eliminated, except for personal casualty losses incurred in a federally declared disaster. Qualified Dividend and Capital Gains Tax Rate – In 2018, the tax rate on long-term gains and qualified dividends is 20% for income that exceeds the 37% tax bracket threshold amount of: n $600,000 for married filing jointly and surviving spouses n $500,000 for head of household n $300,000 for married filing separately n $500,000 for single The rate goes down to 15% for lower tax brackets and then 0% for the 10%-15% tax brackets. In 2018, capital gain income will be subject to an additional 3.8% Medicare tax for income that exceeds the threshold amounts listed above. Medicare Tax on Investment Income – In 2018, 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: n $250,000 for married filing jointly and surviving spouses n $125,000 for married filing separately n $200,000 for all others 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 has increased to $13,810 per child with adjusted gross income phase out starting at $207,140. 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 2018 tax returns one or more adoption-related documents. Child Tax Credit - The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 extends the enhanced child tax credit of $2,000 maximum credit per child through the end of 2018. For 2018 tax year, the child tax credit starts to be reduced when income reaches the following levels: 12 Seafarers LOG n $200,000 for married couples filing separately n $200,000 for single, head of household, and qualifying widow(er) filers, and n $400,000 for married couples filing jointly The TCJA eliminated the exemption deduction for dependents for years 20182025. Therefore, releasing the dependency exemption to the noncustodial parent does not entitle that parent to an exemption deduction; however, it does make the noncustodial parent eligible for the child tax credit with respect to the child. 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). Effective from 2016: Taxpayers cannot claim the Child Tax Credit for any tax year if the individual or a qualifying child did not have an individual TIN issued on or before the due date of the return for that tax year: For tax years beginning after 2015 – the Child Tax Credit is not allowed for (1) two tax years after a final determination or reckless or intentional disregard of rules and regulations or (2) 10 tax years after a final determination of fraud. If the Child Tax Credit is denied due to failure to supply required information to the IRS, no Child Tax Credit is allowed for any later tax year unless the taxpayer supplies the needed information. Child and Dependent Care Credit - For 2018, there is a credit equal to the amount of qualified expenses multiplied by an applicable percentage determined by the taxpayer’s adjusted gross income. The maximum amount of qualified expenses to which the credit may be applied is $3,000 for cost to care for one child under the age of 13 or up to $6,000 for two or more children, so that the parents can either go to work or be in the process of looking for work. There must be earned income in order to take the credit (the credit amount has not changed). The American Opportunity Tax Credit - For tax year 2018, the maximum credit amount can be up to $2,500 and up to 40% 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 $90,000 for Single, Head of Household, and Qualifying Widow(er) n $180,000 for Married Filing Jointly Taxpayers cannot claim the American Opportunity Credit for any tax year if the individual or a student did not have a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) issued on or before the due date of the return for that tax year. For Tax years beginning after 2015, the American Opportunity Credit is not allowed for (1) two tax years after a final determination or reckless or intentional disregard of rules and regulations or (2) 10 tax years after a final determination of fraud. If the American Opportunity Credit is denied due to failure to supply required information to the IRS, no American Opportunity Credit is allowed for any later tax year unless the taxpayer supplies the needed information. Taxpayers must report the Employer Identification Number (EIN) of the educational institution to which payments were made. Lifetime Learning Credit - For tax year 2018, 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 your Modified AGI exceeds $57,000 ($114,000 if married filing joint return) and is completely eliminated if your Modified AGI exceeds $67,000 ($134,000 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 – The tuition and fees deduction expired at the end of 2017. However, this discussion is retained in the event the deduction is extended, as it has been many times. The deduction is not allowed for Married Filing Separately filers or for any taxpayer who qualifies as a dependent (whether or not claimed) on another taxpayer’s tax return. For 2018, the tuition and fees deduction may not be claimed if an education credit is claimed for the same student in the same year [IRC Sec. 222 (c)(2)(A)]. Expanded Definition of Qualified Expenses for Qualified Tuition Programs - Qualified higher education expenses generally include tuition, fees, 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. New for 2018: The TCJA changed the definition of qualified higher education expense. For purposes of the 529 plan rules, qualified higher education expenses now include expenses for tuition for attendance at an elementary or secondary public, private or religious school [IRC Secs. 529(c)(7) and 530(b)(3)(B)]. Cash distributions from all 529 plans are limited to $10,000 for elementary and secondary school tuition per tax year, per-student. [IRC Sec.529(e)(3)(A)]. Educator Expenses – The Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015 extended the above-the-line 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. For tax years beginning after 2015, eligible expenses also include expenses for professional development courses the educator takes related to the curriculum he/she teaches or to the student he/she teaches. State & Local Sales and Use Tax Deduction – For 2018, the itemized deduction for state and local taxes is limited to $10,000 ($5,000 for MFS) of the aggregate of (1) state and local property taxes and (2) state and local income, war profits and excess profits taxes (or sales taxes in lieu of income, etc. taxes) paid or accrued in the tax year. Caution: The provision also includes a rule stating that an individual may not claim an itemized deduction in 2017 on a pre-payment of income tax for a future tax year in order to avoid the dollar limitation applicable for the tax years beginning after 2017. Individual Retirement Accounts: Education IRAs (Coverdell Education Savings Account) - Taxpayers can contribute a maximum of $2,000 cash each year to an Education IRA for a person under age 18. The dollar limit is phased out for married individuals filing jointly with modified adjusted gross income between $190,000 and $220,000, and between $95,000 and $110,000 for single filers. The contribution is not deductible. Traditional IRAs - For 2018, the contribution limit to a traditional IRA is the lesser of $5,500 or your compensation. For taxpayers age 50 or older as of year-end, an additional catch-up contribution of up to $1,000 is allowed. Thus, the 2018 contribution limit for these taxpayers is the lesser of $6,500 or your compensation. For the deduction, the Modified Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) phase-out range in 2018 is $63,000-$73,000 for single and head of household, $101,000-$121,000 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. 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 Charitable contributions n Real estate and personal property tax receipts n Interest payment records for items such as a home mortgage or n 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. 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 1-888-872-9829 or 1-888-7291040 or visit websites 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 20b, 20c and 20d on their Form 1040. Line 20b is for the bank’s routing number. Line 20c indicates the type of account, and line 20d 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, an individual that prepares his or her own return can access most commonly used Federal tax forms from the IRS website and website at: www.irs. gov. What Are Considered Deductions and Credits Personal Exemption Amount: The TCJA eliminated the exemption deduction for dependents for years 2018-2025. Therefore, releasing the dependency exemption to the noncustodial parent does not entitle that parent to an exemption deduction; however, it does make the noncustodial parent eligible for the child tax credit with respect to the child. Standard Deduction: The standard deduction, or dollar amount that reduces the amount that is taxed, which increased for married couples filing jointly in 2018 at $24,000. The standard deduction for single individuals and married couples filing separate returns also increased in 2018 at $12,000. The standard deduction for heads of household increased to $18,000 for 2018. Personal Interest Deductions: For 2018, personal interest cannot be deducted. Personal interest includes interest on car loans, credit cards, personal loans and tax deficiencies. Interest on Secured Loans Deductible: 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 no longer deductible for 2018-2025. 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% of Adjusted Gross Income: The TCJA suspended the deduction for miscellaneous itemized deductions subject to the 2%-ofAGI limit for 2018-2025 [IRC Sec. 67(g)]. Therefore, these expenses are not deductible in 2018. Miscellaneous itemized deductions not subject to the 2%-ofAGI limit remain deductible on Schedule A. 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 Ex- 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 ($1,300 for a married person or “spouse” or $1,600 for an unmarried person). Filing Status Standard Deduction Single and Married filing separate ................................................................$ 12,000 Married filing joint return or qualifying widow(er) with dependent chidren........$24,000 Head of household...........................................................................................$ 18,000 February 2019 February 2019 press 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 2018, 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 n Social Security benefits 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 15, 2019, 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 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 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 taxpayerrelated services. At a minimum, IRS forms are available at all U.S. embassies and consulates located in: Berlin, Germany; Caracas, Venezuela; London, England; Mexico City, Mexico; Nassau, Bahamas; Ottawa, Canada; Paris, France; Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Rome, Italy; Sao Paulo, Brazil; Sydney, Australia; Tokyo, Japan. the crew on a vessel engaged in the foreign, coastwise, intercostal, interstate or non-contiguous trade shall be withheld pursuant to the provisions of the tax laws of any state, territory, possession or commonwealth, or a subdivision of any of them, but nothing in this section shall prohibit any such withholding of the wages of any seaman who is employed in the coastwise trade between ports in the same state if such withholding is pursuant to a voluntary agreement between such seaman and his employer.” The law, however, does not exempt seamen from paying state and local taxes. Mariners, just like any other citizens of any given state, must meet their obligations to the government of the area in which they live. Each state has a set of criteria to determine whether an individual is a resident of that state. A seaman should check with a state tax office if he or she is unsure about residency status. For example, in California during the early 1970s, a case before the California State Board of Equalization stated that a merchant seaman—despite the fact that he was on a ship for 210 days of the year— was a resident of the state for tax purposes. The board took into consideration the fact that the seaman owned a home in California and maintained a bank account in a California-based bank. Additionally, each state has established conditions under which non-residents of that state must pay a portion of state tax if such an individual earned income from a source based in that state. Many states allow a credit in the amount an individual must pay the state if that person has already paid taxes in another state. In 2000, President Clinton signed into law the bipartisan Transportation Worker Tax Fairness Act, a measure aimed at providing “equitable treatment with respect to state and local income taxes for certain individuals who perform duties on vessels.” The law, which took effect Nov. 9, 2000, stipulates that pilots and other mariners “who perform regularly assigned duties while engaged as a master, officer or crewman on a vessel operating on the navigable waters of more than one State” shall be subject to state income tax only in his or her residential state. If any questions arise regarding residency and state tax issues, mariners should telephone the taxpayer assistance office in the state in which they reside. 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. 1-800-829-4477 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 website 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 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 �Tax Filers Face Assorted Changes During 2019 Season Continued from Page 12 Roth IRAs - The maximum total yearly contribution that can be made by an individual to a Roth IRA is the lesser of $5,500 (increased to $6,500 for taxpayers age 50 or older at year end) 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 $120,000 and $135,000, for joint filers and qualifying widow(er) with an AGI between $189,000 and $199,000, 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. Special Charitable Contributions for Certain IRA Owners - The Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act of 2015 permanently extends the Qualified Charitable Distributions. It offers older owners of IRAs a different way to give to charity. An IRA owner age 70 and one-half or older 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, donoradvised 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 2018, you may have to file Form 8938 with your return. In addition, a separate FBAR document must be e-filed by April 15, 2019 if the aggregate value of the foreign accounts exceeds $10,000 in any time during the calendar year. Repayment of First-Time Homebuyer Credit - The first-time homebuyer credit is not available for homes purchased in 2018. However, taxpayers who claimed the credit, which was available for homes purchased during 20082011, may have to repay (recapture) their credits. Mortgage Insurance Premiums – The deduction for mortgage insurance premiums expired December 31, 2017. Unless congress extends this provision, it will not be available for mortgage insurance premiums paid after 2017. Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit – For property placed in service after December 31, 2016 and before January 1, 2022, the credit is available only for eligible solar electric property and solar water heating property. The credit is equal to 30 percent of the cost of eligible property placed in service in 2018 or 2019; 26 percent of the cost of the property placed in 2020; and 22 percent of the cost of property placed in service in 2021. Standard mileage rates - The standard mileage rate for 2018 is 54.5 cents per mile for business miles driven and was increased to 18 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. Personal Casualty & Theft Loss – For 2018- 2025, personal casualty losses are deductible only if attributable to a federally declared disaster. The loss is reported on Form 4684 (Casualty and Theft Losses), Part A. A casualty loss equals the lesser of the adjusted basis in the property before the casualty, or the decrease in fair market value of the property as a result of the casualty. Foreign Earned Income Exclusion – For tax year 2018, the maximum foreign earned income exclusion amount is $103,900. This amount is up $1,800 from tax year 2017. The Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) Exemption – New for 2018: The TCJA increased the AMT exemption amounts and significantly increased the income at which the exemption begins to phase out ($1,000,000 for married filing jointly and $500,000 for other filers). Therefore, it’s likely fewer individuals will be subject to AMT beginning in 2018. Health Care Coverage – In 2018, individuals must have health care coverage, to qualify for a health care coverage exemption or make shared responsibility payment with their tax return. Coverage Exemptions: An individual may be exempt from the requirement to maintain 14 Seafarers LOG minimum essential coverage and thus will not have to make a shared responsibility payment if, for 2018, they: n Had no affordable coverage options because the minimum amount he must pay for the annual premiums is more than 8.05% of his household income; n Had a gap in coverage for less than three consecutive months or n Qualified for an exemption for one of several other reasons, including having a hardship that prevents him from obtaining coverage, or belonging to a group explicitly exempt from the requirement. If the taxpayer, spouse or any of the dependents did not have minimum essential coverage and didn’t have a coverage exemption for any month in 2018, an individual shared responsibility payment must be computed and reported on line 61 of Form 1040, Schedule 4. New for 2018: The TCJA reduced the individual shared responsibility payment amount to zero beginning in 2019. However, the penalty remains in effect for each month of 2018. For 2018, the annual payment amount is the greater of: n 2.5% percent of the household income that is above the tax return filing threshold for taxpayer’s filing status, or n The family’s flat dollar amount, which is $695 per adult and $347.50 per child, limited to a family maximum of $2,085. Premium Tax Credit – Individuals with low to moderate income who get health coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace may be eligible for this refundable credit. Individuals who are eligible for PTC need to meet the following requirements: n Purchased coverage in the Marketplace for someone in their tax family (taxpayer, spouse, if married filing jointly and dependents for which a personal exemption is claimed) for a month that person was not eligible for minimum essential coverage (other than coverage in the individual market). n Have household income at least 100%, but no more than 400% of the federal poverty line for taxpayer’s family size. Exception: In some cases, taxpayers with household income less than 100% of the federal poverty line can take the credit. n If married, individuals must file a joint return. Note: Exceptions apply to victims of domestic abuse or spousal abandonment and to individuals who are considered unmarried. n Cannot be claimed as a dependent by another person. Health Coverage Tax Credit (HCTC) – The Health care tax credit is a tax credit that pays a percentage of health insurance premiums for certain eligible taxpayers and their qualifying family members. The Health Coverage Tax credit is a separate tax credit with different eligibility rules than the premium tax credit. Affordable Care Act – Several very important provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) that affect individuals and businesses first became effective in 2015. The Employer Shared Responsibility provision of the Affordable Care Act requires employers with 50 or more full-time equivalent employees to either offer minimum essential coverage that is “affordable” and that provides “minimum value” to their full-time employees and their dependents, or potentially make an employer shared responsibility payment to the IRS. Transit Benefits – The Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015 extended transit benefits. These include van pool benefits, transit passes and qualified parking. Beginning in 2018, the monthly exclusion amount has increased to $260. Earned Income Credit and Additional Child Tax Credit – IRS Refund Claim – The IRS has additional time to review refund claims based on the Earned Income Credit or the refundable portion of the additional Child Tax Credit in order to reduce fraud and improper payments. No credit or refund for an overpayment shall be made to a taxpayer before February 15 following the close of the tax year, if the taxpayer claimed the Earned Income Credit or additional Child Tax Credit. Form 1098-T Required to Claim Certain Education Incentives – Taxpayers must receive a form 1098-T, Tuition Statement, from educational institutions to claim the American opportunity credit, the Lifetime Learning tax credit or the above the line deduction for qualified tuition and fees. Rollovers to SIMPLE IRAs – For rollover contributions made after December 18, 2015, distributions from employer sponsored retirement plans and traditional IRAs may be rolled over into a SIMPLE IRA, as long as the SIMPLE IRA has been open for at least two years. Tax Rates for 2018 – For 2018, there is a 37% bracket (for single individuals at $500,001, head of household at $500,001 married filing jointly at $600,001 and married filing separately at $300,001). Trusts and estates will hit the 37% bracket at $12,500. The rate for capital gains and qualified dividends is 20% if the income is in excess of the threshold amount: n $500,000 for single individuals n $500,000 for heads of household n $600,000 for married filing joint n $300,000 for married filing separately Exclusion of Cancellation of Indebtedness on Principal Residence – Cancellation of indebtedness income is generally includible in income. However, income from cancellation of debt on a qualified principal residence, of up to $2 million, may be excludable. 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. Hurricane Relief - Congress is currently considering legislation that would provide additional tax relief for those affected by Hurricane Harvey, Irma, or Maria, and tax relief for those affected by other disasters, such as the California wildfires. California Wildfire Victims - The Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 generally provides the same tax relief to victims of the California wildfire that hurricane victims received under the Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2017. This includes the following: n Special tax rules for qualified wildfire distributions from retirement plans. A qualified wildfire distribution is a distribution from most types of tax-favored retirement plans, including IRAs, made on or after October 8, 2017 and before January 1, 2019 to an individual whose principal place of residence during any portion of the period from October 8, 2017 to December 31, 2017 is located in the California wildfire disaster area and who has sustained an economic loss by reason of the wildfires to which the declaration of such areas relates. n Temporary suspension of limitations on charitable contributions made during the period beginning October 8, 2017 and ending on December 31, 2018 for relief efforts in the California wildfire disaster area. n Special rules for computing qualified disaster-related personal casualty losses, which are casualty losses which arise in the California wildfire disaster area on or after October 8, 2017 and which are attributable to the wildfires to which the declaration of such area relates. See Pub. 976 for more information. Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 - The Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 was enacted on February 9, 2018. The law’s primary purpose was related to spending and the budget of the U.S. government. Possible Legislation - Congress is currently considering legislation that would extend certain tax benefits that expired at the end of 2016 and that currently can’t be claimed on your 2018 tax return, such as: n Cancellation of Debt (COD)-Mortgage Debt n Mortgage Insurance Premiums Deduction n Tuition and Fees Deduction n The credit for alternative fuel vehicle refueling property n Energy Credit n New Energy Efficient Homes Credit n Personal Energy Property Credit n Residential Energy Efficient Property n Two-Wheeled Plug-In Electric Vehicles Credit To learn whether this legislation was enacted resulting in changes that affect your 2018 tax return, go to Recent Developments at IRS.gov. What’s New for 2018 - The Tax Cuts and Job Act (TCJA) was enacted on December 22, 2017. Described as the largest major tax reform in over three decades, the TCJA contains a host of tax provisions that impact individuals and businesses. See some additional changes in the tax provisions below: n Miscellaneous Deductions - Job-related expenses, as well as other miscellaneous itemized deductions that were previously subject to the 2%-of-adjusted-gross-income floor, are no longer deductible in 2018. The eliminated deductions include expenses for tax preparation, union dues, and investment fees. n Kiddie Tax - The taxable income of a child attributable to earned income is taxed under the rates for single individuals, and taxable income of a child attributable to net unearned income is taxed according to the brackets applicable to trusts and estates. The rule applies to the child’s ordinary income and his income taxed at preferential rates. n Mortgage Interest Deduction - The deduction for mortgage interest is limited to underlying indebtedness of up to $750,000 ($375,000 for MFS). The deduction for interest on home equity indebtedness is eliminated. The new lower limit doesn’t apply to any acquisition indebtedness incurred on or before December 15, 2017. n Charitable Contribution Deduction The limitation under IRC Sec. 170(b) for cash contributions to public charities and certain private foundations is 60%. Contributions exceeding the limitation are generally allowed to be carried forward and deducted for up to five years, subject to the later year’s ceiling. n Gambling Losses - All deductions for expenses incurred in carrying out wagering transactions, and not just gambling losses, are deductible only to the extent of gambling winnings. n Deduction for Qualified Business Income - An individual generally may deduct 20% of qualified business income from a partnership, S corporation or sole proprietorship, as well as 20% of aggregate qualified REIT dividends and qualified publicly-traded partnership income. The 20% deduction is not allowed in computing AGI, but rather is allowed as a deduction reducing taxable income. A limitation based on W-2 wages paid or capital investment is phased in for MFJ taxpayers with taxable income of $315,000 or more ($157,500 for other individuals). A disallowance of the deduction with respect to specified service trades or businesses also is phased in above these threshold amounts of taxable income. n Moving Expenses – Moving expenses are no longer deductible unless you are a member of the armed forces on active duty (And their spouse and dependents) who moved pursuant to a military order and incident to a permanent change of station. Your Online Account – In order for you to access your online account, you must authenticate your identity. To securely log in to your federal tax account, go to IRS.gov/Account. View the amount you owe, review 18 months of payment history, access online payment options, and create or modify an online payment agreement. You can also access your tax records online. 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 agencies 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 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 tollfree at 1-800-366-4484 or TTY/TDD 1-800877-8339. 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 1-800908-4490 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. February 2019 �Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea Aboard USNS Maury December 15, 2018 - January 15, 2019 Aboard the Ocean Shipholdings-operated vessel, steward department Seafarers wish all of their SIU brothers and sisters the best in the new year. Pictured from left are GVAs Camilo Villafania, Walter Wise and Rey Ramos, SA Crystal Cobbs, Chief Cook Brandon Hamilton and Steward/Baker Joseph Hernandez. Thanks to MDR Brandon Maeda for the pic. Personal Craig Vann would like to hear from anyone who sailed with his late grandfather, Willie P. Smith, a Navy veteran and mariner. Smith had family in the Philippines and for a time resided in New York. Vann can be reached at Davis-craig1971@gmail.com, (928) 202-0436. February & March 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 Jersey City...................................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 due to Presidents Day observance. 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 February 2019 Total Registered Total Shipped All Groups A B Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 33 17 0 7 4 0 3 47 16 0 3 2 1 2 3 0 4 3 2 2 8 2 1 4 2 0 1 8 2 1 20 6 8 17 11 7 10 34 13 6 4 3 0 2 0 0 0 6 5 0 13 1 2 12 3 3 7 16 5 6 6 3 1 4 2 1 2 11 8 2 46 10 13 33 13 14 29 99 28 16 37 19 8 24 17 3 13 63 23 15 44 7 7 27 7 1 17 65 14 10 4 2 0 1 2 0 0 3 5 0 12 4 4 7 2 1 2 17 6 5 26 16 7 24 12 3 10 30 21 13 11 3 3 5 1 1 3 21 7 5 6 2 0 6 2 0 7 10 2 1 3 1 2 0 3 1 1 5 1 2 9 5 1 5 2 0 1 16 10 2 28 8 1 22 3 5 8 51 19 8 2 0 2 0 0 2 1 3 1 1 26 6 5 21 7 4 11 52 13 10 341 117 66 223 96 46 130 560 201 105 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 4 3 3 2 0 0 1 9 4 4 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 6 0 0 3 1 1 5 3 0 11 4 0 12 4 1 6 15 7 2 0 2 0 0 0 1 0 3 2 0 3 2 0 1 0 0 1 5 8 0 7 2 2 3 3 2 2 19 3 4 11 6 2 12 4 2 6 25 15 3 21 18 2 18 8 1 8 33 25 3 12 2 3 12 0 0 4 25 5 4 2 1 1 1 1 0 1 4 1 1 1 3 0 3 2 0 0 3 5 1 14 13 11 10 15 6 9 18 20 13 7 5 1 6 3 2 1 10 9 2 3 1 0 1 4 0 0 5 4 0 0 4 0 1 3 0 1 1 3 0 3 2 2 4 1 0 1 11 3 4 11 6 3 8 0 2 2 20 13 6 3 1 0 1 1 0 1 3 1 0 10 8 1 14 9 2 8 15 12 3 126 89 31 111 61 20 53 230 144 50 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 3 0 0 4 0 0 0 5 3 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 1 0 10 2 1 8 4 0 3 15 4 2 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 5 0 0 3 0 0 1 8 2 1 7 1 0 4 1 0 2 14 1 0 15 3 1 9 2 0 3 30 6 3 19 5 3 19 5 0 6 32 11 4 6 3 0 1 3 0 0 18 4 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 1 5 1 5 3 1 3 4 6 0 17 6 2 12 7 3 12 29 11 2 20 6 0 8 4 1 4 30 6 1 6 0 0 4 0 0 2 4 0 0 4 1 2 3 2 1 2 3 2 2 3 1 0 2 3 0 1 5 5 0 15 4 0 6 0 0 1 24 7 1 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 18 11 0 11 10 0 14 37 14 0 154 51 10 103 46 6 54 263 87 16 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 0 12 10 1 2 0 0 1 8 13 1 2 1 0 3 2 0 1 2 2 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 3 7 0 5 0 2 1 8 14 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 2 1 2 3 1 0 1 1 1 3 4 1 3 5 1 5 3 1 2 8 8 4 19 11 4 6 7 2 4 21 23 3 32 24 1 11 11 2 6 38 73 0 12 12 0 7 5 4 5 24 19 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 17 22 0 11 10 7 0 26 41 0 5 10 0 7 9 2 4 9 25 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 5 9 7 1 8 5 2 7 14 9 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 2 1 0 21 14 0 11 6 1 5 49 19 19 140 132 9 78 59 24 40 221 261 GRAND TOTAL: 640 397 239 446 281 131 261 1,093 653 432 C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C A All Groups B C Seafarers LOG 15 �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 Kate Hunt, 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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by Seafarers in Piney Point, Maryland. Question: What are your plans for the New Year? Casey Pearson Chief Cook My goal for this year is to get my A-book, then apply for colleges. I’ll also be applying for the (SHBP) scholarship, which will help me pay for whatever college I enroll at. I’m also planning on moving this year, and on top of all that, I’m getting married! Devon Pullins OS My plan is to sail as much as I can, so I can save up to start my own business. This job is really secure, and I love what I do, but I’m trying to be my own boss as soon as I can.. Jack Boscia Chief Cook Get my schooling done, then get back to work on board a ship. Later in the year, I’m coming back to Piney Point to upgrade my skills and become a chief steward. Nathaniel Hunter GUDE I’m going to keep on upgrading by taking classes here at the Paul Hall Center. My goal is to become an AB next, then continue on up as far as I can go. I’m SIU for the long haul. Eddie Solichin Junior Engineer Finish my studies, and then switch over to working on tankers. I’ve never sailed on one before, and I’m excited to take on the new challenges that type of ship brings. Brittany Steward Chief Cook Education-wise, I’m going to keep coming back to Piney Point and keep upgrading my skills. Being around the trainees is very inspirational, and brings back memories – Class 826! 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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 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 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 Pics From The Past For the second month in a row, retired Bosun John Gallagher is sharing photos from the 1940s. Pictured at anchor in the Persian Gulf is the T2 tanker SS Stony Creek. The bosun is standing at far left in the inset, with SIU shipmates. The vessel was one of approximately 500 such tankers built for the U.S. during World War II. PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (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 February 2019 �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 AHMED AHMED Brother Ahmed Ahmed, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1981, initially working aboard the Connecticut. He upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1997 and sailed in all three departments. Brother Ahmed concluded his career aboard the Overseas Houston. He makes his home in Dearborn, Michigan. TRACY AUSTIN Brother Tracy Austin, 69, began his career with the Seafarers in 2002, first sailing on the John U.D. Page. He upgraded at the Piney Point school the same year, and shipped as a deck department member. Brother Austin most recently sailed on USNS Bowditch. He calls Hatteras, North Carolina, home. LOUIS BROOMFIELD Brother Louis Broomfield, 65, joined the SIU in 1969, initially sailing on the Columbia Owl. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center within his first year and shipped in all three departments. Brother Broomfield last sailed aboard the Ogden Traveler and resides in New Orleans. DAVID CASTRO Brother David Castro, 67, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1989, first sailing aboard the USNS Algol. He worked in the engine department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Castro last sailed on the USNS Fisher. He settled in Borrego Springs, California. ROGER CLEGG Brother Roger Clegg, 68, joined the SIU in 2005 when he sailed on the Pride of Aloha. An engine department member, he upgraded his skills in 2017 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Clegg most recently sailed on the Pride of America. He makes his home in Honolulu. February 2019 KEVIN COOPER Brother Kevin Cooper, 66, joined the union in 1971. His first vessel was the Bienville. Brother Cooper sailed in the engine department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. He last sailed on the Safmarine Nimba and resides in Jefferson Township, Pennsylvania. with Crowley Puerto Rico. He upgraded at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in 2001 and concluded his career working on the Endurance. Brother Mottley is a resident of San Juan, Puerto Rico. VLADIMIR NITRIANSKY Brother Michael Earhart, 65, began his SIU career in 1990. He initially sailed on the Independence and worked in the deck department. Brother Earhart upgraded on multiple occasions at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. He most recently shipped on the Pacific Collector and resides in Merlin, Oregon. Brother Vladimir Nitriansky, 73, signed on with the Seafarers in 2000 when he shipped aboard the American Merlin. Brother Nitriansky was a deck department member and last sailed on the Patriot. He calls Theodore, Alabama, home. DESTA GEBRAI BENNY OROSCO MICHAEL EARHART Brother Desta Gebrai, 66, donned the SIU colors in 1993 when he sailed aboard the Independence. He worked in both the deck and steward departments and last sailed on the Yorktown Express. Brother Gebrai makes his home in Tacoma, Washington. TIMOTHY GIRARD Brother Timothy Girard, 65, signed on with the union in 1991, initially sailing on the Constellation. He was a deck department member and upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Girard most recently sailed aboard the Maersk Idaho. He resides in Point Pleasant, New Jersey. SYED MEHDI Brother Syed Mehdi, 65, joined the SIU in 1996 and initially sailed on the American Cormorant. A deck department member, he upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Mehdi last shipped aboard the Maersk Montana. He makes his home in Brooklyn, New York. KENNETH MOTTLEY Brother Kenneth Mottley, 80, became an SIU in 1994. A deck department member, he sailed in both the inland and deep-sea divisions. Brother Mottley was first employed Brother Benny Orosco, 62, joined the SIU in 1989. His first vessel was the Independence. Brother Orosco worked in both the steward and engine departments. He upgraded on multiple occasions at the maritime training center located in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Orosco most recently sailed on the Horizon Enterprise. He makes his home in Honolulu. JAMES ROBAK Brother James Robak, 67, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1970. A deck department member, he first sailed aboard the Fort Hoskins. Brother Robak’s last vessel was the Transcolorado. He lives in Margate, Florida. JANUSZ SMOLIK Brother Janusz Smolik, 65, joined the union in 1992, first sailing aboard the Independence. He sailed in all three departments and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Smolik most recently sailed on the Maersk Iowa. He resides in Poland. MAHMOOD TAHIR Brother Mahmood Tahir, 66, signed on with the SIU in 1991. A member of the deck department, he initially sailed aboard the USNS Vindicator. Brother Tahir shipped in both the inland and deep-sea divisions. He upgraded in 1992 at the Paul Hall Center and concluded his career aboard the Tyco Decisive. Brother Tahir is a resident of Stamford, Connecticut. INLAND ROBERT CARROLL Brother Robert Carroll, 62, became a union member in 1995. He first shipped with Penn Maritime and worked in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Carroll upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. He last sailed aboard the Pacific Reliance and makes his home in St. Augustine, Florida. ROBERT EASTWOOD Brother Robert Eastwood, 58, donned the SIU colors in 1989, initially working with Steuart Transportation. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Eastwood was most recently employed by Crowley Towing and Transportation. He resides in Palatka, Florida. EMMANUEL ELIADIS Brother Emmanuel Eliadis, 65, started shipping with the SIU in 1978 when he worked for G&H Towing. A deck department member, he upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Eliadias last worked for Interstate Oil. He is a resident of Essex, Maryland. JOHN GATES Brother John Gates, 57, began his career with the Seafarers in 1991. Initially sailing in the deep-sea division, his first vessel was the Cape Charles. Brother Gates was a deck department member and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. He was primarily employed with Crowley Towing and Transportation and lives in League City, Texas. ALFREDO GONZALEZ Brother Alfredo Gonzalez, 62, joined the union in 1981 when he shipped with Crowley Puerto Rico. He sailed in both the engine and deck departments. Brother Gon- zalez upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center and remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He makes his home in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. PAUL HART Brother Paul Hart, 60, signed on with the SIU in 1996, after he worked as a member of the Seafarers-affiliated United Industrial Workers. He was employed by Crowley for the duration of his SIU career. Brother Hart Resides in Upper Chichester, Pennsylvania. JEFFERY JOHNS Brother Jeffery Johns, 59, donned the SIU colors in 1992. He was first employed with Penn Maritime and sailed in the deck department. Brother Johns upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. He remained with the same company for his entire career and resides in Cortland, Ohio. STEVE PALMER Brother Steve Palmer, 65, began his SIU career in 1977, initially sailing in the deep-sea division. He was originally employed with Mt Vernon Tankers and worked in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Palmer upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. He concluded his career working with Mariner Towing and settled in Keystone Heights, Florida. NED TELLER Brother Ned Teller, 63, joined the Seafarers in 1974 when he worked for G&H Towing. A deck department member, he upgraded in 1980 at the Piney Point school. Brother Teller last worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation. He calls Port Aransas, Texas, home. JOHN WILLETTE Brother John Willette, 68, started shipping with the SIU in 1994. He first sailed on Port Imperial Ferry’s George Washington. Brother Willette was a member of the deck department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. He was employed with the same company for his entire career and lives in the Philippines. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA VELONDER ALFORD Chicago Trader and retired in 1994. He resided in Rochester, Minnesota. Pensioner Velonder Alford, 76, died November 6. Born in Ardmore, Oklahoma, she embarked on her SIU career in 2001 and initially sailed on the Kauai. A steward department member, Sister Alford last sailed aboard the John Paul Bobo. She went on pension in 2008 and was a resident of Spanaway, Washington. VINCENT FLORES WILFREDO ANGALA ROMALIES JONES Brother Wilfredo Angala, 54, passed away September 23. He became an SIU member in 2006 and first sailed on the Pride of Aloha. Brother Angala was a deck department member and most recently sailed on the Green Cove. He resided in Salinas, California. Pensioner Romalies Jones, 63, died December 25. He joined the union in 1986 and first sailed aboard the USNS Regulus. Brother Jones was a steward department member and most recently shipped aboard the National Glory. He began collecting his pension in 2017 and made his home in Avondale, Louisiana. ANDREW AUSTIN Brother Andrew Austin, 62, died March 20. He joined the union in 1979 when he shipped on the Cove Trader. Brother Austin was a member of the steward department. His last ship was the USNS Regulus, and he lived in Philadelphia. ARNALDO AVILA Brother Arnaldo Avila, 66, passed away October 6. He began shipping with the Seafarers in 1993 and initially sailed aboard the Robert E. Lee. Brother Avila was a deck department member and last shipped aboard the Liberty Glory. He lived in his hometown of New Orleans. CLIFTON BLAKE Pensioner Clifton Blake, 91, died November 16. He started his SIU career in 1966, initially shipping aboard the Van Venture. A deck department member, Brother Blake last sailed on the Santa Elena. He began collecting his pension in 1985 and settled in Baltimore. ABAD CALERO Pensioner Abad Calero, 78, passed away November 20. He joined the union in 1972 and first worked for Delta Lines. Brother Calero sailed in all three departments and last shipped on the Crusader. He retired in 2002 and called Isabela, Puerto Rico, home. ARTHUR DEPUY Pensioner Arthur Depuy, 89, died November 21. He donned the SIU colors in 1967, initially sailing aboard the Penmar. Brother Depuy briefly sailed in the inland division. The engine department member last shipped on the 18 Seafarers LOG Pensioner Vincent Flores, 67, passed away December 17. He embarked on his SIU career in 1982 and initially shipped on the Lurline. Brother Flores sailed in all three departments and also worked on shore gangs. He became a pensioner in 2003. Brother Flores was a resident of Oakley, California. MELVIN KERNS Pensioner Melvin Kerns, 70, passed away December 10. He donned the SIU colors in 1993 and first sailed aboard the USNS Regulus. A member of the engine department, Brother Kerns last worked on the Maersk Tennessee. He retired in 2010 and resided in Bogalusa, Louisiana. DONALD MELONSON Pensioner Donald Melonson, 72, died December 21. He became an SIU member in 2001 and first sailed on the Chemical Pioneer. A member of the deck department, Brother Melonson also concluded his sailing career aboard the same ship. He retired in 2013 and made his home in Houston. member of the SIU in 1951. Brother Mullis was a deck department member and concluded his career aboard the Ambassador. He went on pension in 1993 and resided in Mobile, Alabama. BOBBY SPENCER Pensioner Bobby Spencer, 81, passed away November 27. He began sailing with the SIU in 1961. Brother Spencer’s first vessel was the Madaket; his last, the Independence. The engine department member retired in 1998. He called Westminster, South Carolina, home. ALFRED TAMPOL Pensioner Alfred Tampol, 90, died November 22. He joined the union in 1945 and first sailed aboard the Steel Director. Brother Tampol was an engine department member and also worked on shore gangs, most recently in Elizabeth, New Jersey. He retired in 1994 and lived in New Milford, New Jersey. EDWARD TOMAS Pensioner Edward Tomas, 93, passed away November 14. He signed on with the SIU in 1991 when he shipped on the Independence. Brother Tomas worked in both the deck and steward departments, sailing last on the Horizon Enterprise. He began collecting his pension in 1999 and settled in Waipahu, Hawaii. DANNIE TRUSS Pensioner Dannie Truss, 68, died November 24. He embarked on his SIU career in 1978 when he shipped on the Economy. A deck department member, Brother Truss’s final vessel was the William R. Button. He became a pensioner in 2018 and lived in Thailand. W. Darnell. Brother Smith retired in 2015 and called Plymouth, North Carolina, home. RONALD WILLIAMS Pensioner Ronald Williams, 60, passed away November 19. He became an SIU member in 1978, initially sailing aboard the Allegiance. Brother Williams sailed in the engine department, most recently on the El Yunque. He retired in 2014 and called Jacksonville, Florida, home. GREAT LAKES GREGORY VLIEK Pensioner Gregory Vliek, 68, died November 29. He started his career with the SIU in 1970 when he shipped on the G. Steinbrenner. Brother Vliek also sailed in the deep-sea division and worked in both the deck and engine departments. His final vessel was the Detroit Princess before retiring in 2015. Brother Vliek made his home in Ashtabula, Ohio. INLAND WILLIAM RICHARDSON Brother William Richardson, 49, passed away December 5. Born in Pittsburgh, he signed on with the SIU in 2007, working for Harley Marine New York. Brother Richardson worked in both the deck and engine departments and was employed with the same company for the duration of his career. He was a resident of Centerville, Pennsylvania. MELBOURNE SMITH Pensioner Melbourne Smith, 67, died November 23. He started shipping with the Seafarers in 1989 when he worked for Express Marine. Brother Smith sailed in both the steward and deck departments. He last worked in the deep-sea division, sailing briefly aboard the Gus NMU PAUL BORG Pensioner Paul Borg, 78, passed away November 14. He was an NMU member before the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. Brother Borg was a deck department member and last sailed aboard the Admiral William Callaghan. He began collecting his pension in 2006 and was a resident of Bend, Oregon. JOSEPH GALLANT Pensioner Joseph Gallant, 87, died November 24. Brother Gallant was born in Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts, and became a pensioner in 1972. He continued to reside in his home state in the city of New Bedford. FRANCISCO ROSALES Pensioner Francisco Rosales, 80, passed away December 1. He was born in Texas and began collecting his pension in 1998. Brother Rosales resided in Goleta, California. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. Name Bonilla, Luis Furman, Jannet Graham, Eddie Harrison, Clyde Holmes, L Johnson, Alonzo Mercado, E Moore, Francis Ramirez, Roberto Rivers, Hafford Schwold, Elmer Age DOD 94 75 85 90 94 91 94 97 82 77 89 11/27/2018 12/08/2018 11/17/2018 12/03/2018 12/15/2018 11/25/2018 12/23/2018 11/30/2018 11/25/2018 10/01/2018 12/04/2018 Aboard Jean Anne HAROLD MONPLAISIR Pensioner Harold Monplaisir, 95, passed away November 14. He signed on with the union in 1959 and first sailed on the Santa Mariana. Brother Monplaisir was a steward department member and last sailed aboard the Adventurer in 1985. He retired the following year and settled in Katy, Texas. JOHN MULLIS Pensioner John Mullis, 88, died December 14. Initially working for Waterman Steamship Corporation, he became a Steward department members aboard the Pasha ship went all out for the Christmas and New Year’s meals. Be sure to visit the SIU Facebook page for additional photos and menu details. Meanwhile, thanks to Chief Cook Sheilla Punzalan for the photos – and for the record, that’s sparkling apple cider in the bottles in this New Year’s photo. February 2019 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings MAGNOLIA STATE (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning), October 12 – Chairman Adel Ahmed, Secretary Maili Wang, Educational Director Eddie Pittman, Deck Delegate Ryan Boltz, Steward Delegate Tracey Newsome. Chairman discussed upcoming federal elections and reminded crew to be sure documents are up to date. Members requested fresh produce be supplied bi-weekly. Crew waiting on Wi-Fi connection for computer in crew lounge and DVR availability in all staterooms. Members requested change in vacation benefits and relief schedules. Crew would like more visits from union representative. ENDURANCE (TOTE), October 14 – Chairman Yamira Colon, Secretary Robert Davis, Deck Delegate Derek Melvin, Engine Delegate Robert Thomas, Steward Delegate Sheilla Punzalan. Beefs reported for unpaid compensation for trash handling and unpaid OT for washing linen. Chairman asked for suggestions regarding use of ship fund. He reminded crew to properly measure soap for washer and to clean up spills immediately. Members were informed of possible delays for relief. Cleanest room recognition won by Derek Melvin. Crew read three incident reports. New material posted in crew lounge. Educational director recommended members upgrade at Paul Hall Center as soon as possible. He reminded everyone to check dates on all documents. Crew went over latest issue of the LOG and read itinerary for the next trip. Use of ear plugs and other hearing protection 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. advised for loud work environment. Members were encouraged to donate to SPAD. Steward and deck departments were commended for good work. LIBERTY PROMISE (Liberty Maritime), October 15 – Chairman Stig Sasse, Secretary Lissette Ramirez, Deck Delegate Lloyd La Beach, Engine Delegate Brandon Webb, Steward Delegate John Noel. Secretary encouraged members to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center and keep documents current. Crew requested two-course meals be served. Steward department presented members with company menu and went over food portioning. HORIZON RELIANCE (Sunrise Operations), October 20 – Chairman Kissinfor Taylor, Secretary Mark Cabasag, Educational Director Mark Campbell, Deck Delegate Jesse Sunga, Engine Delegate Cameron Newberry, Steward Delegate Teresito Reyes. Chairman discussed length of trip and right to sail. Secretary directed members to change linen every Wednesday. He advised crew to be mindful of document expiration dates, pay dues on time and contribute to SPAD. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade at Piney Point. Members requested Wi-Fi. NORTH STAR (TOTE), October 21 – Chairman Tar Ahmed, Secretary Mohamed Shibly. Chairman read president’s report from LOG. He reminded crew to be safe and stay warm in Alaska. Steward department asked mem- bers to use rugs to wipe their feet and clean up spills to prevent accidents. Educational director encouraged crew to upgrade often at Piney Point. He advised everyone to keep paperwork up to date and directed members to the SIU portal to keep track of paperwork expiration dates. Educational director reminded crew to empty pockets before washing clothing. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for good food. NATIONAL GLORY (Crowley), October 28 – Chairman Joseph White, Educational Director Oswald Bermeo, Steward Delegate Jesus Pacheco. Microwave still needed in crew lounge. Chairman thanked crew for keeping common areas clean and being quiet while other members sleep. He went over his discussion with port engineer regarding inadequate a/c and drain clog issues in galley. Vote of thanks for the steward department for a job well done. Chairman advised members to add up OT hours before payoff. Members were asked to refrain from deleting movies on computer hard drive. Educational director recommended members upgrade their skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next Port: San Juan, Puerto Rico. OVERSEAS LONG BEACH (Overseas Ship Management), October 28 – Chairman David Martinez, Educational Director Edgardo Barrios, Deck Delegate Basil McMillan, Engine Delegate Stanley Bailey, Steward Delegate Latosha Love. Chairman sent request to captain for Wi-Fi booster. Members went over president’s report from October LOG. Chairman urged crew to vote for candidates that support the Jones Act. Members were encouraged to donate to SPAD and to join Seafarers 401k program. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked steward department to serve all members the same as officers. As of November 9, their request was addressed and resolved. GREEN COVE (Central Gulf Lines), October 28 – Chairman Peter Hokenson, Secretary Robert Bostick. New linen, blankets and pillows on ship. Chairman emphasized importance of safety. Crew was reminded to keep drapes closed and to place garbage in dumpsters. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members discussed importance of the Jones Act. They requested new pay raises and one-hour sanitation pay for rooms. Crew praised the steward department for a job well done. SEABULK ARCTIC (Seabulk Tankers), October 28 – Chairman John Cedeno, Secretary Rafael Cardenas, Educational Director Brian Jackson, Deck Delegate Cristopher Sanchez, Engine Delegate Greg Alvarez, Steward Delegate Ma Marilynda Nance. New Wi-Fi router and board games available on ship. Chairman reminded everyone to be considerate of sleeping members and to stay hydrated. He encouraged crew to vote and to participate in the 401k program as well as donate to SPAD. He also discussed new design of TWIC cards. Secretary reiterated importance of cleaning lint trap in dryers. He asked members to keep hands off bulkheads in ladder wall to avoid greasy smudges. Crew went over reimbursement procedures. Bridge watch responsible to ensure sanitary duties occur daily. No beefs or dispute OT reported. Members were instructed to use additional bags for cardboard trash in garbage room. Crew was advised to return tools to original location upon each use. New mattresses needed on ship. Members would like the following to be implemented: missing man wages, trash handling wages, weekly room sanitary wages to replace day off wages and an increase in monthly vacation days. Crew enjoyed pizza and wings on behalf of company representative, allowing steward department an evening off. Next Port: Lake Charles, Louisiana. AMERICAN PRIDE (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning), November 6 – Chairman Felsher Beasley, Secretary Danny Brown, Educational Director Nicholas Panagakos, Deck Delegate Selcuk Ozdencanli, Engine Delegate Marcus Brown, Steward Delegate George Burgos. Everything going well on ship. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman mentioned increase in new jobs due to newly built ships. Safe transit to gate in Tampa. Next Port: Beaumont, Texas. 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 February 2019 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 19 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 June 29 July 5 Storekeeper Courses MSC Storekeeper Basic April 13 Deck Department Upgrading Courses RFPNW March 30 April 26 May 25 June 21 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers Gap Closing Courses Leadership & Managerial Skills Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion MSC Supply Configuration Management February 23 March 22 May 4 May 31 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck March 2 March 29 April 27 May 24 AB to Mate Modules Modules must be taken in order. Those who are not in the mates program cannot apply for these courses. Contact the Admissions Office for further details. May 31 BAPO March 30 April 26 May 25 June 21 Engineroom Resource Management May 3 May 18 June 22 June 28 FOWT March 2 March 29 Junior Engineer March 16 May 10 Marine Electrician May 18 July 12 Marine Refer Tech March 9 April 19 MEECE June 1 June 14 Welding February 16 March 8 Steward Department Courses Advanced Shiphandling May 11 May 24 Advanced Galley Ops March 30 April 26 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start February 18. Advanced Stability April 27 May 3 Chief Steward April 27 June 14 ARPA March 9 March 15 April 27 May 3 Galley Operations March 30 April 26 Advanced Meteorology May 4 May 10 Crane Familiarization April 6 April 12 ECDIS April 13 April 19 Fast Rescue Boat June 1 June 7 GMDSS July 20 August 2 Lifeboat March 9 March 22 April 6 April 19 May 4 May 17 June 1 June 14 June 29 July 12 July 27 August 9 Radar Observer February 23 March 8 April 13 April 26 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW March 30 April 26 May 25 June 21 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 # and dates attended___________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 March 9 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 February 23 Safety Upgrading Courses March 15 March 8 Basic Training/Basic FF February 23 March 1 April 6 April 12 Basic Training Revalidation February 22 February 22 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation March 30 April 5 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting March 2 March 8 April 13 April 19 Government Vessels February 16 February 22 Medical Care Provider February 23 March 1 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL February 16 February 22 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG March 30 April 5 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, 45353 St. George Ave., Piney Point, MD 20674; 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, or 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. 2/19 February 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #843 – Graduated November 11 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Freeman Adamson, Brianna Ashley, Jacob Booth, Taylor Hall, Yu-Jin Arthur Hendricks-Matsuda, Kalae-Mitchal K. Huihui, Benita Arta Margaronis, Robert Mason III, Johnny Matthews III, Michael Pena, Cyrus Silen, Christopher Solomon, Daryl Thomas Jr., Jonathan Torres, Paul Valiente, Marcelo Corbillon Villareal, Kamaul Wells and J’corei Williams. Important Notice To All 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. Water Survival Upgraders – Graduated November 20 (above, from left): Christopher Perry and Zoe Felton. Welding – Graduated September 7 (above, in alphabetical order): Christian Bryant, Darrin Cobb, Ricardo Fuentes, Martin McDonald and Kyle Williamson. Their instructor, Chris Raley, is at the far right. Fast Rescue Boat – Graduated September 14: Joseph Mesyna (above, center) and Paul Andrea (right). Thomas Truitt, their instructor, is at the far left. Pumpman – Graduated September 28 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Latiffe Brooks, Jonathan Collier, David Garrett, Antonio Griffin, Timothy Hetz, Ronilo Rublica Monares and Gajatri Normatova. Class instructor Keith Adamsom is at the far right. UA to FOWT – Graduated September 7 (above, in alphabetical order): Maurice Backey, George Beaufils, Shawn James Diaz Benosa, Adam Brundage, Ashley Burke, Julian Mariano Drago, Samuel Fagerness, Tony Hamaguchi, Jeffrey Hamer, Christopher Hinton, Paul Hudgins, Jared Johnson, James London, Ethan Love, Tyriq Mills, Dave Paler, Dontrell Riddick, DeRoyce Roquemore, Lorenza Session, Isaiah Thomas, Stephen Venditti, Derrick Walker II and Renita Walker. Class instructor John Wiegman III is at the far right. February 2019 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting – Graduated September 21 (above, in alphabetical order): James Baldwin, Chantell Dawson, Earl Dimmick, Roy Cuenza Enriquez, Marc Goodman, Chris Linsley, David Miller, Peter Morrison Jr., Earl Stickell II and Eddie Thomas Sr. John Thomas, their instructor, is at the far right. Medical Care Provider – Graduated September 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Jeremy Boyd, Chantell Dawson, Earl Dimmick, Roy Cuenza Enriquez and David Miller. John Thomas, the class instructor, is at the far left. MSC Supply Configuration Management – Graduated September 7 (above, in alphabetical order): Julian Beasley, Phillip Best, Rocky Dupraw, Joseph Hernandez, Christina Price and Shaun Wood. Instructors Zak Schaver and Matthew Rogers are at the far left and far right, respectively. Small Arms – Graduated September 28 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Lindsey Austin, Joseph Bowen and Russell Horton. Instructors John Thomas and Matthew Rogers are at the far left and far right, respectively. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting Upgraders) – Graduated September 28 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Chris Ceyzyk, Justin Chaney, Robert Cunningham, Ronaldo Adriano Fermin, James Kelly Jr., Susana McIntosh, Karl Meyer, Christopher Poff, Fitzgeraldo Casayurab, Ma Corazon Bolalin Rebancos, Dustin Schaaf and Carlos Edgardo Suazo. Joseph Zienda, their instructor, is at the far right. 22 Seafarers LOG February 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes SUA (Galley Ops) – Graduated September 7 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Carlos Arjune, Adam Bechtold, Billy Burgos-Burgos, Esperanza Crespo-Guillen, Caprice Howard, Derick Yanier MoralesBerly, Kenisha Neal, Nathalie Reyes-Ortiz, Derrick Turner, Carlton Williams and Unique M’stati Wood. Advanced Galley Ops – Graduated September 21 (above, in alphabetical order): Jasmine Garrett, Mary Maddox, Tania Ramirez-Diego, Derrick Williams and Craig Wooten. Galley Ops – Graduated September 7 (above, from left): Angel Manuel Berrios Jr. and Kevin Collins. Also graduating, but not pictured, was James Kingsley. Certified Chief Cook – Graduated September 7 (above, from left): Johathan Perez Borroto Sanchez and Bob Tuilaepa. Galley Ops – Graduated September 7 (above, in alphabetical order): Tomas Gabriel BernardezMartinez, Carlos Colon De Jesus, Alexander Emrick and Travis Rogers. Chief Steward – Graduated September 21 (above, in alphabetical order): James Kelly Jr., Richard Paulson, Edward Porter, Exxl Ronquillo and Rose Ward. February 2019 Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated September 28 (above, from left): Lamont Faulks, Eileen Mendiola and Gregory Keene. Seafarers LOG 23 �FEBRUARY 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 2 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O SIU members generously donated to the annual toy drive. ‘People Look Forward to it Every Year’ SIU Enthusiastically Backs Military Families; Annual Santa’s Castle Project Successful Again Holiday traditions may vary from home to home, but for 12 straight years, Seafarers in the Pacific Northwest have shared an especially meaningful one. Specifically, the SIU has participated in Santa’s Castle, a holiday toy drive benefiting U.S. military families (mostly E-4 and below) from Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM), Washington, as well as other bases. The union also hosts a related luncheon at the hiring hall in Tacoma, Washington, featuring guests from the Army and from the organization that runs Santa’s Castle. During the recent winter holiday season, SIU members – joined by generous executives from Seafarers-contracted companies – donated approximately $10,000 worth of gifts. The goodies included bicycles, smart watches, gaming headsets, sporting goods, American Girl dolls and much more. Teaming up with the members and making their own respective donations were Lee Egland of Crowley, Melissa Serridge on behalf of TOTE, and Dan Morrison of Harley Marine. SIU Port Agent Joe Vincenzo has led the union’s work with Santa’s Castle, which is the name of both the operation and the non-profit organization. An all-volunteer program founded in 1994, Santa’s Castle benefits the children of Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, National Guard and Reserve families (normally lower enlisted pay grades). During remarks at the luncheon on Dec. 13, Vincenzo – an Army veteran – emphasized the important, respectful connections between the U.S. Merchant Marine and the armed forces. “A lot of our work is on military support ships, and many SIU members are veterans, so we welcome this yearly chance to give back to our war fighters, peace keepers and our partners with respect to national, economic and homeland security,” Vincenzo said. “The relationship between the U.S. Military and the U.S. Merchant Marine dates back to the founding days of our country, and it’s a longstanding tradition of which we can all be proud.” Heartfelt comments from SIU members who donated to the 2018 toy drive left no doubt about their genuine enthusiasm for the yearly endeavor. “I think it’s really great,” said Recertified Steward Dennis Skretta, a Navy veteran who helped serve food at the luncheon and who has donated to the program every year. “It’s a very good thing and everybody seems to appreciate it. Seeing the military Among those pictured are Seafarers Richard Goings, Michael Bell, Obaid Ali, William Cassel, William Britton, Dahiya Mahmoud, Basheer Ghazali, Mohamed Alghazali, Sanjay Gupta, Wilma Joy Smith and Efren Isberto. personnel at the Christmas party is always something to look forward to, and the donations are going to kids that need them.” Chief Cook Ingra Maddox said the most recent Santa’s Castle outreach “went well. Our family is military and I thought it would be something nice to do, kind of say thanks. Our soldiers Continued on Page 8 Seafarers have donated to Santa’s Castle for 12 straight years. Pictured above are some of the gifts that were given in 2018. � 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 2019 Description An account of the resource Headlines: SIU WELCOMES NEW JOBS ABOARD TAINO TACOMA SEAFARERS ANSWER CALL AGAIN SIU LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE, LOG DATABASE CREW OF CROWLEY-OPERATED WRIGHT HONORED OSG ANNOUNCES 10-YEAR CHARTER OF JONES ACT TANKER MV GREEN LAKE RESCUES 7 IN DEADLY CAR CARRIER FIRE NY WATERWAY CREW HELPS SAVE A LIFE HOUSE BILL AIMS TO HONOR WWII MARINERS NMC ISSUES MITIGATION UPDATE ON GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN SEAFARERS CELEBRATE HOLIDAYS AT HALLS USNS VICTORIOUS MARINERS HELP ORPHANS IN PHILIPPINES COMBATING THE COMMON COLD WITH SEAFARERS ON THE GREAT LAKES TAX TIPS FOR MEMBERS SIU ENTHUSIASTICALLY BACKS MILITARY FAMILIES; ANNUAL SANTA'S CASTLE PROJECT SUCCESSFUL AGAIN 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 2/1/2019 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. 81, No. 2 2019 Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/2c68519c294cf8121ba9eaf5773cf550.pdf b1e9b4d67de1bd6bb7c039d0ce758ac0 PDF Text Text JANUARY 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 1 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Matson’s Inouye Enters Service SIU members are sailing aboard the new Matson containership Daniel K. Inouye, pictured at left and immediately below Nov. 28 on its maiden voyage to Honolulu. The 850-foot-long vessel, built by union workers at Philly Shipyard, is named in memory of the late U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye, a lifelong supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine (and honorary SIU book holder). The Inouye, which has a top speed greater than 23 knots, is the first of four new ships being constructed for Matson that will be introduced during the next two years. Photos by Tim Rue for Matson. Thanksgiving Tradition Thriving The SIU in late November conducted its traditional Thanksgiving luncheon in Oakland, California, and the 28th annual event proved typically successful. Pictured at right are Seafarers and members of the 4th Marine Division, 23rd Regiment Color Guard. Pictured below (from left) are SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone, U.S. Rep. John Garamendi and SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona. Other guests included additional U.S. Congressional representatives, SIU pensioners and their families, members and officials from other unions, shipping company executives and more. Page 7. MSC Praises Mariners Page 2 USNS Puerto Rico Christened Page 4 Scholarship Info Page 10 �President’s Report Many Accomplishments in 2018 In taking one last look back at 2018 before we dive into the New Year, our union has much to be proud of. We welcomed new ships into the SIU-contracted fleet. We secured new and improved benefits, along with industry-leading contracts. We opened a new hiring hall in Puerto Rico, and we also helped our affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, remain on the cutting edge of maritime training. We also did our part in the constant battle to maintain the laws and programs that keep the U.S. Merchant Marine afloat. These of course include the U.S. Maritime Security program, cargo preference laws, and the Jones Act. In 2018, I probably devoted more space to the Jones Act in my monthly LOG columns than any other topic, and that may be the case again this year as we continue standing up for an indispensable law. Last year included a noteworthy political win in Missouri, where rank-and-file Seafarers helped Michael Sacco defeat a so-called “right to work” provision that harmed working families. And of course, on Election Day, the SIU backed a large number of winning candidates at every level of government – as always, from both political parties – who will support our industry and our issues. I prefer to spend time planning ahead for a bright future rather than reflecting on the past, but I also think it’s important not to take our success for granted. Year after year, we’re able to report on new jobs, good contracts, and an affiliated school that’s second to none. We’ve regularly upgraded the hiring halls, too. None of it happens by accident. Everyone shares in the credit: rank-and-file members, union and school staff, and members of my administration. We may not go undefeated, but we’ve got each other’s backs and we’re a winning team. As we start a new calendar, I thank the membership for your support, and I guarantee you we won’t take any shortcuts in 2019 when it comes to protecting your jobs (or any shortcuts at all, period). That’s at the heart of everything we do as an organization. And it just so happens that SIU jobs support U.S. national, economic and homeland security. If we needed any more motivation to go to bat every day for the U.S. Merchant Marine, there it is. Looking Ahead For the labor movement, last year’s Supreme Court ruling in the Janus case can be crippling if we let it, but the early responses from union reps and members alike are encouraging. If you never read about the case in detail, the short version is that public-sector employees in departments that already enjoy union representation must now opt into the bargaining unit, rather than opt out. But this is an opportunity for labor to return to our roots, to re-educate members and non-members alike about why unions are so vital, and about why everyone comes out ahead when workers truly have a voice. This will involve lots of work moving forward, but I know the movement is up to the task. Last but not least – yes, I’m going to mention the Jones Act again. We’re up against a long-term, well-financed campaign that’s just the latest attack on domestic shipping and U.S. mariners. We’ll ask for your help in contacting your senators and representatives from time to time, and we’ll never make those requests lightly. Where maritime labor has the advantage in this struggle is through grassroots efforts and our ability to put boots on the ground, so to speak. We’re going to be working with the port councils of the Maritime Trades Department on this front, too, and I’m confident about the results. O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 81 Number 1 January 2019 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org MSC Commander: ‘Mariners Will Be There!’ Admiral Mewbourne Praises U.S. Merchant Marine’s Reliability, Bravery The commanding officer of the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) recently voiced a strong vote of confidence in the dependability of U.S. Merchant Mariners. Rear Adm. Dew Mewbourne, posting Nov. 1 on his “Commander’s Blog,” said, “In some war planning room right now, there is a potential adversary weighing their odds of victory in a fight against the United States. The one factor they will grossly underestimate is the courage of the U.S. Mariner.” The entire post follows and is reprinted with permission: “As dawn broke over Machias Bay, Maine, on June 12, 1775, 32 men, armed with guns, swords, axes and pitchforks and led by a revolutionary firebrand named Jeremiah O’Brien, brought their commandeered sloop, Unity, quietly around the lee side of Round Island. “Their target, the British armed schooner Margaretta, immediately attempted to fire on the unarmed Unity, but Unity was too close. O’Brien commanded his crew to ram the British ship, boarding and engaging in handto-hand combat. By the end of an hour, the British captain was mortally wounded, and the British ship had surrendered. “O’Brien and the Unity crew claimed four six-pound guns, 20 swivel guns, muskets, pistols, and hand-grenades. Unity had become a warship for the soonto-be proclaimed United States of America in this, considered to be the first, sea engagement of the Revolutionary War. “It was the beginning of American Merchant Mariner’s service to our nation, but not the last time they would go in harm’s way for the ideals of freedom and democracy. “It’s been the same ever since, from the Battle of the Atlantic in WWII, to the war in Korea where our Mariners moved the 24th Infantry Division from garrison duty in Japan to Pusan, Korea only 11 days after the invasion of the 38th parallel, to Vietnam where the Mariners of Military Sea Transportation Service moved supplies to Vietnamese ports and on the river to Saigon. “From Desert Storm to Bosnia, from Afghanistan to Operation Iraqi Freedom, America’s Merchant Mariners continue to serve on the leading edge of our defense transportation system, carrying the combat equipment and supplies needed by our joint warfighters. “To carry that logistics power to the fight, we have always relied on our Merchant Marine. And they have always answered the call. Despite the dangers and long separations from home, our Rear Adm. Dee Mewbourne Commander, MSC U.S. Merchant Marine has sailed in harm’s way time and time again to make sure that American warfighters and our allies have had the supplies they need to overwhelm our adversaries. “In some war planning room right now, there is a potential adversary weighing their odds of victory in a fight against the United States. The one factor they will grossly underestimate is the courage of the U.S. Mariner. “I can assure you that U.S. Mariners will be there, reliably and bravely manning our ships -even if the seas become a battlefield.” CSA Honors SIU-Contracted Companies A number of Seafarerscontracted companies earned accolades at a recent Chamber of Shipping of America (CSA) event. The CSA on Nov. 7 hosted its annual environmental achievement awards dinner in Washington, D.C. Among the vessel and tug operators recognized were SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company, Crescent Towing, Crowley Maritime and several of its subsidiaries, E.N. Bisso & Son, Keystone Shipping, Matson Navigation, OSG Ship Management, Patriot Contract Services, American Ship Management, Seabulk Tankers, Seabulk Towing, TOTE, and USS Vessel Management. U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. John Nadeau, assistant commandant for prevention policy, participated in the ceremony and congratulated the award recipients and the industry as a whole for their extraordinary performance. D. Lee Forsgren, deputy assistant administrator, Office of Water, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, also addressed the attendees and expressed his congratulations to the participants on their exceptional environmental efforts. Kathy J. Metcalf, 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. Safe and environmentally responsible operations is a culture fully embraced by the maritime industry as a whole and as evi- denced by the performances of the award recipients recognized tonight.” According to the host organization, 1,730 ships and boats owned by 109 companies with a total of 15,205 years of environmental excellence were recognized. The average number of years operating without incident for ships and vessels that received awards is 8.1 years. Some 267 of the vessels have logged 16 or more years of environmental excellence. The awards are open to all owners and operators of vessels that operate on oceans or inland waterways. “The CSA Board encourages all operators and owners to take advantage of this opportunity to recognize their crew and shoreside operating personnel and encourages all operators and owners to consider participating in next year’s program,” the organization noted. “Participation guidance is found on CSA’s website www.knowships.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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2019 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. (All photos by Barry Champagne) CSA President Kathy J. Metcalf 2 Seafarers LOG Rear Adm. John Nadeau U.S. Coast Guard D. Lee Forsgren, Deputy Asst. Administrator, Office of Water, EPA January 2019 �House Hearing Underscores Vital Need To Maintain Strong Merchant Marine Testimony Cites Indispensable Role in National Defense Recent comments from expert witnesses and congressmen alike left no doubt that America is a maritime nation – one best-served by maintaining a robust U.S. Merchant Marine, along with shipbuilding capability. The remarks were made Nov. 29 during a hearing of the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation (part of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee). Titled “Review of Recent GAO Reports on Icebreaker Acquisition and the Need for a National Maritime Strategy,” the hearing mostly focused on the former issue but also devoted significant time to mariners and the laws that help keep the industry afloat. Testifying at the hearing were Rear Adm. Michael J. Haycock, assistant commandant for Acquisition & Chief Acquisition Officer, United States Coast Guard; Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, USN, Ret., administrator, Maritime Administration (MARAD); Marie A. Mak, director of Acquisition and Sourcing Management, Government Accountability Office (GAO); Andrew Von Ah, director of Physical Infrastructure Issues, GAO; and Ronald O’Rourke, specialist in Naval Affairs, Congressional Research Service. Subcommittee Chairman U.S. Rep. Brian Mast (R-Florida) noted that legislation has extended the deadline for submitting the national maritime strategy to February 2020. “This strategy is critical to addressing the challenges facing the U.S. flag fleet, including a potential shortage U.S. Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby, pictured at the SIUNA convention in 2017, testified Nov. 29 at a House hearing. of U.S. mariners and the decreasing number of U.S. flag vessels,” Mast said. “As a maritime nation, the U.S. needs to address these challenges now. I can assure you I understand firsthand the importance of having sufficient maritime assets to get U.S. forces and their supplies where they need to be.” Buzby, who formerly served as commanding officer of the U.S. Military Sealift Command, spoke with his usual candor and insight. He pointed out the GAO in August 2018 completed a report on maritime security, which examined the role U.S.-flag commercial vessels play in supporting Department of Defense (DOD) sealift needs. SHBP Trustees Approve New Benefits $360, leaving him a balance of $40, assuming his deductible has been satisfied. Seafarers, Dependents, Pensioners Should Realize Savings Physical Therapy and Other Rehabilitative Therapies At the Core-Plus and Core benefit levels, dependents are now eligible for benefits for physical therapy and other rehabilitative therapies. The Plan will now also cover cognitive, speech, pulmonary or occupational therapy for Seafarers, even when they do not suffer from a catastrophic illness or injury. The Plan will cover up to 20 visits per year for any combination of physical therapy, cognitive, speech, pulmonary, or occupational therapy for Seafarers and their dependents. (The Plan also covers up to 40 visits per person per year following a catastrophic illness or injury.) The Trustees of the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) recently approved a number of benefit improvements, which take effect Jan. 1, 2019. The following is a summary of these new benefits: Out-of-Pocket Maximum Added Core-Plus employees, non-Medicare pensioners and their dependents: $2,700 for a single person, $5,500 for a family of two or more. Core employees and their dependents: $3,000 for a single person, $6,000 for a family of two or more. At the Core-Plus level, once a single person pays $2,700, or a family pays $5,500 for deductibles, co-payments, and co-insurance in a calendar year, the Plan will pay 100 percent of remaining network-allowed charges for that year. At the Core level, once a single person pays $3,000, or a family pays $6,000 for deductibles, co-payments, and co-insurance in a calendar year, the Plan will pay 100 percent of remaining networkallowed charges for that year. Previously, there was no out-ofpocket maximum. The out-of-pocket maximum applies to in-network treatment only. Prescription costs, dental care, vision benefits, and services not covered by the Plan do not count towards this out-ofpocket maximum. For example: Sam is a Seafarer who is married and has three children. He is eligible for Core-Plus benefits. In March, his wife, Maria, is hospitalized for a serious illness, and they pay $5,000 January 2019 out-of-pocket for the deductible, coinsurance, and co-payments for her care from in-network providers. The next month, one of their children breaks her arm, and the family pays $500 for the child’s co-insurance for her in-network treatment. The Plan will now pay 100 percent of the network-allowed amounts for all members of the family for the rest of the calendar year, as they have met the $5,500 out-of-pocket maximum. Another example: Manuel is a nonMedicare pensioner, and is eligible for health benefits. He is not married. In February, he is hospitalized at an in-network hospital for a heart condition, and pays a total of $2,700 for his deductible, co-payments, and coinsurance. The Plan will now pay 100 percent of the network-allowed amount for Manuel’s medical bills for in-network treatment for the rest of the year, as he has met the $2,700 out-of-pocket maximum. Increase in Payment Percentage for InNetwork Treatment The Plan will pay 90 percent of the network-allowed charge for treatment by an in-network provider, or at an innetwork facility. This applies to Seafarers and their dependents at the Core-Plus and Core benefits levels, and-Non-Medicare pensioners and their dependents. This is an increase from the current 80 percent. For example: George goes to a doctor who is in-network. The billed amount is $500. As this service was provided by an in-network provider, the bill will be reduced by $100, leaving the network-allowed amount of $400. The Plan will pay Durable Medical Equipment for Dependents At the Core-Plus and Core benefit levels, the Plan will now pay for durable medical equipment for dependents, even when they are not suffering from a catastrophic illness or injury. Durable medical equipment (DME) includes items such as wheelchairs, CPAP machines, prostheses, nebulizers, and wearable cardio defibrillators. The Plan will pay 90 percent of the network-allowed charge to rent or buy DME from an in-network provider, or 65 percent of the reasonable and customary charge if the item is obtained from an out-ofnetwork provider. Payment for Treatment of Illness or Injury if Participant Suf fers from Substance Abuse In the past, the Plan did not cover the cost of treatment for an illness if it resulted from alcohol or drug use (such The GAO also urged formalization of a national maritime strategy. “MARAD is conscious of the time it has taken to develop the strategy since Congress directed that it be done in 2014,” he said. “In this time, MARAD has conducted extensive engagement with public and private stakeholders representing the full spectrum of maritime industry professions, sectors, and regions. As the U.S. Committee on the Marine Transportation System notes, there are 18 federal agencies and numerous public stakeholders with a role in maritime transportation issues. Each of these agencies is an important stakeholder and their input is critical to address both the challenge involved in developing a strategy for the U.S. Merchant Marine that can garner widespread support and the importance of developing a long-term strategy to address future needs. As you may be aware, the draft strategy was placed into review under the prior administration. It was subsequently withdrawn by the current administration so that they could have an opportunity to review, revise, and align the strategy accordingly. We appreciate that Congress provided an extension on this requirement to allow us to best align this strategy with the administration’s national security strategy and national defense strategy. MARAD has not stood idle during this interim period. We are using the extension afforded by Congress as an opportunity to further collaborate with stakeholders to reContinued on Page 5 as cirrhosis of the liver). The Plan will now cover the cost of treatment of these conditions if the medical condition is the result of a substance abuse problem. The Plan still will not pay for treatment of illnesses or injuries that result from a person’s reckless disregard to their own health and safety (such as an injury that results from drunk driving). Outpatient Drug/Alcohol Treatment for Seafarers The Plan covers inpatient detoxification treatment and covers the entire cost of inpatient treatment at the Seafarers Addictions Rehabilitation Center (ARC) in Piney Point, Maryland, for eligible Seafarers. The Plan will now also pay for prescriptions to treat substance abuse. The ARC offers the best treatment option for Seafarers with substance abuse issues, as the staff is familiar with the unique problems that mariners may face, and are extremely knowledgeable about the Coast Guard regulations and procedures that apply when a Seafarer fails a drug or alcohol test. There is no other facility available that is able to provide these services. At the Core-Plus and Core benefit levels, the Plan will now pay for outpatient substance abuse treatment for Seafarers; however, this benefit will be subject to an individual’s deductible and co-payment. Be aware that the Seafarers ARC is recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard as the gold standard for substance abuse treatment and has a high success rate for returning mariners to work. Substance abuse programs outside of the Seafarers ARC may not be familiar with Coast Guard requirements, which could result in the mariner paying additional fees and having to take additional steps before returning to work. Seafarers LOG 3 �Navy Christens USNS Puerto Rico in Alabama On Nov. 10, the Navy christened the newest expeditionary fast transport (EPF), USNS Puerto Rico, at a ceremony at the Austal USA shipyard in Mobile, Alabama. The Military Sealift Command (MSC) vessel will be crewed by SIU CIVMARS from the union’s Government Services Division. The principal speaker at the ceremony was Congresswoman Jenniffer GonzálezColón, resident commissioner of Puerto Rico. Justice Sonia Sotomayor, associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, served as the ship’s sponsor and broke the ceremonial bottle of champagne across the bow. “This ship honors the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the contributions Puerto Ricans have made to our nation and Navy and Marine Corps team,” said Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer. “USNS Puerto Rico will provide our commanders high-speed sealift mobility and agility and I am thankful for this ship, her crew, and our industrial force teammates whose service makes this great ship possible.” EPF-class ships are designed to transport 600 short tons of military cargo 1,200 nautical miles at an average speed of 35 knots, according to the Navy. The ship is capable of operating in shallow-draft ports and waterways, interfacing with roll-on/roll-off discharge facilities, and on/off-loading a combat-loaded Abrams main battle tank (M1A2). The vessel also includes a flight deck suitable for helicopter operations, which, combined with the EPF’s shallow draft, makes the it “an extremely flexible asset for support of a wide range of operations,” the Navy reported. Three of the Puerto Rico’s sister ships, the USNS Trenton, USNS Yuma, and USNS Carson City are operating in the Mediterranean Sea and off the coast of Africa; three more, the USNS Brunswick, USNS Millinocket, and USNS Fall River are working in the Pacific, while the USNS Choctaw County is operating in the Arabian Gulf. The USNS Burlington was delivered to the Navy five days after the christening of the Puerto Rico, and is also currently deployed. All of those vessels are crewed by SIU Government Services mariners. MSC Commander Rear Adm. Dee Mewbourne remarked on the importance SIU-Contracted NYNJR Expands Infrastructure Seafarers-contracted New York New Jersey Rail (NYNJR) is a sea-going railroad which uses rail barges, known as car floats, to transport thousands of rail cars across New York Harbor from Jersey City, New Jersey, at a location called Greenville Yard to the 65th Street Rail Yard in Brooklyn, New York. “Out of the 500-plus railroads in the United States, only a small percentage float rail cars across bodies of water,” said SIU Safety Director Osvaldo Ramos, who services NYNJR. “And to my knowledge, only one railroad uses the Seafarers International Union for its labor force.” Ramos explained that the SIU members employed at NYNYR have titles including trainman, conductor, and locomotive engineer. Members sort and load rail cars onto the car floats in all tides and all weather conditions, year-round. “NYNJR moves a diverse amount of commodities including beer products, scrap steel, recycled glass, plastics, rice, vegetable oil, flour, clay, rail and ties, and special oversized loads that can’t fit on bridges or tunnels in the metro New York City region,” Ramos added. The trademarked New York New Jersey Rail logo features an anchor crossed with a rail track, and is displayed on their company flag at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. NYNJR Director Donald B. Hutton noted, “I view the relationship with the SIU more of a solid partnership. The SIU has been a strong supporter of the future course and direction of NYNJR and has been on the same journey as a partner.” The members’ and company’s futures look bright due to several factors including growing demand for rail service in the Greater New York Metro Area, which Ramos said “is less than two percent served and many would argue is underserved compared to the rest of With New York City in the background, a new state-of-the-art rail marine loading bridge is being completed at Greenville Yard in Jersey City, New Jersey. A new car float in visible in the distance, moored to new mooring cells. (Drone photo courtesy Donald B. Hutton) the nation. The limited amount of service has resulted in an overreliance on trucks, tunnels and bridges. Ships, tugs and barges of course are a key to relieving that related congestion, but so is rail.” A noteworthy project is currently underway to increase NYNJR’s operational capacity. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is spearheading the Greenville Redevelopment Project, which (among other accomplishments) will rebuild and enhance NYNJR. These improvements will include a new rail yard design, three new low-emission locomotives, and two new car floats that can carry 18 rail cars each, Ramos reported. Also important to NYNRJ’s future is the key support of pro-maritime U.S. Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-New York). Nadler is a leader in nu- merous maritime and rail job-saving initiatives and a supporter of “FREIGHTNYC,” a $100 million plan to modernize New York’s freight distribution system. FREIGHTNYC includes strategic investments to modernize maritime and rail assets, create new distribution facilities, as well as a roadmap to add nearly 5,000 good-paying jobs. Nadler recently said, “The New York region needs a better way to move goods, plain and simple. On this, there is overwhelming consensus. We must end our over-reliance on trucks that clog and destroy our roads….” Ramos concluded, “The floating railroad known as New York New Jersey Rail, LLC, along with its SIU members – moving rail cars, making up lines, loading car floats – are sailing toward fair winds and following seas.” of these vessels, saying, “The work these ships and their crews are doing around the world demonstrate the essential characteristics of the expeditionary fast transport class: speed, capacity, adaptability, and resiliency.... It is important to remember that this ship will be crewed by U.S. Mariners. As this ship will likely sail in harm’s way, our Mariners will be there, reliably and bravely manning this ship, even if the seas become a battlefield.” Mewbourne concluded, “I want to recognize and thank all those in industry, at MSC, and other Navy commands, who played a role in bringing this ship to life. We eagerly await the arrival of this ship to our fleet where our Mariners will give her life and sail her into the challenges ahead.” NY Waterway Crews Assist Commuters During Snowstorm SIU-contracted NY Waterway rose to the occasion on Nov. 15, as New York and New Jersey’s roadways were crippled by a sudden snow. The company never hesitated to offer up its ferry services to assist the thousands of commuters stranded in Manhattan on their way to their homes in New Jersey. According to NY Waterway, “Ferries were operating past midnight Thursday, taking commuters from Manhattan’s West 39th Street Ferry Terminal to the Port Imperial Ferry Terminal in Weehawken, where passengers could continue their trip on the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail or by bus or private car or cab.” While road conditions delayed some of NY Waterway’s free buses, all ferries ran more or less on schedule, with additional ferry trips added to the ledger to ensure passengers arrived at their destinations. “Our dedicated ferry crews, bus drivers and terminal staff worked late into the night to help others, a core belief and practice of our company for 32 years,” said NY Waterway President and Founder Arthur E. Imperatore. “We were there at 9/11 and other emergencies. We were there for the Miracle on the Hudson and we will always be there when needed.” NY Waterway operates the largest privately owned commuter ferry service in the U.S., handling more than 32,000 passenger trips per weekday – 10 million trips per year – on 34 boats serving 23 routes between New Jersey and Manhattan; between Rockland and Westchester counties; and between Orange and Dutchess counties. NY Waterway’s de facto motto is, “We will always get you home.” Snow covers a railing as a New York Waterway ferry pushes off the Newport dock. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez) SIU and company personnel are pictured in front of new locomotives. 4 Seafarers LOG January 2019 �Coalition Highlights New Shipbuilding as Critical To Continued Strong U.S. National, Economic Security Lessons of Pearl Harbor Still Reinforce Need for Maritime Capabilities The American maritime industry commemorated the 77th anniversary of the Japanese air raid on the United States Naval Base at Pearl Harbor by honoring those who lost their lives on that fateful day, and highlighting the critical need for a robust American shipbuilding capacity to ensure for the preparedness of the nation. “We honor the fallen at Pearl Harbor, and the other sailors and mariners of the greatest generation who protected our great nation in some of its darkest hours. We are reminded of their service and sacrifice, and their memory lives on in the lifeblood of the American maritime community,” said Matt Woodruff, chairman of the American Maritime Partnership, to which the SIU is affiliated. “The United States is, and always has been, a maritime nation. The lessons from Pearl Harbor remind us in the maritime community that the men and women of the industry play an essential role in helping bolster our nation’s security so we are never forced to rely on foreign countries to build and man the vessels that support our military. Without a robust shipbuilding capacity and merchant marine, America would cede her defense capacity to other nations, and, with it, the sovereignty of the nation.” To demonstrate the growing strength of U.S. shipbuilding capacity, AMP released new commercial shipbuilding and maritime data, which reveals a vigorous industry that is thriving under a durable economy, signaling strength for our national and homeland preparedness. The U.S. domestic fleet ended 2018 with a surge in ship construction, including a renaissance in new Jones Act containerships. A sampling of this trend is as follows (a list of vessels built, and currently under construction can be accessed on the AMP website); all vessels are crewed and proudly built by the men and women of American maritime: „�Three new Jones Act containerships were delivered in the last quarter of 2018 alone – that is seven new containerships in the last four years compared to zero between 2005-2015. „�Four new environmentally friendly LNG-powered containerships have been delivered in the past three years to service Puerto Rico. This trade lane from the continental United States to Puerto Rico boasts one of the youngest fleets in the world, increasing the speed of goods and efficiency delivered to and from the island. „�Six new containerships have either just begun service or are expected in the next several years to service the Hawaii trade lane – all LNG-power capable. „�An estimated 125 new inland tank barges will be built in 2019. „�An estimated $1.5 billion will be invested by the American dredging industry in a fleet expansion. “These vessels are being custom built to meet the needs of the domestic marketplace, and to ensure a shipbuilding capacity that will serve all Americans in our national security preparedness,” said Matt Paxton, president of the Shipbuilders’ Council of America. “When we abandon our commercial shipyards, we abandon our ability to be prepared to defend the nation. We remain committed to constructing the most advanced vessels in the world to protect the brave men and women who risk their lives to protect our borders.” This commercial shipbuilding surge comes at the same time when the next generation of Navy and Coast Guard fleets are actively being constructed in shipyards along the Gulf Coast and in Norfolk, Virginia.; Portland, Maine; San Diego; and Groton, Connecticut, among other locations. USNS Comfort Supports Operation Enduring Promise On Dec. 7, senior leadership and personnel embarked aboard the SIU CIVMAR-crewed Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort attended an opening ceremony for the final mission stop of 2018’s Operation Enduring Promise. The ceremony took place at a landbased medical site in Trujillo, Honduras, and the guest list included Carlos Ramon Aguilar, the governor of Colón, Honduras. “The presence of the ship in the Port of Trujillo represents the continued support of the American armed forces and their solidarity with Honduras,” said Aguilar, translated from Spanish. “We want to express our appreciation from the Honduran government as well as the Honduran people.” According to the U.S. Navy, “The Comfort is on an 11-week medical support mission to Central and South America as part of U.S. Southern Command’s Enduring Promise initiative. Working with health and government partners in Ecuador, Peru, Colombia and Honduras, the embarked medical team will provide care on board and at land-based medical sites, helping to relieve pressure on national medical systems caused partly by an increase in cross-border migrants. The deployment reflects the United States’ enduring promise of friendship, partnership and solidarity with the Americas.” “The medical team aboard the USNS Comfort will work alongside the government of Honduras to provide top-quality medical care to people in need,” said U.S. Navy Capt. William Shafley, commander, Task Force 49. “This is Comfort’s second visit to Honduras and her sixth mission to South and Central America.” On this final mission stop, more than 900 medical personnel, including military, non-governmental organization volunteers and members from partner nations, began screening surgical patients the day before the opening ceremony. The medical site then treated patients for the next 5 days, concluding on December 12. “The foundation of every long-term, successful cooperation is trust and shared values,” said Shafley. “We build trust as we work with one another to provide care to those in need. We are successful when we are working together.” The Comfort’s past missions, in North America, Central America, South America and the Middle East, have provided medical treatment to more than 390,000 patients, including 6,000 surgeries. This year alone, the Comfort has treated more than 20,000 patients, and performed more than 600 surgeries. Army Col. Rob Manning, a spokesperson for the Pentagon, recently talked about the Comfort’s mission, saying, “This is medical aid that civilians would not otherwise have access to. Their presence speaks to how we see being a neighbor in the Western Hemisphere and how we see the importance of providing humanitarian assistance to those that otherwise would not have it.... The Venezuelan health care system has all but collapsed and can’t provide aid to its citizens. We stand with the Venezuelan citizens during their time of need. That’s what the symbol of the Comfort means.” Expert Witnesses Cite Vital Need For Strong USMM Continued from Page 3 fine goals of the strategy and produce an effective national maritime strategy.” Buzby continued, “Developing a national maritime strategy will help the Maritime Administration accomplish its mission to foster, promote, and develop the U.S. maritime industry to meet the nation’s economic and security needs…. A critical part of this mission is ensuring the availability of U.S. ships, and qualified merchant mariners to crew those ships, to meet DOD sealift requirements. DOD relies on these strategic sealift ca- January 2019 President Juan Orlando Hernandez of Honduras (right in photo above) takes a picture as he is transported to the hospital ship USNS Comfort for a tour and luncheon. The president and first lady visited the Comfort during the ship’s five days of providing medical treatment in Honduras. In photo below, sailors aboard the hospital ship USNS Comfort fuel a UH-60 Black Hawk in between transporting patients from land to the vessel. (U.S. Army photos by Spc. Joseph DeLuco) pabilities to efficiently and effectively deploy military forces around the world. When the United States goes to war, DOD’s U.S. Transportation Command moves 90 percent of its cargo requirements with the strategic sealift fleet, which consists of government-owned ships augmented by the commercial U.S.-flagged fleet.” He then further referenced the GAO report, which identified challenges and possible remedies for sustaining the U.S.flag fleet and mariner pool for defense needs. Similarly, Von Ah mentioned a DOT working group that formed to address findings both in the GAO report and other maritime studies. The working group “identified two actions that could help increase the number of U.S.-citizen mariners – one focused specifically on mariners and the other focused more broadly on the merchant marine, which encompasses U.S.-flag vessels and U.S.citizen mariners,” Von Ah said. The first of those possible actions would be development by MARAD of a “broad-based reserve program that would identify and support qualified mariners willing to sail in commercial and government-owned vessels during an emergency. MARAD would provide limited financial assistance in training mariners and maintaining credentials, in turn for which mariners who participate would be obligated to sail in the event of a defense need.” The working group’s second potential recommendation: “The government should fully support programs including MSP, requiring the government to ship certain cargo on U.S-flag vessels, the Jones Act, and government chartering of privately owned vessels. If DOD determines that national needs require more mariners and vessels than can be provided through current programs, those programs should be expanded to meet such needs.” O’Rourke said that while the “challenge of finding adequate numbers of appropriately trained mariners to crew DOD sealift ships in time of crisis or conflict is a longstanding issue, dating back at least to 1990,” current circumstances “may now be affected by a new factor that relates to the defense of DOD sealift ships in wartime. From 1990 until recently (i.e., during the post-Cold War era), the defense of DOD sealift ships was not a pressing concern. In the new era of renewed major power competition, it has become a concern, given current and potential future Chinese and Russian capabilities for interdicting ships.” Seafarers LOG 5 �The Wheeler fills a potable water tank for distribution across Saipan. The USNS VADM K.R. Wheeler sits pier-side in Saipan. SIU Mariners Lend a Hand in Typhoon Recovery SIU mariners sailing aboard Military Sealift Command (MSC) vessels assigned to Maritime Prepositioning Ships Squadron Three (MPSRON 3) have been working to support the recovery efforts of the Saipan and Tinian islands in the aftermath of Super Typhoon Yutu. The islands are part of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, a U.S. territory. “My squadron and I are honored to contribute to Joint Task Force-West,” said U.S. Navy Capt. Eric Lindfors, commodore, MPSRON 3 and Task Force-West (TF-W) Forward deputy commander. “The level of devastation from Super Typhoon Yutu is hard to describe, even when you are here on the ground looking at it. The challenges we face logistically being located remotely in the Pacific further complicates the recovery effort.” The typhoon made landfall on Oct. 24, and according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Yutu was the second-strongest system to hit U.S. soil in recorded history. Hundreds of homes were severely damaged, and many residents were left without shelter, food or access to clean water. On Oct. 25, TF-W was stood up to help with the recovery efforts, and ships from MPSRON 3 have been providing support since Oct. 29. The SIU-crewed USNS VADM K.R. Wheeler was the first ship to arrive, and spearheaded the pier-side op- erations. Along with fast transport ship USNS Fast Tempo, the crew was able to transport vital supplies and personnel from Guam and from other ships at sea to shore. Together, the crews of the Wheeler, USNS John Glenn, USNS Soderman, USNS Dahl, USNS Pililaau and MV Captain David I. Lyon moved 222,826 gallons of water and 86,160 pounds of ice. All of those vessels are crewed by SIU mariners. The Wheeler (and Fast Tempo) are operated by TOTE Services; the John Glenn by Ocean Shipholdings; the Soderman and Dahl by Patriot; the Pililaau by U.S. Marine Management; and the Lyon by Sealift. Tents, tarps, bottled water and camp stoves were made readily available to families in need. Beyond supplies and logistics, mariners also went ashore to assist with debris cleanup, as well as washed 110 loads of laundry for emergency and medical service personnel. “The resiliency of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands people amazes me every day,” said Lindfors. “As they confront the challenges of rebuilding, the squadron and I look forward to continuing our relations and keeping strong ties with the people of Saipan and Tinian.” Editor ’s note: Thanks to Wheeler vessel master Capt. Glenn Macario for the photos and background information. Safety Directors Hone Skills at Paul Hall Center SIU safety directors from across the country recently converged in Piney Point, Maryland, to brush up on the latest industry trends. Meeting at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) the last week of No- vember were James Brown (from the Port of New Orleans), Kathy Chester (Oakland), Gordon Godel (Wilmington, California), DeCarlo Harris (Baltimore), Anthony Houston (Norfolk, Virginia), Joseph Koncul (Jacksonville, Florida), Andre MacCray (Philadelphia), Kevin Recertified Steward, Chief Cook Praise Work Ethic of ‘Young SA’ Recertified Steward Brian Burchette recently highlighted the actions of a steward assistant who went above and beyond to lighten the load on the galley crew. “We were fortunate on board the Midnight Sun (operated by TOTE Maritime) to have an additional SA added to the crew, due to the fact we were feeding 40 extra mouths in addition to the ship’s compliment,” said Burchette. “This young man (SA) Gervacio Simon proved to be an exceptional asset, willing and able to do any task asked and always wanting to learn more about the steward department.” Burchette commended Simon’s work ethic and aptitude for the job, and described the SA’s enthusiasm for continuing his career and working his way up the ladder. He also said that Simon is looking forward to attending the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (located in Piney Point, Maryland) to upgrade and further his skills. As a token of their appreciation, Chief Cook Matt Gallagher and Burchette presented Simon with some tools of the trade: a chef’s knife, peeler, meat thermometer and carrying case. The steward also offered some words of wisdom to his fellow mariners: “Every time you come aboard a ship, whether it be for four months or five days, you have an op- 6 Seafarers LOG Marchand (Fort Lauderdale, Florida) and Osvaldo Ramos (Jersey City, New Jersey). They tackled a full agenda that included meetings with SIU President Michael Sacco and other union officials, school personnel, and representatives from the Seafarers Plans and medical department. They also met with individuals from the legal office, and others. “It was definitely worthwhile,” stated Koncul. “We of course primarily focused on safety, but we also discussed strategies for staying ahead of the industry’s needs and protecting members’ jobs as times change.” Godel said, “There’s tons to learn, and I pick up something every time at these meetings. I enjoy them; they’re very informative.” portunity to not only present yourself and represent the SIU, but to take pride in each opportunity that the union affords you. People do care and people do notice.” SIU President Michael Sacco (right), PHC Acting VP Tom Orzechowski (center) and SIU VP Contracts George Tricker address the safety directors. SA Gervacio Simon (left) receives a chef’s knife, peeler, meat thermometer and carrying case from Chief Cook Matt Gallagher. Some of the safety directors (thus titled unless otherwise identified) are pictured with other officials at the school. Seated from left are Andre MacCray, Paul Hall Center Acting VP Tom Orzechowski, Kevin Marchand, PHC Instructor Wayne Johnson Jr. and SIU Asst. VP Pat Vandegrift. Standing from left are Anthony Houston, Osvaldo Ramos, Joseph Koncul, Kathy Chester, DeCarlo Harris, James Brown and Gordon Godel. January 2019 �SIU VP Nick Marrone, U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee, SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona U.S. Rep. John Garamendi SIU VP Nick Marrone, U.S. Rep. Jimmy Panetta, SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona Oakland Thanksgiving Gathering a Hit If the SIU’s annual Thanksgiving luncheon in Oakland, California, were a sports franchise, it would be best described as dynastic. Hosted at the hiring hall on the Tuesday before the holiday, the yearly gathering is still going strong after 28 years – most recently on Nov. 20. The 2018 iteration featured the usual assortment of great food, fellowship, and guests including politicians; Marine Corps and Coast Guard personnel; Seafarers, pensioners, and their families; officials and members from other unions; shipping company executives and staff; members of the police and fire fighting communities; and others. “We had a packed house and everything went very well,” said SIU Assistant Vice President Nick Celona, who worked closely with the committee that organized the event. “The amount of positive feedback the SIU receives for this celebration is really heartwarming and humbling, and I’m just grateful it’s something that can be done every year. People re- Bosun Michael Carvalho (right) joins members of the 4th Marine Division, 23rd Regiment Color Guard. January 2019 Editor’s note: The photos on this page were provided by Charles Farruggia. Jennifer Celona, Nick Marrone, U.S. Rep. Jerry McNerney, Nick Celona, Denise Celona, Nick Marrone II, San Francisco Police Capt. Joseph McFadden Capt. Jack Sullivan of Matson, Port Agent Nick Marrone II, U.S. Rep. Jerry McNerney, SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona, SIU VP Nick Marrone, USCG Rear Adm. Peter Gautier SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (center) is pictured with members of the 4th Marine Division, 23rd Regiment Color Guard. ally look forward to it.” While the luncheon atmosphere was lighthearted, guest speakers – including several members of Congress – mentioned that the U.S. Merchant Marine helps protect America’s national, economic and homeland security. Similarly, they stressed the importance of the Jones Act, a pillar of American-flag shipping. Guests (photo above) pack the hall in Oakland, California. In photo at top right, Art Pulaski, executive secretary-treasurer, California Labor Federation, speaks to those present. San Francisco Fire Chief Joanne Hayes-White (photo at immediate right), who is retiring, commends the SIU for its annual luncheon and notes she attends each year. U.S. Marines surprise SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (center) with a glass-encased sword. Pictured from left are Sgt. B. Kin, Maj. Michael Baker, Celona, Port Agent Nick Marrone II and 1st Sgt. Allen Latanero. Seafarers LOG 7 �AT THE HALL IN LAUDERDALE – Asst. VP Kris Hopkins (right in both photos) presents a full book to Wilson Montero (above, left) and a first pension check to Bruce Davidson (above, right), who started sailing with the SIU in 1975. ABOARD MAERSK IDAHO – Pictured aboard the Maersk Line, Limited ship are (from left) Paul Hall Center Apprentice Anthony Brown, SIU Port Agent Georg Kenny and Apprentice Cale Irons. Our extremely reliable source (that’d be Georg) reports that the apprentices are “loving the life.” At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD OCEAN SUN – This snapshot was taken in Lake Charles, Louisiana, aboard Crowley’s Ocean-Class tug. Pictured from left are Patrolman Kelly Krick, AB Carey Brown, AB/Cook Angel Gonzalez, 2nd Mate Nate Leachman, Patrolman J.B. Niday, AB Joel Lalin, Asst. Engineer John Guity, AB Boby Morales and Chief Engineer Robert Gretter. FULL BOOK IN NEW YORK – Seafarer Felipe Gonzalez (right), a mate with Harley Marine NY, receives his full book from Patrolman Ray Henderson. They’re pictured aboard the Liberty in Brooklyn. ABOARD MV WASHINGTON – Recertified Steward Michael Ingram submitted these photos from the Crowley tanker. Individuals in all photos are identified from left to right. In photo below at left are ABs Michael Covington and Paul Clow. Shown in photo below at right are ABs William Mathis and Edward Wright. Pictured in the crew mess (photo at immediate right) are QMED Philip Francia, Bosun Mondesto Rabena, Oiler Charles Carroll, SA Nasser Alarqban, AB Wright and Pumpman Diole Bonifacio. The remaining photo (below, center) includes Crowley VP Tucker Gilliam, Chief Cook Gary Loftin, SA Alarqban, Recertified Steward Ingram and Crowley VP/GM Robert Grune. 8 Seafarers LOG January 2019 �ABOARD HORIZON ENTERPRISE – Recertified Bosun George Khan (photo above, far left) emailed these photos late last year from the Sunrise Operations vessel. Pictured from left in photo second from left are ABs Bobby Belches and Victor Frazier. EU Albert Dulig is shown in photo third from left, while AB Gary Cardillo is pictured in photo second from right. The remaining image at the far right features AB Fadhl Said. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ON THE WATER IN MARYLAND – After a recent stop in Baltimore, the SIU-crewed SLNC York (Annapolis-based Chesapeake Crewing) sails past the Bay Bridge in Annapolis, Maryland. ABOARD MAERSK PEARY – Recertified Steward Tony Spain (left) congratulates GSTU Deirick Coltrane for winning Maersk Line, Limited’s monthly safety award aboard the Peary. ABOARD TYCO DECISIVE – Chief Mate Timothy McDonald reports that a retirement party for AB Mahmood Tahir took place aboard the cable ship Oct. 28, a few days out from San Diego. Tahir first sailed with the SIU in 1991, aboard the USNS Vindicator. He’s pictured at left in photo above at right, with Recertified Bosun Victor Nunez, who is presenting ship souvenirs. The group photo includes (kneeling) AB/Splicer-Joiner Joel Saul and (from left) Chief Cook Walter Schoppe, Apprentice Jack Lanier, Recertified Bosun Nunez, GVA Shayla Stafford, AB/Splicer-Joiner Santos Contreras, AB Tahir, SA Jony Morales Martinez, OMU Jarrett Ford, Bosun’s Mate Emilio Abreu, AB Thomas Flores Garcia and OMU Mohamad Kammoun. Thanks to the chief mate for the photos. ABOARD USNS MAURY – Pictured aboard the Ocean Shipholdingsoperated vessel in photo at immediate right are Chief Cook Alvin Watson (left) and Steward/Baker Joseph Hernandez. MDR Brandon Maeda supplied the photo and noted his fellow Seafarers were “working the hot grill this afternoon so that we could have something special for dinner tonight. Great menus, great food and great service, what more can you ask?!” January 2019 ABOARD USNS ALGOL – Seafarers gather for a photo aboard the RRF vessel in San Francisco following a servicing. Mariners from the Algol and USNS Capella (both operated by Ocean Duchess) are included. From left in photo at left are GUDE Edsel Felipe, Recertified Steward McKinley Jones, Port Agent Nick Marrone II, GUDE Mohsin Mohamed, Bosun Charles Frisella, GUDE Emmanuel Bayani, QEE Salah Saleh and Bosun Gill Sickles. Seafarers LOG 9 �SHBP Offers Scholarship Funds Each year, the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) makes scholarships available to qualified individuals who are looking to further their education. The 2019 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 twoyear 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 obtain a scholarship program booklet. This package contains eligibility information, procedures for applying for the scholarships and an application form. Union members and their dependents now have three avenues through which they may obtain this booklet. First, as has been the case in the past, prospective applicants may request these booklets via mail by completing and mailing the form provided below. Secondly, they may obtain the booklets by visiting any SIU hall. Finally, applicants may obtain the booklet online by visiting www. seafarers.org, going to the About tab, navigating to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan menu and selecting Scholarship Application (PDF). 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, 2019. 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 2019. 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. EARN YOUR COLLEGE DEGREE THROUGH THE PAUL HALL CENTER ! The Paul Hall Center’s Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship (SHLSS) 5HVLGHQW�FRXUVHV�DW�3LQH\�3RLQW�EHJLQ� has partnered with the College of Southern �-DQXDU\���������� Maryland (CSM) to offer an Associate of Applied Science degree in Maritime x Associate of Applied Science Degree Operations Technology with a concentration in either x Nautical Science (Deck department) x UA courses apply toward the degree -orx Marine Engineering (Engine dept.) x Fully accredited Students must complete a combination of academic general education courses and x Some courses held at SHLSS technical education courses in order to earn the degree. Courses completed during the Unlicensed x Online classes Apprentice program apply toward the degree. x Scholarships available Students can complete English, Math and Physics courses at SHLSS. The remaining general education courses can be completed online. The following classes will convene at SHLSS: January 14, 2019 through February 1, 2019 English 1011 – Composition and Rhetoric Math 1011 – Math for Technologies Please send me the 2019 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: R�Self R�Dependent Mail this completed form to: Enrollment Information 7 Credit Hours Please contact Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School Academic Coordinator Dale Rausch Includes: tuition, textbooks, room and board plus one hour of tutoring following (301) 994-0010 Ext. 5411 -or- each daily class session drausch@seafarers.org Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 1/19 Spotlight on Mariner Health Preventing, Treating Blood Clots Editor’s note: This article is provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. A blood clot is a clump of blood that has changed from a liquid to a gel-like substance that’s in semisolid state. Your body has a clotting process that is inherent in order for a person not to lose too much blood in certain circumstances, such as when you are cut or injured. When a clot forms inside one of your veins, it may not always dissolve on its own. This can be quite dangerous and sometimes life-threatening. When a blood clot is immobile it will generally not harm you. However, if that blood clot dislodges and starts to travel it can be very dangerous, depending on the area of the body it may move to. If the clot travels to the heart or lungs, it can get stuck and prevent blood flow. This is a medical emergency. A doctor should be called immediately if you think you may have this type of situation. A doctor can look at lab work, your symptoms, and scans to see if this has occurred. The health care professional will take your health history and ask many questions to help make a determination. Your circulatory system is made up of blood vessels called veins and arteries. They transport blood throughout your body. When a blood clot occurs in an artery, it is called an arterial clot. This clot will cause symptoms immediately; emergency treatment is necessary to save a person’s life. Symptoms of an arterial clot are severe pain, or paralysis of a part of the body. The blood clot can lead to a heart attack or a stroke. A clot that happens in a vein is called a ve- 10 Seafarers LOG nous clot. This type of clot usually builds up slowly, but they are still life-threatening. The most serious is called a deep vein thrombosis. This most commonly occurs in the legs, but can also happen in the arms, pelvis, lungs, or even in the brain. When a blood clot is suspected, the person may have swelling in the affected area, pain, shortness of breath, tenderness to the area, a warm sensation or a discoloration of the affected part – usually a red color. The symptoms depend on the size of the clot. This is why some people may not have symptoms until the clot progresses in size. The risk factors for a person developing a blood clot are age, especially if you are over 65 years old, lengthy travel where you are sitting for a prolonged period, or bedrest and being sedentary for a long time. Other risk factors include obesity, pregnancy, smoking, cancer, certain types of birth control pills, or a family history of blood clots. Call or visit a doctor if you develop sudden shortness of breath, persistent coughing, chest pressure, and difficulty seeing or speaking. Treatment depends on the area of the clot and the severity. After diagnosis, lab testing and scans, the doctor may start the patient on blood thinners (anticoagulants), rest and immobilization of the affected part, pressure stockings, or maybe even surgery. Recovery may take some time. The medication used to ensure that the blood clot dissolves and does not return can be costly and require frequent blood testing. Doing what the doctor advises and changing some lifestyle choices can be beneficial to the health, wellbeing, and longevity of the individual’s life. Healthful Recipe Turkey Meatloaf Servings: 25 Ingredients 7 1/2 pounds ground turkey 5/8 pound celery, diced fine 1 5/8 pounds onions, diced fine 10 cloves garlic, minced fine 1/2 tablespoon granulated garlic 3/8 cup olive oil 2 1/2 tablespoons thyme, dry crushed 1 tablespoon sage, dry crushed 1 tablespoon salt 1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper 7 ounces wheat bran 3/4 cup ketchup 3 1/3 tablespoons worcestershire sauce 1 1/4 cups Italian parsley, chopped 3/4 cup egg white 1/2 cup ketchup, to top the loaves Preparation „�Sauté the onions and celery in the olive oil until translucent but not browned. Add the minced garlic, herbs, salt, pepper, and seasonings; sauté for about 2 minutes. Remove from the pan and cool. Set aside for later use. „�Place the ground turkey in a large mixing bowl. Add the bran, 3/4 cup ketchup, worcestershire sauce, parsley, and egg whites and mix well. Stir in the sauté cooled vegetables. „�Place the turkey mixture into roasting pans. Once in the pans make two loafs in each pan. Top each loaf with about 4 tablespoons of ketchup on each loaf and make smooth. Cover each pan with plastic wrap and foil. „�Bake the meatloaf in a 350-degree F oven for about 1 hour and 20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. Let the cooked loaf rest on the counter for at least 15 minutes before slicing. „�Cut the loaves into 4 oz portions and place into 2” hotel pans. Serve above 135 degrees F. Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 283 Calories; 15g fat (46.2 percent calories from fat) 27g protein; 13g carbohydrate; 5g dietary fiber; 108mg cholesterol; 570 mg sodium. Exchanges: 1/2 grain (starch); 3 1/2 lean meat; 1/2 vegetable; 1 fat; 0 other carbohydrates. Provided by Chef Robert “RJ” Johnson of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship January 2019 �EPI’s ‘Policy Roadmap’ Would Boost Workers Think-Tank Details Path to Deliver Economic Opportunity, Security In a comprehensive new policy agenda, the Economic Policy Institute (EPI) details solutions to address rising inequality and ensure that everybody in America gets a fair cut of the benefits of economic growth they help create. The growing pay disparity has been the result of intentional policy decisions made on behalf of the rich and corporate interests, and only a complete reorientation of these policy levers can reverse this, the EPI stated in early December. “As Congress prepares to start its 116th session, EPI’s Policy Agenda plots a deliberate and expansive set of policies Congress could enact to rebalance power back to the broad majority,” the organization said in a news release. Specifically addressing its proposed agenda, the EPA said that its plans provide “a diagnosis of the problem and a recommendation for reform across a range of economic policy issues, recommending changes in labor, tax, budget, trade, macroeconomic, regulatory, and climate policies. The disparate impact of policy changes across racial and gender lines is highlighted throughout, and race- and gender-targeted policies are also examined in a stand-alone section.” “For most of the last four decades, income inequality has exploded, income growth for the vast majority has slowed to a crawl, and progress in closing gender and racial income gaps has been either too slow or nonexistent,” said EPI Director of Policy Heidi Shierholz. “Policymakers must take bold steps to unrig the economy’s rules, paying particular attention to policies that tilt bargaining power back toward low- and middle-wage workers.” The organizing principle behind the agenda is that economic outcomes overwhelmingly reflect intentional policy decisions – and if these outcomes were created by policies, they can be changed by different policies. A key example of this approach can be seen in the EPI’s rec- ommendations surrounding labor markets. A growing body of research has shown that leverage and bargaining power are key determinants of workers’ wages, and wage growth for most workers has suffered in recent decades precisely because their leverage and bargaining power have been intentionally weakened by policy choices. The EPI’s Policy Agenda recommends boosting this leverage with a range of specific policies, including labor law reform to allow workers to effectively bargain collectively, higher minimum wages, updated overtime standards, banning forced class and collective action waivers as a condition of employment, and more-robust enforcement of anti-discrimination laws. “Inequality didn’t explode because of any one legislative bill or policy change. Instead, it happened because lobbyists and advocates for the rich and corporations worked every single day for decades to find policy levers that could be pulled to send every last penny to their clients,” said EPI Research Director Josh Bivens. “Reversing this inequality will require an approach every bit as consistent and dogged and far-reaching. This roadmap is a good place to start.” The complete document is posted on the EPI website, epi.org. The EPI is a nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank created in 1986 to include the needs of low- and middle-income workers in economic policy discussions. On its website, the EPI states that it “believes every working person deserves a good job with fair pay, affordable health care, and retirement security. To achieve this goal, EPI conducts research and analysis on the economic status of working America. EPI proposes public policies that protect and improve the economic conditions of lowand middle-income workers and assesses policies with respect to how they affect those workers.” USNS Williams Galley Gang Caps Multinational Military Exercise With Scrumptious Cookout The following photos were submitted by Bosun Godofredo Milabo from aboard the USNS Dewayne T. Williams. The crew of the Williams – which is operated by Crowley – had just completed their participation in the annual Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) exercise, which ran from June 14 to Nov. 30. According to the U.S. Navy, “CARAT is an annual, nine-country bilateral naval exercise series between the United States and Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand, and Timor Leste and is designed to enhance maritime security skills and operational cohesiveness among participating forces.” To celebrate another successful exercise, the steward department members aboard the Williams organized a cookout for both U.S. and Bangladesh Navy members on the stern of the vessel. The results of that cookout are depicted here. Chief Steward Elizabeth Ibanez makes sure the food has been prepared correctly. Personnel from both navies line up for food and camaraderie. Both the crew of the Williams and their guests from the Bangladesh Navy and U.S. Navy enjoy some BBQ on the stern. January 2019 Pictured from left to right are Chief Cook Kenyetta Isom, Chief Steward Elizabeth Ibanez, OS Michelle Conage and Bosun Godofredo Milabo. Pictured from left are OS Christopher Gomillion, OS Rashad Madison and OS Michelle Conage. The bosun notes that all three OSs sail from the port of Jacksonville, Florida, and worked hard in preparation for the exercise to help make sure the vessel was in tip-top shape. Seafarers LOG 11 �American Mariner With Seafarers On the Great Lakes The photos on this page were submitted by Port Agent Todd Brdak, and were taken while servicing the SIU crews of the American Steamship Company-operated American Mariner and the Armstrong Steamship Company-operated Walter J. McCarthy. The Mariner was docked in Toledo, Ohio, and the McCarthy was docked in Superior, Wisconsin. ABWH Dennis Fitzpatrick Chief Cook Mohamed Noman The American Mariner docked in Toledo, Ohio From left: Bosun Mohamed Mohsin, QMED Preston Eiland and Port Agent Todd Brdak From left: Conveyorman Zaid Mesleh, Port Agent Todd Brdak and ABWH Nassor James From left: Gateman Wisam Mesleh, ACU Amin Saleh and Conveyorman Zaid Mesleh Walter J. McCarthy Gateman Taha Al Amri tying up the Walter J. McCarthy GUDE Daryl Hicks tying up the Walter J. McCarthy 12 Seafarers LOG The Walter J. McCarthy unloading its boom The Walter J. McCarthy docking in Superior, Wisconsin January 2019 �El Coqui AB Maintenance Jose Canales, AB Maintenance Xavier Alfaro, AB Manuel Rodríguez, Recertified Bosun Wilfredo Velez, AB Jonathan Rivera SIU Tradition: Seafarers Brighten Thanksgiving Aboard Vessels, at Halls One of the SIU’s longstanding traditions is celebrating the winter holidays together, both at sea and at the hiring halls. Some of the oldest photos on file in the LOG office show Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings at various halls. More recently, Seafarers have generously shared their respective shipboard holiday snapshots with the union’s official publication. In that spirit, this page features a sampling of Thanksgiving photos from the El Coqui (operated by Crowley), the Indiana Harbor (American Steamship), and the Honolulu hall. Visit the SIU Facebook page (@SeafarersInternational) for additional snapshots, both from the aforementioned locations and from our historic files. Chief Cook Kevin Valentin, Chief Steward Juan Guanill, SA La’sonia Randolph Honolulu Hall Indiana Harbor Chief Cook Saleh Saleh January 2019 Seafarers LOG 13 �FREE COLLEGE Everyday Savings Save every day with union member-only discounts RQ�HYHU\WKLQJ�IURP�IDVKLRQ�DQG�EHDXW\�WR�HOHFWURQLFV�DQG� HYHU\GD\�KRXVHKROG�LWHPV��$QG�ZKHWKHU�LWȇV�GDWH�QLJKW�RU�D� IXQ�IDPLO\�QLJKW�RXW��HQMR\�GHOLFLRXV��XQLRQ�IDPLO\�GLVFRXQWV�DW� VHOHFW�UHVWDXUDQWV� )LQG�RXW�PRUH�DERXW�WKLV�DQG�RWKHU�JUHDW�8QLRQ�3OXV�SURJUDPV� E\�YLVLWLQJ�XQLRQSOXV�RUJ� CREDIT CARDS FLOWERS & GIFTS MORTGAGE PROGRAM Learn more at unionplus.org 3 ����21�7+(�0217+/<�6(59Ζ&(�&+$5*(�RI�48$/Ζ)Ζ('�:Ζ5(/(66�3/$16��$YDLODEOH�RQO\�WR�FXUUHQW�PHPEHUV�RI�TXDOLȴ�HG�$)/�&Ζ2�PHPEHU�XQLRQV��RWKHU�DXWKRUL]HG�LQGLYLGXDOV�DVVRFLDWHG�ZLWK�HOLJLEOH�XQLRQV�DQG�RWKHU�VSRQVRULQJ�RUJDQL]DWLRQV�ZLWK�D�TXDOLI\LQJ� DJUHHPHQW��0XVW�SURYLGH�DFFHSWDEOH�SURRI�RI�XQLRQ�PHPEHUVKLS�VXFK�DV�D�PHPEHUVKLS�FDUG�IURP�\RXU�ORFDO�XQLRQ��D�SD\�VWXE�VKRZLQJ�GXHV�GHGXFWLRQ�RU�WKH�8QLRQ�3OXV�0HPEHU�'LVFRXQW�&DUG�DQG�VXEVFULEH�WR�VHUYLFH�XQGHU�DQ�LQGLYLGXDO�DFFRXQW�IRU�ZKLFK� WKH�PHPEHU�LV�SHUVRQDOO\�OLDEOH��2΍�HU�FRQWLQJHQW�XSRQ�LQ�VWRUH�YHULȴ�FDWLRQ�RI�XQLRQ�PHPEHU�VWDWXV��'LVFRXQW�VXEMHFW�WR�DJUHHPHQW�EHWZHHQ�8QLRQ�3ULYLOHJH�DQG�$7 7�DQG�PD\�EH�LQWHUUXSWHG��FKDQJHG�RU�GLVFRQWLQXHG�ZLWKRXW�QRWLFH��'LVFRXQW�DSSOLHV�RQO\�WR� UHFXUULQJ�PRQWKO\�VHUYLFH�FKDUJH�RI�TXDOLȴ�HG�YRLFH�DQG�GDWD�SODQV��QRW�RYHUDJHV��1RW�DYDLODEOH�ZLWK�XQOLPLWHG�YRLFH�RU�XQOLPLWHG�GDWD�SODQV��)RU�)DPLO\�7DON��DSSOLHV�RQO\�WR�SULPDU\�OLQH��)RU�DOO�0RELOH�6KDUH�SODQV��DSSOLHV�RQO\�WR�PRQWKO\�SODQ�FKDUJH�RI�SODQV� ZLWK��*%�RU�PRUH��QRW�WR�DGGLWLRQDO�PRQWKO\�GHYLFH�DFFHVV�FKDUJHV��$GGLWLRQDO�UHVWULFWLRQV�DSSO\��0D\�WDNH�XS�WR���ELOO�F\FOHV�DIWHU�HOLJLELOLW\�FRQȴ�UPHG�DQG�ZLOO�QRW�DSSO\�WR�SULRU�FKDUJHV��$SSOLHG�DIWHU�DSSOLFDWLRQ�RI�DQ\�DYDLODEOH�FUHGLW��0D\�QRW�EH�FRPELQHG�ZLWK� RWKHU�VHUYLFH�GLVFRXQWV��9LVLW�XQLRQSOXV�RUJ�DWW�RU�FRQWDFW�$7 7�DW��������������IRU�GHWDLOV� 1/19 14 Seafarers LOG January 2019 �NMC Notice on TWIC Enrollment Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea The U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center issued the following notice on Nov. 13. It’s posted in the News section of the SIU website, www.seafarers.org Important Information On TWIC Enrollment Mariners applying for a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) must list their occupation as Merchant Mariner on their Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) applications. The United States Coast Guard relies on data provided by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) when evaluating MMC applications. Personal data supplied to TSA must match what is provided to the Coast Guard on the MMC application. If a TWIC applicant does not list his or her occupation as Merchant Mariner, the Coast Guard cannot reconcile the data provided by the TSA. In such cases, mariners may be asked to work with TSA to update information, which could result in MMC application issuance delays. To begin the application process for a TWIC, visit the TSA TWIC enrollment website (https://universalenroll.dhs.gov/ programs/twic). January & February 2019 Membership Meetings Piney Point................................Monday: January 7, February 4 Algonac......................................Friday: January 11, February 8 Baltimore...............................Thursday: January 10, February 7 Guam....................................Thursday: January 24, February 21 Honolulu...................................Friday: January 18, February 15 Houston....................................Monday: January 14, February 11 Jacksonville...........................Thursday: January 10, February 7 Joliet....................................Thursday: January 17, February 14 Mobile..............................Wednesday: January 16, February 13 New Orleans...........................Tuesday: January 15, February 12 Jersey City................................Tuesday: January 8, February 5 Norfolk..................................Thursday: January 10, February 7 November 15, 2018 - December 14, 2018 Total Registered Port All Groups A B Total Shipped C C Trip Reliefs Port Everglades...................Thursday: January 17, February 14 San Juan...............................Thursday: January 10, February 7 St. Louis...................................Friday: January 18, February 15 Tacoma.....................................Friday: January 25, February 22 Wilmington...........................*Tuesday: January 22, *February 19 * Wilmington changes due to Martin Luther King Jr.’s and Presidents Day observances. 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 January 2019 A All Groups B C 1 0 0 1 0 1 2 12 5 1 1 4 9 5 1 0 0 7 2 3 55 3 1 0 13 0 3 1 15 15 17 0 6 15 10 2 1 6 24 1 11 144 33 2 5 36 4 16 14 97 68 58 1 15 38 19 5 3 13 63 2 56 548 8 5 4 22 2 6 8 34 30 18 6 7 27 5 3 4 10 19 1 19 238 0 1 0 7 1 11 1 20 14 8 0 5 17 5 1 1 1 12 1 15 121 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 1 0 0 2 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 14 0 0 1 6 0 0 0 14 8 7 0 1 8 2 2 3 2 12 2 9 77 7 2 4 16 3 3 14 28 39 23 3 5 19 13 4 1 12 21 3 29 249 2 1 3 9 0 6 5 15 25 7 1 4 24 9 5 6 2 12 2 16 154 1 0 2 3 1 0 2 6 3 1 1 1 12 3 0 0 1 7 1 8 53 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 22 2 5 19 5 10 7 46 37 38 4 9 21 14 5 1 8 32 2 35 322 8 2 3 11 1 4 3 25 17 12 3 3 16 5 2 5 5 13 0 6 144 0 1 0 2 0 1 1 10 7 2 1 5 9 3 0 1 1 6 2 9 61 Deck Department 11 7 2 1 1 2 11 11 2 2 3 1 2 3 34 11 25 14 30 9 4 2 4 5 20 13 8 4 3 2 0 2 6 4 29 7 1 0 19 4 215 104 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 5 1 3 9 2 2 4 18 18 12 3 5 9 7 4 3 5 12 2 13 137 1 1 1 7 0 4 0 10 17 6 2 5 15 7 5 2 2 2 1 12 100 1 0 1 0 1 0 3 3 2 1 0 3 7 3 0 0 0 3 0 6 34 Engine Department 0 0 0 0 2 1 6 4 0 1 1 1 1 0 9 5 13 11 12 7 3 1 2 3 6 13 8 4 2 4 2 3 3 4 12 5 2 1 6 12 90 80 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 4 1 2 9 2 3 6 12 16 16 0 5 15 13 2 4 3 10 0 26 149 2 1 1 6 1 2 0 6 10 2 1 3 7 0 0 2 10 2 0 12 68 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 2 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 1 1 0 0 1 12 Steward Department 2 1 1 0 0 1 5 4 2 0 2 0 3 0 15 4 11 12 12 0 0 0 1 2 8 5 6 1 1 0 2 2 3 4 8 2 0 0 12 9 94 47 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 6 0 1 2 5 0 1 1 7 7 5 0 2 5 6 1 2 4 5 0 15 69 7 0 4 14 3 8 15 28 33 17 0 9 29 29 2 2 6 17 1 43 267 4 1 1 6 1 2 2 6 15 4 1 6 14 6 0 4 8 3 0 12 96 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 3 2 0 0 0 2 2 0 1 0 1 0 0 12 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 3 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 3 0 3 19 7 1 1 10 1 3 4 8 15 13 0 2 19 12 1 1 0 8 1 16 123 7 2 0 6 1 5 3 16 27 6 0 1 17 18 3 1 1 6 0 10 130 Entry Department 0 5 0 0 0 1 0 3 0 0 0 3 0 1 5 13 1 18 0 9 0 0 0 0 1 9 1 4 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 3 0 0 3 17 13 87 4 1 0 4 0 1 2 8 20 4 1 0 22 5 2 0 0 8 1 7 90 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 5 3 4 0 0 3 1 0 2 0 1 0 4 27 1 0 0 3 0 2 1 6 6 6 0 0 1 6 0 0 3 6 0 2 43 9 3 0 10 3 2 8 20 23 23 4 2 34 22 2 1 1 18 1 46 232 13 3 4 8 1 4 12 32 65 13 1 1 47 31 0 1 1 16 0 28 281 GRAND TOTAL: 627 435 237 165 317 1,107 720 467 Oakland...............................Thursday: January 17, February 14 Philadelphia.........................Wednesday: January 9, February 6 Registered on Beach All Groups A B 412 318 Seafarers LOG 15 �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 Kate Hunt, 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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by members at the hall in Wilmington, California. Question: What are some of the things you like about your career? Joseph George Welle III Recertified Steward There are a lot of things I like. My career is pretty exciting. Besides seeing all the different parts of the world, the most exciting part is providing for my family. For me, that’s the most important thing, because not all people can provide. It’s also doing things you love the most, like cooking and travelling. It’s exciting. Dan Coffey Pumpman I enjoyed it since I first got into it. I enjoy the camaraderie on the ship, and I really enjoy my time off. I only ship about 140 days a year, but I do like the family environment at the union halls. It’s always nice to sail with people you met at the hall. On my time off, I enjoy restoring boats, I’m an avid skateboarder and snowboarder, and I like to be out enjoying life and enjoying time off. This job gives you that opportunity. Ruben Siclot ACU I like my job. I’ve been an ACU for a long time, and I just love my job and supporting my family. I make good money. I’ve been in this line of work since I was 18. I enjoy being on the ship, traveling a lot. Hassan M. Mohamed GUDE This job is wonderful. I’ve been with the SIU almost 26 years, and I’ve been happy. This is my union – I have to provide for my union and they have to provide for me, too. It’s a good union and I get good jobs that mean I can support my family. It’s great; I don’t have any problems and I respect the officials. Daniel Bermudez SA I love the kitchen, so that’s a plus. I’ve been cooking for a long time. I get to do what I love. Most important is just being able to provide for my family, and travelling. Going to Sudan was interesting – culture shock. I’ll remember that experience for a long time. Ramon Guimba AB The first things I like are going to different places, making good money and eating good food. Everything is taken care of and we always emphasize safety. I started in 1993 and am very happy with the union. The SIU is always good to my family, always supportive. I’m going to stick with it. 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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Pic From The Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 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 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (939) 204-0337 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 Bosun John Gallagher submitted this gem from 1946, taken at Sloppy Joe’s Bar in Havana, Cuba. These are SIU shipmates from the U.S. Army Transport Peter Desmet (sometimes listed as De Smet). Pictured from left are an unknown Seafarer, Chief Steward Bob, Tim from the engine department, AB Frank Wherrity and Bosun Gallagher. 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 January 2019 �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 GARNER Brother Kenneth Garner, 62, became a member of the union in 1995. Initially sailing in the inland division, he first worked for Delta Queen Steamboat Co. Brother Garner sailed in both the deck and engine departments, and upgraded on several occasions at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center. He last sailed on the Atlantic Forest, and settled in New Orleans. BERT GILLIS Brother Bert Gillis, 65, started his SIU career in 1978 when he shipped on the Aquarius. He was a deck department member upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Gillis most recently shipped aboard the Taurus. He lives in Mobile, Alabama. PAULETTE HILLIARD Sister Paulette Hilliard, 65, embarked on her SIU career in 1997, first sailing aboard the USNS Regulus. She worked as a member of the steward department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Sister Hilliard most recently sailed on the USNS Yano. She calls Harvey, Louisiana, home. DENNIS HUNT Brother Dennis Hunt, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1991, initially sailing on the USNS Relentless. He was a steward department member and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2002. Brother Hunt most recently sailed aboard the USNS Bruce Heezen. He resides in Pensacola, Florida. JOSEPH LAGUANA Brother Joseph Laguana, 70, began his career with the Seafarers in 1990, first sailing on the USNS Altair. The engine department member upgraded his skills on mul- January 2019 tiple occasions at the maritime training facility located in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Laguana most recently sailed aboard the Midnight Sun. He calls Bremerton, Washington, home. LEO LARSEN Brother Leo Larsen, 65, joined the SIU in 1975 and initially sailed on the Pacer. He was a member of the deck department and last sailed aboard the Innovator. Brother Larsen resides in Foster City, California. Sanchez Rivera’s first vessel was the Saturn; his last, the Maersk Idaho. He makes his home in Brooklyn, New York. TIMOTHY CLASEMAN MARTIN TINKER Brother Martin Tinker, 72, became an SIU member in 1991. His first vessel was the Lake, and he sailed in all three departments. Brother Tinker last sailed aboard the William Baugh. He calls Yellow Springs, Ohio, home. GREAT LAKES GERALD BEAUBIEN Brother Angel Perez, 67, signed on with the SIU in 1988, first sailing aboard the Challenger. A deck department member, he upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Perez’s final ship was the William R. Button. He calls Luquillo, Puerto Rico, home. Brother Gerald Beaubien, 59, signed on with the union in 1978, initially working on the Exchange. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Beaubien most recently sailed on the American Mariner. He resides in Alpena, Michigan. EDWARD RYNBERG JEFFERY ECKHART Brother Edward Rynberg, 71, joined the SIU in 1990. He first shipped on the USNS Wilkes and upgraded often at the maritime training facility located in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Rynberg was an engine department member and also worked on shore gangs. He last sailed aboard the Sealand Trader, and resides in Alameda, California. Brother Jeffery Eckhart, 61, began his career with the Seafarers in 1977 when he sailed on the Sam Laud. He upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center and was a member of the deck department. Brother Eckhart most recently sailed on the Great Republic. He resides in Ossineke, Michigan. ANGEL PEREZ JUAN SANCHEZ CABRERA LARRY MIDDLETON Brother Juan Sanchez Cabrera, 65, joined the union in 2000, first sailing aboard the USNS Bob Hope. He worked in the engine department and upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2003. Brother Sanchez Cabrera last sailed on the Sumner; he lives in Naranjito, Puerto Rico. Brother Larry Middleton, 65, became a union member in 2007, initially working on the Pride of Hawaii. A member of the deck department, he upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Middleton most recently sailed on the Walter J. McCarthy. He makes his home in Mayville, Michigan. OSVALDO SANCHEZ RIVERA INLAND Brother Osvaldo Sanchez Rivera, 65, joined the Seafarers in 2001, initially sailing in the Great Lakes division. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center the year he signed on and worked in both the engine and steward departments. Brother company for the duration of his career. Brother Bannister lives in Uriah, Alabama. JIMMY BANNISTER Brother Jimmy Bannister, 62, joined the SIU in 1977 when he worked with Dravo Basic Materials. He was a member of the deck department and remained with the same Brother Timothy Claseman, 65, started his SIU career in 1997, first working for Penn Maritime. He was a deck department member and spent the remainder of his career working for G&H Towing. Brother Claseman makes his home in Corpus Christi, Texas. ROBERT GREGGS Brother Robert Greggs, 62, signed on with the Seafarers in 1975, initially sailing aboard the Ponce in the deep sea division. He upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center and was a deck department member. Brother Greggs last sailed with OSG Ship Management before settling in Moyock, North Carolina. GEORGE ELMER Brother George Elmer, 65, joined the union in 1980 when he worked with Sealand Manpower in Houston. He worked on the same shore gang for the duration of his career, and makes his home in Montgomery, Texas. VIVION MCRAE Brother Vivion McRae, 67, became a member of the SIU in 1976 when he worked for Dravo Basic Materials. A deck department member, he sailed with the same company for his entire career. Brother McRae lives in Wilmer, Alabama. JAMES MULHOLLAND Brother James Mulholland, 56, joined the union in 1996 when he worked for Crowley. He spent his entire career with the same company, most recently at Penn Terminal. Brother Mulholland resides in Turnersville, New Jersey. ANTHONY MYKLICH school on numerous occasions and was a member of the deck department. Brother Myklich sailed with the same company for his entire career. He calls Glassboro, New Jersey, home. EDUARDO OLAES Brother Eduardo Olaes, 68, signed on with the union in 2003, working for Allied Transportation. A steward department member, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center within his first year with the SIU. Brother Olaes remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He resides in Virginia Beach, Virginia. JOHN SHEPHERD Brother John Shepherd, 62, became a Seafarer in 1978, initially sailing in the deep sea division. He was a deck department member and first sailed on the Point Susan. Brother Shepherd upgraded on multiple occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. He last sailed aboard the Liberty Island and lives in Royal, Arkansas. ROBERT STONE Brother Robert Stone, 62, joined the SIU in 1978, when he shipped on the Portland. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments and upgraded often at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center. Brother Stone concluded his career working for Crowley Towing and Transportation. He settled in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. NMU ROBERT HART Brother Robert Hart, 65, became a member of the SIU in 2001 during the SIU/ NMU merger. He resides in Sherman, Connecticut. Brother Anthony Myklich, 62, began his SIU career in 1989 when he worked with OSG Ship Management. He upgraded at the Piney Point Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA URSEL BARBER Pensioner Ursel Barber, 67, passed away November 2. He donned the SIU colors in 1968, first sailing on the R Semmes. Brother Barber sailed in the engine department. The Texas native also worked on shore gangs, most recently in Houston. He retired in 2013 and lived in Midway, Texas. ZAINE BASIR Pensioner Zaine Basir, 82, died August 21. Born in Malaysia, he signed on with the SIU in 1966 when he sailed aboard the Steel Scientist. Brother Basir was a deck department member and most recently shipped on the Maersk Virginia. He became a pensioner in 2007 and settled in New York. DONNIE COLLINS VAN JOYNER Pensioner Donnie Collins, 93, died November 5. He joined the SIU in 1948 and first sailed on the Del Mundo. Brother Collins was a steward department member and last sailed on the OMI Dynachem. He went on pension in 1990 and made his home in Kenner, Louisiana. Pensioner Van Joyner, 72, passed away October 18. He began his career with the SIU in 1973, first sailing aboard an Anchorage Tankship vessel. Brother Joyner worked in all three departments and concluded his career aboard the Overseas Vivian. He became a pensioner in 2015 and was a Houston resident. MARCUS DENNIS Pensioner Marcus Dennis, 93, passed away October 17. He joined the union in 1967 when he sailed with Isthmian Lines. An engine department member, he last sailed aboard the USNS Capella. Brother Dennis retired in 1990 and settled in Jacksonville, Florida. RAUL GIRON Pensioner George Bradley, 67, died August 19. He joined the SIU in 1968, first sailing on the Seatrain New Jersey. Brother Bradley was a member of the deck department. After sailing aboard his final vessel, the Enterprise, he went retired in 2016. He lived in San Francisco. Pensioner Raul Giron, 95, passed away November 24. He signed on with the SIU in 1970, first sailing on the Keva Ideal. Brother Giron worked in all three departments and last sailed on the Overseas Arctic. He became a pensioner in 1988 and lived in Del Rio, Texas. MATTHEW CARROLL ROSS HARDY Pensioner Matthew Carroll, 74, passed away November 8. He became an SIU member in 1965 and first sailed on the Producer. Brother Carroll was a member of the deck department and last shipped aboard the Defender. He retired in 2009 and settled in El Paso, Texas. Pensioner Ross Hardy, 79, died November 7. He joined the union in 1965 and first sailed on the Del Valle. Brother Hardy was a member of the engine department. His last vessel was the Cape Texas. He began collecting his pension in 2001 and called La Marque, Texas, home. WALTER CHANCEY LOUIS HACHEY Pensioner Walter Chancey, 77, died October 16. He joined the SIU in 1958, first sailing on the Alcoa Partner. An engine department member, brother Chancey most recently sailed on the Express. He became a pensioner in 1999 and resided in Troy, Alabama. Pensioner Louis Hachey, 75, passed away October 27. He signed on with the SIU in 1964, initially sailing on the Del Sud. A deck department member, Brother Hachey last sailed aboard the Overseas Valdez. He retired in 1996 and settled in Manchester, Michigan. FRANCISCO CHARNECO MAURICE HETRICK Pensioner Francisco Charneco, 89, passed away October 14. He joined the union in 1955 and first sailed aboard the Cubore. A deck department member, Brother Charneco last sailed aboard a Michigan Tankers vessel. He retired in 1978 and was a resident of Bayamon, Puerto Rico. Pensioner Maurice Hetrick, 69, died November 11. He became an SIU member in 1991 when he sailed on the Sealift Arctic. Brother Hetrick was a deck department member, and last sailed aboard the Ocean Atlas. He began collecting his pension in 2014 and lived in Veedersburg, Indiana. GEORGE BRADLEY 18 Seafarers LOG ALEX RESENDEZ Pensioner Alex Resendez, 71, passed away August 31. He embarked on his SIU career in 1972, first working for G&H Towing. Brother Resendez was an engine department member and sailed in both the inland and deep sea divisions. He most recently sailed on the Baldomero Lopez, and resided in San Antonio, Texas. ROBERT SCOTTI Pensioner Robert Scotti, 86, died November 14. He joined the union in 1953 and initially sailed aboard the Chiwawa. Brother Scotti worked in both the deck and engine departments, last sailing aboard the Integrity. He became a pensioner in 1989 and lived in Lachine, Quebec. OLIE WEBBER Pensioner Olie Webber, 73, passed away November 2. Born in Boston, he joined the SIU in 1969. One of the engine department member’s first vessels was the OMI Willamette. Brother Webber last shipped on the Horizon Enterprise. He went on pension in 2017 and made his home in Pahrump, Nevada. GREAT LAKES DAVID AKERSTROM Pensioner David Akerstrom, 72, passed away November 1. He signed on with the union in 1967 when he worked with Great Lakes Associates. Brother Akerstrom worked in the deck department and last sailed aboard the St. Clair. He began collecting his pension in 2001 and lived in Duluth, Minnesota. INLAND AUGUSTUS BLAKE Pensioner Augustus Blake, 87, died November 7. He began his career with the Seafarers in 1960 and initially worked for Gulf Atlantic Transport. Brother Blake was a deck department member and retired in 1995 after sailing with Allied Transportation. He resided in Belhaven, North Carolina. ALFRED DOHERTY Pensioner Alfred Doherty, 90, passed away November 17. He signed on with the SIU in 1957, working for J.I. Hass. A deck department member, he retired in 1991 after sailing with Crowley Towing and Transportation. Brother Doherty lived in Tarpon Springs, Florida. ALFRED McCULLEN Pensioner Alfred McCullen, 84, died October 29. He joined the union in 1967 and first worked for Michigan Tankers. A deck department member, Brother McCullen sailed with Taylor Marine Towing. He began collecting his pension in 1996 and made his home in West Deptford, New Jersey. WILLIAM MORRIS Pensioner William Morris, 74, passed away November 11. He became an SIU member in 1960, initially sailing aboard the Sampan Knot. Brother Morris sailed in both the deep sea and inland divisions and was a deck department member. He last worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation before his retirement in 2008. Brother Morris settled in Galveston, Texas. MICHAEL PRIVETTE Pensioner Michael Privette, 64, died November 5. He signed on with the union in 1975, first sailing aboard the Yukon in the deep sea division. Brother Privette worked in both the deck and engine departments. After concluding his career with Crowley Towing and Transportation, he retired in 2009. He called Lancaster, California, home. STEVEN SORENSON Brother Steven Sorenson, 65, passed away September 26. He began his career with the Seafarers in 1993 when he worked for American Marine. Brother Sorenson sailed in the deck department and remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He became a pensioner in 2018 and resided in Westminster, California. NMU ANDRES ANDUJAR Pensioner Andres Andujar, 86, died October 20. Brother Andujar was native to Puerto Rico and became a pensioner in 1997. He lived in Midlothian, Virginia. NORMAN BUSH Pensioner Norman Bush, 83, passed away November 22. He was born in Honduras and became a member of the SIU in 2001 during the SIU/ NMU merger. A member of the steward department, Brother Bush’s first SIU vessel was the Ocean Atlas. He most recently sailed aboard the Yorktown Express before settling in Tampa, Florida. FRANK MCDOWELL Pensioner Frank McDowell, 91, died November 10. He was an NMU member before the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. Brother McDowell was an engine department member and last sailed aboard the Global Mariner. He was a resident of Baltimore. ELVIS MCLURE Pensioner Elvis McLure, 74, passed away October 15. He joined the SIU in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. Brother McLure’s first SIU vessel was the Perseverance; his last, the Comet. The deck department member became a pensioner in 2009 and resided in Wilmington, California. JOHN PENA Pensioner John Pena, 84, died October 3. He sailed with the NMU prior to the 2001 merger with Seafarers International Union. A deck department member, Brother Pena last sailed on the Delaware Trader. He retired in 2002 and called Lakewood, California, home. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. Name Age Callender, Reuben 83 Castagna, Oscar 85 Cenac, Walton 99 Coleman, Robert 92 Freedman, Alvin 92 McCoy, Ephrim 85 Pimentel, Luis 91 Rodriguez, Charles 95 Schreib, Emil 84 Vieira, Eduardo 81 DOD 11/03/2018 11/05/2018 10/27/2018 11/07/2018 09/30/2018 10/24/2018 11/18/2018 09/19/2018 01/11/2016 10/19/2018 January 2019 �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. Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings ALASKAN EXPLORER (Alaska Tanker Company), September 9 – Chairman Jose Loureiro, Secretary John Huyett, Educational Director Tristan Brand, Deck Delegate Francisco Hernandez Davila, Engine Delegate Kevin Kelly, Steward Delegate Roberto Martinez. Crew still waiting for recliner repair or replacement. Chairman reviewed importance of shipboard meetings. Sister ship Alaskan Frontier was laid up. Funds will be distributed to three other vessels. Secretary went over free college and Union Plus program. Bosun mentioned availability of new training at Piney Point for various shipboard positions. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested radio. Members hope to receive YETI cups, printed with SIU logo. Steward department was thanked for good food and service. Next Port: Valdez, Alaska ALASKAN NAVIGATOR (Alaska Tanker Company), September 9 – Chairman Gregory Hamilton, Secretary Cayetano Toledo, Educational Director Leland Peterson, Deck Delegate Manuel Enrico, Engine Delegate Anne Scott, Steward Delegate Wilson Peniston. Recliner and heat lamp in need of repair. Store intake planned at Port Angeles. Ship schedule includes anchoring at Long Beach. Chairman reminded members to stay current on dues. Secretary announced provisions at Port Angeles. Crew was encouraged to contribute to SPAD. Educational director advised members to be sure documents are up to date. He encouraged everyone to upgrade at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for a job well done and crew commended for keeping house clean. Next Port: Long Beach, California. SANTORINI (Overseas Ship Management), September 23 – Secretary Isaac Newsome, Steward Delegate Noel Segovia. Crew reviewed health and benefits plan improvements. Educational director urged members to upgrade their skills at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center. Members were encouraged to go on SIU website. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members pleased with right-to-work (for less) victory in Missouri. Crew requested changes to pension compensation formula. ALASKAN EXPLORER (Alaska Tanker Company), September 30 – Chairman Jose Loureiro, Secretary John Huyett, Educational Director Tristan Brand, Deck Delegate Charles Ford, Engine Delegate Kevin Kelly, Steward Delegate Yolanda Martinez. Broken-chair issue to be clarified with captain. Chairman reminded members to go through proper chain of command to resolve problems and encouraged everyone to start within SIU. Educational director urged crew to keep documents current and to attend courses at Piney Point. Help with applications available for members. Crew discussed Union Plus benefits and installation of DirectTV system. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested increase to vacation days and were reminded to keep mess hall clean after hours. Next Port: Valdez, Alaska. ALASKAN LEGEND (Alaska Tanker Company), September 30 – Chairman Alvin Martin, Secretary Just Self, Educational Director Corey Hann, Deck Delegate Woodrow Brown, Engine Delegate Eric Garcia, Steward Delegate Roberto Coronado. Crew still waiting for update on cell phone boosters. Pinup board for union minutes installed. Water leaks reported on both scullery sinks. Steamtable insert in need of replacement. Educational director announced ATC conference at Piney Point set for Spring 2019. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested new recliners and increase of vacation days. Steward department doing a great job. Next Port: Long Beach, California. NATIONAL GLORY (Crowley), September 30 – Chairman Joseph White, Secretary Lionel Packnett, Educational Director Oswald Bermeo, Deck Delegate John Schmanski, Engine Delegate Jose Urra, Steward Delegate Jesus Pacheco. Chairman thanked crew for their hard work when preparing for ABS inspection. He reminded everyone to keep common areas clean and to be considerate while shipmates sleep. New remotes purchased for Blu-ray player and new remote ordered for sound bar. Chairman reminded members to take care of equipment. Educational director advised crew to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members discussed importance of cargo preference and Jones Act. Next Port: Puerto Rico. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Sunrise Operations), October 1 – Chairman George Khan, Secretary Raymond Garcia, Educational Director Trent Sterling, Deck Delegate Gary Cardillo, Engine Delegate Albert Dulig, Steward Delegate Bernie Igot. Chairman reminded members that company gives allowance for safety shoes only. He commended deck gang for great job preparing for ABS inspection. Educational director encouraged members keep all documents up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew read and discussed Seafarers LOG. Members requested cost of living increases to occur every two years for pensioners. Crew would like to increase vacation pay. Steward to order new sheets, pillows and bedspreads. OVERSEAS LONG BEACH (Overseas Ship Management), October 6 – Chairman David Martinez, Educational Director Edgardo Barrios, Deck Delegate Basil McMillan, Steward Delegate Lissette Ramirez. Members received communication from union concerning Wi-Fi. All departments practicing work safety. Crew was encouraged to join Seafarers 401K and donate to SPAD. Educational director advised members to attend upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Captain announced plans to contact company for internet booster. ALASKAN LEGEND (Alaska Tanker Company), October 7 – Chairman Alvin Martin, Secretary Just Self, Educational Director Corey Hann, Deck Delegate Tawnia Stucker, Engine Delegate Eric Garcia, Steward Delegate Joshua Bingham. Educational Director plans to check with chief engineer for cell phone boosters. Crew still needs a microwave oven plate. Lockers now available in changeout room for steward department. Galley sinks, garbage disposal and steamtable insert are now in working order. Chief engineer will order parts needed for oven door repair. Ship is going through maintenance for next two-and-a-half months and will be carrying four extra riders. ATC conference dates have been posted. Deck delegate urged members to check overtime sheets. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew still waiting for response about recliners and vacation day increase requests. Members asked for detailed information regarding P310 form, and were reminded to secure two other forms. Next Port: Cherry Point, Washington. LIBERTY EAGLE (Liberty Maritime), October 7 – Chairman Robert Hoppenworth, Secretary George Quinn, Educational Director Shawn Yancey, Deck Delegate Brian Jackson, Steward Delegate Sherre Wilson. Restricted to ship in Singapore. Chairman discussed expiration dates on credentials. Educational director reminded members to attend upgrading courses at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed mattress replacement and Wi-Fi. Steward department thanked for excellent food. Next Port: Orange, Texas. MAERSK MONTANA (Maersk Line, Limited), October 7 – Chairman Sunnil Motley, Secretary Johnny Sawyer, Educational Director Monroe Monseur, Deck Delegate George Phillips, Engine Delegate Antonio McAdams, Steward Delegate Malcolm Holmes. Chairman reiterated importance of learning computer skills. He advised crew to be sure documents are up to date when applying for a job. Secretary thanked crew for pulling together and working safely. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade and to take Maersk safety training at Piney Point. Crew requests Wi-Fi access and transportation to stores from port. Deck delegate commended members’ hard work, making the ship look sharp and staying safe. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Copies of new contract needed on ship. Members requested more linen and suggested change to vacation benefits. Crew discussed interest in reducing time required for retirement. Next Port: Charleston, South Carolina. MAGNOLIA STATE (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning), October 12 – Chairman Adel Ahmed, Secretary Maili Wang, Educational Director Eddie Pittman, Deck Delegate Ryan Boltz, Steward Delegate Tracey Newsome. Chairman discussed upcoming federal elections and reminded crew to be sure documents are up to date. Members requested fresh produce to be supplied biweekly. Crew waiting on Wi-Fi connection for computer in crew lounge and DVR availability in all staterooms. Members requested change in vacation benefits and relief schedules. Crew would like more visits from union representative. 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 January 2019 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 19 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 June 29 MSC Supply Configuration Management February 2 April 13 February 22 May 3 February 23 May 4 March 22 May 31 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck AB to Mate Modules March 2 April 27 RFPNW March 29 May 24 Modules must be taken in order. Those who are not in the mates program cannot apply for these courses. Contact the Admissions Office for further details. Date of Completion March 30 May 25 April 26 June 21 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers May 18 May 31 BAPO February 2 March 30 March 1 April 26 Engineroom Resource Management June 22 June 28 FOWT March 2 March 29 Junior Engineer March 16 May 10 Marine Electrician May 18 July 12 Marine Refer Tech March 9 April 19 MEECE June 1 June 14 Pumpman January 26 February 1 Welding February 16 March 8 July 5 Storekeeper Courses MSC Storekeeper Basic Start Date Deck Department Upgrading Courses Date of Completion Gap Closing Courses Leadership & Managerial Skills Title of Course Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Ops March 30 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start January 7. May 3 Chief Steward February 2 March 22 March 9 April 27 March 15 May 3 Galley Operations February 2 March 1 Bosun Recertification July 20 August 5 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 January 26 February 1 Crane Familiarization April 6 April 12 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 February 2 February 8 ECDIS April 13 April 19 Steward Recertification April 13 May 6 Fast Rescue Boat June 1 June 7 GMDSS July 20 August 2 Lifeboat February 9 March 9 February 22 March 22 Radar Observer February 23 April 13 March 8 April 26 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW February 2 March 30 Advanced Meteorology May 4 May 10 Advanced Shiphandling May 11 May 24 Advanced Stability April 27 ARPA March 1 April 26 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 If yes, class # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? †Yes †�No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG April 26 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training/Basic FF February 2 February 8 Basic Training Revalidation January 25 January 25 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation March 30 April 5 Government Vessels February 9 February 15 Medical Care Provider January 26 February 1 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL February 16 February 22 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG February 9 February 15 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, or 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. 1/19 January 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #842 – Graduated Oct. 10 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Zachary Anderson, Sharde Baker, Jason Bottari, Kyree Carter, Christopher Eke, Joshua Glancy, Travon Gordon, Ernest Grant Jr., David Hain-Mendez, Kenneth Kauffman, Manuel Gerard Manzur Rosado, Christopher Nicolosi, Keauni Natele Pullett, Abraham Quiner, Neil Laconsay Tupas, Oliver Vickers, Dax Walton and Danielle Woodward. Important Notice To All 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 – Graduated September 21 (above, in alphabetical order): Latiffe Brooks, Jonathan Collier, David Garrett, Antonio Griffin, Timothy Hetz, Ronilo Rublica Monares and Gajatri Normatova. Class instructor William Dodd is at the far left. RFPNW – Graduated August 24: Sosiua Faasavaliga Peau (center) and Patricia Placek (right). Bernabe Pelingon, their instructor, is at the left. Government Vessels – Graduated September 14 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Julian Beasley, Robert Bryson III, Joseph Hernandez, Jamison McIntyre, Mason Con Melland, Lawrence Mills Jr., Christina Price, Annie Scriven, David Wakeman, Brian Wiley, Andre Winningham and Shaun Wood. UA to AS-Deck – Graduated September 21 (above, in alphabetical order): Rizaldy Ano Jr., Arnold Dimaandal Baluyot, Phillip Borders, Hector Ulises Garibaldi, Macey Horne, Jared Nichols, Patricia Placek, Levon Prophet, Tiyhana Shonye Roddy, James Russell, Charles Turner Jr., and Jerald Welcome. January 2019 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Tankship Familiarization LG – Graduated August 24 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Joshua Barber, Allan Bombita, Ana Marie Chona Razon Calma, Antony Chapman, Donell Criswell, Sherron Davita DeCoteau, Artemio Galabo Galaura, Jasmine Garrett, Timothy Hetz, Bud Sok Khuth, Nadzeya Mikhailovna Kuptsova, Steven Ariel Lopez Ferrer, Mark Mahoney, Sonny Perez, Atm Zahid Reza, Paul Riley Jr., Adam Riley, Leroy Andres Ramos Sierra, Leonard Elad Soriano, Jason Stahl, Iker Emanuel Urruchi Lugo and Reginald Yeager. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Graduated August 17 (above, in alphabetical order): Allan Bombita, Prentice Baptista Conley, Kelly Doyle, Artemio Galabo Galaura, Martin Garcia, Bud Sok Khuth, Michael Maldonado, Sterling McCosh, Scott Opsahl, William Rackley, Marlon Suazo Fernandez and Reginald Yeager. (Note: Not all are pictured.) MSC Storekeeper – Graduated August 10 (above, in alphabetical order): Julian Beasley, Phillip Best, Rocky Dupraw, Joseph Hernandez, Christina Price and Shaun Wood. Instructors Zak Schaver and Matthew Rogers are at the far left and far right, respectively. BAPO – Graduated August 24 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Adam Brundage, Elyser Valdez Carpio, Dion Cheeseborough and Carlos Manuel Noriega. John Wiegman III, their instructor, is at the far left. Tank Barge DL – Graduated August 31 (above, in alphabetical order): Jose Argueta, Raibonne Charles, Scott Forrer, Luke Yves Fouilloux, Matthew Hargrove, Gilbert Johnson, John Kehoe, Mark Mahoney, William Mercer, Adam Riley, Michael Riley, Glen Williams and Damon Zschoche. 22 Seafarers LOG January 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Graduated August 24 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Jamel Akia Anders, Keithan Bland, Kirk Chambers, Alexandra Erickson, Paisami Gay, Jurgen Gottschlich, Charles Kamaualii Hanohano III, Daniel Howard, L.G. Johnson, Lamarai Jones, Shadonna Jones, EsStonia Moore, Eugenia Porter, Noah Susumu SantiagoStephens, Ben Skuban, Lareesa Warren, Jessica Williams, Kendra Williams and Jarid Wilson. WATCO – Graduated August 10 (above, in alphabetical order): Ibrahim Awadalla Abdelkarim, Nabeel Ahmed Alawi, Nicholas Mora, Joseph Negron, Kyle Pillsworth, Timothy Pillsworth, Orlando Reveron, Michael Sedita and Richard Serrano. William Dodd, their instructor, is at the far right. Small Arms – Graduated August 10 (above, from left): Rick James, Eric Van Mose and Joshua Rawls. Class instructor John Thomas is at the far right. Basic Training (Advanced Firefighting Revalidation) – Graduated August 24 (above, in alphabetical order): Michael Maldonado, Andre Skevnick, Jared Smith and Dean Lopaka Waiwaiole. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated August 31 (above, from left): Meili Wang Seegers, Alan Hollinger and Elizabeth Remotigue Ibanez January 2019 Chief Steward – Graduated August 24 (above, in alphabetical order): Bernard Butts, Roberto Odchimar Coronado Jr., Susan Emmons, Ingrid Soveira Ortiz-Rosario and Rommel Reston. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Galley Ops – Graduated August 10 (above, in alphabetical order): Tayseer Alshaibi, Esmaralda Salazar Cueto, Jolanta Czeslawa Goch, Brandy Griffin, Nadzeya Mikhailovna Kuptsova, Liliana Oliveros, Sonia Pabon Barreto, Chad Sikorski and Dominique Wesley. Seafarers LOG 23 �JANUARY 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 1 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Cabotage Studies, New Tonnage Highlight 2018 Under the leadership of President Michael Sacco, the SIU steadily moved forward in 2018, with a list of accomplishments that included adding new jobs, ratifying solid contracts, improving its affiliated school in southern Maryland, opening a new hiring hall in Puerto Rico and helping lead the fight to defend cabotage laws. The latter issue produced some of last year’s biggest headlines, and involved (among other efforts) one study concerning the Jones Act’s effect on Puerto Rico, and a separate, longerterm examination of cabotage laws around the world. Economists from Boston-based Reeve & Associates and San Juan-based Estudios Técnicos, Inc. on July 18 released a joint report, “The Impact of the Jones Act on Puerto Rico,” that concluded the Jones Act has no impact on either retail prices or the cost of living in Puerto Rico. In addition, the report found that the state-of-the-art maritime technology, Puerto-Rico focused investments, and dedicated closed-loop service offered by Jones Act carriers provide a significant positive economic impact to the island, at freight rates lower or comparable to similar services to other Caribbean Islands. These findings factually shot down claims to the contrary from Jones Act opponents, who seemingly blame the timetested law for every problem under the sun and whose main strategy apparently is to repeat lies loudly and often. Later in the year, Seafarers’ Rights International (SRI), an independent center for mariner advocacy and research, released its full report – “Cabotage Laws of the World” – on the findings of their global cabotage study. The study, commissioned by the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), provides the first independent analysis of maritime cabotage laws since the early 1990s. Based on extensive research involving 140 countries, the SRI report revealed that 91 countries representing 80 percent of the world’s coastal United Nations Maritime States have cabotage laws restricting foreign maritime activity in their domestic coastal trades. Merriam-Webster defines cabotage as “trade or transport in coastal waters or airspace or between two points within a country.” ITF Seafarers’ Section Chair David Heindel, who also serves as the SIU’s secretary-treasurer, said, “The lack of accurate facts on cabotage laws around the world has been an impediment for policymakers considering implementing cabotage laws. This report represents a circuit breaker, providing policymakers with the relevant facts for proper decision-making. The SRI report debunks the myth that cabotage is an exception, not the rule. Laws governing maritime activity are widespread, currently existing in 91 countries covering 80 percent of the world’s coastlines of U.N. maritime states. We know there are a number of countries considering introducing, strengthening or diminishing cabotage regulation. This report will assure those governments that it makes sense to enforce national cabotage laws.” Additionally, the SIU testified or otherwise supported several U.S. congressional hearings covering the Jones Act, cargo preference, and other laws and programs that are vital to the U.S. Merchant Marine. The union threw its full support behind a new bill, the Energizing American Shipbuilding Act, which would boost shipboard jobs as well. Championed by U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California), the bill has strong bipartisan support and legitimate prospects for approval in the new year. Not all of the news from the nation’s capital was positive for maritime or the labor movement. The Supreme Court ruled against working families with its long-awaited decision in the Janus case. However, unions have responded by significantly ramping up efforts to remind workers of the ongoing extreme The SIU gained jobs when the Oregon and two other tankers were acquired by Crowley. relevance of unions. There were victories, too, both in the U.S. and in Canada. Missouri citizens soundly rejected a statewide, so-called “right to work” law. Meanwhile, the SIU of Canada led the way in winning major cabotage rights for that nation’s mariners. Also, the annual report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics showed that union membership grew by 262,000 in 2017 (the most recent year for which data was available). New Ships Seafarers and SIU CIVMARS welcomed many new vessels throughout the year, plus the start of construction on several ships. Crowley acquired three tankers (Oregon, Washington, California) from SeaRiver mid-year, and later christened the ConRo El Coqui. Matson launched the Daniel K. Inouye, the largest containership built in the U.S. (850 feet). Construction also started on the Matsonia, a ConRo. The general cargo ship SLNC York (Argent Marine) reflagged under the Stars and Stripes, while the first steel plates were cut for the Pasha Hawaii Jones Act containership George III. SIU Government Services Division members had much to applaud, including the christenings of the expeditionary fast transports USNS Burlington and USNS Puerto Rico, and the start of construction on the fleet replenishment oiler USNS John Lewis and the expeditionary sea base USNS Miguel Keith. New Contracts and Benefits It was a banner year for the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP), which bookended 2018 by announcing assorted new benefits for Seafarers and their dependents. The SHBP also awarded nine scholarships worth a combined $132,000. Four of the grants went to Seafarers, while the other five were claimed by SIU family members. SIU negotiating teams continued to defy nationwide trends by securing agreements that feature regular wage increases while maintaining or increasing benefits. Such was the case both at Great Lakes Dredge & Dock, where members ratified a five-year contract; and at G&H Towing, where SIU boatmen approved a three-year pact. Piney Point The union-affiliated Paul Hall Center and its Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship continued pressing ahead to set the standard for maritime training. Located in Piney Point, Maryland, the school introduced a new class for storekeepers and launched a totally revamped steward department curriculum – collectively dubbed Culinary 2.0 – that was a hit with the first students. In the fall, the Paul Hall Center also hosted a packed meeting of the U.S. Transportation Command’s executive working group on the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement. The group includes SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez. In May, the school’s advisory board examined current and future training needs, and discussed various upgrades being made to both the campus itself and the classes. The board includes representatives from the union, school, ship-operating companies and government agencies. That same month, Piney Point was the site for the sixth annual Seafarers Waterfront Classic. The event benefits the American Military Veterans Foundation (AMMILVETS), previously called the Wounded Warriors Anglers of America. New Hall and More On Nov. 8, the SIU officially opened the new hiring hall in SIU President Michael Sacco opens the winter meeting of the Maritime Trades Department executive board. San Juan, Puerto Rico, with an event that included food, drinks and a live band. “Welcome to your brand-new SIU union hall,” SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo began, before being interrupted by cheers and applause from the more than 150 members, elected officials, company executives and guests gathered outside the building for the ceremony. The new facility, located at 659 Hillside Street in the Summit Hills neighborhood of San Juan, is immaculate, with all-new furniture in multiple member lounge areas, wheelchairaccessible restrooms, a modern galley and mess area, WiFi access and a second-floor conference room. Most importantly, it’s in a safe and secure neighborhood – a huge improvement from the previous hall. In other news, the SIU remained very active with the ITF, and Heindel was re-elected as chair of the federation’s Seafarers’ Section at its congress in Singapore. Several SIU crews upheld the finest traditions of the Brotherhood of the Sea by executing rescues, including Seafarers from the USNS Trenton, USNS Wally Schirra and multiple NY Waterway ferries. The National Transportation Safety Board published a summary of its investigation of the El Faro tragedy. Two books (by private authors) were published about the October 2015 sinking. Later in the year, the SIU conducted and participated in memorial services at sea and ashore for the 33 individuals (including 17 Seafarers) who lost their lives in the sinking. Two longtime Seafarers called it quits: SIU Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram retired after 40 years with the union, and SIU Assistant Vice President Contracts Archie Ware did the same, also capping a 40-year career. Former UIW National Director Kate Hunt made history when she succeeded Mangram, becoming the union’s first female vice president. Seafarers continued their philanthropy across the globe, including annual efforts in Tacoma, Washington, and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The Maritime Trades Department conducted a Jones Actthemed winter meeting, helping set the record straight on a law that is vital to U.S. national, economic and homeland security. Finally, the union bid a solemn farewell to Charlie Stewart, retired vice president and former NMU official, who passed away at age 84. The new hall in Puerto Rico is a hit with members, their families and other guests. Among those pictured at the ceremonial opening are (starting third from left) SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez, former Puerto Rico Gov. Carlos Romero Barcelo, Port Agent Amancio Crespo and (third from right) Secretary-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 January 2019 Description An account of the resource Headlines: MATSON'S INOUYE ENTERS SERVICE THANKSGIVING TRADITION THRIVING MSC COMMANDER: 'MARINERS WILL BE THERE!' CSA HONORS SIU-CONTRACTED COMPANIES HOUSE HEARING UNDERSCORES VITAL NEED TO MAINTAIN STRONG MERCHANT MARINE NAVY CHRISTENS USNS PUERTO RICO IN ALABAMA SIU-CONTRACTED NYNJR EXPANDS INFRASTRUCTURE NY WATERWAY CREWS ASSIST COMMUTERS DURING SNOWSTORM COALITION HIGHLIGHTS NEW SHIPBUILDING AS CRITICAL TO CONTINUED STRONG U.S. NATIONAL, ECONOMIC SECURITY USNS COMFORT SUPPORTS OPERATION ENDURING PROMISE SIU MARINERS LEND A HAND IN TYPHOON RECOVERY SAFETY DIRECTORS HONE SKILLS AT PAUL HALL CENTER RECERTIFIED STEWARD, CHIEF COOK PRAISE WORK ETHIC OF 'YOUNG SA' OAKLAND THANKSGIVING GATHERING A HIT AT SEA AND ASHORE WITH THE SIU SHBP OFFERS SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS PREVENTING, TREATING BLOOD CLOTS EPI'S 'POLICY ROADMAP' WOULD BOOST WORKERS USNS WILLIAMS GALLEY GANG CAPS MULTINATIONAL MILITARY EXERCISE WITH SCRUMPTIOUS COOKOUT SIU TRADITION: SEAFARERS BRIGHTEN THANKSGIVING ABOARD VESSELS, AT HALLS CABOTAGE STUDIES, NEW TONNAGE HIGHLIGHT 2018 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 1/1/2019 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. 81, No. 1 2019 Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/ce8d10078b2ca3a0e42acc8a85512069.pdf 904913218e0a2365e8bde4de3d9c3424 PDF Text Text DECEMBER 2018 VOLUME 80, NO. 12 Season’s Greetings Beck Notice Page 6 New Hall Opens in Puerto Rico Pages 10-11 �President’s Report Excellent Election Results As we close out another successful year for our union, I extend my sincere thanks to all Seafarers who stepped up to the plate and participated in grassroots political activities in 2018. It cannot be said too many times: Our industry’s survival depends on constant political involvement. On that note, as of this writing shortly after Election Day, I’m pleased to report that our union’s voluntary political action fund (SPAD) enjoyed a winning percentage above 92 percent this year in the United States House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. Without throwing too many statistics at you, SIU-backed candidates won 16 of 20 Senate races, and 133 of 141 in the House. SPAD, as always, contributed to pro-maritime candidates from both parties. SPAD remains vital in helping us get our foot in the door to promote the U.S. Merchant Marine, but it’s not our only tool. I know from talking with members and our regional officials that Seafarers really went all-out this year in precinct walks, phonebanking, sign-waving and other grassroots activities. Again, your efforts don’t go unnoticed, and your Michael Sacco volunteerism is second to none. Be assured that by the time you read this article, we’ll already have a solid game plan in place to reinforce congressional support for maritime and to help educate newly elected representatives about our industry. Our outreach also goes well beyond the federal level – we’re active in state and local politics, too. Finally, don’t forget to introduce yourselves to your local elected officials. Visit their offices, sign up for their email alerts, and let them know you’re a registered voter in their jurisdiction whose job depends on American-flag shipping. If there’s one thing I can tell you about politicians, it’s that they listen to constituents. Big Fight Ahead A massively funded anti-Jones Act campaign is getting started again, and it’ll have our attention for quite a long time. This won’t be an easy fight, and from time to time, your union will call on you for specific outreach to the administration and your previously mentioned senators and congressional reps. The bottom line on our opposition is that they’re greedy. That’s why they want to get rid of a law that has protected U.S. national, economic and homeland security for nearly a century. That’s why they want to kill the nearly 500,000 American jobs that are tied to the Jones Act. Greed. They want cheap foreign labor to take over our coasts, Lakes and waterways, and they don’t give a damn about maintaining America’s seafaring and shipbuilding capacity, because that’s not how they make money. I’m under no illusions about the magnitude of this battle, but we’re up to the task. Keep an eye on our usual channels for updates – our website, our social media pages, the LOG, and probably an occasional text message. Piney Point When you read about all of the new vessels being produced by domestic yards like union facilities NASSCO and Philly Shipyard (among others), you undoubtedly notice the changing technology featured on all of them, whether they’re tankers, ConRos or containerships. One point that shouldn’t be lost on us is that new technology means mariner training is more important than ever. That’s where our affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, comes in. The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is one of the greatest assets available to Seafarers. It’ll help you keep up with the times, earn new ratings and make more money. But you’ve got to take advantage of it. When you’re eligible, upgrade. It’ll be worth it. ITF Congress 2018 Focuses on Future Heindel Re-Elected as Chair of Federation’s Seafarers’ Section The 44th International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) Congress, which took place in Singapore from Oct. 14-20, marked the first time the event has ever been held in Southeast Asia. The ITF Congress included participants from 140 countries, representing over 600 transport unions, including the SIU. According to the ITF, “Congress is the ITF’s core decision-making event. Every four years, we invite our affiliates to join us and stand together in one place to collectively contribute to shaping the future of transport workers. On behalf of the 19.7 million transport workers in the ITF family, affiliate representatives have the opportunity to exercise their democratic right to elect leaders, bring forward motions, and update our constitution to reflect the changing world we live and work in.” ITF General Secretary Stephen Cotton said before the event, “This Congress is all about transport workers building power through innovative campaigns, growing membership and influencing policy. By uniting our efforts, we can ensure that the future of work provides good opportunities for all transport workers.” Cotton was re-elected during the event by the delegates to serve another five-year term. “We fight for peace, freedom and the rights of all workers. These are the values of the ITF,” said reelected ITF President Paddy Crumlin. Crumlin opened the convention by announcing this was the largest yet, with the most delegates from the most unions and nations in the 122year history of the organization. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who serves as the chairman of the ITF Seafarers’ Section, spoke about the success of this year’s gathering, saying, “This congress was the largest and most productive congress I have attended for the ITF. The Seafarers’ Section’s plans and priorities for the next five years will include ITF General Secretary Stephen Cotton (left) and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel pose for a photo during the ITF Congress. promoting and enforcing cabotage laws and regulations, promoting the retention of women and young seafarers, investing in maritime skills and seafarer career paths, seafarers’ mental health, effective implementation of on-board seafarers’ safety committees, influencing the impact of technological change through strong guidelines, and advancing working and safety standards at the ILO and IMO. Additionally, the Seafarers’ Section will work to raise the health and wellbeing profile for seafarers by ensuring its inclusion into maritime academies’ curriculum and through negotiations with employers.” Heindel was re-elected chair of the Seafarers’ Section. His term will be for five years as the delegates approved a constitutional change to hold conventions every five years, starting with this period. Issues addressed at the Congress included the election of the ITF’s officials, motions and amendments to the ITF’s Constitution, and re- ports on activities, financial statements and auditors’ reports since 2014. At an extracurricular event held after one of the daily ITF Congressional sessions, delegates watched a short documentary on the dangers being experienced by those who make their living by fishing the world’s oceans. In addition, they received a book (“Dreaming “Dreaming of a Better Life: Humans as Commodities” by Stefan F. Lindberg and Lennart Johnsson) from the ITF Seafarers Trust, which provided graphic photos and details of what these workers and their families endure on the job and at home. The guest of honor for this year’s opening ceremony was the Secretary-General of the National Trades Union Congress, Singapore, and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, Ng Chee Meng. Crumlin closed the 44th Congress by saying, “Congress has finished; now the hard work begins on the long road to justice, peace and freedom.” Holiday Wishes However you observe the winter holidays, I wish you a safe, happy and healthy season. Whether you’re at sea or ashore, I hope you’ll find some time to relax, count your blessings and then gear up for the New Year. See you in 2019, brothers and sisters. An SIU banner (photo at left) is displayed at the ITF gathering in Singapore. Pictured from left to right (photo above) are Maritime Trades Department Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan, SIU ITF Inspectors Barbara Shipley, Shwe Aung and Ricky Esopa, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel and ITF President Paddy Crumlin. Volume 80 Number 12 December 2018 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2018 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. The ITF delegates from the United States and Canada gather for a photo onstage. SIU of Canada President Jim Given (sixth from right) and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (right) are among those pictured. Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG December 2018 �Vessel sponsor Christine Crowley does the honors at the christening. (Photo courtesy Crowley Maritime) Pictured from left near the vessel (center photo) are SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Puerto Rico Resident Commissioner Jenniffer González-Colón, and SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez. During the ceremony (photo at far right), SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez emphasizes the vital role played by the U.S. Merchant Marine in national, economic and homeland security. Crowley Christens Jones Act Vessel El Coqui SIU-Crewed ConRo Powered by Liquefied Natural Gas Crowley Maritime’s newest SIU-crewed Jones Act vessel officially has been welcomed into the fleet. Seafarers and SIU officials took part in the El Coqui’s christening Oct. 20 in Jacksonville, Florida. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez was a featured speaker; SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and SIU Assistant Vice President Archie Ware were among the other attendees. A combination containership and rollon/roll-off vessel (ConRo), the El Coqui completed its maiden voyage to Puerto Rico in late July. (The vessel originally was slated for christening in August, but severe weather caused the ceremony’s postponement.) The Jones Act ship is among the first of its kind to be fueled by liquefied natural gas (LNG). In addition to Tellez, the christening included remarks from Crowley Chairman and CEO Tom Crowley; Alexander B. Gray, Special Assistant to the President for the Defense Industrial Base; Resident Commissioner Jenniffer González-Colón of Puerto Rico; and U.S. Reps. John Rutherford (R) and Ted Yoho (R), both of Florida. More than 350 people were in attendance as Crowley Board of Directors Member Christine Crowley, spouse of Tom Crowley, served as sponsor. She performed a time- Crowley Maritime. “It represents, first and foremost, Tom Crowley’s commitment to the people of Puerto Rico,” Tellez stated. “It shows he’ll help provide a safe, clean, efficient and guaranteed pipeline to the mainland in the “Many people talk about amending the Jones Act or taking it away, but they’re not living on the island. They don’t need that supply on a daily basis, on a weekly basis, and have it reliable like we receive it today – and that’s the reason I support the Jones Act.” – Puerto Rico Resident Commissioner Jenniffer González-Colón honored tradition of breaking a champagne bottle over the hull of the 720-foot vessel at the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal. Tellez said that while the El Coqui is named for a popular species of frog that’s indigenous to Puerto Rico, the ship symbolizes many important commitments by best of times and in the worst of times. “In the best of times,” he continued, “it’s a way to get products to market to sustain the Puerto Rico economy. In the worst, it’s a guaranteed delivery of supplies needed to recover from any devastation or disaster.” The ship also reflects Tom Crowley’s commitment to the Jones Act “not just in words but with tremendous capital investment in the ships and in the infrastructure both here (Jacksonville) and on the island,” Tellez pointed out. “That commitment to the Jones Act is, by extension, a commitment to the national and economic security of our country.” The SIU official noted that the Jones Act helps ensure the availability of assets and manpower to meet U.S. sealift requirements while “fueling an economic engine unrivaled anywhere in the world.” Last but not least, Tellez said the company’s dedication to American-flag shipping and U.S. crews “provides a doorway that leads to a host of opportunities allowing these mariners to earn their fair share of the American Dream. It affords them the same opportunity that everyone sitting here has enjoyed: to reap the rewards of your labor, grab onto the next rung of that ladder and pull yourself and your loved ones to a better Continued on Page 4 Mr. and Mrs. Tom Crowley (near center) pose with the SIU crew of the El Coqui. December 2018 Seafarers LOG 3 �Asst. VP Ware Retires after 40-Year Career Archie Ware’s first connection with the SIU shows that good things may indeed result from initially undesirable circumstances. Ware in late October retired from the union after 40 years of service, most recently as an assistant vice president based in Jacksonville, Florida. Had he not been laid off while working for New York City in 1978, though, he may never have landed with the Seafarers. “I had been making great money,” Ware recalled. “A guy named Earl Butcher (who worked for the union) asked if I wanted to go to sea, and I said no, thank you. But money got tighter and I asked if the offer still stood. He drove to me headquarters in Brooklyn and that was it. I came on board right then and there.” One could safely say it worked out. Ware, 62, said he enjoyed every part of his This 2011 snapshot was taken at the hiring hall in Jacksonville, Florida. SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware (left) is shown with Port Agent Georg Kenny, who’s based in Norfolk, Virginia. New Crowley Vessel Joins SIU-Crewed Fleet Continued from Page 3 station in life.” Tom Crowley said the christening was “a culmination of many, many years of hard work (and) many, many years of transition for this company. It’s remarkable to see the transition. Whether it’s going from SIU career, which included sailing in the deck department (he became a recertified bosun in 1994), working on shore gangs in New York and New Jersey for more than a dozen years, and then serving as an official since 2001. “I loved it all,” Ware stated. “I loved training, I loved teaching, going to the ships and tugs. I also liked taking photos and sending them to the LOG. The only thing I didn’t like is people complaining about nothing.” SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez said he worked with Ware for decades. “Archie is a true-blue guy – hard working and never shied away from an assignment. He could always be counted on,” Tellez stated. Recently retired SIU Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram described Ware as “a workaholic. We’ve been friends a long time; we met at Piney Point, and I (later) recommended that he become a representative, because I thought he’d be good. Bubba – that’s what I call him – is a good dude, and the membership is going to miss him. I wish him well on his retirement. Now, his watch is over.” SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey noted, “When he came ashore, he trained in Houston and we became very close. He’s a super guy to work with and he became like family. Archie is loyal, dedicated and has an excellent work ethic. He’s meticulous – one of these guys who’s the first to show up in the morning and the last to leave in the evening. Above all, he serviced the members in Jacksonville and really left the port in excellent shape. I wish him the best.” Assistant Vice President Kris Hopkins worked with Ware for 30 years. “I’ve always had a lot of respect for him,” Hopkins said. “I appreciate his work ethic and we’ve had a great working relationship between Jacksonville and Fort Lauderdale (where Hopkins is based). He’ll certainly be missed.” SIU Jacksonville Port Agent Ashley Nelson said, “I had the pleasure of meeting Archie back in 2001 while he was teaching union education during my time as an apprentice. Fast forward a few years, and who would have believed he would become my teacher again, but in a different capacity. He’s taught me the ins and outs of being Ro/Ro to Lo/Lo, the LNG fuel, putting a car house on the back of a container ship, you name it, you go through the transition of what we did to build a ship and create a supply chain that nobody else can match. And it’s here today.” Gray lauded the commitment by the company and U.S. maritime industry to lead an innovative new era of maritime and supply chain services that support economic and national security. “El Coqui represents not just the $3 billion investment that Crowley has made in this industry in recent years, it really is the future of the maritime industry itself,” Gray said. “The vessel is powered by liquefied natural gas … it’s the cleanest fos- The Jones Act vessel is shown during its maiden voyage to Puerto Rico in late July. (Photo courtesy Crowley) 4 Seafarers LOG SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (left) presents Asst. VP Archie Ware with a commemorative ship’s wheel in recognition of Ware’s retirement. The presentation took place on Oct. 11 at the hall in Jacksonville, Florida. an effective official while I was under his direct supervision here in the Port of Jacksonville. It’s been an honor and pleasure to have him as my mentor and I think I speak for many when I say he’ll be greatly missed.” Ware said he came shore “because I wanted to help the members. I wanted to see what I could do behind the counter.” With a chuckle, Ware recalled that the most challenging part of his four decades with the union happened fairly early. “When I got my first bosun job at age 25, I looked like a whippersnapper, so I when I went aboard the ship (the Bonny), people thought I was a wiper or an OS at first. But after that, it was all downhill,” he said. Now, Ware wants to spend more time with his family. “That’s the only reason I’m retiring,” he said. He plans to remain sil fuel available. It will serve as a shining example of the technological innovation that’s going to allow this industry to remain a global leader for decades to come.” “Many people may talk about amending the Jones Act or taking it away, but they’re not living on the island,” said Rep. González-Colón. “And they don’t need that supply on a daily basis, on a weekly basis, and have it reliable like we receive it today – and that’s the reason I support the Jones Act.” The El Coqui can transport up to 2,400 twenty-foot-equivalent container units (TEUs) at a cruising speed of 22 knots. The ship can accommodate containers in a wide range of sizes and types – including in Jacksonville but also do some traveling, along with “a lot of fishing and a lot of honey-do.” Reflecting on his career, Ware noted, “I definitely want to acknowledge Augie Tellez. We met back in the 1980s in Brooklyn, and he’s been supportive the whole time I’ve been with the organization.” Asked what advice he’d give to current members, Ware replied, “Aboard the vessels, be professional and represent the union in a positive way. By doing that, trust me, the company recognizes it. I’d also tell them to get into the Seafarers 401k. It’ll pay off in the long run.” He added, “And I would tell our union reps, treat people the way you want to be treated. That’s the best way to sum it up. To members and reps alike, I’d say be a problem-solver.” 53-foot by 102-inch-wide, high-capacity containers and refrigerated containers. Within the ship is an enclosed, ventilated and weather-tight Ro/Ro deck that can protectively carry cars and larger vehicles. According to the company, “This type of shipboard garage is offered exclusively by Crowley in the trade, enhancing supply chain solutions for customers.” The ship is the first of two vessels being built as part of Crowley’s Commitment Class project. Sister ship Taíno is in the final phases of construction and testing at VT Halter Marine’s shipyard in Pascagoula, Mississippi. That vessel is expected to be delivered later this year. It also will carry an SIU crew. SIU members aboard the new ConRo welcome SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (fifth from right) and SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (fourth from left). December 2018 �Op-Eds Voice more Jones Act Support Democratic Congressman, Conservative Think-Tank President Cite Numerous Benefits of America’s Freight Cabotage Law Two recent guest editorials published by The Hill highlighted the importance of the Jones Act – from two different perspectives. The first, written by U.S. Rep. Garamendi (D-California), began with a historical frame of reference: “In 1791, our nation’s first Secretary of the Treasury, Alexander Hamilton, founded the Revenue Cutter Service. This entity, which would later become today’s United States Coast Guard, ensured that proper import duties were paid on goods arriving to the United States by sea – a key source of financial support for our fledgling nation. But Hamilton wasn’t just concerned with international trade; he also understood the value of American shipbuilding, and he required that the cutters be built from American-made materials. Why? To strengthen America’s shipbuilding and domestic manufacturing sectors, which were crucial to our country’s national security and economic development.” Garamendi, who serves as the Ranking Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, continued, “Twohundred twenty-seven years later, they still are – and that is why our nation needs the Jones Act now more than ever. The Jones Act is a simple law: It requires that shipping between two U.S. ports occur on ships that are built in the United States, fly the U.S. flag, and are operated by crews consisting of at least 75 percent American citizens. This requirement buttresses a domestic maritime trade that supports nearly half a million jobs and almost $100 billion in annual economic impact. “If the Jones Act did not exist, this industry would be sharply undercut by foreign shippers with lower labor protec- 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, 2017 to December 31, 2017. 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 $153,601,785 as of December 31, 2017 compared to $129,861,244 as of January 1, 2017. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $23,740,541. 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 $100,677,924. This income included employer contributions of $92,840,008, employee contributions of $521,925, realized gains of $600,415 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $6,138,719 and other income of $576,857. Plan expenses were $76,937,383. These expenses included $12,863,263 in administrative expenses and $64,074,120 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; n Assets held for investment; and n 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. The charge to cover copying costs will be $7.75 for the full 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: 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 2018 tions, environmental requirements, and safety standards,” the Congressman wrote. “Not only would we outsource marine transportation along our coasts and inland waterways to the cheapest foreign bidder, we also would hollow out a key component of American industrial might.” He also noted the importance of America’s freight cabotage law as it pertains to the national defense. The Jones Act “remains essential for our national security and our war fighting capacity,” Garamendi pointed out. “Our military relies on privately owned sealift capacity and highly trained and credentialed merchant mariners to transport and sustain our armed forces when deployed overseas during times of conflict. But the number of ocean-going U.S.-flag vessels has dropped from 249 in the 1980s, to 106 in 2012, to at most 81 today.” The congressman then offered an example of the dangers of a dwindling U.S.-flag fleet. “The consequences of this steep decline are not just theoretical,” he said. “Our military has had to turn to foreign-flagged vessels for sustainment in times of war, and experience shows that can have dangerous consequences. In the 1991 Gulf War, our armed forces relied on 192 foreign-flagged ships to carry cargo to the war zone. The foreign crews on thirteen vessels mutinied, forcing those ships to abandon their military mission. Would foreign-flag carriers be any more reliable today, especially for a long-term deployment into active war zones?” The loss of tonnage in the fleet has other, less obvious consequences. He wrote, “The U.S. Transportation Command and Federal Maritime Administration estimate that our country is now at least 1,800 mariners short of the minimum required for adequate military sealift, even with the Jones Act firmly in place. Without the Jones Act, our nation would be wholly unprepared to meet the labor demands of rapid, large-scale force projection for national security.” The second op-ed was written by George Landrith, president of public policy think tank Frontiers of Freedom. Landrith focused on a recent example of the Jones Act com- ing under fire by opponents of the law: “Virtually every argument against the Jones Act is falsely premised on the notion that it increases consumer prices and that it impeded emergency supplies from getting to Puerto Rico after last year’s hurricanes. Some have even argued that Puerto Rico’s decade-long recession is the fault of the Jones Act – despite the fact that it was enacted almost 100 years ago. Simply stated, there is no factual evidence to support these claims.” He continued, “Claims that Puerto Rico’s hurricane recovery was impeded by the Jones Act are silly. Within hours after the hurricane and once the port had reopened, Jones Act vessels were unloading vital cargoes – including food, water, medicine, fuel, and other relief cargo. In fact, so much relief was delivered that the port lacked space to store it all. The biggest challenge was distributing the relief goods from the port throughout the island because of damaged roadways, electrical and communication outages, and trucker shortages. But that cannot be blamed on the Jones Act.” Landrith’s organization studied the impacts of U.S.-flag shipping to Puerto Rico, as he explained: “Frontiers of Freedom conducted its own study on consumer prices. We priced a ‘basket of consumer goods’ (food items, toiletries, cleaning products, etc.) in Miami, Florida, and Houston, Texas and compared them to the prices in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The cost in Puerto Rico was not higher. In fact, some items were cheaper in Puerto Rico despite being shipped from the U.S. Mainland.” He concluded, “Sadly, we will continue to hear the uninformed and misinformed, as well as those with a political ax to grind, make false arguments maligning the Jones Act. But what you will not hear from them are real facts, real studies, real data or even a serious discussion of the numerous benefits of the Jones Act.... The Jones Act works for America. It keeps the homeland safe, ensures that we have a shipbuilding industry to support our military, and supports good-paying jobs for Americans.” Seafarers Honored at AOTOS Event Several SIU- and CIVMAR-crewed ships as well as an individual Seafarer were recognized at this year’s Admiral of the Ocean Seas (AOTOS) awards dinner. Hosted by the United Seamen’s Service, the event took place Nov. 2 in New York City. The top awards went to Paul Doell, national president of the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers; Salvador Bruno, president and chief executive officer of Hapag-Lloyd USA; and Raymond F. Fitzgerald, chairman of the ARC Group. The SIU-crewed MV Norfolk (operated by Argent Marine) and tractor tug Michelle Sloan (Harley Marine Services) each received AOTOS Mariners Plaques for rescues, as did the CIVMAR-crewed Military Sealift Command ships USNS Yuma and USNS Trenton. Additionally, AB Leo Onofrio earned an AOTOS Mariners Rosette for extinguishing a fire aboard the MV Patriot. The SIU was out in force for the gathering. Attendees included President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer Top honorees (from left) Salvador Bruno, Paul Doell and Raymond F. Fitzgerald display their respective awards. David Heindel, Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Vice President Great Lakes and Inland Waters Tom Orzechowski, Political and Legislative SIU member AB Leo Onofrio (center) is recognized for quickly extinguishing a shipboard fire. He’s pictured with MSC Commander Dee Mewbourne (left) and Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby. Director Brian Schoeneman, Port Agent Mark von Siegel, Port Agent Joe Baselice, Safety Director Osvaldo Ramos and Chief Counsel Leslie Tarantola. Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen also attended. SIU President Michael Sacco (left) and Exec. VP Augie Tellez (right) chat with U.S. Army Gen. Stephen R. Lyons, commanding officer, U.S. Transportation Command. 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, 2017 to December 31, 2017. 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 $8,989,993. These expenses included $1,112,863 in administrative expenses and $7,867,130 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 15,300 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 $128,471,916 as of December 31, 2017 compared to $117,210,800 as of January 1, 2017. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $11,261,116. 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 $20,251,109, including employer contributions of $9,168,735, employee contributions of $209,634, gain of $248,652 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $10,620,428 and other income of $3,660. The plan has a contract with The Prudential Insurance Company of America which allocates funds toward individual policies. 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; n Transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets; n Insurance information including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers; and n 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. The charge to cover copying costs will be $8.50 for the full 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: 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, 2017 to December 31, 2017. 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 $24,346,823 as of December 31, 2017 compared to $22,072,212 as of January 1, 2017. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $2,274,611. 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 $69,598,680. This income included employer contributions of $67,787,560, realized gains of $328,440 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $1,350,896 and other income of $131,784. Plan expenses were $67,324,069. These expenses included $6,306,398 in administrative expenses and $61,017,671 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; n Assets held for investment; and n 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. The charge to cover copying costs will be $17.75 for the full 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: 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, AGLIW 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, AGLIW 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, AGLIW. 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, AGLIW are the right to attend union meetings, the right to vote for candidates for union office and the right to run for union office. Members also have the right to participate in the development of contract proposals and participate in contract ratification and strike votes. Members also may play a role in the development and formulation of union 6 Seafarers LOG Summary Annual Report For Seafarers International Union AGLIW 401(k) Plan This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers International Union AGLIW 401(k) Plan, (Employer Identification No. 26-1527179, Plan No. 002) for the period January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2017. 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 $2,229,086. These expenses included $63,721 in administrative expenses, $2,109,945 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries and $55,420 in other expenses. A total of 11,396 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 $36,621,936 as of December 31, 2017 compared to $28,777,633 as of January 1, 2017. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $7,844,303. 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 $10,073,389, including employee contributions of $4,812,100, others contributions of $186,149 and earnings from investments of $5,075,140. 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; Schedule of delinquent participant contributions; Insurance information including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers. 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. The charge to cover copying costs will be $6.75 for the full 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: 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 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 2017 calendar year, the fee cost associated with this rep- resentation amounts to 80.32 percent of the dues amount. This means that the agency fee based upon the dues would be $401.60 (four hundred one dollars sixty cents) for the applicable year. An appropriate reduction also will be calculated for working dues. This amount applies to the 2019 calendar year. This means that any individual who wishes to elect to pay agency fees and submits a letter between December 1, 2018 and November 30, 2019 will have this calculation applied to their 2018 dues payments which may still be owed to the union. As noted below, however, to continue to receive the agency fee reduction effective January 2020, your objection must be received by December 1, 2019. 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, AGLIW, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. This report is based upon an audited financial report of the union’s expenses during 2017. 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, Secretary-Treasurer’s Office, Seafarers International Union, AGLIW, 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 2018 �ABOARD MAHIMAHI – Pictured on the Matson vessel in Oakland, California, are (from left) SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona, Recertified Steward Richard Paulson, ACU John Canson and Chief Cook Andy Campollo. ABOARD ISLA BELLA – Mariners on the TOTE ship display a cake that was baked in honor of the vessel’s third anniversary. The Isla Bella is the world’s first LNGpowered containership. Thanks to vessel master Capt. Raymond T. Thompson III for the photo. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD PRESIDENT EISENHOWER – The union serviced the President Eisenhower, one of APL’s newly reflagged vessels, during the night of Sept. 11 on the West Coast. Pictured from left to right aboard the ship are ACU Romeo Molina, Port Agent Nick Marrone II, Chief Cook Reynaldo Ricarte and Chief Steward Clifton Medley III. AT NORFOLK HALL – The group photo above was taken during the October membership meeting, while the snapshot at left features (from left) Patrolman Mario Torrey administering the membership oath to full-book Seafarers Kevin Campbell and Melvin Hunter. ABOARD CALIFORNIA – Pictured from left aboard the Crowley tanker in Richmond, California, are GVA Jeff Ham, Chief Cook Katherine Anderson, Recertified Steward Mark Scardino, AB Kyle Silva, SA Juan Oliva, Oiler Tuan Tran and Recertified Bosun Kenneth Abrahamson. ABOARD KAUAI – These photos were taken aboard the Matson ship during a West Coast servicing. Chief Cook Alberto Insong (photo at right) is pictured in the galley, while the photo at left includes (from left) Chief Steward Frank Ramones and ACU Ziyad Omar. AT HONOLULU HALL – Three Seafarers take the ServSafe test while fellow member – Recertified Steward George Monseur, a registered proctor – oversees the proceedings. Pictured from left are Recertified Steward Cesar Dela Cruz, Monseur, Chief Cook Freddie Castro and Chief Cook Jaime Austria. December 2018 AT SAN JUAN HALL – AB Jonathan Rivera (left) and AB Joseph Dupre assemble shelves for the new hiring hall in Puerto Rico. Thanks to Recertified Bosun Wilfredo Velez for the photo. Seafarers LOG 7 �With Seafarers on the Great Lakes These snapshots of the SIU-crewed ATB Presque Isle (operated by Key Lakes) were taken in early September in Two Harbors, Minnesota. Thanks to SIU Port Agent Todd Brdak for the photos. Bosun Bryan Benak (left) and Port Agent Todd Brdak review paperwork. SIU Asst. VP Bryan Powell boards the vessel. Port Agent Todd Brdak, Asst. VP Bryan Powell, AB Fayez Mussa AB Fayez Mussa, Port Agent Todd Brdak The vessel loads taconite pellets. Spotlight on Mariner Health The Gallbladder and Biliary Tract Disease Editor’s note: This article is provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped sac located under your liver area. The gallbladder’s function is to store bile that is produced by the liver and pass it along through a biliary duct that empties into the small intestine. Inflammation of this area causes the majority of gallbladder diseases due to irritation of the gallbladder walls, which is known as cholecystitis. This type of inflammation is mostly due to gallstones blocking the ducts leading to the small intestine and causing bile to build up. Gallstones develop when there are chemicals in the bile or when the blood forms hard particles that obstruct the passageways to the gallbladder and bile ducts. Gallstones are extremely common and many people do not even know they have them. Gallstones are primarily made up of cholesterol with small amounts of mucus, calcium, and protein. There are many factors that contribute to the risk of forming gallstones, including being overweight or obese, having diabetes, being age 60 or older, taking medications that contain estrogen, being female, having Crohn’s disease or other conditions that af affect how nutrients are absorbed, and having cirrhosis or other liver problems. Cholecystitis is the most common type of gallbladder disease. It can be either acute in onset or chronic, such as a constant inflammation of the gallbladder. Acute cholecystitis is generally caused by gallstones. It can also be the result of a tumor or other illnesses. It may present with pain in the upper right side of the upper ab- 8 Seafarers LOG domen. The pain tends to flare up right after a meal. The pain can be very sharp in nature or a dull type of ache. This can radiate to the right shoulder at times. You may have a fever, nausea and vomiting, and some yellowing of the skin called jaundice. Chronic cholecystitis is when a gallstone is possibly lodged in the neck of the gallbladder or in the bile duct. When there is an obstruction in the area, no bile can pass through. This will lead to inflammation and distention. A plugged bile duct will cause extreme pain in the middle of your upper abdomen, fever, chills, nausea and vomiting, yellowing of the skin and pale-colored stools. There are many other diseases of the biliary system that include Biliary Dyskinesia, Sclerosing Cholangitis, Gallbladder polyps, abscesses of the gallbladder, and gallbladder cancer. Diagnosis is done through a detailed history, physical exams, lab work, X-rays, and ultrasounds. HIDA scans look directly at the duct system within the gallbladder and liver. They’re often used when a person has symptoms but the ultrasound did not show any stones. Other testing may include CT scans, MRIs, biopsies and an endoscopy or ERCP where a tube is passed through the mouth and into the bile ducts themselves. Treatment is done with lifestyle modifications such as increasing your physical activity, dietary changes and weight loss, medications, and finally surgical interventions. The incidence of gallstones being formed can be decreased by following a diet high in fiber, eating healthy fats that come from fish and olive oil, and eating whole grains like brown rice and whole wheat breads. Healthful Recipe Grilled Sesame Chicken Breast Servings: 25 Ingredients 10 pounds chicken breast halves without skin 6 tablespoons Mrs Dash seasoning Sauce recipe: 1 ½ cups hoisin sauce ½ cup sesame oil ¾ cup rice wine vinegar ¼ cup light soy sauce 3 cups apple juice ¼ cup fresh ginger, grated 1 ½ tablespoons hot sauce 2 tablespoons fresh garlic, minced fine ½ teaspoon clove, ground ¼ cup toasted sesame seeds 1 cup green onion, chopped Preparation Pre-heat grill to medium to high heat. Season the chicken with the Mrs Dash seasoning evenly. n In a bowl, combine the hoisin sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, hot sauce, garlic and cloves. Whisk to combine, take out 1/3 and set aside for later use. Pour the remaining sauce over the chicken and toss to coat. n Grill the chicken 2-3 minutes on each side on a well-oiled grill, place in 2” hotel pan shingled. n Bake in a 350-degree F oven for 15 minutes uncovered, until internal temperature of 165 degrees F is reached. n Glaze the cooked chicken with the reserved sauce from step #3. n n Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onion. n Nutrition Information Per serving (excluding unknown items): 259 calories; 7g fat (26.3% calories from fat); 35g protein; 12g carbohydrate; 1g dietary fiber; 85mg cholesterol; 464 mg sodium. Exchanges: 0 grain (starch); 4 ½ lean meat; 0 vegetable; 0 fruit; 1 fat; ½ other carbohydrates Provided by Chef Robert “RJ” Johnson of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship December 2018 �Union Membership Meeting Dates for 2019 Port Traditional Date January February March Piney Point Monday after first Sunday 7 4 4 Jersey City Tuesday after first Sunday 8 5 Philadelphia Wednesday after first Sunday 9 Baltimore Thursday after first Sunday Norfolk April May June July August September October November December 8 6 3 8 5 3 7 4 2 5 9 7 4 9 6 3 8 5 3 6 6 10 8 5 10 7 4 9 6 4 10 7 7 11 9 6 11 8 5 10 7 5 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 Dates appearing in bold type indicate that meetings are being held on other than traditional meeting dates. The reasons for the changes at affected ports, respectively, are as follows: n Wilmington changes created by Martin Luther King Day and Presidents’ Day Observances n Piney Point change created by Labor Day Observance n Houston changes created by Columbus Day and Veterans’ Day Observances Meetings at each port start at 10:30 a.m. 2019 Health and Benefits Plan Scholarship Program Scholarships totalling $132,000 are available to Seafarers and their dependents looking to continue their education. Allocations for each category will be as follows: Seafarers Scholarships Dependents Scholarships Three scholarships designated for active Seafarers: Five scholarships designated for dependents: ■ One $20,000 offering for a four-year course of study at an accredited college or university ■ Two scholarships ($6,000 each) for Seafarers interested in pursuing twoyear courses of study at a community college or vocational school ■ A total of five scholarships, each worth $20,000, are being offered to dependents (spouses included) to attend four-year courses of study at accredited colleges or universities. Dependents and spouses of active as well as retired Seafarers may apply. To take advantage of these opportunities, clip, complete and mail the form below, or visit www.seafarers.org, go to the Member Benefits tab, navigate to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan menu and select Scholarship Booklet (PDF). Although the booklet says 2016, all information is still current for the 2019 SHBP Scholarships. Please send me the 2019 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: ❏ Self ❏ Dependent Mail this completed form to: Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 December 2018 12/18 Seafarers LOG 9 �David Heindel SIU Secretary-Treasurer Dean Corgey SIU VP Gulf Coast Tony Naccarato Seafarers Trustee Augie Tellez SIU Executive VP The new building is shown at upper left, prior to the ceremony, while the photo at immediate left features some of the attendees. Approximately 150 people participated in the gathering. SIU Opens New Puerto Rico Hall in Style Facility Hailed as Big Upgrade for Seafarers and Their Families A fter many years of stalled attempts, the SIU was more than happy to officially open the new hiring hall in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on Nov. 8 with an event that included food, drinks and a live band. “Welcome to your brand-new SIU union hall,” SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo began, before being interrupted by cheers and applause from the more than 150 members, elected officials, company executives and guests gathered outside the building for the ceremony. The new facility, located at 659 Hillside Street in the Summit Hills neighborhood of San Juan, is immaculate, with all-new furniture in multiple member lounge areas, wheelchair-accessible restrooms, a modern galley and mess area, WiFi access and a second-floor conference room. Most importantly, it’s in a safe and secure neighborhood – a huge improvement from the previous hall. The SIU was represented at the event by Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and Port Agents Pat Vandegrift and Crespo. Also in attendance were Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen and SIU Chief Counsel Leslie Tarantola. After an invocation by San Juan resident AB John Telles, Crespo’s daughter Amanda led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance. Carlos Romero Barceló, lifelong politician and friend of the SIU, was the next to speak. Barceló reflected on his long history of supporting unions, before talking about the current state of maritime for Puerto Rico: “There is so much misinformation spread about the Jones Act, and it’s spread by leaders in the House and Senate. They say, ‘We cannot compete with shipping in other parts of the Caribbean, Central and South America because we have to ship on American ships.’ But wait a minute. Walk down to the docks, and see where the Japanese cars come in. Do they have a Japanese flag on their mast or not? Of course they have a Japanese flag on them, they come from Japan! There’s no limitation whatsoever on shipping from a U.S. port to a non-U.S. port, they can be any flagged vessel. “But the shipping rule, as so many other countries have, is that if you go from one port in a country to another port in the same country, you need to be flagged in that country and not a foreign vessel,” Barceló continued. “For political reasons, they keep attacking the shipping lines and saying lies about the shipping lines, so we have to tell the truth to the people.” Next to speak was Hector Figueroa, Chief of Staff for the Office of Héctor Ferrer, Chair of the Puerto Rico Popular Democratic Party. Ferrer, who was a strong supporter of the maritime industry in Puerto Rico, unexpectedly passed away on Nov. 5. Figueroa’s speech was followed by a moment of silence in honor of Ferrer. Corgey took the podium next, saying, “My hometown is Houston, Texas, and we got hit hard in 2017 by Hurricane Harvey. Right after that, you got hit hard down here [by Hurricane Maria]. And I’m pleased to report to you today, Houston is back, and let me tell you what I see here today – Puerto Rico is back.” Corgey continued, “Leading the charge of that recovery is the maritime industry, there’s no question about it. And as far as who from the SIU 10 Seafarers LOG is leading that charge, it is my good friend Amancio Crespo. I can’t say enough about Amancio. He was there 24 hours a day on the docks getting relief supplies in. Every member, every Puerto Rican resident that needed assistance, he was there. He worked himself to a ragged bone, he did everything he could – and in his spare time, he put this building together.” He then introduced Tellez, who was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico. Tellez gave a rousing speech in Spanish, which he translated for the Seafarers LOG: “Good morning and welcome to the christening of this beautiful new building. I bring you greetings and salutations from President Mike Sacco, who unfortunately could not be with us here today. It is a grand day for a grand building that’s new, clean, well-appointed and – most of all – safe for our entire SIU family and friends. This building exists in great part due to the hard work by Amancio Crespo. More importantly, he was at the same time committed to the tremendous effort of delivering water, food, supplies and hope to all those suffering the devastation of Hurricane Maria. So, to Amancio, his wife Maria, the companies and to all the members who joined in the relief effort, we give our thanks, our respect and a great round of applause.” Heindel then spoke about the long road to the grand opening, saying, “We put up our old building for sale over 20 years ago. We started looking for a new facility, we found a few nice spots.... Finally, we found this little spot here. We said, ‘This has got a lot of possibilities.’ And as you’ll see, it’s a fantastic building, and it’ll be here for the next 30 years, I’m sure. It’s taken us a long time to get to this point, but thank God we are here today.” Heindel continued, “This is an example of our commitment, not just to our membership here in Puerto Rico to provide a very safe and clean facility for them to conduct business in, but it’s also a commitment that the SIU has made to the Jones Act here in Puerto Rico.” Seafarers Trustee Anthony Naccarato, who also spoke in Spanish, echoed many of the sentiments of the previous speakers, before Crespo’s wife Maria Gomez christened the new hall with a ceremonial champagne bottle break. Recently retired Recertified Bosun Angel Perez, who attended the ceremony, praised the new facility, saying, “This is a blessing. The place is beautiful, clean, and the new Seafarers are going to love this place.” Perez also noted how how the new hall – even under construction – was a safe haven during Hurricane Maria. Corgey concluded by revealing the future of the old hiring hall building, saying, “We had some folks step up from Mobile, Alabama, who run a maritime ministry. They do a great job ministering to seafarers in trouble and need, and we gave them that old building. They are going to open a seafarers’ mission in the old building, and they’re going to go down there and do the Lord’s work in that neighborhood, get that neighborhood revitalized and back on its feet.” Editor’s note: For additional photos from the grand opening, visit the Seafarers LOG Facebook page: @siulog Pictured from left to right are TOTE VP Eduardo Pagan, a guest, SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez, politician Carlos Romero Barceló, SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo, retired Recertified Bosun Angel Perez, TOTE Chief Financial Officer Michael Noone, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, former TOTE President Anthony Chiarello and Crowley VP Jose “Pache” Ayala. Port Agent Amancio Crespo (left) and his wife, Maria, celebrate the grand opening. December 2018 SIU VP Contracts George Tricker (center) chats with some of the caterers and Seafarers. December 2018 SIU Port Agent Pat Vandegrift, retired Recertified Bosun Angel Perez Seafarers LOG 11 �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 Kate Hunt, 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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by apprentices at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Question: Why did you decide to join the SIU? Rannie Fore Phase 3 I joined the SIU for the better career opportunities. I have a cousin, Brandon Fore, who sails as a QMED. He was joining the union as I was starting college, so once I graduated, I knew I could become a mariner. I think I’ll end up trying for my mate’s license eventually. Daryl Thomas Phase 1 My father came through the Paul Hall Center, and he’s a licensed of officer now, but I have a ton of family and friends in the SIU. This was the union I was the most familiar with, and I wanted to get a taste of the maritime industry, so I figured, why not join the SIU? Robert Murphy Phase 3 I joined the union to be able to take care of my son. I had considered joining the military, but decided that the SIU would be a better fit for me. I have a lot of family members in the SIU, so it was an easy choice. Billie Kawelo SUA I come from four generations of fishermen, so I love the sea. I have a big family, so when we get together, we eat – and we eat fish. Becoming a steward seemed like a great way to enjoy my passions for cooking and the sea at the same time. Benita Margaronis Phase 1 I’ve always been involved in the world of maritime, thanks to my dad. I was stuck in a bit of a rut, and decided it was time to get my life started. (West Coast Vice President) Nick Marrone talked to me about joining the union, and I’m glad I did. Gerardo Melano SUA I decided to join the SIU to pursue the culinary half of my career in hospitality. I sailed on cruise ships previously, but I was stuck on the housekeeping side of hospitality. The union is giving me the chance to express the culinary side of myself, as well as providing job security and a better life. 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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 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 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 SAN JUAN 659 Hillside St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (939) 204-0337 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 and guests enjoy the Seven Seas Room in 1952. The nightclub was located at SIU headquarters in Brooklyn. As noted in the October 17, 1952 edition of the Seafarers LOG, “Although the Port O’ Call’s Seven Seas Room opened with a flourish before an audience that include many dignitaries the nightclub has now settled down to the job of supplying entertainment, dancing, food and drink to Seafarers the way they want it. While the public has been welcome from the start, the Seven Seas Room was designed to come as close to the seamen’s ideal as possible. Consequently, it combines glitter, comfort and quality with an air of easy informality, at moderate prices.” Comedian Henny Youngman performed there the same 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 12 Seafarers LOG December 2018 �Hiring Halls Closed on Saturdays Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea Change took Effect September 1, 2018 As previously reported in multiple editions of the Seafarers LOG and during monthly membership meetings, the union announced that – effective September 1, 2018 – the hiring halls no longer are open on Saturdays. The corresponding Seafarers Appeals Board action is printed below. The only amendment is the removal of a sentence indicating Saturday hours for the halls. However, please note that in accordance with the union’s constitution, the halls will be open on Saturdays for individual ballot pickup during the next SIU election period, which is scheduled for the final two months of the year 2020. (Ballots also may be obtained at the halls Monday through Friday, or by mail, during the election period.) Seafarers Appeals Board Action 478 Effective: September 1, 2018 The Board has been provided information by the Union supporting the need to adjust prescribed business hours for hiring halls via closure on Saturdays. The Board in its determination to make such amendment considered: a majority of contracted employers are closed on Saturdays, non-peak member utilization of the hiring hall and the continued ability to have on-call persons available to assist in pier-head jump situations. With the aforementioned in mind the Seafarers Appeals Board takes the following action to close union hiring halls for business on Saturdays. AMEND Shipping Rule 4. Business Hours and Job Calls, Paragraphs A. & B. as follows. “A. Except as otherwise provided herein, all Union hiring halls shall be open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The hiring halls shall be closed on July 4, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Labor Day, and such other holidays as are determined by the port agents. Notice of such additional closings shall be posted on the hiring halls’ bulletin boards on the day preceding the Holiday.” December & January 2019 Membership Meetings Piney Point.............................Monday: December 3, January 7 Algonac...................................Friday: December 7, January 11 Baltimore............................Thursday: December 6, January 10 Guam................................Thursday: December 20, 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 Mobile..........................Wednesday: December 12, January 16 New Orleans........................Tuesday: December 11, January 15 Jersey City.............................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 due to Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday Day observance Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m SPAD Works For You. Contribute To The Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD December 2018 October 13, 2018 - November 14, 2018 Total Registered All Groups B Total Shipped Registered on Beach All Groups B C Trip Reliefs 1 0 2 6 0 9 1 13 10 5 2 7 8 4 1 0 2 8 0 5 84 Deck Department 8 4 0 3 0 2 12 5 1 0 10 3 5 2 37 11 25 13 29 11 1 1 9 2 21 9 15 6 0 3 2 2 5 3 17 9 3 1 14 12 214 102 0 0 2 2 0 1 1 9 4 1 2 1 4 0 1 0 1 1 0 6 36 3 0 2 7 1 4 4 12 13 9 1 2 14 4 2 5 4 9 2 14 112 2 0 1 2 0 0 0 5 1 0 0 0 7 2 0 0 1 3 0 3 27 Engine Department 0 2 0 0 2 1 5 6 0 0 1 1 5 3 12 8 14 10 13 7 2 2 2 4 9 9 5 2 0 2 1 4 2 2 15 6 2 0 9 8 99 77 4 0 0 8 2 5 12 19 18 10 0 3 16 19 1 1 4 11 4 14 151 2 0 1 5 0 0 1 3 12 4 1 3 11 7 0 4 0 3 0 8 65 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 1 1 0 2 0 0 4 0 1 0 0 13 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 4 5 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 16 5 2 0 5 1 0 5 9 20 12 2 1 13 9 0 0 0 9 0 22 115 6 0 2 6 0 1 8 8 32 11 1 0 34 14 2 0 0 7 0 11 143 GRAND TOTAL: 629 443 267 Port A Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 17 1 0 24 2 8 4 46 41 41 0 7 25 19 2 7 11 33 1 26 315 5 5 3 15 2 5 6 15 14 16 5 5 16 6 5 3 3 7 1 14 151 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 1 3 10 1 2 10 18 24 18 3 3 7 9 3 0 7 15 1 11 147 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS C A All Groups B C 0 1 0 8 0 4 3 22 14 21 0 2 10 3 1 0 7 9 1 9 115 24 2 2 27 2 11 11 96 60 62 2 15 34 23 4 4 11 61 2 54 507 11 4 3 21 2 4 9 25 34 18 7 8 30 5 2 3 12 14 2 23 237 1 1 0 11 1 13 2 24 17 12 1 7 15 9 2 0 1 16 2 13 148 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 10 0 0 0 3 0 0 3 13 12 6 0 3 6 1 1 0 3 6 0 3 60 3 1 6 15 1 3 11 24 32 23 3 2 21 12 4 0 11 23 4 20 219 2 0 5 9 1 3 7 11 23 10 0 4 17 6 4 8 3 14 4 23 154 2 0 1 2 0 1 1 8 2 0 1 1 11 3 0 0 1 7 2 6 49 Steward Department 3 1 0 0 0 1 11 2 0 0 4 1 13 2 14 1 11 6 6 5 0 1 2 0 6 10 15 2 1 0 3 1 2 1 8 4 3 0 17 4 123 38 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 2 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 9 1 0 0 6 0 0 3 7 14 6 0 1 9 6 0 1 3 8 0 6 71 4 0 2 13 4 10 14 30 31 17 0 7 26 24 2 3 6 18 1 33 245 3 1 0 7 0 0 3 7 22 6 0 5 13 7 0 5 8 2 1 14 104 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 5 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 12 Entry Department 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 1 4 5 10 1 8 0 10 0 1 0 1 1 16 0 7 1 1 0 0 0 0 5 7 0 0 2 12 17 81 5 1 0 2 0 0 4 2 11 1 1 0 8 4 0 0 0 5 0 7 51 1 0 0 3 0 0 1 4 3 0 1 0 7 3 0 0 0 3 0 8 34 0 0 0 3 0 2 1 7 9 4 0 1 5 3 0 0 2 7 0 3 47 9 3 1 10 3 2 6 20 35 21 3 0 31 18 1 1 1 16 0 51 232 15 0 4 8 1 5 12 36 60 16 2 0 61 31 1 1 0 23 1 30 307 106 280 1,018 727 516 A 453 298 Seafarers LOG 13 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings SLNC YORK (Argent Marine), August 4 – Chairman Basil D’Souza, Secretary Victor Jimenez, Deck Delegate Clifford Carroll, Steward Delegate Rosalie Long. Still awaiting response concerning AC problem. Crew suggested increasing pension benefit while decreasing sea time for retirement. Educational director urged members to upgrade and to always check paperwork. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requests table in thaw box area. Apprentices switching departments. INDIANA HARBOR (American Steamship), August 5 – Chairman Jeremy Shenett, Secretary John Chaney, Educational Director Daniel Lind, Engine Delegate Thomas McClure, Steward Delegate David Warner. Chairman asked members to leave clean rooms for oncoming crew and to help newcomers. He reminded members to stay hydrated on hot days. Secretary advised crew to be sure credentials were up to date. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at the school when possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Engine delegate requested new radios for tunnel crew. Members discussed new insurance policies for Great Lakes division. Headquarters will be sending out information. Next Port: Gary, Indiana. ALASKAN NAVIGATOR (Alaskan Tanker Company), August 6 – Chairman Gregory Hamilton, Secretary Cayetano Toledo, Educational Director Leland Peterson. Replacement for broken recliner needed. Ship fully crewed and sailing smoothly. Chairman encouraged members to donate to SPAD. Secretary reminded crew to leave fresh linens for oncoming members. Educational director recommended upgrading at Piney Point. Members discussed vacation policy and desire to boost pension. Crew was directed to communicate with personnel at ATC. Steward department was thanked for a job well 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. done. Deck department commended for keeping house clean. Next Port: Cherry Point, Washington. OVERSEAS MARTINEZ (Overseas Ship Management), August 10 – Chairman Anton Sulic, Secretary Marcelo Param, Educational Director Rodriques Carson, Deck Delegate Michael Ross, Engine Delegate Mohsen Shayef Shayef, Steward Delegate Charles Atkins. New rugs and new fans to arrive. Chairman reminded crew to clean rooms before getting off and encouraged everyone to work in unity. He advised members to be sure documents are kept up to date and to donate to SPAD. Secretary reminded crew to return cups and mentioned painting deck in dry store room. Educational director urged members to upgrade at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members discussed health plans and requested better dental coverage and increase in eyeglass allowance. Next Port: Garyville, Louisiana. MAERSK OHIO (Maersk Line, Limited), August 17 – Chairman James Joyce, Secretary Emanuel Spain,, Educational Director Antoine Rainey. Repair to handrails will continue. Chairman reported a safe voyage and no loss of time or man hours. Educational director reminded members to check documents and to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Deck crew requested small welding pumps for cargo holds. Members asked for extra vacuums on each deck and new bath towels. MOHAWK (JM Ship LLC), August 20 – Chairman Paul Sharo, Secretary Alan Bartley, Educational Director Kevin Chenault, Deck delegate Corey Thomas, Engine Delegate Beato Diaz, Steward Delegate Kimberly Dawson. Chairman announced payoff and discharge schedule. Crew discussed upcoming voyages to El Salvador, Puerto Rico and Jacksonville. Secretary thanked everyone for keeping mess hall clean. Educational director advised members to check on document renewal as early as possible. He reminded crew to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next Port: Concord, California. reminded crew to check the Seafarers LOG for upgrading courses at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members plan to check contract for information about replacing items in soda machine. Port agent to follow up regarding penalty rate inquiry. Members requested new recliners. Satellite to be installed. Next Port: Long Beach, California. SEABULK ARCTIC (Seabulk Tankers Inc.), August 26 – Chairman John Cedeno, Secretary Gordon Major, Educational Director James Rodweller. Chairman presented new contractual wages. He encouraged members to recruit for apprentice program and explained importance of donating to SPAD. Chairman urged crew to stay hydrated and take 10-minute breaks from the sun every hour/as needed. Secretary advised crew to be sure credentials are current and compliant. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at the maritime training facility in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew was reminded to gently close watertight doors while off watch is sleeping. Members were instructed to use plastic garbage bags for all trash placed in trash room. Crew was directed to be attentive when washing clothes, being sure to not leave laundry overnight. New pillows and mattresses needed on board. Members sought clarification regarding pay for trash handling, weekly room sanitary in lieu of day off and vacation requirements. Crew inquired about weekend OT rates. Captain purchased pizza for crew. Members enjoyed participating in 401k portfolio exercise. TYCO DECISIVE (Tyco), August 30 – Chairman Victor Nunez, Deck Delegate Richard MolinaBlackman, Engine Delegate Danilo Achacoso, Steward Delegate Walter Schoppe. Chairman announced port closures on Saturdays. He went over the importance of the Jones Act and SPAD donations. Chairman encouraged members to enroll in 401k and reminded them to renew member portal passwords. No beefs or disputed OT to report. Crew discussed labor movement’s current fight against so-called “right-to-work” states. Membership healthy, morale very high, with both the SIU and aboard ship. ALASKAN LEGEND (Alaska Tanker Company), August 26 – Chairman Alvin Martin, Secretary Just Self Self, Deck Delegate Woodrow Brown, Engine Delegate Corey Hann, Steward Delegate Johnson Ashun. Members went over last meeting. Educational director TEXAS (Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning), August 30 – Chairman Burkley Cooper, Secretary Josue Iglesia, Educational Director Ahmed Sennain, Engine Delegate Austin Anderson, Steward Delegate Jermain Robinson. Chairman reminded members to confirm contractual pay scales before boarding ship. He thanked steward department for job well done. Secretary advised members to keep documents updated and be sure to allow enough time to renew. Educational director recommended crew upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. Members were encouraged to approach captain if anything is needed for ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew would like allowance for eyeglasses to be increased. They requested new coveralls with better variety of sizes. Next Port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida. BURNS HARBOR (American Steamship Company), August 31 – Chairman Abdullah Algalham, Secretary Mohamed Algalham, Educational Director Mohamed Ahmed, Deck Delegate Larry Skowronek. Crew revisited old business. Chairman reminded crew to work together and announced overtime on deck. Hiring halls now closed on Saturdays. Members were encouraged to vote in upcoming election. Educational director urged crew to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Crew requested new linens and additional DEU aboard ship. WASHINGTON (Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning), September 1 – Chairman Modesto Rabena, Secretary Ingra Maddox, Educational Director Diole Bonifacio, Deck Delegate Joseph Nicodemus, Engine Delegate Salvador Baclayon, Steward Delegate Ian Schluder. Chairman thanked steward department for good food (excellent quality and variety of menus). No beefs or disputed OT reported. Deck department members continue waiting for answers regarding past-due penalty pay. Crew voiced interest in obtaining companyprovided email and satellite phone service. Members expressed concern with vacation plan name. Members caught 87-pound halibut at anchor in Valdez, Alaska. SAM LAUD (American Steamship Company), September 9 – Chairman Amin Quaraish, Educational Director Mathew McClintock. Crew made note of Saturday closure at halls. Members talked about importance of supporting candidates that support the Jones Act during this election year. Crew reviewed pension plan. Educational director reminded members to go to the SIU website to find helpful information. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members reiterated importance of donating to SPAD. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and InIn land 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 14 Seafarers LOG 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 capaccapac ity 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 furfur ther 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 2018 �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 water waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA ALI ABDULGANI Brother Ali Abdulgani, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1990, initially working on the Cape Carthage. A deck department member, he most recently sailed on the Maersk Denver. Brother Abdulgani resides in Brooklyn, New York. FIDEL BLANCO Brother Fidel Blanco, 66, began his career with the Seafarers in 2001, first sailing on the Yorktown. The engine department member upgraded his skills that same year at the maritime training facility located in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Blanco most recently worked on the Overseas New York. He calls Humble, Texas, home. THOMAS BRAY Brother Thomas Bray, 66, joined the SIU in 1990 and initially sailed on the USNS Regulus. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2014 and was a member of the deck department. Brother Bray last sailed aboard the Cape May and resides in Chesapeake Virginia. BRUCE DAVIDSON Brother Bruce Davidson, 65, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1975, first sailing aboard the George Goble. He worked in the steward department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Davidson last sailed on the Maersk Columbus before settling in Naples, Florida. DANIEL GIFFORD Brother Daniel Gifford, 65, joined the SIU in 1970 and first shipped aboard the Hastings. An engine department member, he upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Gifford most recently sailed on the Matej Kocak and makes his home in New Orleans. JAN HAIDIR Brother Jan Haidir, 67, joined the union in 1980. His first vessel was the Santa Magdelena. The engine depart- December 2018 ment member upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center before sailing on his final ship, the Pride of America. He resides in Seattle. ROBERT JONES Brother Robert Jones, 65, started his SIU career in 1975, initially sailing on the USNS Potomac. He sailed in the engine department, most recently aboard the Endurance. Brother Jones resides in Reno, Nevada. OSWALDO LOPEZ Brother Oswaldo Lopez, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1999 when he sailed aboard the USNS Pathfinder. He was a member of the engine department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Lopez last sailed on the Horizon Pacific. He makes his home in Tacoma, Washington. CLARENCE MACK Brother Clarence Mack, 54, signed on with the union in 1986, initially working aboard the USNS H.H. Hess. He was a steward department member and upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Mack most recently sailed aboard the Delta Mariner. He resides in Mobile, Alabama. MUNASSAR MOHAMED Brother Munassar Mohamed, 65, began his career with the union in 1979 when he sailed on the McLean. A steward department member, he upgraded in 1989 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Mohamed last worked aboard the Denali. He makes his home in Detroit. JOHN MOSSBARGER Brother John Mossbarger, 70, signed on with the SIU in 1991 when he sailed on the Sealift Indian Ocean. He was a deck department member and upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school on many occasions. Brother Mossbarger last sailed on the Pacific Tracker and lives in Newport, Oregon. ARMANDO OLDE Brother Armando Olde, 67, joined the union in 2000 and first sailed aboard the Kenai. He was a deck department member and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Olde most recently sailed on the Horizon Anchorage. He makes his home in Anchorage, Alaska. FAYE PRICE Sister Faye Price, 65, joined the SIU in 1989. She was a member of the steward department and first sailed aboard the USNS Vindicator. Sister Price upgraded her skills at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. She last sailed on the USNS Watkins before settling in Norfolk, Virginia. ROBERT RESTER Brother Robert Rester, 65, began his career with the Seafarers in 1972, first sailing with Inland Tugs before moving to the deep-sea division. He was an engine department member and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Rester concluded his career aboard the LNG Gemini. He calls Sevierville, Tennessee, home. CEASAR SMITH Brother Ceasar Smith, 53, joined the SIU in 1993 and first sailed aboard the American Cormorant. He was a deck department member and upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Smith’s last vessel was the Brownsville. He resides in Mobile, Alabama. WARREN WRIGHT Brother Warren Wright, 65, embarked on his SIU career in 1978 when he sailed on the Mohawk. An engine department member, he enhanced his skills on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Wright most recently sailed aboard the Oakland before settling in Wilmington, Delaware. GREATLAKES JOHN BEAUSHAW Brother John Beaushaw, 65, signed on with the union in 1973 when he worked on the Ben Calvin. He was a steward department member and upgraded in 1988 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Beaushaw’s last vessel was the Southdown Challenger. He makes his home in Alpena, Michigan. RONALD BUJNOVSKY Brother Ronald Bujnovsky, 60, signed on with the union in 1977. He first sailed aboard the Harry Allen. Brother Bujnovsky was an engine department member and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. He most recently sailed aboard the Sam Laud and resides in Cleveland. STEVEN SAMPLE Brother Steven Sample, 65, began his career with the Seafarers in 1971 when he worked on the H.N. Snyder. He was a member of the deck department and last worked for Upper Lakes Barge Lines. He calls Alpena, Michigan, home. INLAND SAMUEL BIRTH Brother Samuel Birth, 62, joined the SIU in 2006, first working with Crowley. He remained with the same company for the duration of his career. Brother Birth lives in Philadelphia. JAMES GARNETT Brother James Garnett, 62, signed on with the Seafarers in 1978 when he worked for OSG Ship Management. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center within his first year, and was a deck department member. Brother Garnett last worked for Interstate Oil before settling in Staten Island, New York. FRANK JEWELL Brother Frank Jewell, 62, began his seafaring career in 1975 when he sailed on the Transpanama. He upgraded his skills on several occasions at the Piney Point school and worked in the deck department. Brother Jewell last sailed with Hvide Marine. He lives in Lake Charles, Louisiana. MICHAEL LANDIS Brother Michael Landis, 65, joined the SIU in 1991, working for OLS Transport. He was a member of the deck department and remained with the same company for the duration of his career. Brother Landis calls Creal Springs, Illinois, home. EDWARD O’CONNELL Brother Edward O’Connell, 73, joined the SIU in 1991. He first worked on the USNS Relentless and was a member of the deck department. Brother O’Connell upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. He last sailed on the Integrity and makes his home in Beaufort, South Carolina. SMU CARL NEAL Brother Carl Neal, 75, donned the union colors in 1990, first sailing on the American Kestrel. He was an engine department member and most recently shipped on the Belofin Kestrel. He calls Buffalo, Texas, home. NMU PAUL BARBAUR Brother Paul Barbaur, 66, signed on with the union in 1987, initially sailing on the Overseas Juneau. A deck department member, he last sailed on the Discovery. Brother Barbaur resides in Honolulu. Seafarers LOG 15 �Final Departures DEEP SEA FRANK BERMUDEZ Pensioner Frank Bermudez, 70, passed away October 17. Born in Mexico, he embarked on his SIU career in 1972. He first worked for Steuart Transportation and was a member of the deck department. Brother Bermudez last sailed aboard the Horizon Anchorage before going on pension in 2010. He was a resident of Federal Way, Washington. WAYNE KINSEY Brother Wayne Kinsey, 57, died August 8. He joined the SIU in 1980, first sailing on the Venture. Brother Kinsey was a deck department member. He sailed in both the inland and deep-sea divisions; his final vessel was the Padre Island Island. He lived in Summerdale, Alabama. KONSTANTINOS KOUTOURAS Pensioner Konstantinos Koutouras, 79, passed away October 20. He became a member of the SIU in 1967 and first sailed on the Bowling Green. Brother Koutouras was a member of the deck depart- ment and last shipped aboard the Motivator. He retired in 2001 and settled in Oceanside, New York. AMY RIPPEL Sister Amy Rippel, 56, died July 18. She joined the SIU in 1989, first sailing on the Independence. A steward department member, Sister Rippel most recently sailed on the Philippines. She resided in Laguna Niguel, California. GREAT LAKES EUGENE HAYES Pensioner Eugene Hayes, 78, passed away October 8. He signed on with the union in 1963 when he worked with Inland Lakes Management. Brother Hayes worked in the engine department and last sailed aboard the JAW Iglehart. He began collecting his pension in 2005 and lived in his hometown of Alpena, Michigan. PAUL KIEFER Pensioner Paul Kiefer, 69, died October 11. He signed on with the SIU in 2006 when he sailed aboard the Walter J. McCarthy. A deck department member, Brother Kiefer most recently shipped on the Sam Laud Laud. He became a pensioner in 2014 before settling in Landrum, South Carolina. JAMES WOODROW Pensioner James Woodrow, 88, passed away October 5. He donned the SIU colors in 1963 when he worked for Wyandotte Transportation. Brother Woodrow sailed in the engine department and concluded his career aboard the Sam Laud Laud. He began collecting his pension in 1995 and settled in Hillman, Michigan. INLAND GILBERT JENKINS Pensioner Gilbert Jenkins, 88, died September 29. He began his career with the Seafarers in 1962, initially working for Whiteman Towing. An engine department member, Brother Jenkins remained with the same company until his retire- sailed on the Liberator, and resided in Canton, Mississippi. ment in 1992. He resided in Shreveport, Louisiana. NORMAN MAJETTE Pensioner Norman Majette, 83, passed away October 30. He started his SIU career in 1962 when he worked for Chesapeake & Ohio Railway. Brother Majette remained with the same company until he became a pensioner in 1997. He made his home in Foster, Virginia. NMU NICOLA GIAMMARINO Pensioner Nicola Giammarino, 93, passed away July 27. Brother Giammarino was born in Springfield, Massachusetts. He retired in 1967 and continued to reside in his hometown. DANNY MIXON Pensioner Danny Mixon, 64, died October 21. He became a member of the SIU in 1989, initially sailing on the USNS Antares. Brother Mixon was a deck department member and last worked for G&H Towing. He retired in 2016 and settled in Cushing, Texas. TONEY SMITH Brother Toney Smith, 56, passed away September 18. He began his career with the Seafarers in 1980, first sailing on the BrookBrook lyn. Brother Smith sailed in all three departments and also worked on shore gangs. He last CALVIN JOHNSON Pensioner Calvin Johnson, 93, died October 23. Born in Boston, Brother Johnson became a pensioner in 1987. He made his home in Philadelphia. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. Anderson, Simon Castillo, Alfred Correa, Luis Fonseca, Antonio Forde, William Gonzales, Henry Laux, Arthur Suazo, Gumercindo 88 84 95 81 95 78 91 78 10/02/2018 10/20/2018 10/13/2018 10/24/2018 03/17/2018 10/06/2018 10/25/2018 09/15/2018 EARN YOUR COLLEGE DEGREE SIU CIVMARS Support Our Troops THROUGH THE PAUL HALL CENTER ! The Paul Hall Center’s Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship (SHLSS) has partnered with the College of Southern Resident courses at Piney Point begin January 14, 2019 Maryland (CSM) to offer an Associate of Applied Science degree in Maritime Operations Technology with a concentration in either • Nautical Science (Deck department) -or- • Marine Engineering (Engine dept.) Students must complete a combination of academic general education courses and technical education courses in order to earn • Associate of Applied Science Degree • UA courses apply toward the degree • Fully accredited • Some courses held at SHLSS the degree. Courses completed during the Unlicensed Apprentice program apply toward the • Online classes degree. • Scholarships available Students can complete English, Math and Physics courses at SHLSS. The remaining general education courses can be completed online. The following classes will convene at SHLSS: January 14, 2019 through February 1, 2019 English 1011 – Composition and Rhetoric Math 1011 – Math for Technologies The USNS Big Horn (right), crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division, prepares to transfer cargo to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman. The underway replenishment took place Oct. 30 in the Norwegian Sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joseph A.D. Phillips) 16 Seafarers LOG Enrollment Information Please contact Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School Academic Coordinator Dale Rausch Includes: tuition, textbooks, room and board plus one hour of tutoring following (301) 994-0010 Ext. 5411 -ordrausch@seafarers.org 7 Credit Hours 12/18 each daily class session December 2018 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 RFPNW March 30 May 25 Title of Course Advanced Refer Containers May 18 May 31 BAPO February 2 March 1 Engineroom Resource Management June 22 June 28 FOWT February 22 May 3 January 5 March 2 February 1 March 29 Junior Engineer March 22 May 31 January 12 March 16 March 8 May 10 Machinist January 5 January 25 Marine Electrician January 12 May 18 March 8 July 12 Marine Refer Tech March 9 April 19 MEECE June 1 June 14 Pumpman January 26 February 1 Welding February 16 March 8 Start Date Leadership & Managerial Skills MSC Storekeeper Basic Gap Closing Courses June 29 Storekeeper Courses February 2 April 13 MSC Supply Configuration Management February 23 May 4 Date of Completion July 5 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck AB to Mate Modules January 5 March 2 April 27 February 1 March 29 May 24 Modules must be taken in order. Those who are not in the mates program cannot apply for these courses. Contact the Admissions Office for further details. Date of Completion April 26 June 21 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Meteorology May 4 May 10 Advanced Shiphandling May 11 May 24 Advanced Galley Ops January 5 Advanced Stability April 27 May 3 Certified Chief Cook ARPA March 9 April 27 May 25 March 15 May 3 May 31 Modules run every other week. The next class will start December 10. Chief Steward February 2 March 22 Crane Familiarization April 6 April 12 Galley Operations February 2 March 1 ECDIS April 13 April 19 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 January 12 January 18 Fast Rescue Boat June 1 June 7 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 January 5 January 11 GMDSS July 20 August 2 Lifeboat December 15 January 12 February 9 March 9 December 28 January 25 February 22 March 22 February 23 April 13 May 11 March 8 April 26 May 24 Radar Observer Steward Department Courses February 1 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training/Basic FF February 2 February 8 Basic Training Revalidation December 14 December 14 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation January 12 January 18 Government Vessels January 5 January 11 Medical Care Provider January 26 February 1 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office Tank Ship Familiarization - DL February 16 February 22 RFPNW February 2 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG February 9 February 15 March 1 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 # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. December 2018 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, or 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. 12/18 Seafarers LOG 17 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #841 – Graduated September 7 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Marco Antonio Baez Millan, Darnel Bruno, Mark Charles, Michael Curtin, Joshua Cutchin, Albert Granville III, Am’Quez Hagans, D’Mitri Hill, Kalanihooulumoko Holt, Kevin Kelly Jr., Alika Matthew Kawika Kukahiko, Vincent Mauro, Ettiene Mena, Brian Murphy, Velislav Nikolov, Lane Plummer, Delson Smith, Joseph Stiklickas, Christopher Taylor, Tyler Thompson and Ryan Wilson. Fast Rescue Boat – Graduated August 17 (above, in alphabetical order): Kevin Hale, Jonas Libang, Michael O’Connell, Susan Riedlinger, Ben Skuban, Andrei Tretyak and Patrick Wells. RFPNW (Phase 3) – Graduated August 24 (above, in alphabetical order): Austen Amoroso, Kaden Hardt, Devin Hoerr, Somitya Rana and Brian Wendler. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the deck departments of SIUcontracted vessels. Class instructor Bernabe Pelingon is at the far right. BAPO (Phase 3) – Graduated August 24 (above, in alphabetical order): Justin Bodnar, Jose Luis Borrero Rodriguez, Kevin Campfield Jr., Robert Clark, Royce Cummings, Elhassene Elkori, Samuel Fanjoy, Casey Frederick, Trevor Johnson, Ryan Manlapit, Christopher Redding, Andy Salado and Gabriel Santa-Ramos. Each plans to work in the engine department of SIU-contracted vessels upon the completion of their training. Instructor John Wiegman III is at the far right. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Graduated August 31 (photo above): Annie Scriven (center) and Brian Wendler. Instructor Joseph Zienda is at left. WATCO Electrician– Graduated August 24 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Paul Adams, Kevin Gatling, Corey Hornig, Khaled Ahmed Mohamed Hussein, Sherwin Jones, Patrick Meagher, Kamal Kamel Meawad, Kareem Meawad, Andres Rivera Jr., Rodney Roberson Sr., Joel Santana, Scott Smith, Scott Allen Smith, David Vega and Sean Wanamaker. Class instructor William Dodd is seated at the far left. 18 Seafarers LOG December 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Graduated August 10 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Hernando Guzman Basilan, Carleous Brown Jr., Abasiama Bassey Essien-Ete, Marcus Foster, Eric Hondel, William Jackson, Jose Carlos Loureiro, Michael Maldonado, Sterling McCosh, George Bernasco Pobee, William Pollard, Andrei Tretyak, Maili Wang and De’vine Washington. (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 places. Tank Ship Familiarization DL – Graduated August 31 (above, in alphabetical order): Joshua Barber, Keithan Bland, Carleous Brown Jr., Ana Marie Chona Razon Calma, Jovita Guadalupe Carino, Antony Chapman, Allan Bolo Coloyan, Donell Criswell, Sherron Davita DeCoteau, Artemio Galabo Galaura, Antonio Griffin, Timothy Hetz, Bud Sok Khuth, Nathaniel Leary, Jonas Libang, Steven Ariel Lopez Ferrer, Philip Perry, Atm Zahid Reza, Paul Riley Jr., Leroy Andres Ramos Sierra, Ben Skuban and Reginald Yeager. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated August 24 (above, in alphabetical order): Norman Jackson, Lori Mansuy, Rang Van Nguyen, Edgardo Herrera Ong and Scott Opsahl. Certified Chief Cook (Module 2) – Graduated August 24: Torrika Devine December 2018 Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated July 13 (above, from left): Edna Torres, Charlfred Mynardo Autrey and David Ramon Wakeman. SUA (Galley Ops) – Graduated July 13 (above, in alphabetical order): Darrisha Bryant, Robert Hunter, Shabrielle Knight, Diane MacDonald, Abel Rios Jr., Latrel Ross and Cory Wilson. Seafarers LOG 19 �DECEMBER 2018 VOLUME 80, NO. 12 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 18-19 A Cobra attack helicopter (above) settles onto the deck of SIU-crewed USNS Seay. Bosun Robert Hayes is in the foreground. In the photo at right, the Seay’s flight deck crew stands by in a protected location as a V-22 is directed off the ship. Seafarers Skillfully Handle Helo-Ops Testing on Seay Editor’s note: Thanks to Bosun Robert Hayes for this article that he wrote, and for submitting the accompanying photos. These snapshots and additional ones from the testing are available on the SIU Facebook page (@ SeafarersInternational). The Seay is operated by U.S. Marine Management. On Oct. 1, the USNS Seay set sail from the port of Baltimore to embark on unique mission. The Seay was going to do dynamic interface testing off the coast of Maryland to see if it was possible to land a V-22 Osprey on its flight deck. The Seay is the first LMSR of the Bob Hope-class ships to attempt this. A team of about two dozen civilians from various government and private agencies was on board for the testing. They brought with them thousands of pounds of gear, mostly instrumentation to test wind levels, pressure, light levels, and temperature. The test included hours of flight quarters each day to do “touch and goes” where the V-22 would land, immediately take off, and According to the Military Sealift Command, the successful testing allows both the Seay (above) and sister ship USNS Pililaau to receive the same upgrade to their respective Naval Air Systems Command certification. SIU members (photo at right) head towards the V-22 so they can secure it. then fly around the ship as we made minor course adjustments and then land again. This testing provided the military with the critical information it needs to develop safe wind envelopes to fly in and try to land on this specific class of ship. The unlicensed crew members aboard, all of whom are SIU members, were directly involved in flight quarters. From fire teams to hospital team members, and even the guys who put on the chocks and chains, at every level and in every department, the SIU members involved did an outstanding job. The highest praises were given not only from the testing team aboard the Seay, but from all the pilots of the V-22 and Cobra helicopters. One said, “Bosun, you and your crew here put Big Navy to shame. You guys did awesome. Bestlooking civilian flight deck crew we’ve ever seen.” Personally, I’ve done some cool things and been to some cool places in my career, but this takes the cake. Standing on the flight deck and bringing in a V-22 was an awesome experience that few will ever get to enjoy. There are days I truly love my job as bosun. Pictured from bottom to top are Bosun Rob Hayes, OS Luis Sanchez, 3rd Mate Kent Lansden, AB Bryan McAllister and AB Jonathan Bennett. � 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 2018 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES ITF CONGRESS 2018 FOCUSES ON FUTURE HEINDEL RE-ELECTED CHAIR OF FEDERATION’S SEAFARERS’ SECTION CROWLEY CHRISTENS JONES ACT VESSEL EL COQUI SIU-CREWED CONRO POWERED BY LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS ASST. VP WARE RETIRES AFTER 40-YEAR CAREER OP-EDS VOICE MORE JONES ACT SUPPORT DEMOCRATIC CONGRESSMAN, CONSERVATIVE THINK-TANK PRESIDENT CITE NUMEROUS BENEFITS OF AMERICA’S FREIGHT CABOTAGE LAW SEAFARERS HONORED AT AOTOS EVENT UNION MEMBERSHIP MEETING DATES SIU OPENS NEW PUERTO RICO HALL IN STYLE FACILITY HAILED AS BIG UPGRADE FOR SEAFARERS AND THEIR FAMILIES SEAFARERS SKILLFULLY HANDLE HELO-OPS TESTING ON SEAY 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 12/01/2018 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. 80, No. 12 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/1c6d8640a6e599f04c2b58511c4ae53b.pdf fa7efd93bad7ddf7e244d9e487001908 PDF Text Text NOVEMBER F E B R U A2018 RY 2014 o V O L U MVOLUME E 7 6 80, NNO. O .112 Report: 91 Nations Have Cabotage Laws Page 3 Construction Starts On USNS John Lewis Union shipyard General Dynamics NASSCO recently hosted a steel-cutting ceremony in San Diego for the USNS John Lewis, the first in a new class of six replenishment oilers named after civil rights leaders. The vessels will be crewed by SIU CIVMARS. (Rendering of the USNS John Lewis courtesy of NASSCO) Page 2. Ceremonies Honor El Faro Crew SIU officials and members took part in three gatherings in Florida to honor the memory of those who perished aboard the El Faro three years ago. In the photo below, the SIU-crewed Lawrence Gianella sails past the El Faro memorial in Dames Point Park in Jacksonville, Florida, site of one of the ceremonies. Page 24. A Day Aboard the Seay SIU members have always served reliably as part of America’s fourth arm of defense, and Seafarers sailing aboard the USNS Seay maintain that tradition. The LOG recently caught up with crew members aboard the U.S. Marine Management-operated vessel in Baltimore; check out our coverage on Pages 12-13. Pictured aboard the ship are (from left) Bosun Robert Hayes, Storekeeper Paul Conway, AB Martha Wall, AB Bryan McAllister, QE4 Emmanuel Adeoti and (rear) AB Caliph Johnson. New Pasha Ship Coming Page 2 SIU VP Mangram Retires Page 4 SHBP Scholarship Info Page 11 �President’s Report Many Positive Developments Pick up any issue of our union’s newspaper or read it online, and you’ll get a good sampling of what we’re all about. This month is no exception. We’re reporting on new tonnage both for our private- and federal-sector mariners. We’ve got a feature on one of our military support ships, and a rescue story. Other articles reflect our constant political action; our strong international promotion of maritime; and our commitment to helping preserve our history. As usual, there’s also no shortage of coverage on our affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Take a look at the class photos – they show Seafarers who are in different stages of their careers, but who are all taking advantage of the tremendous opportunities at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Check out this month’s Inquiring Seafarer feature, too. Those are (like always) real, unscripted answers from members, and they all have good things to say about the school. This is also the time of year when we start promoting the annual scholarships offered through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Those scholarships are available to SIU members and your dependents, and they’re Michael Sacco worth looking into for anyone interested in furthering their formal education. Our union is changing along with the industry, as reflected by our announcement of the SIU’s first female vice president. Last but not least, although we reported on it earlier this year, the organization Seafarers’ Rights International has released its full report on cabotage laws around the world. This study took more than two years to compile, and it proves what we’ve said all along: Cabotage laws are vital, valuable, common-sense policy. For us, this primarily relates to the Jones Act, which has protected the United States for nearly a century but which also regularly comes under attack. The new study puts the Jones Act in an even more positive light, and shows that other countries take the same approach with their domestic commerce. There are variables, sure, and the study doesn’t hide them. But the bottom line is that maritime cabotage laws promote and protect national, economic and homeland security. After Election Day Although it’s only mid-October as of this writing, most of our readers won’t see this edition until after Election Day. In many ways, that’s when our grassroots work really begins. Particularly when it comes to the inevitable turnover in Congress, both our union individually and our industry collectively must constantly carry our message to Capitol Hill so that elected representatives understand why our country needs a strong U.S. Merchant Marine, viable shipyards, and American-flag operators with U.S.-flag ships. All of the points are second nature to those of us who’ve spent our lives in this industry, but you’d probably be shocked at how many freshman legislators (and even some who’ve been around a while) don’t know much if anything about maritime. Our survival – your jobs – depend on gathering and maintaining support for the Jones Act, cargo preference, the Maritime Security Program and other statutes that help keep the industry afloat. The first steps toward those goals involve speaking up and educating Congress, which is precisely why we’re so politically active. It’s also important for Seafarers to introduce yourselves to your Congressional representatives when you’re home. Seafarers know that our organization doesn’t care about political party. We support those who support maritime, and that’ll always be the case. Regardless of the outcomes from November 6, we’ll spring into action immediately to introduce ourselves to the newcomers and also reinforce support from old friends. Happy Holidays I wouldn’t blame you for doing a double-take when reading the subhead immediately above, but Thanksgiving really is right around the corner. As we head towards the winter holiday season, I offer my best wishes to all Seafarers, SIU pensioners, your families and all of our officials and staff members for a safe, happy and healthy home stretch to 2018. For those of you at sea during the holidays, I know it’s a sacrifice even though it goes with the territory. I appreciate your dedication. Last but definitely not least, to all of our men and women in uniform, please know that the SIU always stands ready to deliver the goods to you, wherever and whenever needed. Be safe this holiday season, and know that our entire organization genuinely respects your service. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 80 Number 11 o NO. 2 November 2018 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2018 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. 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 The new ships will be fueled by LNG and will sail in the Jones Act trade. First Steel Plates Cut in Texas For LNG-Fueled Containership Pasha Hawaii Jones Act Vessel Will Carry SIU Crew A recent ceremony in Texas signaled upcoming new jobs for SIU members. Seafarers-contracted Pasha Hawaii on Sept. 25 announced that the first steel plates had been cut four days earlier for the M/V George III, the first of two containerships being built for the company by Brownsville, Texas-based Keppel AmFELS. Both the George III and sister ship Janet Marie will be fueled by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and will sail in the Jones Act trade. According to Pasha, both Ohana Class ships are slated for delivery in 2020. “This is great news for the SIU and great news for the United States,” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “Whenever new tonnage enters the Jones Act fleet, it’s a boost to America’s national, economic and homeland security.” The 774-foot vessels will carry 2,525 TEUs apiece, with a sailing speed of 23 knots. The design of the ship’s hull “has been fully optimized using computational fluid dynamics, and will be one of the most hydrodynamically efficient hulls in the world,” the company noted. The vessels have been named in honor of the parents of The Pasha Group President and CEO George Pasha IV. “Three generations of our family’s vision exemplify our unwavering commitment to serving our customers and investing in the future of Hawaii,” said George Pasha IV. “We are marking the first production milestone of our new LNG ships, and honor the legacy of the Pasha ohana (family). We also commend the remarkable talents and organization of the highly skilled shipbuilders on the Keppel team who are working hard to transform Shipyard and company personnel celebrate the construction milestone. these steel plates into the most environmentally efficient vessels for the Hawaii trade.” The new vessels are expected to operate fully on LNG from day one in service. According to Pasha, this will benefit the environment, while energy savings “will also be achieved with a state-of-the-art engine, an optimized hull form, and an underwater propulsion system with a high-efficiency rudder and propeller.” The Jones Act has benefited the U.S. since its enactment in 1920. The law requires that cargo moving between domestic ports is carried aboard ships that are crewed, built, flagged and owned American. According to a study by PricewaterhouseCoopers, the Jones Act helps maintain nearly 500,000 American jobs while contributing billions of dollars to the economy each year. Shipyard President Simon Lee (left) and George Pasha IV, president and CEO of The Pasha Group Construction Starts on USNS John Lewis Construction officially is underway on a new class of fleet replenishment oilers. General Dynamics NASSCO on Sept. 20 hosted a steel-cutting ceremony in San Diego for the USNS John Lewis, which will be crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division. The Lewis is the lead vessel in a new class of six ships named after civil rights leaders. Each ship will be 741 long and able to carry large volumes of dry cargo plus more than 157,000 barrels of fuel. Their mission is replenishing U.S. Navy ships while underway. The Lewis is named for U.S. Rep. John Lewis (D-Georgia). “Today marks a great accomplishment by the Navy and NASSCO team on this important program,” said James F. Geurts, assistant secretary of the Navy for research, development and acqui- sition. “Their tremendous collaboration on this new double-hulled design is a great example setting a positive trajectory leading into production.” The newer vessels (T-AO 205) will replace the current T-AO 187 fleet. According to the Navy, they “will become the backbone of the fuel delivery system.” The Lewis is scheduled for completion in November 2020, while the other new vessels are expected to be finished by 2023. NASSCO President Kevin Graney told the Times of San Diego that the vessels are the first “clean sheet design” by the yard in 17 years. “We want to get to a footing where every six months we’re starting a new hull,” Graney told the publication. “As the first ship of its class, the future USNS John Lewis will play a vital role in the mission of the Navy and Marine Corps, just like its namesake John Lewis’ vital role as a national leader in the movement for civil rights and human dignity,” said Mike Kosar, program manager for the Naval Sea Systems Command’s Program Executive Office Ships (PEO Ships). As one of the Defense Department’s largest acquisition organizations, PEO Ships is responsible for executing the development and procurement of all destroyers, amphibious ships, sealift ships, support ships and boats. “This really is a significant and historic event for the Navy,” said John Lighthammer, the Navy’s principal assistant program manager for the oiler fleet. “I congratulate all of NASSCO and its employees.” The John Lewis will be followed by the Harvey Milk, Earl Warren, Robert F. Kennedy, Lucy Stone and Sojourner Truth. November 2018 �Report: 91 Countries Maintain Cabotage Laws Seafarers’ Rights International Releases Full, Comprehensive Study Seafarers’ Rights International (SRI), an independent center for mariner advocacy and research, has released its full report – “Cabotage Laws of the World” – on the findings of their global cabotage study. The study, commissioned by the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), provides the first independent analysis of maritime cabotage laws since the early 1990s. Based on extensive research involving 140 countries, the SRI report reveals that 91 countries representing 80 percent of the world’s coastal United Nations Maritime States have cabotage laws restricting foreign maritime activity in their domestic coastal trades. Merriam-Webster defines cabotage as “trade or transport in coastal waters or airspace or between two points within a country.” ITF Seafarers’ Section Chair David Heindel, who also serves as the SIU’s secretarytreasurer, said, “The lack of accurate facts on cabotage laws around the world has been an impediment for policymakers considering implementing cabotage laws. This report represents a circuit breaker, providing policymakers with the relevant facts for proper decision-making. The SRI report debunks the myth that cabotage is an exception, not the rule. Laws governing maritime activity are widespread, currently existing in 91 countries covering 80 percent of the world’s coastlines of U.N. maritime states. We know there are a number of countries considering introducing, strengthening or diminishing cabotage regulation. This report will assure those governments that it makes sense to enforce national cabotage laws.” Some of the key findings of the study include:  Cabotage laws are diverse, with a range of approaches taken by different countries regarding virtually every aspect of them. There is great diversity in the interpretation, administration and enforcement.  Stated objectives of cabotage include: maintain national security; promote fair competition; develop human capacity; create jobs; enhance marine environmental protection; promote ship ownership; increase safety and security of ships in port; and preserve maritime knowledge and technology.  Cabotage laws have endured for centuries, but continue to evolve. Cabotage is not subject to a single definition accepted as binding on all states under international law. Regional and national definitions of cabotage vary widely. Deirdre Fitzpatrick, executive director of SRI, explained, “For many people, maritime cabotage, or coasting, coastwise or coastal trade as it is sometimes referred to, is understood, if at all, only vaguely. This is not surprising, since so little is published on the subject. This was a complex project, given language and cultural barriers and difficulties in statutory interpretations. But the subject is important. It affects a very wide range of trades, services and activities around the world, and with significant social and economic consequences. Policymakers especially need to know more about the subject.” During a presentation given at the Maritime Trades Department’s winter meeting in March 2018, Fitzpatrick praised America’s cabotage law, the Jones Act. “The Jones Act is often referred to as a model cabotage law: protecting jobs, the workforce, and the country,” she said. “But to protect the Jones Act, and to protect other cabotage laws around the world, it can only be helpful to know which countries have cabotage protections so that, in fact, the situation might be that the protection of cabotage laws is the norm, and it’s not the exception.” Jim Given, chair of the ITF Cabotage Task Force and President of the Seafarers Union of Canada, said, “The benefits of cabotage laws are self-evident. For countries that depend on the sea for their trade, cabotage safeguards their own strategic interests as maritime nations, bringing added economic value while also protecting national security and the environment. Cabotage provides jobs for a country’s seafarers and also safeguards foreign seafarers against exploitation posed by the liberalization in the global shipping industry, preventing a race to the bottom. Without strong cabotage rules, local workers often have to compete with cheap, exploited foreign labor on flag-of-convenience vessels, the owners of which usually pay substandard wages and flout safety laws.” “The United States is, and always has been, a maritime nation,” said Matt Woodruff, chairman of the American Maritime Partnership. “From the very founding of our country, the American maritime industry has served a critical role in maintaining our national, homeland and economic security. For policymakers that work to promote SIU President Michael Sacco (left) welcomes SRI Executive Director Deirdre Fitzpatrick to the Maritime Trades Department meeting earlier this year, where she gave a preliminary report on the cabotage study. November 2018 This image is part of a slide describing research methodology used in the global cabotage study. It’s taken from SRI Executive Director Deirdre Fitzpatrick’s presentation to the Maritime Trades Department. a strong and vibrant economy and national security leaders charged with protecting the U.S. security posture, this comprehensive study reinforces the importance of cabotage laws – like the Jones Act – and the historical legislative actions taken to support maritime industries across the globe, including in nations like Russia, China and South Korea.” The full report is available on SRI’s website (https://seafarersrights.org/). SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (left) applauded the cabotage study. He’s pictured in mid-October at the International Transport Workers’ Federation Congress in Singapore (Heindel chairs the federation’s Seafarers’ Section) Seafarers Union of Canada President Jim Given also chairs the ITF Cabotage Task Force. Seafarers LOG 3 �SIU VP Mangram Retires At 40-Year Mark SIU Vice President Government Services Division Kermett Mangram, 64, has called an end to his career with the union. He retired effective Aug. 31 following 40 years of dedicated service. Mangram is only the second person to hold the Vice President Government Services Division post, which was created in 1985 shortly after the old Military Sea Transport Union merged into the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District following a vote by the membership. He succeeded the late Roy “Buck” Mercer, who retired in 1999. He also served as Atlantic Region vice president for the union-affiliated United Industrial Workers union and was a full member on the boards of trustees for the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Seafarers Pension Plan, Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan and Seafarers Vacation Plan. Officials at SIU headquarters, as well as several individuals with whom he worked during his career, all recognized Mangram as a valued member of the team and tremendous asset to the union. “Kermett was one of the most detailed union officials whom I have had the pleasure of working with,” said SIU President Michael Sacco. “He was a very, very effective leader with a great personality. “He represented the SIU membership with his heart and soul and always did his very best to look out for the little guy,” Sacco continued. “Kermett had a great personality and was a great soldier who was loyal to the labor movement and to working people. He was also extremely detailed in his approach to dealing with all situations; the kind of guy who dotted every I and crossed every T. That’s how good he was … very well-schooled and up to date on everything that was going on. “Kermett was a tremendous asset to this organization and we are really going to miss him,” Sacco concluded. “We’ve known each other since 1980, when we were in Brooklyn,” said SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez. “He’s been a steadfast union official, a good dispatcher and a good allaround representative for the members. “Kermett is also a lifelong friend,” Tellez continued. “I’ve always introduced him as my brother from another mother.” “Kermett’s presence will be missed,” said SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. “His knowledge of contracts and the shipping rules were impeccable. His love of life and learning of new cultures are his passion. He was an allaround great guy and respected by everyone he worked with.” SIU Assistant Vice President Archie Ware described Mangram as a trusted friend and outstanding union official who would stop at nothing to help rank-and-file members. “He was a one of a kind union official,” Ware said. “I met Kermett in Piney Point shortly after he came ashore to become a union official. I was there upgrading in 1980 when our paths crossed. Since then we’ve been very close. “Over the years, his every action has been all about the welfare of the union’s rank-andfile membership,” Ware said. “He always went above and beyond to help them. I know from personal experience because he has been there for me on more than a few occasions. “While he was in Norfolk, I was in Houston and San Francisco,” Ware said. “Kermett used to train me over phone about the behind the scenes operations of the union and how things got done…distance learning if you will. I’ll always be grateful to him for that because it made a tremendous difference in my life. “Kermett did a lot of good things for so many people,” Ware concluded. “He will always be a very dear friend of mine.” Norfolk Port Agent Georg Kenny’s tenure with Mangram goes back to a time when he himself was going to sea. “I’ve known Kermett for over 30 years,” Kenny said. “It all began when Brooklyn was headquarters. Maureen (his wife) and I were sailing on the black hulls, the M/V Hague to be specific. Kermett always greeted us back at the hall with a big smile. He made us happy to be home, like family. But, that’s the SIU way.” He continued, “Kermett grew up in the SIU with great leaders and mentors–our forefathers Paul Hall, Joe DiGiorgio, Angus “Red” Campbell, Leon Hall and Carolyn Gentile–the people who taught him how to become an educated, effective, just and strong representative of the union. “With Kermett it always was about the members,” Kenny said. “Of all the aforementioned mentors, it was Red who Kermett had the most passion for; it was he who drilled the union constitution and shipping rules into his head. “Kermett often spoke of having spent hours with Red after the hall closed, mesmerized with his knowledge and history, of the union,” Kenny added. “Many a captain rued the day when Kermett walked up the gangway to handle a beef, for he played to win, so they lost after he cited the article and sections of the CBA to support his argument. The members won and loved him, grateful he was their advocate.” Kenny concluded, “Although Kermett and I didn’t always agree (he would say I had issues), it did not matter because he was my brother and that’s how family is. But in tough times, we each had the other’s back. That’s the concept of the Brotherhood of the Sea.” “It was truly a great experience working with Kermett,” said Port of Norfolk Safety Director Sam Spain. “He has always been a man of fairness, integrity, and honesty. Kermett always put the welfare of the members first and worked on whatever issues they brought to him until they were completely resolved. During my 16 years of working with and being trained by Kermett, he took a no non-sense approach to his teaching method: to always follow the contract, treat members with compassion and respect, and put the union first. “His knowledge of the union has been extremely valuable in sharpening my skills as union representative,” Spain concluded. “The staff he put together in the Norfolk hall will miss him greatly. God bless and keep him and we all wish him a wonderful retirement.” “I started working at SIU hall in Norfolk in August 2009 and I have truly enjoyed working with and for Kermett,” said Port of Norfolk Secretary Shelia Burton. “Under his leadership, I’ve learned a lot and felt comfortable in my job here at SIU. “Kermett truly cares about the membership and his employees,” she continued. “He is a detail-oriented person and continually stressed that we as members of his staff must be as knowledgeable as he was regarding union affairs. His goal was always to make life better for us all, especially the membership. He will surely be missed.” Mangram, who hails from Jacksonville, Florida, graduated from Florida A&M University in 1977 with a degree in business administration. He joined the union after being unable to find SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (left) is pictured during his early years as a Seafarer at the hiring Hall in Brooklyn, New York. Taken in 1984, the photo shows Mangram when he was an SIU Representative. He is issuing an election ballot – 1984 was a union election year – to AB Joseph Petrusewicz. 4 Seafarers LOG suitable employment elsewhere. “I had a number of family members who were in the National Maritime Union,” he recalled. “And before going off to college, I tried to join the NMU but was unsuccessful. This was largely because none of them offered any assistance toward getting me in. “My sister was married to a member of the SIU at the time,” Mangram continued. “I remember him coming home when I was working in a local business as a manager. He came home with a check for about $700 in his pocket. He had left on a Friday and the following Monday was a holiday; so, he came by Monday night with that check. “I remember thinking long and hard about that check because I had worked the whole week and only received about $80 dollars,” he said. “So, I went to work the next day and I quit. I asked him (sister’s husband) to take me to the union hall. I eventually ended up at Piney Point and the rest is history. That was in 1978.” Mangram is a graduate of Class 259 from the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Maryland. His first assignment was aboard the Sea-Land Seattle as a steward assistant. “I received the same basic training as most Seafarers still receive today,” recalled Mangram. “That included firefighting, water survival, first aid, CPR, industrial relations and social responsibilities aboard ships. “The training I received at the school thoroughly prepared me for the complexities of my first job aboard ship – that of washing dishes,” Mangram continued with a chuckle. “I really had that part down to a science. I must admit though, that I was not prepared for many of the social tribulations that I experienced aboard ship during my early days of going to sea. “Clashes among crew members were commonplace back in those days and there’s no doubt in my mind that many of them were racially motivated,” Mangram said. “I admit that I had my share of them, but I never blamed the union for that; I still don’t. I blamed the people who caused the incidents in the first place. “Back in those days, the concepts of teamwork and brotherhood across racial lines were in their infancy aboard vessels,” he continued. “But thanks be to God and the union’s modern leadership, it’s not like that anymore. There’s definitely more camaraderie among rank-and-file members aboard ship today, compared to when I joined.” Mangram’s shipboard career included voyages aboard the Sea-Land Seattle, Sea-Land Tampa, Sea-Land Akawai, Delta Uruguay and Point Revere. Although he worked mostly in the steward department, he also sailed in the deck department, where he achieved the rate of ABM. “The Point Revere was my last and perhaps worst ship that I worked on during my career,” Mangram said. “We were not being treated very well as a crew in a number of ways. The thing that really got next to me though was the officers were taking away our overtime despite the fact that we had worked. That happened on a number of occasions, and that for me was the last straw. I knew then that I wanted to do whatever I could to prevent other members from having to endure this type of treatment. “Like I said earlier, I did not blame the union for things that happened to me at sea because the SIU had always been in my corner,” he continued. “As a matter of fact, my oldest daughter was born while I was at sea. At birth, she had respiratory issues and by the time she was four years of age, had been hospitalized 48 times. The union paid all of her bills; I did not have to pay anything.” Eager to help fellow Seafarers, he came ashore in 1980 as a union education instructor at the Paul Hall Center. He became a patrolman in the port of New York in 1981, then port agent there in 1987. Mangram was named assistant vice president for contracts and contract enforcement by the executive board in 1992. He was reelected to the post in 1996. “The guy who really opened the doors for me to get into the union was Frank Mongelli,” Mangram said. “I learned a great deal from him, including his advice that once a member showed you his/her membership book, that was really all you need to know. “One of the smartest people I ever met during my career was Red Campbell and I thank him for everything he taught me,” he continued. “The same goes for Leon Hall who taught me that as a union official, you could either be someone who hurt people or someone who helped them. I always tried to be that person who helped my people.” “There’s one other person I’d like to mention who really made a difference in my life and career,” Mangram said. “His name was Johnny SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram addresses delegates and guests during the 2017 United Industrial Workers Convention in Piney Point, Maryland. Yarmola, an SIU official whom I met about eight weeks after joining the union. “When we met, my spirits were really down because my grandfather had just passed away. I guess it showed in my face because right away, he asked me what was wrong. I told him about my grandfather and the fact that I did not have the money needed to make my way home. Johnny told me that he’d see me the following day. The next day, he gave me a round trip ticket to go home … that was the last time I ever saw him, so I never got the chance properly thank him or let him know the full impact of what he did for me. “That was a long time ago, but I’ve never forgotten Johnny’s goodwill gesture. I thank him for it as well as the influence it has had on my life since.” When asked to appraise his career, Mangram said his greatest accomplishment as an official was the assistance he provided rank-and-file members. “I feel that I helped a lot of people –especially in the Norfolk area – get off to a good start in their lives and position themselves to provide for and help their families. For me, it was always about the rank-and-file members,” he said.” Mangram said his proudest moment as a union official came in 2008 when SIU President Sacco backed Barack Obama in his bid to become president of the United States. “I can’t express my profound gratitude toward Mike for his stance on this,” he said. “I was proud to serve by his side because he was the first SIU president to back an African American for president, to become leader of the free world. It’s something that I never thought I’d witness in my life.” On the opposing side of the spectrum, Mangram shared his most painful experience of his time with the SIU. “Perhaps the saddest thing to happen in my career has to do with the here and now. Due to personal reasons, I was not able to say farewell,” he said. “I had to leave so hastily that I did not get the chance to say goodbye to all the good people that I have met along the way, people of all creeds and social backgrounds whose lives I have impacted and those who have impacted mine. For that, I am truly sorry.” With respect to the union’s future, Mangram said he sees it as bright and promising. “The sky is the limit for the SIU and its membership if we stay true to course,” he said. “The keys to that success will be continued strong leadership, attention to detail and a constant state of preparedness on the part of rank-and-file members, including their continued contributions to SPAD. “I believe that security and automation will be huge players in our industry going forward and that more and more, people will have to educate themselves in order to keep pace and be successful,” he said. “It’s imperative that rankand-file members upgrade frequently, study hard, do their very best work while aboard ships and always strive to be great shipmates by treating others the way they would want to be treated.” Aside from concentrating on an extremely extensive “honey do” list, Mangram said he has no immediate retirement plans. “I’ll stay busy doing projects around the house that I have been putting off,” he said. “In the meantime, I wish all of the brothers, sisters and companies smooth sailing.” November 2018 �SIU’s Heindel Carries Cabotage Message To Norwegian Seafarers’ Union Congress Now that the facts about cabotage laws around the world have been revealed, it’s time to capitalize by growing those regulations and strengthening them. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel delivered that message Sept. 27 in Bergen, Norway, where he was a featured speaker at the Norwegian Seafarers’ Union (NSU) congress. Heindel spoke on behalf of both the SIU and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF). He chairs the Seafarers’ Section of the ITF. His speech took place three days after the organization Seafarers’ Rights International (SRI) posted a major report on cabotage laws (see story, page 3). That study, the first of its kind since 1991, found that 91 countries maintain some form of cabotage law. “The SRI report found that cabotage laws promote shipboard and environmental safety, national security and good jobs,” Heindel told the convention attendees. “But they also discovered – or maybe a better word would be verified – that many countries around the world are constantly fighting to defend their cabotage laws.” Heindel said the opposition mostly stems from a misguided belief in total deregulation and a focus on “profits above all, often to the exclusion of even a cursory consideration for seafarers, their families, the environment and local communities to which their vessels operate.” He reminded the audience that the ITF Cabotage Task Force (on which NSU President Johnny Hansen plays a very important role) helped equip SRI to conduct the study. “Now that we have the facts, our next steps involve worldwide publicity and targeted leverage to strengthen and grow cabotage laws,” Heindel said. “Brothers and sisters, that includes right here in Norway, where mariners sailing in your territorial waters absolutely must receive Norwegian terms and conditions. This isn’t optional and it shouldn’t be treated as optional.” He said that even though the freight cabotage law in the United States (the Jones Act) is “considered the gold standard” of such statutes, “we have to fight to defend it practically every day. That’s despite high-level support from our military leaders and government folks, and nearly a century of bipartisan backing from our Congress and from one presidential administration after another, including the current administration. “Our supporters consistently say that the Jones Act benefits national, economic and homeland security,” he continued. “And I Union Appoints Hunt To VP Government Services Position Kathleen “Kate” Hunt last month was appointed by the SIU’s executive board as vice president of the SIU’s Government Services Division. She succeeds former SIU Vice President Kermett Mangram who retired from the post effective August 31. Hunt assumes her new duties after serving as National Director of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers (UIW), a position she had held since August 2016. In that capacity, she oversaw the operations of dozens of UIW shops in the continental United States, Alaska and the United States Virgin Islands. Hunt began her maritime career as an AB working on ferries in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, in 1976. In 1980, she became the first female patrolman for the National Maritime Union (NMU), and thereafter spent many years as an NMU official. Following the SIU/NMU merger in 2001, Hunt was assigned to be a representative for the SIU’s Government Services Division. Among other duties, she worked with the SIU crews aboard Military Sealift Command ships, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration research vessels and other government-owned ocean-going platforms. During that same period, Hunt also worked as a business representative for the SIUaffiliated Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union (SEATU). Based at the union’s New York-area office, she ad- November 2018 Kathleen “Kate” Hunt VP, SIU Government Services Division dressed and met the needs of SEATU members employed at worksites in the Northeast. The SIU represents thousands of American workers aboard U.S.-flagged vessels in both the private and public sectors. One of its most important membership groups consists of mariners who are employed by the federal government aboard Military Sealift Command, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and other government service ships. On a daily basis, SIU Government Services Division representatives advocate for Civilian Mariners in discipline cases, loss of security clearances, workman’s compensation matters, fitness for duty issues, retirement questions and other concerns that have real, tangible effects on the day-to-day lives of federal mariners. don’t think there’s any question that strong cabotage laws would benefit any nation in those same ways. They lead to maintaining a pool of reliable, well-trained mariners; a capable shipbuilding base; and safety and security along the coasts and inland waterways. The bottom line is that cabotage is sound, time-tested policy, and the ITF will continue promoting it day after day, month after month, year after year, all across the globe.” Moreover, Heindel recognized and congratulated Seafarers Union of Canada President Jim Given, who chairs the ITF Cabotage Task Force. “Earlier this month, the SIU of Canada announced that Canadian seafaring unions finalized an agreement with the government securing cabotage rights for Canadian mariners aboard vessels flying any flag traversing that nation’s domestic waterways,” Heindel reported. “This was the culmination of a years-long fight and more lawsuits than I care to count, but it shows that victory is indeed possible. And even though Jim didn’t try to take credit, he absolutely led the way.” He wrapped up his remarks by reiterating the commitment of both the ITF and the SIU in promoting women’s rights in the maritime industry. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel speaks at the Norwegian Seafarers’ Union congress. Lawmakers Unveil Comprehensive Pro-Worker Legislative Package Warning that income inequality combined with a 30-year record of squashing workers’ rights together threaten U.S. democracy, a group of lawmakers unveiled a comprehensive package of pro-worker legislation. The legislators, backed by AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka at a Sept. 5 Capitol Hill press conference, admitted their ideas – ranging from stronger anti-trust enforcement to card-check recognition, among other things – will not get anywhere in the current session of Congress. But U.S. Reps. Mark DeSaulnier (D-California), Donald Norcross (D-New Jersey) (an Electrical Worker), Bobby Scott D-Virginia), Debbie Dingell (D-Michigan), and Mark Pocan (D-Wisconsin) (a Painter), all looked forward to pushing the measures next year. “Abraham Lincoln said there’s always got to be a balance between capital and labor – and if we lose that balance for labor, we lose democracy,” DeSaulnier said. “Now we have historic income inequality, so this package is to make sure we go to war for American workers.” Additionally, after two-and-a-half years of research, nine public meetings from coast to coast, consultations with more than 100 experts on work and its changing nature and gathering testimony from more than 250 rank-and-file workers, they came up with 30 recommendations in a report The Future Of Work, Wages And Labor. The group will introduce the measures in the closing days of this Congress, and then firmly get to work on them next year. “We want a level playing field. We need policies that keep jobs here and bring jobs back,” said Dingell. “This is a very thoughtful, detailed, needed report to build an economy centered around good jobs, rising wages and more bargaining power for workers,” Trumka commented. “Some of these recommendations we strongly support,” such as the Wage Act, to strengthen U.S. labor law (which congressional Democrats unveiled earlier this year). “Others need serious discussion,” he added. Those include the report’s idea for expanding the labor-pushed Warn Act – the plant-closing notification law – beyond just ordering employers of 50 people or more to tell workers in advance when they’re going to shut down or close production lines. The lawmakers want to order employers to spend money to retrain those workers, too. “But their willingness to think outside the box” to improve U.S. jobs and lift up U.S. workers, is exciting and important, Trumka said. Pocan provided a grim example of job loss in the U.S. Workers in Kenosha, Wisconsin, used to build cars, in a heavily union town. Now they make none; the auto plants closed and moved to Mexico. “Now the biggest employer is the Amazon distribution center, and it advertises wages ‘up to $12.75 an hour.’ That’s less than their parents made,” he said. The center is non-union. Workers want more bargaining power, Trumka added, citing everything from a 262,000-person rise last year in union members – with threefourths of them under 35 years old – to the successful teacher strikes in four right-to-work (for less) states to the latest Gallup Poll, showing 62 percent favorability for unions. Besides the Wage Act, the lawmakers will introduce bills to raise the minimum wage, enact seven days of paid sick leave and 12 weeks of paid family and medical leave, fund registered – union – apprenticeships and overturn the Supreme Court’s Citizens United decision which let loose a tsunami of corporate campaign cash. They also want to mandate that workers hold one-third of corporate board seats, as they do in Germany; ease the obstacles to organizing; increase fines and other penalties for labor lawbreaking and for wage theft; write voluntary recognition/card check into labor law; and end the misclassification of some 70 million workers as “independent contractors,” who are unprotected by any labor laws at all. Further, they would restore the Obama-era rule (repealed last year) to require all workers earning $47,476 yearly or less be eligible for overtime pay, and then index that figure to inflation. The maximum now, which hasn’t risen since 2005, is $23,660. If Congress won’t pass the legislation, they’ll lobby the states to do so, DeSaulnier said. Workers and unions can come back, Norcross and the others insisted. The legislation will help them do so, and that will benefit not just the workers, but their communities and the country, he added. Seafarers LOG 5 �Retired NMU Official Stewart Dies at 84 Charlie Stewart, a longtime official with the National Maritime Union (NMU), passed away Aug. 26 at his home in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He was 84. Stewart joined the NMU in in 1959, sailing in all three departments aboard tankers, freighters and passenger vessels. He became involved in all phases of union activity. Stewart worked as a patrolman in New York, Miami and Port Arthur, Texas, and was assistant to the vice president of government operations. He was one of the first U.S.-based International Transport Workers’ Federation inspectors. Additionally, he served as branch agent in Houston. He was elected vice president of the NMU and was assigned to contract enforcement. Stewart still served in that post when the NMU merged into the SIU in 2001. At that time, he became an SIU vice president at large – a position he maintained until his retirement in early 2009. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel both worked with Stewart during the merger proceedings. “We all worked well together in order to make sure both memberships were protected and no one got hurt as we merged seniority,” Tellez recalled. “Charlie helped make sure the transition was seamless and effective.” Heindel stated, “Charlie and I became pretty close during the merger talks and after. He was a sailors’ sailor. Everyone had deep respect for him, and he was known as a straight shooter.” SIU Vice President Government Services Kate Hunt, who in 1980 became the first female patrolman in NMU history, said, “For all my struggles with the hierarchy of the NMU, Charlie was a good guy with me and a good union official. He was truly well-liked by the NMU membership, and he’ll be missed.” Stewart was a native of Jamaica. Survivors include his wife, Nyoka Gene Ford. Charlie Stewart spent 42 years with the NMU and another eight with the SIU. He’s pictured at the Seafarers International Union of North America convention in 2007. NMC Releases Package Guidelines For MMC Application Submissions Aboard Tyco Decisive The U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center issued the following news release on September 20. It also is posted in the News section of the SIU website. Pictured aboard the cable ship in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, are (from left, starting in back) AB Mahmood Tahir, SA Jony Morales, Splicer/Joiner Santos Contreras, SA Jamal Kassim, Chief Steward Florencia Farquhar, Electrician Ricardo Ducay and Recertified Bosun Victor Nunez. Thanks to Patrolman Ray Henderson for the photo. Guidance is posted on the National Maritime Center (NMC) website to help mariners submit a complete and accurate Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) application package. These guidance documents are intended to aid mariner applicants in properly completing the CG-719B Application for MMC and the Evidence of Sea Service forms. To ensure mariners receive credentials within the NMC-stated processing goal of 30 days, proper submission of this documentation is essential. EARN YOUR COLLEGE DEGREE THROUGH THE PAUL HALL CENTER ! Workers Alliance Prevails in Lawsuit A judge recently ruled in favor of challenges to three executive orders that weakened federal workers’ rights. The executive orders were issued late on May 25, 2018 and subsequently were implemented by the administration. A lawsuit was filed by the Federal Workers Alliance and its affiliated unions, including the Seafarers. Other unions, including AFGE and NTEU, also filed separate lawsuits protesting these executive orders. The unions’ lawsuit specifically addressed: ■ Several sections of Executive Order 13836 (concerning time spent representing workers by union representatives) which usurped Congress’s legislative authority. The same executive order prohibited representatives from using official time to “prepare or pursue grievances (including arbitration of grievances) brought against an agency,” but allowed it for employees working on their own behalf. The unions argued that treating a union and its representatives differently from individual employees encroaches on a union’s right to take collective action on behalf of all employees. ■ Executive Order 13837 (concerning due process rights) violated rules related to collective bargaining delegated to the Federal Labor Relations Authority, not the president. The order illegally limited how much time employee representatives were able to use to help their fellow unit employees. The order did not allow payment for union representatives who may need to travel to represent employees in their units; would have charged unions to use office space and equipment which the Federal Labor Relations Authority has ruled is negotiable between the union and agency; and would have made union representatives take 6 Seafarers LOG personal leave time to help process grievances, among other newly imposed restrictions. ■ Executive Order 13839 (concerning merit principles) was an attempt to exclude matters from the negotiated grievance procedure, such as removals based on misconduct and incentive awards. Order 13839 also excluded (from the negotiated union and arbitration procedures) disputes about employee performance ratings, incentive pay, cash awards, quality step increases, retention and relocation expenses despite the fact that Congress has allowed these issues to be included for decades. In the lawsuit, the unions argued that President Trump exceeded his authority by interfering with rights granted by Congress to unions and federal agencies to decide which matters are and are not subject to the negotiated grievance procedure. The unions also argued and that the orders violated other fundamental rights provided by the Federal Service LaborManagement Relations Statute (FSLMRS). In a 119-page opinion, Judge Ketanji Brown ruled in favor of the unions in many of the claims they had asserted on behalf of federal employees. At the outset, Judge Brown summarized the important provisions of the FSLMRS. She wrote that “(f)irst and foremost, the FSLMRS firmly establishes the rights of federal employees to join labor unions for purpose of petitioning government officials about labor matters.” The judge also ordered that “the president’s subordinates within the executive branch were enjoined (not permitted) from implementing or giving effect to any of the invalid executive order provisions.” The government has appealed this decision. Two guides are currently available to assist mariner applicants in submitting application packages: ■ How to Fill Out the CG-719B Form, which can be found by clicking on the Forms link, located on the NMC homepage at http://www.uscg.mil/nmc ■ Sea Service Instructions, which can be found by clicking on the MMC Evaluation link, located on the NMC homepage at http://www.uscg.mil/nmc. If you have any questions or concerns, visit the NMC website or contact the NMC Customer Service Center by emailing IASKNMC@uscg.mil, by using the NMC online chat system, or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662). The Paul Hall Center’s Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship (SHLSS) has partnered with the College of Southern Resident courses at Piney Point begin January 14, 2019 Maryland (CSM) to offer an Associate of Applied Science degree in Maritime Operations Technology with a concentration in either • Nautical Science (Deck department) -or- • Marine Engineering (Engine dept.) Students must complete a combination of academic general education courses and technical education courses in order to earn • Associate of Applied Science Degree • UA courses apply toward the degree • Fully accredited • Some courses held at SHLSS the degree. Courses completed during the Unlicensed Apprentice program apply toward the • Online classes degree. Students can complete English, Math and • Scholarships available Physics courses at SHLSS. The remaining general education courses can be completed online. The following classes will convene at SHLSS: January 14, 2019 through February 1, 2019 English 1011 – Composition and Rhetoric Math 1011 – Math for Technologies Enrollment Information Please contact Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School Academic Coordinator Dale Rausch (301) 994-0010 Ext. 5411 -ordrausch@seafarers.org 7 Credit Hours Includes: tuition, textbooks, room and board plus one hour of tutoring following each daily class session November 2018 �Members of the executive working group gather outside the main hotel at the Paul Hall Center. Paul Hall Center Hosts USTRANSCOM Group The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in mid-September hosted a regular meeting of the U.S. Transportation Command’s (USTRANSCOM) executive working group on the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA). In addition to conducting their regular meeting, committee members toured the Piney Point, Maryland campus, visiting with students, instructors and staff along the way. Among those taking the tour were USTRANSCOM Deputy Commander Lt. Gen. John Broadmeadow; Maj. Gen. Stephen Farmen, commanding general of the U.S. Army’s Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command; and Vice Adm. Andy Brown (USN, Ret), president and CEO of the National Defense Transportation Association. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez is a member of the executive working group. The VISA program “is a partnership between the U.S. government and the maritime industry to provide the Department of Defense with assured access to commercial sealift and intermodal capacity to support the emergency deployment and sustainment of U.S. military forces,” notes the U.S. Maritime Administration. “Intermodal capacity includes dry cargo ships, equipment, terminal facilities and intermodal management services.” Vice Adm. Andy Brown (USN, Ret) visits one of the simulators. Lt. Gen. John Broadmeadow (standing at right in photo at left) addresses apprentices at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. The tour (photo at right) included a visit to the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School. Among those pictured are (front, second and third from left, respectively) Lt. Gen. John Broadmeadow, Maj. Gen. Stephen Farmen, and (far right) SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez. One That Didn’t Get Away According to a reliable source, this 87-pound halibut was on the captain’s line aboard the Crowley tanker Washington, but it took a team effort to get in on board. Pictured from left to right are SA Fawaz Al Osfur, Captain Dan Goodwin, Recertified Bosun Modesto Rabena, AB Robin Robinson, Pumpman Diole Bonifacio, AB Joseph Nicodemus, and Oiler Don Hatch. November 2018 Seafarers LOG 7 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU PROMOTING MARITIME – SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (right) and Port Agent Nick Marrone II (left) in late September meet with Tatyana Kalinga, district director for U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee (D-California). They discussed many of the issues that are vital to the U.S. Merchant Marine, including the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, cargo preference, the U.S. Export-Import Bank and more. BACKING PRO-MARITIME CONGRESSMAN – Tacoma-area Seafarers volunteered their time the first Saturday in October to support the campaign of pro-maritime Congressman Adam Smith (front row, between the two middle signs). The SIU team knocked on nearly 600 doors for Rep. Smith (D-Washington), who is a longtime backer of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Also among those pictured is SIU Port Agent Joe Vincenzo (holding sign at left). SIU MAGICIAN DELIGHTS CROWD – In late August, Seafarer Orlando Reveron (photo above) donated his time and talents by performing a magic show at the hiring hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. The part-time magician (stage name Tango Magic) and full-time crane operator/CME even handed out cotton candy after the show. Some of the attendees are pictured in the photo at top right, while the remaining snapshot features (from left) Safety Director Osvaldo Ramos, Patrolman Ray Henderson, Dispatcher Terry Montgomery, Reveron, Port Agent Mark von Siegel, Administrative Assistant Sofya Davydova and Maintenence Man Waldemar Ziablocki. STILL DELIVERING IN PUERTO RICO – More than one year after Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico, Seafarers continue volunteering to distribute portable water purifiers and other vital supplies. Pictured in photo at left are (from left) Recertified Steward Juan Vallejo Hernandez and his wife, Odalis; Diego Traverso, director and warehouse manager for Operation Blessing; and SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo and his wife, Maria. They all pitched in to hand out filters and school uniforms for kids. In the other photo (also from left), Traverso, AB Joseph Dupre and QMED Victor Rios keep up the effort. 8 Seafarers LOG November 2018 �MILESTONES IN HOUSTON – In photo at left, AB Rosel Zapata (left) receives his full book Sept. 10 at the hiring hall. He is pictured with his parents: SIU pensioner Natividad Zapata (right) and Anacieta Zapata. In photo at right, QMED Nestor Martinez (right) picks up his first pension check in early October, signaling the conclusion of a sailing career that started in 1989. He’s pictured with Patrolman Joe Zavala. A-BOOK IN OAKLAND – Electrician Salah Saleh (right) displays his A-seniority book at the Oakland hall, with Port Agent Nick Marrone II. Saleh most recently sailed aboard the RRF vessel USNS Algol. FULL BOOK IN SAN JUAN – AB Sergio Perez (right) receives his full B-book from Port Agent Amancio Crespo at the hall in Puerto Rico. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD MAERSK MICHIGAN – Thanks to Capt. Thua Pham for these recent snapshots. The photos also are posted on the SIU Facebook page, as are many others that featured in this month’s LOG. The photo at the immediate right captures tank cleaning day aboard the vessel. Pictured from left are CM Karen Laycock, 2M Cullen Bozza, AB Michael Congress, AB Leroyal Hester, AB Willie McCray, AB Dominador Hugo, AB Pedro Ramos, Bosun Gregorio Cudal, Deck Cadet John Gallagher and Capt. Thua Pham. Replacing a ballast vent screen are (from left) 2M Cullen Bozza and Pumpman Lateef Sanusi. AB Leroyal Hester (right) earns the ship’s deck department safety award. Presenting the prize is CM Karen Laycock. QMED John Morrison (left) receives the engine department safety award, presented by CE Raymond Halsted. In photo at left, Capt. Thua Pham (left) and AB Dominador Hugo are pictured next to the vessel in Khor Fakkan, United Arab Emirates at Pier 4. Chief Steward Gerard Cox and GVA Armon Bailey are pictured above. November 2018 ABOARD OSG Intrepid/254 – AB Jimmy Hargrove displays an SIU sticker on his hardhat while sailing aboard an articulated tug-barge unit operated by OSG Ship Management. Seafarers LOG 9 �CIVMAR-Crewed USNS Wally Schirra Rescues 5 SIU Government Services Division mariners aboard the Military Sealift Command-operated (MSC) USNS Wally Schirra recently put their rescue training to use, as the vessel came across five Filipino fishermen on the remnants of an adrift and damaged boat in the South China Sea. On Oct. 8, the CIVMAR-crewed Schirra was conducting a routine mission when the watch officer and lookout spotted the individuals in apparent distress. The crew sprang into action, working quickly to rescue the stranded men, who had reportedly been floating for five days after their hull was punctured by a blue marlin. “Luckily, we were going at a slow enough speed to have spotted the fisher- men,” said civilian mariner Capt. Keith Sauls, the USNS Wally Schirra’s master. “The individuals were waving their arms and a flag in the air. They were also flashing a white light that was previously thought to be a fishing buoy. The watch officer notified me and then the chief mate of a possible rescue situation.” “The fishermen salvaged what they could from the rapidly sinking boat, removing the outriggers and planks to turn it into a raft with floats and barrels underneath for floatation,” said Chief Mate Leon Hadley. “They took with them some rice, clothes, batteries, an 8-watt bulb, an AM-receive-only radio and a handheld GPS. They had no water.” As the MSC vessel closed the distance, the fishermen entered the water and swam Personnel from the USNS Wally Schirra deploy a rescue boat and begin retrieving the fishermen. toward the Wally Schirra. A rigid-hulled, inflatable boat and search and rescue swimmers were deployed, and the fishermen were pulled to safety. Once the fishermen were aboard the Wally Schirra, qualified personnel conducted an initial medical assessment and security search of the individuals and their possessions. The fishermen thanked the crew of the Schirra for rescuing and housing them, and for their generosity in providing them with spare clothes and cash donations. The men were then transferred to the Philippine Coast Guard while at sea. “On average, death results two to three days after a diet of drinking undiluted salt water or urine in survival-at-sea events as it takes more water than is consumed for the body to process the waste and salt out of the kidneys, leading to a build-up of salt and toxic ammonia in the body which only deepens the cycle and quickly leads to death if not stopped,” said Hadley. “We’re all lucky we found them when we did.” The USNS Wally Schirra, currently operating in the U.S. Navy 7th fleet area of responsibility, is a fleet ordnance and dry cargo ship. The union-built T-AKE ship incorporates international marine technologies and commercial ship-design features, including an integrated electricdrive propulsion system to minimize operating costs over its projected 40-year service life. Each of the 14 T-AKE vessels is 689 feet long, with a 106-foot beam. The ships can sail at 20 knots; they each carry civilian crews of 129. The makeshift boat was created from the wreckage of the fishermen’s vessel and loaded with minimal supplies. (Photos courtesy U.S. Navy) Spotlight on Mariner Health How to Identify, Treat Causes of Back Pain Editor’s note: This article is provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. The term “back pain” is used to describe a range of discomfort. Depending on the cause, the pain may be dull, burning or sharp, and can cover a large area of the back or a single spot. More than 31 million Americans experience back pain at any given time. Back pain is one of the most common reasons for missing work or not going to school. Back pain can worsen gradually or come on suddenly. A person may have muscular spasms or stiffness along with it. Most people have experienced back pain at some point in their lives. Pain may be caused by something as simple as a pulled muscle from lifting incorrectly, an accident, a sports injury, or it could stem from a more serious degenerative spinal condition. The muscles and the spine are close to several large nerve roots, including the sciatic nerve. Twisting wrong or lifting something that is too heavy can cause different types of pain and possibly nerve involvement. Any inflammation or misalignment of the spine can cause the nerves to be pinched and the pain to travel from the spine through the nerve-conduction 10 Seafarers LOG pathway to the legs. Whether the pain exists in any or all of the lower, middle or upper back, remember that if you need to see a doctor because it’s not going away, tell the physician in detail about the type of pain you’re experiencing. This is crucial for helping devise a helpful treatment plan. For instance, note whether the pain is radiating or dull, and what tends to bring it on. Report whether you have any history of pinched nerves, stenosis or narrowing of the spinal cord, multiple sclerosis, a degenerative spinal condition, stroke or diabetes. There are many possible treatment options for helping someone with back pain. Once the cause has been determined, the most appropriate treatment or treatments can be chosen. These may consist of one or more of the following: pain medications, rest, heating pads, back stimulators, ointments, chiropractic care, massages, implantable devices, weight loss, an exercise program to strengthen muscles, yoga, water aerobics – and lastly, if nothing else works, possibly spinal surgeries with fusions. Remember to be cautious when lifting, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. Turn carefully, and bend with your knees when lifting. Healthful Recipe Turkey Tetrazzini Servings: 25 3 ¾ pounds turkey breast, boneless and skinless, ½” cubes 2 ½ ounces pimento, chopped 1 ¼ tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 2 pounds spaghetti 5/8 pound onion, finely chopped 2 ½ ounces green bell peppers, chopped 15 ounces mushrooms, sliced 4 ½ ounces smart balance 5 ½ ounces flour, all-purpose Teaspoon salt 5/8 teaspoon white pepper, ground 2 ½ quarts low sodium chicken broth 1 ¼ cups skim milk 5/8 pound skim milk mozzarella cheese, shredded Cook the turkey to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F, cool. Dice the turkey. Add pimento and parsley. Cook spaghetti according to directions, drain. Sauté vegetables in smart balance. Blend flour and seasoning into sautéed vegetables. Cook 5 minutes. Add the chicken stock and skim milk, stirring constantly. Cook until thickened. Combine cooked spaghetti, chicken, and the sauce. Scale into two greased 12 x 20 x2 inch baking pan. Sprinkle 8 oz cheese over top of each pan. Bake at 350 degrees F for 20-30 minutes or until temperature reaches 165 degrees F and cheese is bubbly. Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 309 Calories; 5g Fat (14.1% calories from fat); 30g Protein; 35g Carbohydrate; 1g Dietary Fiber; 53mg Cholesterol; 413mg Sodium. Exchanges: 2 Grain (starch); 3 Lean Meat; ½ Vegetable; 0 Non-Fat Milk, ½ Fat. Provided by Chef Robert “RJ” Johnson of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship November 2018 �2019 Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Scholarship Program Scholarships totalling $132,000 are available to Seafarers and their dependents looking to continue their education. Allocations for each category will be as follows: Seafarers Scholarships ■ One $20,000 offering for a four-year course of study at an accredited college or university ■ Two scholarships ($6,000 each) for Seafarers interested in pursuing two-year courses of study at a community college or vocational school Dependents Scholarships ■ Five scholarships, each worth $20,000, are being offered to dependents (spouses included) to attend four-year courses of study at accredited colleges or universities. Dependents and spouses of active as well as retired Seafarers may apply. The Cathedral of Learning University of Pittsburgh To take advantage of these opportunities, clip, complete and mail the form below, or visit www.seafarers.org, go to the Member Benefits tab, navigate to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan menu and select Scholarship Booklet (PDF). Although the booklet says 2016, all information is still current for the 2019 SHBP Scholarships. Please send me the 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: ) .......................................................................................................................................... ❏ Self ❏ Dependent Complete and mail form to: Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. All scholarship application packages must be received by April 15, 2019. 11/18 November 2018 Seafarers LOG 11 �Fourth Arm of Defense Keeps USNS Seay Ready to Support U.S. Military Operations AB Jorge Corrales Barrantes AB Jonathan Bennett The SIU-crewed USNS Seay is operated by U.S. Marine Management for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. T hroughout its entire history, the United States of America has relied on merchant mariners to help ensure national and economic security. That reliance continues today, and one of its embodiments is the SIU-crewed USNS Seay, a 951-foot-long vessel that is part of the U.S. Navy’s maritime prepositioning force. The Seay is a large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off (LMSR) ship (part of the Bob Hope class) that supports our troops wherever and whenever needed. A recent visit to the vessel – operated by SIU-contracted U.S. Marine Management for the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) – in Baltimore found SIU mariners and AMO officers busily readying for helicopter op- erations scheduled for the following week in Jacksonville, Florida. Bosun Robert Hayes said that in preparation for certifying the ship’s flight deck, the crew had been working diligently and efficiently. 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 27 prepositioning ships support the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Defense Logistics Agency.” The agency further noted, “Prepositioning ships 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. During a contingency, troops are flown into a theater of operations to rapidly employ the cargo from these ships.” Built at Avondale in New Orleans and delivered to the Navy in the year 2000, the Seay supported U.S. mobilizations in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. AB Caliph Johnson OS Shykwon Parker Chief Cook Drushelia Finney QE4 Emmanuel Adeoti SA Darrisha Bryant OS Luis Pareja SIU Port Agent Pat Vandegrift (left) conducts a union meeting aboard the ship. 12 Seafarers LOG SA Darius Williams Bosun Robert Hayes inspects safety gear. November 2018 November 2018 Chief Cook Thomas Humphreys Seafarers LOG 13 �Get Connected Exclusive Savings with AT&T Wireless, Just for Union Members Save 15% on the monthly service charge of qualified wireless plans,* take advantage of additional savings on select accessories, and get the activation fee waived on select devices for new lines of service. Find out more about this and other great Union Plus programs by visiting unionplus.org FREE COLLEGE CREDIT CARDS FLOWERS & GIFTS MORTGAGE PROGRAM Learn more at unionplus.org 3 15% ON THE MONTHLY SERVICE CHARGE of QUALIFIED WIRELESS PLANS: Available only to current members of qualified AFL-CIO member unions, other authorized individuals associated with eligible unions and other sponsoring organizations with a qualifying agreement. Must provide acceptable proof of union membership such as a membership card from your local union, a pay stub showing dues deduction or the Union Plus Member Discount Card and subscribe to service under an individual account for which the member is personally liable. Offer contingent upon in-store verification of union member status. Discount subject to agreement between Union Privilege and AT&T and may be interrupted, changed or discontinued without notice. Discount applies only to recurring monthly service charge of qualified voice and data plans, not overages. Not available with unlimited voice or unlimited data plans. For Family Talk, applies only to primary line. For all Mobile Share plans, applies only to monthly plan charge of plans with 1GB or more, not to additional monthly device access charges. Additional restrictions apply. May take up to 2 bill cycles after eligibility confirmed and will not apply to prior charges. Applied after application of any available credit. May not be combined with other service discounts. Visit unionplus.org/att or contact AT&T at 866-499-8008 for details. 14 Seafarers LOG 11/18 November 2018 �NMC Issues Policy Regarding Credentials Lost, Destroyed During Hurricane Florence The National Maritime Center (NMC) issued the following news release on September 27. It’s also posted in the News section of the SIU website. In accordance with Federal Regulations, duplicate Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMCs) may be issued free of charge to mariners whose credentials were lost or destroyed as a result of Hurricane Florence or subsequent flooding. Mariners should follow the steps below to obtain an expedited replacement credential: n Provide a statement of loss to the National Maritime Center (NMC) either by fax to (304) 433-3412 or via e-mail to IASKNMC@uscg.mil. The statement should contain the following: - Mariner’s full name - Mariner’s date of birth - Mariner’s reference number or Social Security number - Current mailing address - Current phone number and/or e-mail address, and - A brief description of the circumstances surrounding the loss/destruction of the credential. Unless otherwise requested, any duplicate MMCs issued per the request process above will include a corresponding Medical Certificate. We will make every effort to have duplicate credentials mailed out the next business day. Alternatively, mariners may submit a CG-719B, Application for MMC, to one of the Regional Examination Centers with the information above. If your credential is unserviceable due to damage or your lost credential is subsequently found, that credential should be mailed to Commanding Officer, United States Coast Guard, National Maritime Center, 100 Forbes Drive, Martinsburg, WV 25427. If you have any questions or concerns, visit the NMC website, or contact the NMC Customer Service Center by e-mailing IASKNMC@ uscg.mil, by using the NMC online chat system, or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662). November & December 2018 Membership Meetings Piney Point..........................Monday: November 5, December 3 Algonac...................................Friday: November 9, December 7 Baltimore............................Thursday: November 8, December 6 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea September 16, 2018 - October 15, 2018 Total Registered Port All Groups A B Total Shipped C C 1 0 0 3 0 0 1 5 3 5 0 1 3 0 0 1 2 1 1 1 28 Houston...........*Tuesday: November 13, 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 Jersey City...........................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 * Guam change due to Thanksgiving Day observance * Houston change due to Veterans Day observance Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m SPAD Works For You. Contribute To The Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD November 2018 Trip Reliefs A All Groups B C 2 1 3 9 0 2 2 16 12 19 0 1 4 3 0 1 1 9 3 5 93 20 2 5 22 2 19 11 98 59 68 5 20 35 21 5 3 8 52 5 50 510 15 4 3 18 0 4 5 21 43 18 4 8 29 7 5 5 20 20 4 14 247 0 1 0 11 1 10 2 32 16 8 1 5 14 6 2 0 0 23 3 16 151 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 18 2 3 18 0 10 5 46 39 37 2 9 21 12 3 2 5 35 2 28 297 7 4 4 12 0 1 5 15 20 12 3 4 22 6 3 3 5 7 1 7 141 1 0 0 5 1 7 1 17 7 5 1 2 8 4 1 0 1 7 1 10 79 Deck Department 14 9 4 1 3 6 13 7 0 0 8 2 4 4 34 15 25 13 25 9 5 1 4 3 8 7 10 3 4 2 1 1 3 3 28 5 3 0 24 7 220 98 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 0 4 8 0 2 2 12 23 6 2 1 19 7 1 0 3 10 3 10 115 1 0 2 6 0 0 5 7 17 6 1 4 16 6 3 7 0 6 1 6 94 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 4 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 1 1 16 Engine Department 1 1 0 0 1 2 11 4 0 0 4 2 3 3 11 10 18 13 7 11 2 1 3 2 19 9 2 4 0 2 0 3 1 1 6 5 0 0 2 3 91 76 2 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 8 1 0 0 4 0 2 1 10 9 6 1 2 6 3 0 0 0 5 0 1 51 3 0 4 11 0 2 14 27 29 21 1 3 28 11 3 2 8 26 6 28 227 0 0 4 10 1 2 5 11 28 14 2 6 19 5 5 10 1 10 2 20 155 1 0 1 0 0 3 1 5 2 1 1 1 13 2 0 1 0 5 2 8 47 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 3 0 4 10 1 5 7 21 18 9 0 6 18 16 1 3 2 13 3 20 160 2 0 0 2 0 0 1 5 6 4 1 2 6 2 0 3 3 2 0 4 44 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 2 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 Steward Department 3 1 0 0 3 0 10 4 0 0 3 1 3 1 16 4 18 7 3 1 0 1 4 1 10 6 16 0 1 0 1 0 1 3 10 2 5 0 17 2 124 35 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 1 0 3 0 2 2 6 12 3 0 2 10 4 0 0 2 4 0 5 56 4 1 2 17 3 9 23 35 23 18 0 9 24 25 4 7 6 20 2 45 277 3 1 0 5 0 1 2 6 18 7 0 3 13 4 0 4 10 3 2 13 95 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 4 2 0 2 1 1 1 0 1 2 0 2 19 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 0 1 0 2 0 1 2 6 2 2 0 0 2 3 2 0 1 4 0 3 31 8 1 1 5 1 1 1 15 19 8 1 0 14 9 1 3 1 9 0 22 120 13 0 4 2 0 3 7 8 18 7 4 0 28 9 1 2 0 7 1 20 134 Entry Department 2 6 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 1 0 1 2 1 3 6 1 12 0 11 0 0 0 0 2 11 1 3 1 0 0 1 0 0 4 7 0 0 3 7 19 72 6 0 1 2 0 0 5 6 17 6 0 1 10 1 1 0 0 1 0 7 64 4 0 1 3 0 0 0 2 2 1 0 0 3 0 0 2 0 1 0 2 21 0 1 0 2 0 1 2 18 8 3 0 1 3 3 1 0 3 7 0 3 56 12 1 1 11 3 2 6 24 30 24 2 0 35 16 2 2 1 14 0 46 232 18 1 3 6 2 3 9 30 72 18 2 0 53 23 0 3 0 22 1 44 310 GRAND TOTAL: 603 399 237 105 221 1,070 729 527 Guam................*Friday: November 23, Thursday: December 20 Honolulu.............................Friday: November 16, December 14 Registered on Beach All Groups A B 454 281 Seafarers LOG 15 �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 Kate Hunt, 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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 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 This month’s question was asked of Seafarers attending upgrading classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. Question: How many times have you been to the school, and what do you think of it? Todd Kasler AB/Third Mate This is my fourth time at the school. It’s good for people that want to upgrade. You don’t have to pay out of pocket and it makes us better mariners. It’s a good thing to offer these courses. Sterling McCosh AB I came through the apprentice program, and I like to talk about the educational opportunities here as much as I can. This is a second career for me and it’s a pretty startling experience because of all the union benefits and the ability to walk into a hiring hall at 9 a.m. and walk out with a job by noon. I can’t say enough about the union and the job opportunities. Chantell Dawson AB This is my fifth time, and I’m in the AB to Mate class, so I’ll be back again. I like the school; the education is awesome. It’s a good place to learn different things. I also took advanced fire fighting, medical care provider, BST, RFPNW, and I came here for a Maersk safety meeting. Carlton Banks AB This is my third time. I’ve taken AB, government vessels, lifeboat, fire fighting. It’s a great place for advancement and a great opportunity to take care of your family, that’s for sure. There are a lot of resources here for your education. Jeffrey Thrash QMED I’ve been here about five times. It’s pretty great to come here and further your education. You can always take knowledge about electricity and apply it elsewhere, and the education helps you make great money on the ships. Jaquel Nesmith Electrician I’ve probably been here four or five times. I think it’s definitely worth it to upgrade. I tell people the sky is the limit. You can’t really beat free school, free room and board. You can keep climbing the ranks. 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 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side Street Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (939) 204-0337 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 SIU-crewed freighter Panoceanic Faith, pictured above, sank Oct. 9, 1967 in icy and storm-swept waters 870 miles southwest of Kodiak, Alaska. The tragedy claimed the lives of 17 Seafarers; 5 SIU members survived. There were 36 fatalities in total. According to later documentation from the Coast Guard, the ship sank because of “progressive flooding of the forepeak compartments, then No. 1 hold, and subsequent partial flooding of No. 2 hold. This flooding, combined with loss of freeboard due to a starboard list of 35 degrees, reduced the longitudinal stability below the minimum required for buoyancy, and the ship sank bow first.” The only lifesaving equipment utilized were life preservers. (Editor’s note: Older photos also are posted each Friday on the SIU Facebook page, @SeafarersInternational. More information about the Panoceanic Faith is contained in a Sept. 14 post.) 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 November 2018 �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 Chesapeake, Virginia. GREATLAKES BOBBY BRANHAM ABDUL HUSSEIN KENNETH BOOHER Brother Bobby Branham, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1979, initially working on the Massachusetts. A deck department member, he upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Branham most recently sailed on the Motivator. He resides in Salisbury, North Carolina. Brother Abdul Hussein, 65, joined the SIU in 1972. He was a member of the deck department and first sailed aboard the Steel Apprentice. Brother Hussein upgraded his skills at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in 1987. He last sailed on the Gem State before settling in Seattle. Brother Kenneth Booher, 65, began his career with the Seafarers in 1973 when he worked on the H.N. Snyder. He upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center and was a member of the deck department. Brother Booher last sailed aboard the Buffalo. He calls Perrysburg, Ohio, home. JUAN MARTINEZ TERESA PETERSON Brother Juan Martinez, 66, began his career with the Seafarers in 2002, first sailing aboard the Calvin P. Titus. He was a steward department member and concluded his career aboard the Terrapin Island. He calls Tampa, Florida, home. Sister Teresa Peterson, 65, signed on with the union in 2008 when she worked on the Bernard F. Fisher. She was a steward department member and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Sister Peterson’s last vessel was the American Spirit. She makes her home in Iron Mountain, Michigan. KEVIN CONKLIN Brother Kevin Conklin, 67, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1969, first sailing aboard the Brooklyn. He worked in the engine department and upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Conklin last sailed on the USNS Seay before settling in Melbourne Beach, Florida. CARL DAVIS Brother Carl Davis, 65, joined the SIU in 1991 when he shipped aboard the Constellation. A deck department member, he upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Davis most recently sailed on the Maersk Chicago and makes his home in League City, Texas. ANASTACIO DAWA NESTOR MARTINEZ Brother Nestor Martinez, 65, joined the SIU in 1990 when he sailed aboard the USNS Capella. He was an engine department member and upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Martinez’s last vessel was the Pennsylvania. He resides in Houston. RONALD MENA Brother Anastacio Dawa, 69, started his SIU career in 2006, initially sailing on the Horizon Navigator. He sailed in all three shipboard departments and upgraded often at Piney Point. Brother Dawa last sailed aboard the USNS Bowditch. He resides in Las Vegas. Brother Ronald Mena, 64, embarked on his SIU career in 1978 when he sailed on the Cove Navigator. A deck department member, he enhanced his skills on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Mena most recently sailed aboard the Maersk Idaho before settling in North Port, Florida. SHERMAN HUDSON GREGORY WEBB Brother Sherman Hudson, 59, signed on with the SIU in 1980 when he sailed on the Portland. He was a deck department member and upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Hudson last sailed on the Maersk Seletar. He lives in Brother Gregory Webb, 63, began his seafaring career in 1980, first working on the St. Louis. An engine department member, he upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Webb most recently sailed on the Sumner. He lives in Tavares, Florida. November 2018 INLAND WALTER BICKEL Brother Walter Bickel, 62, joined the SIU in 1977, first working with G&H Towing. In 1980, he upgraded his skills at the maritime training facility located in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Bickel remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He calls Corpus Christi, Texas, home. DENNIS BLACKMAN Brother Dennis Blackman, 62, signed on with the Seafarers in 2002. He first worked for Penn Maritime and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. The deck department member last sailed on the Achievement before settling in Thomasville, Georgia. JAMES BOYCE Brother James Boyce, 62, donned the SIU colors in 1984 when he worked for Norfolk Baltimore. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Boyce sailed with Penn Maritime for nearly his entire career. He makes his home in Appomattox, Virginia. KENNETH CLINTON Brother Kenneth Clinton, 55, donned the SIU colors in 1984, first sailing on the USNS Capella. He upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Clinton most recently worked for Matson Navigation Company of Alaska. He calls Puyallup, Washington, home. EDWARD DANDY Brother Edward Dandy, 63, joined the SIU in 1977 when he sailed aboard a James River Transport vessel. The engine department member upgraded on numerous occasions at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. Brother Dandy most recently worked for Matson Navigation; he lives in Tacoma, Washington. Lynch last worked for Mariner Towing before settling in Polk City, Florida. CHARLES MASSEY Brother Charles Massey, 62, joined the SIU in 1979. A deck department member, he worked for Dravo Basic Materials for the duration of his career. Brother Massey calls Fresno, Texas, home. CHRISTOPHER NARDONE Brother Christopher Nardone, 59, began his career with the SIU in 1981, initially sailing on an Anchorage Tankships vessel. He enhanced his skills in 2001 when he upgraded at the Piney Point school. Brother Nardone spent most of his career working for Crowley. He resides in Turnersville, New Jersey. DOUGLAS PARKER Brother Douglas Parker, 63, signed on with the SIU in 1974. He was a member of the deck department and last worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation for almost his entire career. Brother Parker makes his home in Pinetta, Florida. GARY HALLENBECK JAMES WALLER Brother Gary Hallenbeck, 56, joined the SIU in 1992 and first sailed with Crowley Towing and Transportation. A member of the engine department, Brother Hallenbeck remained with the same company for his entire career. He resides in Middleburg, Florida. Brother James Waller, 62, became an SIU member in 1972, initially working for Interstate Oil. He sailed in the deck department and concluded his career working for OSG Ship Management. Brother Waller resides in Princess Anne, Maryland. GREGORY LYNCH Brother Gregory Lynch, 63, signed on with the SIU in 1975. He first worked for American Barge Lines, and was a deck department member. Brother Aboard the Seabulk Arctic Pictured aboard the Seabulk Tankers vessel are (standing, from left) Chief Cook John Jewell, AB Marcos Rivera, AB Christopher Sanchez, OMU Greg Alvarez, Wiper Anthony Williams, Recertified Bosun John Cedeno, Pumpman James Rodweller, AB Richard Benoit, (seated) SA Jose Martinez and Chief Steward Gordon Major. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA FRANZ BROOKS Pensioner Franz Brooks, 74, passed away September 19. Born in Jamaica, he embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1991. He first sailed on the Lawrence Gianella, and worked in the deck department. Brother Brooks’ final vessel was the Cape Henry. He became a pensioner in 2009 and was a resident of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. ROBERT COOPER Pensioner Robert Cooper, 87, died September 18. He joined the SIU in 1953, first sailing on the Alcoa Pioneer. Brother Cooper was a deck department member and last sailed on the Pacific. He went on pension in 1993 and made his home in Pasadena, Texas. IRVIN CRUTCHLOW Pensioner Irvin Crutchlow, 64, passed away September 24. He became a member of the SIU in 1971 and first sailed on the Sea San Juan. Brother Crutchlow was a member of the deck department and last shipped aboard the Diligence. He retired in 2009 and settled in Williamsburg, Virginia. CALVIN HAZZARD Pensioner Calvin Hazzard, 79, died October 4. He joined the SIU in 1969, first working on the Allegiance. A steward department member, Brother Hazzard most recently sailed on the USNS Algol. He became a pensioner in 2002 and resided in Mobile, Alabama. MEL SISON Pensioner Mel Sison, 74, passed away August 26. He signed on with the union in 1985 when he sailed on the Moku Pahu. Brother Sison worked in the engine department and last sailed aboard the Horizon Spirit. He began collecting his pension in 2014 and lived in the Philippines. GREAT LAKES RAYMOND DELEARY Pensioner Raymond Deleary, 18 Seafarers LOG 87, passed away September 15. He donned the SIU colors in 1961 when he worked for Dunbar & Sullivan. Brother Deleary last worked for Zenith Dredge Company before his retirement in 1993. He resided in Superior, Wisconsin. RICHARD MULLINS Brother Richard Mullins, 62, died September 13. Born in Wisconsin, he began his career with the Seafarers in 1979. Brother Mullins initially sailed aboard the Nicolet and was a deck department member. He last worked on the John Boland and resided in his home state in the city of Peshtigo. INLAND TEDDY ODOM Pensioner Teddy Odom, 66, passed away September 27. He started his SIU career in 1971 when he worked with Dravo Basic Materials. Brother Odom was a member of the deck department and remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He went on pension in 2014 and made his home in Uriah, Alabama. NMU ELIZABETH AMARAL Pensioner Elizabeth Amaral, 99, passed away September 6. Sister Amaral was born in New Bedford, Massachusetts. She retired in 1981 and continued to reside in her hometown. BENITO BONILLA Pensioner Benito Bonilla, 78, died September 4. He worked as a member of the deck department before retiring in 2006. He lived in Fort Mill, South Carolina. ORIVAL DELANEY Pensioner Orival Delaney, 94, passed away July 28. He shipped as a member of the deck department and retired in 1968. Brother Delaney resided in Santa Catrina, Brazil. ANDREW MARTIN Pensioner Andrew Martin, 96, died September 14. He became a pensioner in 1985 and settled in his hometown, New Orleans. LAWRENCE THOMPSON Pensioner Lawrence Thompson, 82, passed away August 28. Brother Thompson was a Virginia native. He retired in 1997 and continued to live in his home state in the city of Portsmouth. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. Name Age Biggins, Ronald 83 Cabero, Francisco 90 Castillo, Ismael 91 Correa, Edmundo 97 Cousins, Gerald 88 Del Rio, Enrico 95 Ferrell, William 87 Forman, William 94 King, Jessie 87 Laureano, Rafael 75 Porter, William 94 Rivera, Jose 94 Rodriguez, Domingo 87 Swasey, Selvin 88 DOD 08/25/2018 08/23/2018 01/11/2018 09/19/2018 08/22/2018 08/27/2018 09/27/2018 08/25/2018 03/18/2018 09/12/2018 09/28/2018 09/30/2018 09/05/2018 09/11/2018 ANDRES TORRES Pensioner Andres Torres, 91, died September 16. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Torres began collecting his pension in 1996. He resided in Houston. CIVMAR-Crewed Comfort Departs for Operation Enduring Promise The hospital ship USNS Comfort – which is partially crewed by SIU CIVMARS – deployed for the annual “Enduring Promise” mission on Oct. 11. The mission was delayed due to the formation of Hurricane Michael in the Gulf of Mexico. Enduring Promise is the U.S. Southern Command’s 11-week medical support mission to Central and South America. As explained by the Navy, “Working with health and government partners in Ecuador, Peru, Colombia, and Honduras, the embarked medical team will provide care on board and at land-based medical sites, helping to relieve pressure on national medical systems caused partly by an increase in cross-border migrants. The deployment reflects the United States’ enduring promise of friendship, partnership, and solidarity with the Americas.” One of the first exercises of the mission, a mass casualty triage exercise, took place Oct. 13. The embarked doctors, nurses and other medical professionals participated in the drill, which began on the flight deck and continued down to the Comfort’s casualty receiving area. The exercise included basic medical triage, blood tests and computed tomography (CT) scans. “A mass casualty event, by nature, is chaotic,” said Lt. Jessie Paull, a general surgery resident embarked on the Comfort. “Being able to practice, it gets your nerves under control.... Getting the team squared away is essential to execute this mission during a real event.” During each country visit, the more than 200 medical team members expect to treat approximately 750 patients per day at each medical site, and conduct up to 20 surgeries. This year’s mission is the sixth time the hospital ship has provided medical assistance in the region. Since the first iteration of this mission more than a decade ago, the hospital ship has visited 18 nations in the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. The Comfort has pro- vided medical treatment to nearly 390,000 people, including more than 6,000 surgeries, as part of the missions. The Navy has stated that the USNS Comfort will visit Esmeraldas, Ecuador; Peru (port to be determined); Riohacha and Turbo in Colombia; and Puerto Castilla, Honduras. Specific dates for each port visit will be announced several days prior to the hospital ship’s arrival. Members of the SIU Government Services Division sail aboard the hospital ship USNS Comfort. (Photo courtesy U.S. Navy) November 2018 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings SLNC YORK (Argent Marine), July 4 – Chairman Basil D’Souza, Secretary Victor Jimenez, Educational Director Derrick Sullivan, Deck Delegate Clifford Carroll. Crew discussed previous requests for water coolers, fans, ice machines and electrical converters. As per contract, members should be compensated at daily rate when ship lacks air conditioning. Crew expressed interest in increasing pension funds while decreasing sea time requirements. Both secretary and educational director encouraged members to upgrade. Educational director advised crew to be self-reliant when making sure papers are in order. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members request bigger refrigerator for mess halls. Steward department thanked for a job well done. MAERSK KENSINGTON (Maersk Line, Limited), July 6 – Chairman Videlio Roman, Secretary Alexander Banky, Educational Director Francis Brown, Steward Delegate Michelle Woodley. Chairman thanked everyone for having a safe trip and announced upcoming payoff in Newark. Crew discussed importance of contributing to SPAD. Secretary reminded members to put in for a day off or one day’s pay in lieu of time off for pay. He asked members to be sure they leave clean rooms for reliefs. Educational director recommended that members upgrade and have at least six months on documents for relief jobs with MMC and TWIC. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Ship in need of parts for broken dishwashing machine. Crew thanked steward department for good meals. PATRIOT (TOTE), July 8 – Chairman Vasily Semes. Dryer in changing room not working properly. Members waiting for update on requested TV for unlicensed crew. 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. Chairman reported a good trip, free of injuries. He thanked everyone for their professionalism and working in a timely manner. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for a job well done. CALIFORNIA (Crowley), July 20 – Chairman Kenneth Abrahamson, Secretary Mark Scardino, Educational Director Joshua Zelinsky. Chairman welcomed new members and explained sections of the contract and SIU constitution. He advised crew to stop at union hall to update their information on file and to keep documents current with Coast Guard requirements. Steward department thanked deck and engine departments for keeping common areas clean. Secretary encouraged members to upgrade at Piney Point. Educational director instructed members to use Seafarers member portal, where they can find abundant information. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members discussed benefits for eyeglasses and would like an increased allowance for coverage due to increased eyewear costs. Members happy with dental benefit increase. Union to follow up with company regarding refrigerators. Next Port: Richmond, California. MAERSK KENTUCKY (Maersk Line, Limited), July 20 – Chairman Albert Williams, Secretary Wayne Wilson. Crew still waiting on new chairs for mess hall. Deck department members were recognized for safely completing many projects. Food stores to come in at Norfolk and Houston ports. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members request satellite phone. Steward department was thanked for a job well done. Next Port: Norfolk, Virginia. AMERICAN SPIRIT (American Steamship), July 21 – Chairman Paul Gohs, Secretary Joseph Gallo, Educational Director Michael Kruse, Deck Delegate Jabr Ali, Engine Delegate Yahya Ali. Issues of Seafarers LOG distributed. Crew discussed changes to health benefit qualifications for Great Lakes Division. Members went over new form policies for the National Maritime Center. Educational director reminded crew to utilize the opportunities at the Piney Point school by upgrading. He directed members to the bulletin board to find available upgrading courses. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department carefully monitoring OT distribution in galley to correct previous errors within the department. Crew read president’s report. Members were encouraged to vote in upcoming November elections. Crew was reminded to watch for signs of heat exhaustion and to drink plenty of water rather than caffeinated beverages. Vote of thanks given to the steward department for a job well done. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Sunrise Operations), July 21 – Chairman Jeremy Scheil, Secretary Raymond Garcia, Educational Director Jessie Ulibas, Deck Delegate Bobby Belches, Engine Delegate Thomas Swayne, Steward Delegate Fakhruddin Malahi. Members discussed their support for the Jones Act. Chairman read June 2018 president’s report from SIU President Michael Sacco. Secretary advised crew to update documents and upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requests extension to drydock be increased to 60 days. Members discussed importance of SPAD support and were encouraged to use Union Plus benefits and enroll in Seafarers 401k plan. Crew requests vacation application be set up for online submission. Food is great and ship is clean. Next Port: Oakland, California. OVERSEAS CHINOOK (Overseas Ship Management), July 22 – Chairman Nagi Obad, Secretary Jack Hart, Educational Director Lamar Parker, Deck Delegate John Mbelwa, Engine Delegate Manuel Lulley, Steward Delegate Terry Fowler. Chairman thanked deck department. He reminded members to work safely and keep rooms clean. Secretary thanked crew for keeping ship clean and announced new salad bar items, including chicken and salmon. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at SIU-affiliated school and to stay current on documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew would like vacation time increased and decrease in sea time required for retirement. Members were encouraged to stand by each other when a fellow seaman gets injured. MAERSK SELETAR (Maersk Line, Limited), July 22 – Chairman Cleofe Bernardez Castro, Secretary William Churney, Deck Delegate Ronmel Lopez, Steward Delegate Brian McEleney. Chairman discussed new health benefits. Educational director suggested new members upgrade at the school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew went over new password requirement to access member portal. Members discussed budget for food and other consumables on ship. Crew requests possibility of earlier breakfast time, increase in vacation pay and increase for transportation. Members were reminded to leave room clean for oncoming crew. JEAN ANNE (PASHA), July 29 – Chairman Noel Camacho, Secretary Ismael Garayua, Educational Director David Watkins. Chairman welcomed new members. Educational director advised crew to upgrade at Piney Point and suggested their physicals be up to date beforehand. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun encouraged members to contribute to SPAD and support politicians that support the Jones Act. Crew requested physicals be required annually rather than semi-annually. PRESQUE ISLE (Key Lakes), July 29 – Chairman Tony Sivola, Secretary Yaser Al Shaghdari, Educational Director Kevin Willis. Members discussed old business including requests for updated cable boxes and exercise equipment. Chairman reminded crew to go out and vote during this election year. He encouraged them to vote for members of Congress who support the Jones Act. Educational director advised crew to go to Paul Hall Center to upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members discussed new password requirements for member portal and went over upcoming changes to benefit eligibility. Crew was encouraged to work safely and look out for one another. LIBERTY PROMISE (Liberty Maritime), July 30 – Chairman Marco Galliano, Secretary Enrico La Marca, Deck Delegate William Steele, Engine Delegate Francois Doucet. Chairman thanked crew for a problem-free voyage and discussed member portal password changes. He announced Saturday closures of all hiring halls effective September 1. Chairman reminded crew to be mindful of document expiration dates and to find various applications in crew lounge. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade their skills at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed SIU physicals and requested interval requirements be reconsidered. 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 November 2018 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 19 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. and into 2019. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Advanced Refer Containers December 1 May 4 December 14 May 17 Title of Course BAPO November 17 February 2 December 14 March 1 Engineroom Resource Management June 22 June 28 FOWT February 22 May 3 January 5 March 2 February 1 March 29 Junior Engineer March 22 May 31 January 5 April 20 March 1 June 14 Marine Electrician January 12 April 27 March 8 June 21 Marine Refer Tech March 9 June 22 April 19 August 2 MEECE June 3 June 14 Pumpman January 26 February 1 Welding February 16 March 8 Start Date Leadership & Managerial Skills Gap Closing Courses June 29 Storekeeper Courses February 2 April 13 MSC Storekeeper Basic MSC Supply Configuration Management February 23 May 4 Date of Completion July 5 Start Date Engine Department Upgrading Courses Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck AB to Mate Modules January 5 March 2 April 27 February 1 March 29 May 24 Modules must be taken in order. Those who are not in the mates program cannot apply for these courses. Contact the Admissions Office for further details. Advanced Meteorology May 4 May 10 Advanced Shiphandling May 11 May 24 Advanced Stability April 27 May 3 ARPA March 9 April 27 May 25 Crane Familiarization Date of Completion Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Ops January 5 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start November 12. March 15 May 3 May 31 Chief Steward February 2 March 22 Galley Operations February 2 March 1 April 6 April 12 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 December 1 December 7 Fast Rescue Boat June 1 June 7 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 GMDSS February 9 April 27 February 22 May 10 November 24 December 8 November 30 December 14 November 17 December 15 January 12 February 9 November 30 December 28 January 25 February 22 February 23 April 13 May 11 March 8 April 26 May 24 Lifeboat Radar Observer Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW November 17 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 # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG February 1 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training/Basic FF January 26 February 1 Basic Training Revalidation November 30 November 30 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation January 12 January 18 Government Vessels December 1 December 7 Medical Care Provider January 26 February 1 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL February 16 February 22 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG December 8 December 14 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, or 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. 11/18 November 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class 840 – Graduated August 10 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Michael Beeson, James Bithos Jr., Anthony Brown Jr., Jessica Clark, Nikita Featherston, Keith Guthrie, Lucas Hayes, Cale Irons, Damon Johnson, Tony King Jr., Mark Malicki, Anthony Maltese, Kion Miller, Joseph Murphy III, Terry Popperwill Jr., Trevor Snider, Scott Waterman and Kelly White. Important Notice To All 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. ARPA – Graduated July 6 (above, in alphabetical order): Glenn Valera Agustin, Timothy Hess, Mason Con Melland and Shoal Nervo. Crane Familiarization – Graduated July 20 (above, in alphabetical order): Linnell Coleman Jr., Jerrold Foke, Andres Nunez-Rochez and Andrei Alexander Tretyak. Pumpman – Graduated July 13 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Rodriques Antwan Carson, Abasiama Bassey Essien-Ete, Andres Nunez-Rochez, Lamar Pinckney, James Rodweller, Ahmed Lotf Sennain, Rahjahn Travail Sorey and Mario Percel Standberry. Keith Adamson, their instructor, is at the far right. Government Vessels – Graduated August 3 (above, in alphabetical order): Carlos Avila, Walter Bonifacio, Rena Caraway, James Crate, Luis Armando Fernandez, Eric Gordon, Jermell Hicks, Eric Hondel, Emily De Dios Lepley, Donnell Lewis, Christopher Lyons, Philip Perry, George Bernasco Pobee, Michael Proveaux, Joshua Rawls, James Rodweller, Shirley Rogers, Teresa Rozacka, Brenda Taylor and Quintonio Walden. November 2018 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Machinist – Graduated July 6 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Rodriques Antwan Carson, Abasiama Bassey Essien-Ete, Andres Nunez-Rochez, Lamar P i n c k n e y, James Rodweller, Ahmed Lotf Sennain, Rahjahn Travail Sorey, Mario Percel Standberry. Government Vessels – Graduated July 27 (above, in alphabetical order): Jerrold Foke, Keyon Gregory, Sedell Mitchell-Reynolds, Sosiua Faasavaliga Peau, Jennifer Ramirez, Leon Smith, Andrei Tretyak, Luis Alonso Valerio and Roman Jan Zarkiewicz. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Ship Construction & Basic Stability – Graduated July 20 (above, in alphabetical order): Glenn Valera Agustin, Robert Bryson III, Johnathon Gager, Kelly Krick Jr., Mason Con Melland, Shoal Nervo, Harry Schrefer III, Gavin Scott and Dexter Madrona Turija. Medical Care Provider – Graduated July 20 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Allan Bombita, Jonas Paul Panghulan Libang, Ali Fadel Mohamed, Lamar Pinckney, Omar Rodgers, Michael Souza and Frederick Nyarko Williams. Class instructor Michael Roberts is at the far right. Junior Engineer (Engineering Plant Maintenance II) – Graduated July 6 (above, in alphabetical order): Clayton Black, Kirk Chambers, Raibonne Charles, Melchor Lagria Lapac Jr., George Marcelo Mardones, Harlan Holger Ouellette, Dean Parks, Ronaldo Jose Quinones Perez, Dhahabi Abdulla Quraish, Mohamed Lamin Sheriff, Louie Smith, Jep Sumpter, Matthew Yowell and John Zimmerman. John Wiegman III, their instructor, is at the far left. 22 Seafarers LOG November 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting – Graduated July 13 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Allan Bombita, Allan Coloyan, Michael Diggs, William Gibson, Ali Fadel Mohamed, Omar Rodgers, Michael Souza, Clark Wilhelm Vipond, Frederick Williams and Ameen Abdo Yahya. John Thomas, their instructor, is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) - Graduated August 3 (above, in alphabetical order: Bayardo Calix, Leslie Davis, Ely Matencio Desingano, Marcus Foster, Martin Garcia, Bruce Dale Mesger and Michael Souza. Class instructors Mike Roberts and Joseph Zienda are at the far left and far right, respectively (Note: Not all are pictured). Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated August 3 (above, from left): Robert Wilcox Jr., Maili Wang and Natalie Leinani Nunes (far right). Robert “RJ” Johnson, their instructor is third from left. Certified Chief Cook (Module 5) – Graduated July 13: James Hodges (left) and Darrell Bell (right). John Dobson, their instructor, is in the center. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated July 27 (above, in alphabetical order): Alfrancis Medina Bauzon, Reno Ibanez Duque, Donnell Lewis and Mostafa Loumrhari. November 2018 Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Graduated July 20 (above, in alphabetical order): Reco Lashun Bennefield, Nicholas Carey, Kathy Carter, Leslie Davis, Keyon Gregory, Da’vonte Junies, Sedell Mitchell-Reynolds, Sosiua Faasavaliga Peau and Christina Price. (Note: Not all are pictured). Certified Chief Cook (Module 6) – Graduated July 27: Bernard Hudson. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated July 20 (above, from left to right): John Huyett, Jennifer Ramirez and Ronald Davis. Seafarers LOG 23 �NOVEMBER 2018 VOLUME 80,o NO. 11 FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 NO. 2 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware (standing at far left) reads the names of SIU members lost aboard the El Faro while Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue Honor Guard Commander Charles Eckert rings the bell during the dedication conducted by the American Maritime Officers and AMO Plans in Dania Beach, Florida. The AMO memorial includes likenesses of the ship’s final crew. Ceremonies Honor Memory of El Faro Crew Seafarers and SIU officials recently took part in ceremonies to help honor and preserve the memory of the El Faro’s final crew. Three gatherings happened in Florida: The Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers (AMO) on Sept. 29 dedicated a memorial on the AMO Plans campus in Dania Beach. SIU-contracted TOTE on Oct. 1 hosted a ceremony at the El Faro memorial in Dames Point Park in Jacksonville. The SIU conducted a brief remembrance Oct. 11 at the Jacksonville hiring hall (the day of the monthly membership meeting). SIU personnel attending one or more of the ceremonies included Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Assistant Vice President Archie Ware and Assistant Vice President Kris Hopkins. Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen attended the dedication in Dania Beach. Others in attendance included El Faro family members, TOTE executives, Coast Guard personnel, Seafarers and AMO members, executives from other ship-operating companies, representatives from Seafarers’ House Port Everglades, local politicians and more. The El Faro sank on Oct. 1, 2015 near the Bahamas, in Hurricane Joaquin. All 33 people aboard the vessel perished – 17 SIU members, 11 AMO members, and five Polish men who comprised the riding gang. AMO National President Paul Doell stated at the Sept. 29 gathering, “We all know that the officers, crew and riding gang aboard El Faro fought heroically for each other – as friends and as family – against nature at her strongest. Our hope this morning is that our El Faro families have found measures of peace and comfort after all this time. “Like others before it, the memorial we dedicate today will help sustain the feelings, the sentiments we all know so well,” he continued. “Everyone who passes through here from this moment, for training or to participate in an industry conference, will pause in this place to reflect. They will share stories about their seagoing experiences with personal friends lost off Crooked Island in the Bahamas. They will tell their children what this memorial represents. And they will ask the difficult questions each of us has asked for three years, questions for which there are no easy answers.” For the TOTE gathering, bad weather stopped just long enough for the outdoor proceedings. Meanwhile, the SIU hall in Jacksonville also features an El Faro memorial (dedicated in 2016). On that site, Corgey read the crew members’ names and added, “I’m sure it’s hard for all of us to believe three years have passed since the tragic sinking of the El Faro. But one thing you (Clockwise starting from above) Family members, friends and other supportive individuals take their seats at the TOTE event. In addition to the shore-side remembrances, Seafarers also remembered their fallen brothers and sisters through at-sea observances. Recertified Bosun James Walker (left) prepares to toss an El Faro memorial wreath into the sea, from aboard the Overseas Anacortes. He’s pictured with Pumpman Cary Pratts. The florist who prepared the wreath used different colors in memory of the SIU and AMO members and Polish riding gang. SIU Asst. VPs Kris Hopkins (left) and Archie Ware are pictured at the AMO ceremony. Pictured from right to left at the TOTE memorial are Seafarer Rosemary Glover, SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Seafarer LaShanda Brown-Moody, friend Barbara Dupree-Clemons, Rochelle Hamm (widow of Seafarer Frank Hamm) and friend DeAngelo Lester. definitely can believe is that we’ll never forget the 33 men and women we lost that day. They are memorialized here in Jacksonville, and in Dania, and in (Piney Point) Maryland – and most importantly, they’ll always be in our hearts.” Corgey continued, “Everyone in the maritime industry understands there are certain dangers that cannot be avoided. There’s also a constant need to focus on safety and make improvements so that our seafarers face as little risk as possible. And while we’re never going to be perfect, I do think that our industry has collectively responded to the El Faro tragedy with earnest, detailed efforts to pinpoint the problems and to take steps to help avoid repeating them. “Today, however, our focus is on the memories of the SIU members, AMO officers and Polish riding gang, plus all of their families. They’re a part of this organization’s history that’ll never be forgotten.” � 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 2018 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES FIRST STEEL PLATES CUT IN TEXAS FOR LNG-FUELED CONTAINERSHIP PASHA HAWAII JONES ACT VESSEL WILL CARRY SIU CREW CONSTRUCTION STARTS ON USNS JOHN LEWIS REPORT: 91 COUNTRIES MAINTAIN CABOTAGE LAWS SEAFARERS’ RIGHTS INTERNATIONAL RELEASE FULL, COMPREHENSIVE STUDY SIU VP MANGRAM RETIRES AT 40-YEAR MARK SIU’S HEINDEL CARRIES CABOTAGE MESSAGE TO NORWEGIAN SEAFARERS’ UNION CONGRESS UNION APPOINTS HUNT TO VP GOVERNMENT SERVICES POSITION LAWMAKERS UNVEIL COMPREHENSIVE PRO-WORKER LEGISLATIVE PACKAGE RETIRED NMU OFFICIAL STEWARD DIES AT 84 NMC RELEASES PACKAGE GUIDELINES FOR MMC APPLICATION SUBMISSIONS WORKERS ALLIANCE PREVAILS IN LAWSUIT PAUL HALL CENTER HOSTS USTRANCOM GROUP CIVMAR-CREWED USNS WALLY SCHIRRA RESCUES 5 NMC ISSUES POLICY REGARDING CREDENTIALS LOST, DESTROYED DURING HURRICANE FLORENCE CEREMONIES HONOR MEMORY OF EL FARO CREW 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 11/01/2018 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. 80, No. 11 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/389b21d5c59af4d819a9e458ee5dbe0a.pdf fcaf5bd935430c475244c0e005fbd570 PDF Text Text OCTOBER F E B R U2018 ARY 2014 V O L U MVOLUME E 7 6 o80,NNO. O . 10 2 G&H Towing Crews Approve Contract 3-Year Agreement Increases Wages, Maintains Benefits SIU boatmen employed by G&H Towing have overwhelmingly ratified a new collective bargaining agreement. The three-year pact boosts wages and features other gains. It covers more than 300 people. Pictured from left to right in photo above (taken aboard the tug Evelena in Corpus Christi, Texas) are Capt. John Gunning, Mate Shawn Barkdull, Wiper Trevor Spring, Patrolman J.B. Niday, Chief Engineer Jeremy Downey and Capt. Dean Taliancich. Gunning and Niday were part of the union’s negotiating team. The photo at left shows the H. Douglas M, a G&H-operated boat. Page 3. Classes Humming Along in Piney Point Seafarers Give Back to Community The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education offers dozens of U.S. Coast Guardapproved classes for entry-level mariners and for experienced Seafarers and boatmen. The school is based in Piney Point, Maryland. Pictured above are engine department upgraders in a recent course. For a list of upcoming classes as well as recent class photos, see Pages 20-23. SIU members once again donated their time and work for a yearly community services project in Tacoma, Washington. Recertified Bosun Adel Ahmed, above, was part of the SIU team of volunteers for the 2018 iteration of Paint Tacoma Beautiful. Pages 12-14. Big Win for SIU of Canada Page 2 Reps. Garamendi, Bergman Honored Pages 5, 6 �Canadian Maritime Unions Win Major Cabotage Rights President’s Report Election Day Almost Here Since our next edition will be published right around Election Day, I’ll begin this month’s message with one more reminder to make sure you’re registered to vote, and then go with families and friends to the polls on November 6. If you’re not sure which candidates the union is supporting, check with your port agent. Throughout my years with our union, I have consistently seen surprised reactions from new members (and even some who’d already been with us for a while) when they learn about the gigantic impact that politics has on their jobs. The short version is that if maritime unions, vessel operators, coalitions and other organizations from our industry were not politically active, there wouldn’t be a U.S. Merchant Marine. That’s why we’re on the front lines practically every day, fighting to protect the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, cargo preference laws and anything else that boosts the U.S.-flag fleet and American crews. That’s also why I talk with Seafarers all the time about grassroots political action, and why we devote so much coverage (in print and online) to politics. It’s why we support pro-maritime candidates at every level of government, regardless of party. Our involvement is a matter of survival, but a strong American-flag fleet – and Michael Sacco reliable, well-trained, U.S. citizen crews – are equally vital to national, economic and homeland security. The stakes are just as high when it comes to workers’ rights and freedom of association. It’s no secret that unions have been under attack for decades, and those legislative and judicial assaults are only intensifying. But the labor movement not only is fighting back, we are winning some key victories, starting with the Teachers’ protests in the spring. Unions led the way in defeating so-called right-to-work provisions in Missouri, and we also successfully challenged anti-worker executive orders that would harm federal employees (including members of the SIU Government Services Division). Additionally, non-partisan polling shows that the public’s opinion of unions is at a modern high point. In fact, nearly two-thirds of the people 35 and under who were polled expressed their support for unions, according to Gallup. Put all of that together and it’s easy to see why we must vote for pro-maritime, pro-labor candidates this year. At stake are all 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives, 35 positions in the Senate and 36 governorships, along with state-level and local offices. So get out there and vote, and if your port agent asks for help with a campaign or with getting people to the polls, please make every effort to volunteer your time. Last but not least, I thank every Seafarer who already contributes to the union’s voluntary political action fund, SPAD. If you’re not on board with SPAD, the time to sign up is now. It’s definitely not the only tool in our political arsenal, but it’s an important one. Jones Act Facts Like our fellow citizens all across the country, I was cringing and praying for the best when Hurricane Florence devastated parts of the East Coast in mid-September. You know it’s bad when the highway signs all the way up here around D.C. are warning you not to attempt any travel to the Carolinas. Ahead of the storm, SIU members did a fantastic job crewing up ships and moving them out of harm’s way. The activations required a lot of extra work in our manpower office and at the hiring halls, and I’m proud of the way you all rose to the occasion. Meanwhile, in the immediate aftermath of Florence, I thought I was in some kind of movie where I woke up one morning and I’d somehow gone back in time a year. That’s because I started reading new articles slamming the Jones Act for allegedly impeding the recovery from Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico in 2017. (Those pieces were trying to compare the federal responses to Florence and Maria.) We’ve covered this ad nauseum, but if you’re new to the union or the industry, don’t fall for the lies being resurrected by Jones Act critics. The facts are that Jones Act carriers led the way in the recovery in Puerto Rico, and the law greatly benefits that territory. And, as many of you know, American crews on Jones Act vessels still are bringing the needed supplies to rebuild the commonwealth. If you want to get up to speed on the Jones Act and Puerto Rico, visit the excellent website americanmaritimepartnership.com (the SIU is a member of the coalition that runs the site). As always, we have a lot of work ahead, well beyond Election Day. And as always, we’re up to those tasks. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 80 Number 10 o Canadian seafaring unions recently finalized an agreement with the Canadian government that secured cabotage rights for Canadian mariners aboard vessels flying any flag traversing that nation’s domestic waterways. Seafarers International Union of Canada President Jim Given said on Sept. 11, “Our victory is official!” Given, who serves as the Eastern Area Executive Board Member for the AFL-CIO’s Maritime Trades Department (MTD), has spearheaded this fight to enforce and strengthen Canada’s cabotage laws for years. He has reported on this campaign several times at MTD Executive Board meetings. (SIU President Michael Sacco also is president of the MTD.) Under the provisions agreed upon, the Canadian government will not issue any temporary foreign worker permits to mariners from outside nations for more than 30 days without the written consent of the maritime unions of Canada, which will be coordinated through the SIU of Canada. “What this means,” noted Given, “is Canadian mariners will get first work on any vessel running cabotage regardless of the vessel’s flag. This is an important win, and the first of its kind for this program.” In the event that no Canadian mariners are available for such a cabotage run, Given pointed out that the foreign mariners must be granted new employment contracts which clearly show the Canadian wage rates and working conditions they are under while engaged in Canadian waters. Additionally, such conditions must meet the standards set by the laws of Canada In 2015, the SIU of Canada filed 42 lawsuits against the Canadian government for violating the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. The union found evidence that Canadian seafarers were not offered the jobs and many foreign mariners were paid as little as $2.41 an hour while working in Canadian waters. A year later, the union filed 13 more lawsuits with similar allegations. In July 2016, the Canadian government admitted it improperly issued work permits to the foreign crew aboard a Marshall Islands tanker sailing in Canadian waters. The Canadian Federal Court granted the union’s judicial review application and, in February 2017, the SIU of Canada and the national government settled the remaining lawsuits. As part of the settlement, the union worked with branches of the government to establish a new Temporary Foreign Worker Program policy to address the issues of concern to Canada’s maritime labor 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2018 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. community. “This is a significant step to ensure that Canadian vessel charterers will no longer be able to use the Temporary Foreign Worker Program to exploit foreign labor as a means to undercut and undermine the Canadian maritime industry and Canadian seafarers,” added Given. The MTD is a constitutionally mandated department of the AFLCIO. It features 23 affiliate unions (representing around five million members) and a network of 21 port maritime councils. U.S. Rep. Mast Named New Chairman Of Maritime Transportation Subcommittee U.S. Rep. Bill Shuster (R-Pennsylvania), chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, recently named Rep. Brian Mast (R-Florida) to serve as chairman of the Subcommittee on the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation for the remainder of the 115th Congress. The subcommittee, one of six subcommittees within the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, conducts oversight of the United States Coast Guard, and has jurisdiction over regulation of ocean shipping, maritime transportation safety, NO. 2 October 2018 Jim Given President, SIU of Canada Congressman Brian Mast (center) pauses for a photo after a meeting with members of the maritime community during 2018’s Congressional Sail-In. Also pictured, from left to right: American Maritime Officers Service’s Legislative Consultant Brenda Otterson; AMO President Paul Doell; AMO Member Captain Kevin Stith; and SIU Port Agent Todd Brdak. and the Jones Act. The subcommittee also has oversight of the U.S. Merchant Marine as a whole, except in cases of national security. “Oversight of the Coast Guard and the nation’s maritime transportation system is a vital responsibility of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. The Coast Guard, as one of the nation’s five armed services, conducts an array of critical missions on behalf of the American people,” said Shuster. “Brian is an effective member of this subcommittee and has a firm grasp of the issues. He understands the critical nature of the Coast Guard’s missions and is ready to take the gavel.” “Maritime transportation is a critical issue for Florida and the Coast Guard has an important presence in our state, which is why I asked Chairman Bill Shuster for the opportunity to take on leadership of this subcommittee,” Mast said. “The Coast Guard plays an essential role in maintaining the rule of law on our waterways, including securing our borders and enforcing marine pollution laws. Working together, I’m confident we can ensure they have the tools they need to succeed at these critical missions.” An Apology to Our Readers The printed version of the September LOG contained a mistake on the front page, where the main headline erroneously identified the new ship El Coqui as a tanker. The ship in fact is a combination container/ roll-on roll-off (ConRo) vessel, something clearly known to everyone on our staff (and something reflected in the rest of the coverage). We corrected the PDF version of the September edition, which is posted on the union website. We strive to make every issue of the LOG interesting, useful – and accurate. While we never will be immune from making mistakes, we don’t take last month’s lightly. We apologize. We’ll do better, and we thank you for your understanding and your support. On a personal note, both the original error and the ultimate responsibility are mine. Lastly, this seems an opportune time to mention that although we are not asking Seafarers to act as proofreaders, please let us know if you ever spot a mistake that warrants a correction, and/or one that at least can be changed online. Our staff emails are listed in the LOG section of the SIU website (mine is jbiscardo@seafarers.org); our phone number is (301) 899-0675, and our fax number is (301) 702-4407. Respectfully, Jordan P. Biscardo Communications Director Reversed to White Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG October 2018 �The SIU-crewed David B (photo at left) is operated by G&H for BayHouston Towing. In the photo above, SIU boatmen meet with Patrolman J.B. Niday (left) aboard the C.R. Haden. G&H Boatmen Approve 3-Year Contract Pact Boosts Wages, Includes Additional Improvements SIU boatmen employed by Galveston, Texas-based G&H Towing have overwhelmingly approved a three-year contract featuring wage gains and other improvements. The pact, which also maintains benefits, covers more than 300 SIU members. Voting took place Sept. 1-5, and the agreement was approved by a 9:1 ratio. SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey stated, “The key to this contract is that the SIU and G&H Towing company have a longstanding relationship that is excellent. We’ve shown the industry how working together on national and local politics, recruiting, manning and good-faith bargaining has a positive outcome for all parties.” Representing the SIU during negotiations (which primarily took place for several days in August) were Assistant Vice President Mike Russo, Patrolman J.B. Niday, Mate Cameron Schroeder, Capt. Mark Kazin, Capt. John Gunning, Chief Engineer Howard Cook and Oiler Steve Prendergast. The company negotiators included Steve Huttman, Elaine Lauzon and Xavier Valverde. G&H operates nearly 40 harbor tugs in Houston, Galveston, Texas City, Corpus Christi and Freeport. The company expects to add up to a dozen more boats. The rank-and-file members who served on the bargaining committee said negotiations went well, and the end result is a collective bargaining agreement that was met with enthusiasm by fellow boatmen. In addition to the yearly wage increases, the contract calls for paid parental leave; maintains medical and pension benefits; further secures vocational training opportunities; successfully addresses some issues pertaining to vacation and sick leave; and offers bonuses for engine room personnel. “I’m excited about the contract and the membership was, too,” stated Cook, who had served on one other bargaining committee while working at G&H. “The whole demeanor of the negotiations went well. Mike and J.B. – I can’t say enough about those guys. They did a fantastic job and they treated us very well, too.” Kazin said, “I definitely think it was a good contract. This is our best wage increase since 1998…. I’m proud of what we accomplished.” He added that as a first-time member of the bargaining team, “It was definitely a learning experience and a good experience.” Oiler Shaun McCleese (left) and Chief Engineer Roy Wick are pictured aboard the tugboat Zeus. October 2018 Similarly, Schroeder hadn’t previously been part of contract negotiations. “I really enjoyed it,” he said. “It was a great learning experience, and I wouldn’t mind doing it again.” Schroeder said the addition of paternity/ maternity leave is “a step in the right direction. Some people won’t be able to use it, but I think for a company that’s getting younger, it’ll definitely be a huge deal and people will be thankful for it. Adding new things to the contract is always big.” Likewise, Gunning pointed to the new benefit as well as the wage gains as contract highlights. “The newborn leave is a really interesting and great development,” he said. “In terms of overall money, I think we did extraordinarily well.” He, too, was a first-time negotiator. “It was very different than what I had imagined,” Gunning said. “It all went very smooth, and in in a really positive direction.” Prendergast took a big-picture view of the contract and the company. He expressed confidence in G&H’s growth and new management, and pointed out business is thriving in the Port of Houston (and doing well in other Texas ports). “I’m optimistic about the future because of the direction the maritime indus- try is going,” said Prendergast, who also served on the union bargaining team for the prior contract in 2015. Russo said the negotiations “went really well, and the delegates did a heck of a job. We took no monetary losses, and where the company had things that they wanted, we were able to reach compromises that were agreeable. Everybody was professional and respectful; we hammered out an agreement in record time, and that’s due in no small part to the outstanding work of our rank-and-file delegates.” Corgey added that G&H crews have been represented by the SIU dating back to the mid-20th century. Further, four of the five union officials based at the Houston hiring hall have worked at G&H at some point. “The roots run deep,” Corgey said. “Everybody realizes that we’re going to get a lot more done working together, and the key for the members is stability. Our members can plan on a future for their family budgets, their retirement. They can look forward to a nice, stable occupation and they can also look forward to a secure retirement. After all, none of this can happen without the boatmen and women; they’re the best in the business.” Bargaining committee members from the union and company, respectively, gather for a photo upon successful completion of negotiations. Pictured from left are SIU Asst. VP Mike Russo, Mate Cameron Schroeder, Elaine Lauzon of G&H, Capt. Mark Kazin, Capt. John Gunning, Steve Huttman and Xavier Valverde of G&H, Chief Engineer Howard Cook, AB Steve Prendergast and Patrolman J.B. Niday. Seafarers LOG 3 �Pictured from left at the port council event are SIU Senior Political Consultant Terry Turner, SIU Port Agent Georg Kenny (who also serves as secretary-treasurer of the port council), Tracy Burke of MEBA, U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine, ITF Inspector Barbara Shipley, U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott, Capt. Randall Rockwood of MM&P, and SIU Government Services Representative Sam Spain. Sen. Kaine, Rep. Scott Discuss Maritime SIU Participates in Port Council Gathering in Virginia With representatives from 16 different international unions present – including the Seafarers – the Hampton Roads (Virginia) Port Council kicked off Labor Day weekend on Aug. 31 with a lunchtime questionand-answer session featuring U.S Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Virginia) and U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott (D-Virginia). Iron Workers Local 79 hosted the meeting in Norfolk, Virginia. The port council is part of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD), to which the SIU is affiliated. SIU Port Agent Georg Kenny and Government Services Division Representative Sam Spain were among the attendees, as was MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan, Union Reps Train In Piney Point who served as moderator. The 90-minute gathering brought together elements from the Norfolk-area’s shipbuilding, ship repair and seafaring communities. The two elected officials dealt with a variety of questions ranging from port activities to finding new ways to spark apprenticeship programs. Kaine and Scott both serve on their bodies’ main committees that oversee labor and workforce issues. Before taking questions, both spoke briefly about creating legislation that would allow federally funded Pell Grants to be used to cover the costs associated with apprenticeship training. (Currently, Pell Grants only help cover expenses associated with pleted the initial seminar Sept. 1721. The remaining ones are for SIU personnel from the West Coast (Oct. 1-5) and the Gulf Coast (Oct. 22-26). Regional vice presidents, assistant The SIU last month launched a vice presidents, port agents, safety new training initiative for current directors and patrolmen are attendunion representatives. Most of the ing the conferences. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel and Piney Point Port Agent Pat Vandegrift handled much of the planning for all of the training. “This is being done in order to best serve the rank-and-file membership,” Heindel stated. “There are always a lot of changes happening within the maritime industry, and we are also facing some unique challenges in the labor movement, so the timing of these conferences is excellent.” Current officials began the initial session with a review of the union’s newly updated port procedures manSIU President Michael Sacco (left) opens the first training session. Also pictured (from ual, a comprehensive document covleft) are Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Counsel Leslie Tarantola, and Seafarers ering virtually all aspects of union Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen. representation. They reviewed the 4 Seafarers LOG sessions are taking place at the SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. Three individual conferences – each designated by region – were planned for officials. A group from the East Coast and Great Lakes com- getting a college degree.) In addition, both spoke out strongly against President Trump’s announcement the day before to cancel a 2 percent pay raise for federal workers. Kaine and Scott reiterated their longstanding support for the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program and cargo preference. Both noted the need for a strong domestic shipbuilding industry to maintain America’s military and commercial fleets. The pair cited Norfolk’s efforts to become the largest port in terms of cargo along the U.S. Atlantic coast, stating they would do whatever is possible in Washington to help achieve this goal. However, both were unaware that the Norfolk/Tide- water/Hampton Roads region is the only major U.S. port on the East Coast that does not have a seamen’s center for U.S. and foreign mariners whose ships dock at the facilities. Both agreed to work with local governmental and business officials to alleviate that concern. SIU President Michael Sacco also serves as president of the MTD, which is a constitutionally mandated department of the AFL-CIO. The MTD features 23 affiliate unions (representing around five million members) and a network of 21 port maritime councils. Those port councils give the affiliates a mechanism to pool their resources on a wide range of issues and projects. union’s constitution along with various legal considerations; leadership techniques; the International Transport Workers’ Federation; the government’s request-for-proposal process; contracts and shipping rules; political action and more. SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (standing) addresses the attendees. October 2018 �Lexington Institute: National Security Requires U.S.-Flag Fleet, U.S. Mariners In a recent article written by Daniel Goure, Ph.D., vice president at the Lexington Institute think tank, the U.S-flagged fleet received high praise for the crucial role the American maritime industry plays in the nation’s defense. In the article, Goure stated, “Support for a U.S.-flagged commercial sealift fleet is one of the few economic areas where the U.S. government, Republican and Democratic administrations alike, has practiced what amounts to industrial policy. And rightly so. The maintenance of a viable and reliable capability to move military-relevant cargoes around the world in support of U.S. forces abroad is critical.” The Lexington Institute is based in Arlington, Virginia. On its website, the organization states, “It is the goal of the Lexington Institute 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.” Goure continued, “Recent assessments of the U.S. industrial base have identified several critical vulnerabilities that could compromise the military’s ability to conduct high-intensity warfare. One of these is the ability of the U.S.-flagged sealift fleet to meet the transportation demands created by the overseas deployments and operation of large combat formations in a war zone. Simply put, the U.S.-flagged sealift fleet has been allowed to erode to the point that it is of only barely sufficient size and capability to meet the demands created by relatively small contingencies such as those conducted in this century in Southwest Asia.” The article quoted Gen. Darren McDew (USAF), who recently retired after serving as commanding officer of the U.S. Transportation Command. During his time at the agency, McDew stated, “An aging organic sealift fleet coupled with a reduction in U.S.-flagged vessels threatens our ability to meet national security requirements. The U.S.-flagged fleet has been in steady decline since World War II as a result of decreasing demand and the rising cost of the U.S.-flagged fleet compared to international fleets. In 1951, 1,288 U.S.-flagged ships were registered in the United States. In 1990, the fleet was down to 408 ships, and in 2013 just 106. Today, 82 U.S.flagged ships operate in international trade, representing a 25 percent reduction in just the last 5 years. .... If the fleet continues to lose ships, a lengthy, mass deployment on the scale of Desert Shield/Desert Storm could eventually require U.S. Forces to rely on foreign-flagged ships for sustainment.” Goure then outlined the basic duties of the Maritime Administration (MARAD) before talking in detail about their impor- Congressman John Garamendi Named ‘Champion of Maritime’ One of the U.S. maritime industry’s leading advocates recently received one of its most prestigious honors. U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) on Sept. 17 was presented with the American Maritime Partnership’s (AMP) annual Champion of Maritime Award. It’s the coalition’s top award, and is given “to a member of Congress for extraordinary support and dedication to the American maritime industry,” AMP noted in a press release. SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone attended the presentation in Vallejo, California. The SIU is an AMP affiliate. “Through his years of work in the U.S. Congress, Rep. Garamendi has shown unwavering and ardent support for domestic maritime, which includes the men and women who build, operate and crew the tens of thousands of vessels that transport goods and people safely in the more than 95,000 miles of U.S. coastline and inland waterways,” AMP stated. Garamendi serves as ranking member of the House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee of the House Transportation Committee. He recently introduced legislation aimed at increasing jobs for U.S. mariners, boosting domestic shipbuilding, and helping ensure that American-flag vessels are used for a percentage of LNG exports. In announcing the award, AMP added, “In addition to his work to promote the contribution that the American maritime industry makes to California by providing thousands of family-waged jobs and add- October 2018 ing more than $6.6 billion annually to the state’s economy alone, Rep. Garamendi recognizes the importance of this industry to the nation’s economic, national, and homeland security interests. Nationwide, the domestic maritime industry accounts for approximately 500,000 American jobs and more than $100 billion in annual economic impact.” During the ceremony, the congressman stated, “When we think about all the issues at the forefront of American politics right now – good-paying jobs, energy independence, national security, trade, and rebuilding our manufacturing sector – the American maritime industry tant programs: “Two of MARAD’s main tools for assisting the U.S. commercial fleet are the Maritime Security Program (MSP) and the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA),” he wrote. “These programs are designed to assure the availability of sufficient U.S. commercial sealift capability and the supporting infrastructure to sustain U.S. military operations overseas in an emergency. “The MSP provides supplementary funding, currently $5 million per ship annually, for a specific number of U.S.-flagged, privately owned ships which conduct international commerce but which are available under agreement to respond to Department of Defense (DoD) requirements during war and national emergencies. Currently, the MSP fleet consists of 60 vessels in a mix of container ships, roll-on/roll-off carriers, and heavy lift platforms. The VISA program is similar to MSP insofar as it too is a partnership between the U.S. government and the maritime industry to provide the DoD with assured access to commercial sealift, terminal facilities, and supply chain management services to support the emergency deployment and sustainment of U.S. military forces. VISA participants commit to providing a graduated level of carrying capacity to DoD based on a threestage activation system. In return, these participants receive preference regarding the transportation of DoD cargoes in peacetime. VISA allows DoD access to a broader range of vessels than are in the MSP, including tankers.” He then talked about another impor- is at the forefront of all of them. Unfortunately, it’s not on the minds of many of our leaders in Washington. I’m proud of the work we’re doing together to change that. “The successes we’ve had for our domestic maritime industry would not be possible without the tireless efforts of the American Maritime Partnership, and I couldn’t be more honored to receive the Champion of Maritime Award,” he continued. “I also want to thank the Propeller Club of Northern California, the California State University Maritime Academy (which hosted the event), and my Maritime Advisory Committee for bringing the maritime community together today to discuss the challenges and opportunities before us. As a united maritime industry, we will continue to rebuild this critical sector to advance America’s national and economic security.” tant program, saying, “A third way that MARAD ensures the availability of a U.Sflagged sealift fleet is through the cargo preference program. This program mandates that U.S. government shippers use U.S.-flagged ships, if available, to transport 50 percent of any oceangoing cargo that either directly or indirectly involves the government. Except in wartime, food aid cargoes are the single greatest source of preference cargoes. Removing or even reducing the 50 percent preference would be highly damaging to the U.S. commercial transport fleet.” He continued, “Because the cargo preference program can necessitate that U.S. government departments and agencies pay higher shipping prices, it has led to some intra-governmental tensions. The U.S. Agency for International Development has argued that it should be allowed to ship more food aid on foreign carriers to stretch its budget. There are reports that even some DoD agencies responsible for the movement of bulk supplies have sought to circumvent the cargo preference requirements.” The article concluded, “The cost of MARAD’s programs to support a viable and effective U.S. commercial sealift capability amounts to a small fraction of the projected $65 billion it would cost the government to replicate this capacity and the intermodal infrastructure and global cargo networks provided to the DoD by privatesector MSP participants. For a relatively small expenditure, a critical national security capability can be maintained.” “It is hard to imagine a more tireless supporter of our industry,” said Matt Woodruff, chairman of AMP. “When the American maritime industry faces a challenge or an opportunity, we can be sure with absolute certainty that Rep. Garamendi will be a leader for the men and women of American maritime. At the top of our list, he is a leading champion of the Jones Act, the fundamental law of the American maritime industry which is essential to the strength of our domestic, homeland and national security.” AMP’s member organizations include the SIU and other maritime unions, vessel owners and operators, shipboard and shoreside workers, shipbuilders and repair yards, equipment manufacturers and vendors, dredging and marine construction contractors, plus numerous maritime associations and national security organizations. U.S. Rep. John Garamendi addresses those gathered at the awards ceremony. (Photo courtesy AMP) Seafarers LOG 5 �Rationale for Longstanding Maritime Bills In USA Remains Powerfully Sound Today Jones Act, Cargo Preference, MSP all Boost American Security The story of the U.S. Merchant Marine is as old as the nation itself. However, the legislative fight to protect the rights of the American mariner didn’t gain traction until much later. One of the first such moments occurred with the enactment of the Passenger Vessel Services Act (PVSA) of 1886. That law, which assessed a fine to any foreign ship carrying passengers between two ports in the U.S., was a first step towards the country’s modern cabotage laws. Following soon behind was the Military Cargo Preference Act of 1904, which dictated that 100 percent of military cargoes be carried on board U.S.-flag vessels. Exceptions could be made if an American vessel was unavailable, but only with the concurrence of the Maritime Administration (MARAD). In 1915, mariners achieved a breakthrough with passage of The Seamen’s Act, thanks in large part to a years-long push by an SIU forerunner, the International Seamen’s Union. As noted by the late SIU historian John Bunker, the law was “designed to counteract fears for the safety of American sailors during the early years of World War I. In order to improve living and working conditions for the crews of vessels registered in the United States, it abolished imprisonment for desertion; reduced penalties for disobedience; regulated hours of work at sea and in port; fixed a minimum quality of rations; regulated the payment of wages; required a certain number of lifeboats; increased the fraction of able seamen on board; and required 75 percent of each ship department to understand the language spoken by the officers.” Meanwhile, once the PVSA helped slow if not stop foreign interests from attempting to cut costs at the expense of their mariners, U.S. lawmakers devised a similar law for cargo transportation: The Merchant Marine Act of 1920. The goals of the Merchant Marine Act of 1920 (far better known nowadays as the Jones Act) are outlined in the preamble of the law, which reads, “It is necessary for the national defense and for the proper growth of its foreign and domestic commerce that the United States shall have a merchant marine of the best equipped and most suitable types of vessels sufficient to carry the greater portion of its commerce and serve as a naval or military auxiliary in time of war or national emergency, ultimately to be owned and operated privately by citizens of the United States; and it is declared to be the policy of the United States to do whatever may be necessary to develop and encourage the maintenance of such a merchant marine, and, in so far as may not be inconsistent with the express provisions of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall, in the disposition of vessels and shipping property as hereinafter provided, in the making of rules and regulations, and in the administration of the shipping laws keep always in view this purpose and object as the primary end to be attained.” The law was reaffirmed in 1936, and later amended in 1954 with the addition of cargo preference laws, which dictated that certain percentages of the volume of governmentimpelled cargoes be transported on privately owned U.S.-registered vessels. Also taking place in 1954, Public Law 480 (PL-480) was enacted; it would later be termed Food for Peace. This program was originally intended to serve as a way for domestic farmers to ship surplus product Jones Act – Quotes from Senate Floor, June 4, 1920 Following are a few quotes from the Congressional Record of June 4, 1920, when U.S. Senators voted to institute their version of the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, better known as the Jones Act. These quotes show the recognition of the need for such a law, and the prescience of the Senators who voted in favor of the bill. Sen. John Nugent (D-Idaho) “Mr. President, I appreciate the fact that it is not only desirable but necessary that we have a great merchant fleet in order that the products of our mines, fields, and factories may be transported to every quarter of the globe in American bottoms, and in order that, should the emergency arise, the ships may be used as auxiliaries to our Navy.” Sen. Park Trammell (D-Florida) “I heartily share the sentiment of the committee favorable to the maintenance of a great American merchant marine. I believe prior to the war that this was one of the crying needs of the Nation, and it was one of the misfortunes of our country that the merchant marine which we formerly had in the early days had from time to time passed into the hands of foreigners, and that on account of that fact there were very few vessels sailing under the Stars and Stripes and operating under American control. “As one of the fortunes of war our Nation acquired a very large fleet. This fleet, in my opinion, should be permanently maintained and the Nation should have such advantages as will accrue to it as the result of the maintenance of an efficient American merchant marine.” Sen. William King (D-Utah) “In my judgment you can build up a merchant marine by fair and just and sensible legislation.” Sen. Nathaniel Dial (D-South Carolina) “The time has come when we need a merchant marine which will be commensurate with our demands and necessities. We wish to ship our goods to every market in the world. I am, therefore, strongly in favor of building up a great merchant marine.... We want to build up a merchant marine of which we will be proud; we want to carry and distribute a large proportion of our merchandise in our own vessels, as we did long ago, before the days of the Civil War.” Sen. Wesley L. Jones (R-Washington) (Note: This text is from the law itself, sponsored by Sen. Jones) “The Merchant Marine Act of 1920 is an earnest effort to lay the foundation of a policy that will build up and maintain an adequate American merchant marine in competition with the shipping of the world…. If every American will place the nation’s good above individual welfare; think, talk and act Americanism and give whole-hearted support to the law passed to aid the United States and uphold those who administer it solely in the interest of the United States and its citizens, we will have an adequate merchant marine that will secure our own interests and promote the world’s welfare.” overseas, but was revised in 1966 to allocate part of U.S. food production for distribution among the poorest countries in the world. The program was formally replaced with the similar Food for Peace Act in 2008. In a recent statement, the coalition USA Maritime described the benefits of PL-480: “Unlike other foreign aid programs, the program does more than just send aid overseas. 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 between American faith-based organizations, 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 simply cannot.” Since its enactment in 1954, PL-480 is considered one of America’s most successful foreign aid programs. Supporting Our Military The U.S.-flag fleet has a well-documented history of answering the call of the U.S. military in times of crisis. As the needs of the military have shifted and expanded over the years, the importance of maintaining a surge sealift fleet of privately owned, militarily useful vessels became even more critical. On October 8, 1996, President Clinton signed the Maritime Security Act of 1996, which established the Maritime Security Program (MSP). According to the MARAD, “The MSP maintains a modern U.S.-flag fleet providing military access to vessels and vessel capacity, as well as a total global, intermodal transportation network. This network includes not only vessels, but logistics management services, infrastructure, terminals facilities and U.S. citizen merchant mariners to crew the government owned/controlled and commercial fleets.” Experts have estimated it would cost the government tens of billions of dollars to replicate what the MSP (and its related Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement) provides. All of these laws help protect the country’s national, economic and homeland security. The Jones Act alone, for example, helps maintain nearly 500,000 American jobs and pumps billions of dollars into the economy every year. It also is vital to helping maintain the country’s shipbuilding capability and its pool of civilian mariners. Rep. Bergman Receives Lakes Honor U.S. Rep. Jack Bergman (R-Michigan) has been named 2018 Great Lakes Legislator of the Year by the largest labor/management coalition representing shipping on America’s Fourth Sea Coast. The award is presented annually by the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force (GLMTF) to a legislator who has helped advance waterborne commerce on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway. Rep. Bergman was honored Sept. 18 at a ceremony in Traverse City, Michigan. The SIU is a member of the coalition. “Although this is just his first term, Rep. Bergman has quickly become recognized as a leader on Great Lakes and Seaway issues,” said Jim Weakley, president of the GLMTF. “This reflects that his district fronts on three of the five Great Lakes: Superior, Michigan and Huron.” Weakley, who is also president of the Lake Carriers’ Association, said the GLTMF is especially grateful that Bergman spoke directly to President Trump about the need for a second Poe-sized lock at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. “Within hours of Congressman Bergman 6 Seafarers LOG talking to the president, our nation’s leader publicly declared his support for fixing the Soo Locks. That support … puts the project in the best spot it’s been in years.” Bergman’s commitment to adequate U.S. Coast Guard icebreaking resources is another reason for his selection, the coalition noted. “The locks at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, open on March 25 and close on January 15,” said John D. Baker, first vice president of the GLMTF, and president emeritus of the International Longshoremen’s Association’s Great Lakes District Council. “But if heavy ice covers the Lakes, the resumption of the iron ore trade and overseas exports of grain from the Lakes largest grain-shipping ports will be delayed. Rep. Bergman is fully supportive of building another heavy icebreaker to help the Mackinaw and other icebreakers keep commerce moving under even the most trying conditions.” Other’s pointed to the congressman’s support for adequate dredging of Great Lakes ports and waterways, and his backing of a strong U.S. Merchant Marine as reasons for his selection for the award. Bergman becomes the tenth Michigan legislator to receive the award since its inception in 1998. Founded in 1992, the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force promotes domestic and international shipping on the Great Lakes. With 78 members, it is the largest U.S. 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. Its goals include ensuring Lakes dredging is adequately funded; construction of a second Poe-sized lock at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan; bolstering the Coast Guard’s icebreaking resources; protecting the Jones Act and other U.S. maritime cabotage laws and regulations; maximizing the Lakes overseas trade via the St. Lawrence Seaway; opposing exports and/or increased diversions of Great Lakes water; and expanding short sea shipping on the Lakes. U.S. Rep. Jack Bergman (R-Michigan) October 2018 �With Seafarers in the Lone Star State Houston is one of the largest ports in the United States and, not surprisingly, it’s a busy area for Seafarers. Most of the photos on this page show SIU members and officials in that city – aboard a ship (Liberty Glory), at the hiring hall and at area labor events. The Liberty Promise photos were taken in Corpus Christi, Texas, around 200 miles to the southeast. ABOARD LIBERTY GLORY – Pictured from left to right on deck in the photo at left, are AB Timothy Kauble, AB Franklin Akins and Patrolman Joe Zavala. SA Pete Hernandez (center photo) makes his way to the galley of the Liberty Maritime vessel, while the photo directly above shows AB John Rascon (left) and Chief Cook Ali Bazzi. BOOKS GALORE – In photo at left below, Second Mate Thomas Griffin (right) gets sworn in for his full book by Patrolman Joe Zavala. The large group photo above features AB Joselito Lampong (wearing white shirt, front near the center, holding his full B-book) and Patrolman J.B. Niday (also displaying the book), along with other members. At the counter in photo at center below, QMED Samuel Takyi (right) receives his probationary B-book from Niday. In the remaining photo at right, below, AB Choh Zuom (left) is sworn in by Safety Director Kevin Sykes for his full B-book. RALLYING FOR CITY – Seafarers turn out Aug. 16 for a rally in support of the city’s bid to host the 2020 Democratic National Convention. Some of the SIU contingent is pictured with U.S. Rep. Al Green (fourth from left) near the Toyota Center, site of the demonstration. Houston, Milwaukee and Miami are the finalists. CELEBRATING LABOR DAY – Enjoying a cookout are (photo at left, from left) Hany Khalil, executive director of the Texas Gulf Coast Area Labor Federation; U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas); future Seafarer Joe Jesse Zavala IV and his dad, SIU Patrolman Joe Zavala. Shown in the photo at right are Zavala and son, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner and SIU Safety Director Kevin Sykes. ABOARD LIBERTY PROMISE – AB William Steele (immediate right) operates a forklift on the Liberty Maritime vessel, while (photo at far right, from left) AB Edward Mills and SA Alfonso Thomas Martinez are pictured at the security desk. The center photo includes (from left) AB Sirio Centino, GUDE Camonte Terrell and GUDE Francois Doucet. October 2018 Seafarers LOG 7 �GAO Report Cites Defense Function of American-Flag Fleet, U.S. Merchant Mariners The American maritime industry received a welcome if unsurprising affirmation that the U.S.-flag fleet and its mariners remain a crucial component of national defense, thanks to a recent report released by the United States Government Accountability Office (GAO). According to the report, the agency reviewed and subsequently commented on American-flag ships that trade internationally. The GAO spent more than a year and a half conducting research and finalizing the report. The 55-page document essentially concluded – much like previous studies have determined – that the cost of maintaining the fleet is a worthy investment. For example, the GAO found that the Maritime Security Program (MSP), which provides a relatively small annual subsidy to enrolled U.S.-flag vessels that are crewed by civilians and privately operated, helps ensure there are enough mariners and tonnage to support our troops in times of crisis. Additionally, the MSP offers the federal government a capability that would be hard to replicate otherwise. According to the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) and the Department of Transportation (DOT), the financial cost of replacing these benefits with a government-owned fleet, as well as replicating the related intermodal infrastructure that allows the cargoes to travel to areas that would otherwise be difficult to access, would exceed $60 billion by the latest estimate. The GAO study served to also impress upon the DOT the need to release the long-awaited National Maritime Strategy: “The DOT has drafted but not issued the national maritime strategies mandated by Congress. The strategies are intended to address U.S.-flag vessels’ competitiveness and ensure the long-term viability of U.S.-flag vessels and U.S.-citizen mariners. According to DOT officials, a combined draft strategy was developed under the previous administration but is now being reviewed by the current administration. DOT has not established a timeline for finalizing the strategy even though it was to be completed by 2015. Without establishing a timeline to complete this required strategy, DOT continues to delay providing decision-makers the information they need to determine how best to address the challenges facing the U.S.-flag fleet…. The GAO recommends that DOT complete the national maritime strategy and establish time frames for its issuance. DOT concurred with our recommendation….” Much of the report focused on challenges facing the industry, prominently including a decline in the amount of government cargoes dating to 2004, and a growing shortage of shipboard manpower. The latter point is consistent with urgent, public comments by the respective heads of the U.S. Transportation Command and the U.S. Maritime Administration. Spotlight on Mariner Health Understanding and Addressing Seizures Editor’s note: The following article was provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. Seizures are a symptom of a brain problem. They can happen suddenly, due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Most people think of a seizure as meaning when someone has convulsions and the body shakes rapidly and uncontrollably. Not all seizures are like this. There are many types of seizures and some are very mild. Overall, seizures can fall into two main groups. There are focal seizures (also called partial seizures). These happen in just one area of the brain. They are named after the part where the seizure originated. By contrast, generalized seizures are the result of abnormal activity on both sides of the brain. This happens when never cells on both sides of the brain start to misfire. They can make you have muscle spasms, black out, or fall. These are usually called grand mal or tonic-clonic seizures. Seizures can last from 30 seconds to two minutes and usually do not cause any lasting harm. However, if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes, or the person does not wake up after a seizure, this is a medical emergency. There are many things that can cause a seizure. The most common is a head injury. This is an injury to the brain, skull, or scalp. This can range from a mild bump or a bruise to a traumatic injury to the brain. Eclampsia is a rare but serious condition that causes seizures during pregnancy or right after delivery. You can develop this even if you do not have a history of seizures. Alcohol withdrawal delirium also may cause seizures. 8 Seafarers LOG Intracranial hemorrhage, brain aneurysms, or skull fractures are life-threatening conditions in which you have bleeding inside your skull. Cerebral Palsy is a group of disorders that affect muscle movement and coordination. Concussions from trauma or sports injury require medical treatment. They can cause an altered mental state. Low blood sugar or low blood sodium can change the chemical balance inside the brain. Brain cancer, febrile illnesses, malignant hypertension, heat emergencies, or amphetamine dependencies can also cause seizures. There are many treatments for seizures, and most involve medications. A neurologist should be able to identify the medicine that works best for your type of seizure activity, although a patient may go through many different meds until the right one is chosen. If medications do not work, there are other options. There are a few types of implants that can help to control the brainwave activity that may become erratic. Responsive neuro-stimulators work directly with the nerves in the brain. Vagus-nerve stimulation works with the vagus nerve in the chest up to the brain. Diet, exercise, and occupational therapy are also used with good results. Lastly, surgery may be needed to that area of the brain so that no further seizure will occur. If a seizure happens to someone, place them on their side and help to keep them free from any injury during the incident. Call for help and make sure they are breathing. If not, begin CPR. Healthful Recipe Chicken Enchiladas 8 Servings 8 corn tortilla, 6-inch Cooking spray 2 pounds chicken breast, cooked shredded 1 cup mushroom, chopped 1 ½ tablespoons onion, chopped 1 ½ tablespoons cilantro, chopped 1 whole jalapeno, seeded and chopped 1 cup 2% milk cheddar cheese, shredded 1 cup roma tomato, diced ½ cup olive, sliced 3 cups iceberg lettuce, shredded 1 cup sour cream, light Enchilada Sauce Recipe 8 ounces tomato sauce 3 tablespoons chili pepper, ground 1 teaspoon cumin powder, ground 1 teaspoon granulated garlic 1 ½ cups water ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ cup cold water 1 tablespoon cornstarch Enchiladas Sauce: Add all of the ingredients to a sauce pot or steam kettle; cook over medium heat for about 8 minutes or until the sauce boils. Thicken the sauce with the corn starch slurry to reach desired thickness. Take the pot off of heat. Enchiladas: Coat a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray; place over mediumhigh heat until hot. Warm the tortillas on each side for 10-15 seconds. Stack the warmed tortillas up and cover with clean kitchen towel. Set aside. Next, sauté the onion, mushroom, cilantro, and jalapeno; sauté until onion and mushrooms are tender. Add chicken and ½ of the enchilada sauce; cook 5 minutes. Serving Suggestion: Spoon chicken mixture evenly down centers of each tortilla. Roll up tortillas; place, seam sides down, in a 13x9 inch baking dish; pour the other half of the enchilada sauce over the enchiladas and top with cheese. Bake at 350 degrees F for 10-15 minutes or until enchiladas are thoroughly heated and cheese melts. Sprinkle evenly with tomato and olives. Serve over lettuce with a tablespoon of sour cream on top. Nutrition Information: Per Serving (Excluding unknown items): 259 calories: 11g Fat (36.9% calories from fat); 22g Protein; 19g Carbohydrate; 3g Dietary Fiber; 60mg Cholesterol; 424mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1 Grain (starch); 3 Lean meat; 1 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; ½ Fat; 0 other Carbohydrates. Provided by the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship October 2018 �Former Seafarer Felix Nunez (above) appreciates the notes he received from class members pictured at left (their teacher is standing in back). The kids attend Santiago Christian School in the Dominican Republic. Letters from Students Brighten Mariner’s Day When SIU hawsepiper Felix Nunez received a packet of letters from his stepdaughter’s third-grade class, he immediately knew he wanted to share them with fellow mariners. “They got wind I’m some type of sailor,” Nunez explained. “They decided to write me letters, which are hilarious. I think the membership would get a kick out of them.” Nunez sailed with the SIU for more than a decade (beginning in 2001), primarily as an AB, before joining the Seafarersaffiliated American Maritime Officers (AMO). He now sails as a second mate and chief mate, and resides in the Dominican Republic. His stepdaughter attends a private, Christian school in Santiago that opened in 1967. He concluded, “My thanks go to the whole class and the teacher. The letters were well-received and very much appreciated.” Following are some lightly edited excerpts from the letters, offered in that same spirit of appreciation. The first is from his stepdaughter. (Editor’s note: While the class members understandably aren’t familiar with the nuances of the U.S. Merchant Marine, they hit the mark in equating the seafaring life with contributing to freedom. They also almost universally promoted Nunez to captain.) n “Our [classes] are Spanish, technology, art, library, music and P.E. I love P.E. and library. My less favorite is music…. My favorite activity is ‘guess who has the dice.’ It is so, so fun. By dad, love you.” n “In our class, we are talking about freedom. First we talked about the Statue of Liberty, and then we talked about people who fight for freedom. Is that what you do? Every year we also have a day called field day. On field day we do a lot of competitions. Elementary splits up into two groups…. At the end of the day they say who won, red team or blue team.” n “We have been learning a lot about freedom. I know you are doing a very hard job. I trust that you’re a good man. I’m praying that nothing bad happens to you. I also pray you have a long life. A good life. Thanks for always fighting for freedom.” n “I have learned a lot about freedom. It is not free and is not like slavery. Your sacrifice has saved a lot of people all of your hard work. What does it feel to be in the navy?” n “Me and my class have learned about freedom. It is very important to you and to other people, not to all, but to most of them…. We want to thank you for being a hero, for saving the world…. You are America’s protector.” n “Thanks for saving your life to save other people’s lives and thank you for giving freedom to people. Thank you for your service bravery and trustworthy and hard work and thank you for saving the USA. Thank you because freedom is not free and you have given it to people. Do you have more kids?” n “Thank you for your bravery and service. Thank you for fighting for our freedom and United States freedom. Your hard work and protecting us from the enemies and we all thank God He brought you to life. And if you want to know more about [your stepdaughter] she is a great student, friends with everybody and a hard worker just like YOU!” n “We have been learning about freedom and we have been learning that freedom is not free and someone had to pay a price and that was Jesus. Thank you for your service and your sacrifice for all the USA. Also thank you for your bravery.” n “I have learned that freedom is not free and I know that you work really hard for freedom. I know that it is hard to get. Thank you for all you have done and for protecting the United States.” n “We are praying for you captain. I wish God can help you train for battle. Our colors of our school are red, blue and white. At recess me and my friends are going to make a movie about a boat…. We have seeds in our classroom. We have four types of seeds. They are watermelon, spinach, onions and tomatoes. Our tomatoes have 16 votes that they would grow first.” Nunez received a thick stack of notes from the students – a few pages the letters are shown here. The salutations mean merchant captain. October 2018 Seafarers LOG 9 �TALKING MERCHANT MARINE IN FLORIDA – SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins (right in both photos) recently had separate meetings with members of Congress. The main discussion topics were the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, cargo preference and how the nation depends on a viable U.S. Merchant Marine. With Hopkins in photo at left is U.S. Rep. Ted Deutch (D-Florida); in the other photo is U.S. Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-Florida). At Sea and Ashore with the SIU WELCOME ASHORE IN NEW ORLEANS – QMED Bruce Zenon (left) picks up his first pension check at the hiring hall. Congratulating him is Port Agent Chris Westbrook. Zenon began sailing with the SIU in 1989. PROMOTING MARITIME IN GUAM – SIU Port Agent Fred Sanchez (right) recently met with Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo, Guam’s delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives. They discussed the U.S. Merchant Marine in general, and the Jones Act and cargo preference specifically. Congresswoman Bordallo reiterated her support for those measures and for the industry as a whole NY WATERWAY NOTABLES – NY Waterway Captain Vince Lombardi (right in photo at left) displays his full book. He’s pictured with Patrolman Ray Henderson. (Vince has had the full book for a while. We’re a little tardy with the photo.) The company recently threw a party for Seafarer George Schumpp (right in the photo at right), in recognition of his 30 years with the company. The senior deckhand is pictured with NY Waterway President and Founder Arthur E. Imperatore, inventor of the modern commuter ferry system. ABOARD ALLIANCE NORFOLK – Recertified Bosun Wilfredo Velez submitted these photos of deck gang members earlier this year aboard the Maersk Line, Limited vessel. In photo at far left, AB Arsenio Omabao performs routine maintenance on a lifeboat. AB Eldin Ebanks (center photo) preps a ramp for a coat of paint. In photo at immediate left, AB John Paul performs rust maintenance on a vent. Bosun Velez (photo directly above) assists raising deck panels in preparation for loading cargo. 10 Seafarers LOG October 2018 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD SEABULK ARCTIC – Thanks to Recertified Bosun John Cedeno Jr. for these snapshots from the Seabulk Tankers vessel. Some of the crew members are pictured after reviewing wage rates, while two others are shown in the galley. Cedeno said it’s “a great crew.” Pictured from left in photo at left are AB Richard Benoit, AB Christopher Sanchez, AB Blake Braye and Cedeno Jr. Chief Cook John Jewell (left) and Chief Steward Gordon Major are shown in photo at center, while the remaining snapshot features (from left) Pumpman James Rodweller, AB Christopher Sanchez, GVA Jose Martinez, Cedeno Jr. and Wiper Anthony Williams. ABOARD OVERSEAS TAMPA – Recertified Steward Bobby Darku (photo at left) takes seafood seriously. “On the Overseas Tampa, we don’t wait until Thanksgiving or Christmas to have lobster!” he said in a recent email from the Overseas Ship Management vessel. “By the way, any steward wanting to do this, go see Tony’s Seafood when in Baton Rouge.” ABOARD APL PRESIDENT TRUMAN – Recertified Bosun Gerry Gianan sent this photo of the steward department. “This galley gang is a good feeder,” the bosun noted. Pictured from left are Recertified Steward Benedict Opaon, ACU Roberto Firme and Recertified Steward Joseph Gallo. ABOARD USNS BOBO – Many thanks to Chief Officer Jennifer L. Senner (an SIU hawsepiper and graduate of Apprentice Class 622) for these photos of the deck gang. Pictured aboard the Crowley-operated ship are Bosun Nate Elliott, ABs Joven Deocampo, James Osborne and Marcus Smith, and OSs Nagi Said, Jamal Freeman and Kefrem Jones. (Editor’s note: In the posed photo, the ship is at anchor and the lifeboat is in the stowed position over the deck.) October 2018 Seafarers LOG 11 �ABM Kareem Ahmed, GUDE Abdul Salam Mohamed, ABM Justin Bowe, AB Mohamed Aboubaker AB David Brusco (standing) and Recertified Bosun Adel Ahmed ABM Justin Bowe Alicia Bishop and Emilia Flesner Recertified Bosun Thomas Macgregor QMED Randall Kramer, OMU Joe Ritchey Seafarers Continue Tradition of Community Service A tradition that began some 12 years ago for Tacoma, Washington-area SIU members remains very much alive and well today, as evidenced by the recent completion of another project with philanthropy at its core. Responding to the call of Paint Tacoma Beautiful, a crew of Seafarers (including family members and friends) on Sept. 19 put the finishing touches on a project involving the exterior upgrade of a private residence in their community. Armed with an assortment of drop cloths, ladders, paint brushes, other tools and a collective mindset of compassion, the crew completed what days earlier had been a full-scale upgrading project on the home of David Rees. Altogether, the team devoted more than 150 manhours effecting repairs to Rees’ residence. Specifically, team members power washed, scraped, sanded, primed and painted the entire dwelling, including trim, doors and hand rails. Essentially, they gave the entire abode a muchneeded facelift. Rees said he heard about the Paint Tacoma Beautiful project a while ago and that it normally was done for older, low-income people, but he was not sure if he qualified. Nonetheless, he said, he applied and hoped for the best. “Some people from the project (Paint Tacoma Beauti- AB John Villa 12 Seafarers LOG ful) stopped by my house and talked to me about the program and I told them about my income situation,” he said. “Later on, they called and told me that I did qualify for the program, and that they would be happy to take on my house. I thought that it was fantastic because my house really needed some work and I was not able to do it myself.” Not long after this get-acquainted encounter with Paint Tacoma representatives (in late August), members the SIU crew arrived at Rees’ residence. They assessed the magnitude of the work to be done, formulated a plan of attack and launched the initial phases of their upgrades. From the outset, the group made a genuinely positive and abiding impression on the homeowner. “They were a bunch of real nice, well-mannered guys who did a really good job,” Rees said. “It was a real pleasure meeting and talking with all of them. They were just a group of real neat guys, and a couple of gals came by, too. They all were just really nice people.” Rees is a senior citizen who lives alone and is approaching his 8oth birthday. “I was glad to get to 80 and now I’m hoping to get to 90,” said the military veteran who was born and raised in Utah. “I am not originally from Tacoma,” he shard. “The service brought me out here, so after my service ended, I just stayed.” Recertified Bosun Richard Szabo Incidentally and by pure happenstance, Rees has ties to the SIU. It turns out that a family member of his (Clair Cox) back in the 1980s graduated from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s apprentice program. She sailed with the union for a few years out of the Seattle hall. “Like I said, all of the people who came here and labored on my house were really neat guys (and “gals”), they did a fantastic job and I really appreciate all the work they have done,” Rees added. “It’s just great.” Ben Anderson, SIU Tacoma safety director, who organized this year’s project, was pleased with Rees’ kind words about the SIU team’s performance. “We’re all elated that Mr. Rees found our efforts beneficial and that they made a difference in his quality of life,” he said. “I’d like to thank our members for once again giving of themselves and supporting this effort to help people in or community. I can’t say that I am surprised about their response though, because that’s what they always do.” SIU Port Agent Joe Vincenzo stated, “The thing that strikes me most about this project is that providing this service cuts across national, ethnic and religious barriers Continued on page 14 Chief Cook Abelardo Reyes October 2018 Many of the SIU volunteers pose with the homeowner following the completion of the project. Pictured from left to right in the photo above are: Home owner-David Rees, ABM Justin Bowe, Port Secretary Brenda Flesner, OMU Joe Ritchey, AB/Dragtender William Born, Port Agent Joe Vincenzo, Safety Director Ben Anderson, Recertified Bosun Thomas Macgregor, Electrician William Mogg, AB Raul Molina, AB John Villa, AB Mark Louie Manalansan and OMU Eduardo Arroyo. October 2018 Seafarers LOG 13 �The Tug Schoodic: Man Overboard? Editor’s note: This article was penned by Rafael Alvarez, a writer and former SIU member based in Baltimore. Alvarez is also the son of a retired, longtime SIU member who sailed with the union for more than three decades. Anyone with information about long-lost mariner Harrison Worrell or the tug Schoodic is asked to contact Alvarez via email at orlo.leini@gmail.com. The last known whereabouts of marine engineer Harrison “Happy” Worrell was on board an East Coast tug called the Schoodic in late December of 1939. Worrell’s family never saw him again. And though a body didn’t surface – nor was a death certificate discovered – an insurance benefit of a thousand dollars was paid out to his widow, a woman with many layers of secrets named Myrtle Whittier Joyner Worrell. Before compensating the alleged widow, Monumental Life argued in court papers, “Harrison Worrell is not dead.” Company investigators apparently were not able to prove this anymore than Myrtle could show that he was dead. The policy was issued just weeks before his disappearance on or about Dec. 26, 1939. Insurance industry officials said it is virtually unheard of for a benefit to be paid without a death certificate. Worrell was born in 1896 in Rollins Fork, Virginia, a small town between the Chesapeake Bay and the Rappahannock River. Blue-eyed, sandy-haired, he was in his early 40s when he vanished, and had several failed relationships resulting in children by other women at the time he went missing. Not much more is known about Worrell beyond a string of Baltimore addresses, his registration for the draft during World War I and his application for a Social Security card. His story is a seafaring puzzle worthy of Conrad and Conan Doyle, one further muddied by Myrtle’s lickety-split marriage to a “boarder” in her house before tears shed for Worrell (if there were any) were dry. “I want to know if the insurance company actually investigated anything,” and if so, what they found out, said Terry Grove Barbera, Worrell’s biological granddaughter who spent most of her life thinking that the boarder – Clyde The tugboat Schoodic sails in Baltimore Harbor. (Photo courtesy Maryland Historical Society) Martin Hatt (1914-1978) – was her grandfather. Similarly, her mother – LaVerne Worrell Grove, now 81 and living in a suburban Baltimore nursing home – believed that Clyde Hatt was her father until she was in the seventh grade. One day in 1949 or 1950, the adolescent LaVerne was rooting around in the basement of the family home on Mosher Street in West Baltimore and found a box of papers – among them, her birth certificate naming Harrison Benjamin Worrell as her father. When LaVerne asked her mother about it, Myrtle evaded the question.. The moment has vexed LaVerne ever since. “I was hurt by something I didn’t know anything about,” said LaVerne, who long ago spent $300 on a detective who turned up a few out-of-touch relatives but no firm answers. “It was a feeling of being alone,” she said, “of wondering, ‘Who am I.’” Several years ago, the investigation was taken up by Barbera, raised in Baltimore and now living near Seattle. Her list of unanswered questions is lengthy. Did Worrell die on board the tug? Was it a boating accident that went Tacoma-Area Mariners Donate Time Completing Project to Benefit Neighbors Continued from Page 12 in that it brings together work parties consisting of all walks, creeds and colors. We just don’t see enough of this in the news. I’m sure that it is out there, but you just don’t see it or hear about it unless you yourself are involved. It is not only out there, but it is also here alive and well in Tacoma.” (Vincenzo originally spearheaded the union’s participation both in Paint Tacoma and Santa’s Castle, the latter an annual holiday toy drive for U.S. military families.) AB Justin Bowe, a member of this year’s team, is one of many Seafarers whose selfless devotion to volunteering in order to help others continues to make Paint Tacoma Beautiful flourish. “Justin Bowe helps us every year,” Vincenzo said. “He’s the best.” “I volunteered because it was a good way to give back to the community and at the same time represent union labor and show those in our community that we care,” said Bowe, who has been sailing under the SIU banner for nearly 16 years. 14 Seafarers LOG “Also, the project took place while I was on vacation. I happened to be between ships at the time, so it was ideal for me. “Volunteering for programs like Paint Tacoma Beautiful is something that we as Seafarers can do because of our unique work schedule,” he continued. “We can get involved in these community projects during our down time. And that’s different from a lot of people who work 8 to 5 or more than 250 days a year and don’t have the time or opportunity to volunteer for these types of community projects. Volunteering for the project gave me a good feeling inside because the people who submit their houses for the program usually are not physically or financially capable of going out and painting their houses on their own. This is my second or third time and it’s always been for senior citizens living alone.” Speaking of both Paint Tacoma and Santa’s Castle, Bowe concluded, “It’s wonderful to do this because it makes you feel like you are a part of the city that you live in. I’m sure that efforts like this reflect positively on individual unreported? Did Worrell hurl himself overboard from grief over the death by pneumonia of his infant daughter Geraldine (LaVerne’s younger sister), who passed away that June? Was his disappearance reported to the police? Was there any accounting by the family that owned the Schoodic – Nora and H.B. Messenger of Caroline County on Maryland’s Eastern Shore? Was the Coast Guard involved? Did a newspaper somewhere in the mid-Atlantic report that a body had washed up on shore fitting the description of Worrell? A habitué of the rough stevedore saloons that once crowded the South Baltimore waterfront, might Happy have said the wrong thing to the wrong guy? Or, most troubling of all, said Barbera, “Did he just walk away from his family one day and make it look like an accident?” Barbera has chased most of these leads without satisfaction. She is particularly seeking cooperation from Monumental Life, now known as Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company, headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Seafarers as well as the union as a whole, but beyond that, I think it sends an even greater message. It clearly demonstrates to the people in the community that we do indeed care about performing service in our community. Hopefully it will inspire others people to give a little bit more of themselves.” Chief Cook Abelardo Reyes, who joined the SIU in 2009, was a member of Paul Hall Center Apprentice Class 729 and has been sailing for almost 10 years, echoed Bowe’s sentiments. “I was off of work when the project started, so I just wanted to volunteer in order to serve the city of Tacoma and help people by doing what is necessary to make their lives better,” he said. “I worked on this project from about 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on the first day. The group went back the next day, but I could not go because I was back on my ship. “I’ve been blessed since joining the SIU and I just wanted to give back,” he continued. “This is the first time that I did such a project with my SIU brothers and sisters, but I have done similar types of endeavors before with different friends of mine who belong to other organizations.” Reyes added, “Volunteering made me feel good because I know that I have Iowa. So far, they have not been helpful. Named for a peninsula in Down East, Maine, the Schoodic was built near Portland in the Pine Tree State in 1907 and was owned by the Messenger Transportation Company of Federalsburg between the World Wars. The tug was primarily used to tow petroleum bunkers between Baltimore and Philadelphia. In 1942, she sailed via canals near Lake Okeechobee in Florida to bring a new barge to the Chesapeake. Forty years after she was built, the Schoodic was destroyed by fire in April of 1947 near Drum Point off the shores of southern Calvert County in Maryland. Barbera’s labors began as a simple pastime, the building of a family tree. It grew and came to focus on Harrison Worrell for her mother, “a woman who has lived with this hole in her identity most of her life, who was crippled for being told it was improper to ask for the truth from her own mother. “My interest in solving the mystery of Harrison’s disappearance is to round out the story while Mom is still alive,” she said. “If nothing else, I might be able to give her this last gift.” done something nice to help people, my fellow man, my fellow Tacoma people. I will encourage more of my brothers and sisters to get involved in such projects, because to me it helps build morale and character. It’s always good to do something for someone else and not expect anything in return. Paint Tacoma Beautiful is a largescale regional effort to spruce up homes for citizens who don’t have the means or resources to do it themselves. Tacoma Seafarers are believed to be the longeststanding supporters of the program. This year’s SIU Paint Tacoma Beautiful crew included: Recertified Bosun Richard Szabo, QMED Randal Kramer, AB/Dragtender Billy Born, ABM Justin Bowe, Port Secretary Brenda Flesner, Emilia Flesner, Alicia Bishop, Port Agent Joe Vincenzo, Patrolman Warren Asp, Safety Director Ben Anderson, Recertified Bosun Thomas MacGregor, QEE William Mogg, AB Raul Molina, AB John Villa, AB Mark Louie Manalansan, OMU Eduardo Arroyo, AB Mohamed Aboubaker, ABM Kareem Ahmed, GUDE Abdul Salam Mohamed, Recertified Bosun Adel Ahmed, AB David Brusco, Chief Cook Abelardo Reyes, OS Corey Shanley and OMU Joe Ritchey. October 2018 �Hiring Halls Closed on Saturdays Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea Change took Effect September 1, 2018 As previously reported in multiple editions of the Seafarers LOG and during monthly membership meetings, the union announced that – effective September 1, 2018 – the hiring halls no longer are open on Saturdays. The corresponding Seafarers Appeals Board action is printed below. The only amendment is the removal of a sentence indicating Saturday hours for the halls. However, please note that in accordance with the union’s constitution, the halls will be open on Saturdays for individual ballot pickup during the next SIU election period, which is scheduled for the final two months of the year 2020. (Ballots also may be obtained at the halls Monday through Friday, or by mail, during the election period.) Seafarers Appeals Board Action 478 Effective: September 1, 2018 The Board has been provided information by the Union supporting the need to adjust prescribed business hours for hiring halls via closure on Saturdays. The Board in its determination to make such amendment considered: a majority of contracted employers are closed on Saturdays, non-peak member utilization of the hiring hall and the continued ability to have on-call persons available to assist in pier-head jump situations. With the aforementioned in mind the Seafarers Appeals Board takes the following action to close union hiring halls for business on Saturdays. AMEND Shipping Rule 4. Business Hours and Job Calls, Paragraphs A. & B. as follows. “A. Except as otherwise provided herein, all Union hiring halls shall be open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The hiring halls shall be closed on July 4, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Labor Day, and such other holidays as are determined by the port agents. Notice of such additional closings shall be posted on the hiring halls’ bulletin boards on the day preceding the Holiday.” October & November 2018 Membership Meetings Piney Point...........*Tuesday: October 9, Monday: November 5 Algonac...................................Friday: October 12, November 9 Baltimore............................Thursday: October 11, November 8 August 16, 2018 - September 15, 2018 Total Registered Port A All Groups B Total Shipped Registered on Beach C All Groups A B C 0 2 1 2 0 3 0 10 7 7 1 1 8 2 2 0 0 1 1 4 52 Trip Reliefs A All Groups B C 6 0 0 9 0 1 1 16 8 12 2 0 7 3 2 0 3 11 0 4 85 18 5 6 27 3 14 12 87 57 71 8 15 32 22 7 3 6 54 6 45 498 18 2 3 17 0 3 4 20 29 22 3 5 15 4 4 4 16 26 3 16 214 2 1 0 11 0 7 4 18 9 8 1 5 9 5 1 1 4 23 3 8 120 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 9 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 17 1 0 3 0 0 0 3 5 7 2 0 0 2 3 0 0 3 2 0 1 32 4 0 1 19 0 4 12 26 30 21 1 6 21 6 2 3 6 24 3 24 213 0 0 3 7 1 3 6 12 25 19 2 4 15 6 2 7 0 10 4 18 144 3 0 0 1 0 3 1 4 1 0 0 1 8 3 0 1 0 4 2 6 38 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 12 1 4 13 1 8 9 39 24 30 5 9 17 14 3 1 4 23 3 17 237 6 1 1 5 0 3 2 18 17 4 3 1 7 3 2 2 4 7 2 12 100 0 1 0 7 0 4 2 18 9 9 1 1 6 3 3 1 1 5 2 6 79 Deck Department 18 10 0 0 2 0 16 7 1 1 7 4 7 3 39 16 21 13 26 13 4 3 13 3 16 10 8 1 2 2 1 1 4 4 20 6 1 1 15 6 221 104 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 3 0 2 5 0 1 8 16 10 12 3 3 10 2 2 1 2 12 2 8 102 0 0 4 9 1 1 3 4 11 10 0 2 10 2 3 3 0 6 1 14 84 3 0 1 0 0 1 1 4 0 0 0 2 9 3 0 1 0 3 1 1 30 Engine Department 3 1 2 0 2 4 3 5 1 1 4 1 8 2 17 6 7 10 9 3 4 1 3 3 11 12 4 4 1 1 1 1 2 3 12 3 0 1 6 5 100 67 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 0 2 11 1 5 12 14 17 9 0 2 7 15 2 9 2 9 2 19 139 0 2 0 4 0 1 2 3 10 4 0 1 5 1 0 1 8 1 1 7 51 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 2 1 2 14 Steward Department 3 1 0 1 1 0 9 6 1 1 4 0 6 0 18 4 11 6 13 1 1 0 2 1 6 7 7 5 3 0 6 2 2 5 8 0 1 0 11 7 113 47 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 3 0 1 1 3 0 2 2 5 8 6 0 2 2 4 0 2 3 1 0 4 46 3 1 1 17 3 7 22 38 26 14 0 6 15 33 4 6 5 19 5 36 261 2 1 0 6 0 4 2 5 17 6 1 2 12 5 0 1 8 2 2 14 90 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 4 1 0 2 1 1 1 0 1 2 0 2 18 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 1 1 0 0 0 1 5 2 2 0 1 2 1 1 0 1 3 0 2 25 8 0 1 5 1 2 4 7 13 20 1 0 21 7 1 1 0 7 0 18 117 11 1 2 4 2 2 3 11 30 8 0 1 21 11 1 1 0 9 0 11 129 Entry Department 0 4 1 1 1 0 0 3 0 1 0 0 0 2 5 11 1 14 1 8 0 0 0 0 1 17 0 7 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 7 0 0 1 8 12 85 4 2 4 1 0 1 6 3 14 6 0 0 22 5 1 0 1 3 0 12 85 4 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 1 1 2 0 0 0 1 0 2 16 2 0 0 0 0 0 10 11 5 2 0 1 1 4 0 0 1 8 0 5 50 12 0 0 12 3 2 7 19 25 26 4 0 26 16 2 2 0 21 0 36 213 18 2 1 8 2 1 5 20 80 17 0 3 37 26 0 1 0 21 0 45 287 GRAND TOTAL: 503 352 252 157 179 1,022 661 463 Guam...................Thursday: October 25, *Friday: November 23 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 Jersey City.............................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 due to Columbus Day holiday observance. * Guam change due to Thanksgiving Day observance * Houston change due to Veterans Day observance Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m SPAD Works For You. Contribute To The Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD October 2018 446 303 Seafarers LOG 15 �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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by the members of the Paul Hall Center’s most recent bosun recertification class. Question: Why did you join the SIU and why have you remained with the union? Nicholas Smithling Recertified Bosun “I joined in 2003, and I’ve remained in the union because of the job security and the benefits. I felt a reason to be loyal because of the opportunity I was given at just 18 years of age. I came from very humble means, and when I received my first check, I was sold.” Artis Williams Recertified Bosun “I came to the SIU through MSC, and have stayed union from 1993 to the present. I enjoy going to sea, and the SIU has given me a good life.” 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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 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 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 Stop 16 1/2 Santurce, PR 00907-4601 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG Josephus Willis Recertified Bosun “My cousin was in the SIU, and he really enjoyed being part of the union. I joined in 1999 to better myself and to see the world. I’ve met a lot of good people, I upgraded to AB and worked my way up to where I am now. I’m proud to be an SIU member.” Sanyboy Whiting Recertified Bosun “I love the ocean, and through the SIU I’ve found the experience of a lifetime that I treasure. It’s not just a job, it’s my professional career. I joined the SIU in 1989, and sailed aboard the S.S. Constitution as my first ship. I’m grateful to the union, and hope to work for many more years to come.” Modesto Y. Rabena Jr. Recertified Bosun “It is my privilege to be a member of this union for the rest of my life. I’m very proud to be an SIU member, deep in my heart. I’m satisfied with who I am now, as a professional U.S. Merchant Mariner. I will continue to be a member of only one union: the Seafarers International Union.” Thomas Moore Recertified Bosun “I joined the SIU to improve my life, and to serve as a crew member aboard ships. I have remained with the SIU due to the improved lifestyle it has afforded me, the available jobs, the type of work, the good benefits, and the Brotherhood of the Sea.” Adel Ahmed Recertified Bosun “I joined the union because my father and brother are also members of the SIU. I remain in the union because I tried many careers before I joined, and just wasn’t happy. I make good money, and am able to spend quality time with my family on vacations.” Amin Quraish Recertified Bosun “I joined the SIU because my father was a union member. I’ve been sailing for 17 years, and I love what I do. I would like to thank our union leadership for affording me these opportunities.” Victor Nunez Recertified Bosun “I joined the SIU looking for a career with a future. It was the best decision I ever made! The union not only made me a merchant mariner, but also made me a better man, a better individual, a hard worker, a professional and last but not least, a leader. That’s why I remain in the union.” Eugene Perez Jr. Recertified Bosun “I joined the union through my uncle, Joe Perez, who is a retiree. Coming from the streets of Brooklyn, New York, it was a great way to get out. I have remained in the union for 34 years and it has been the best thing that has ever happened to me. It changed my life in so many ways. I want to thank the SIU for letting me provide for my family and give them a great life.” John D. Cedeno Jr. Recertified Bosun “I joined the union in 1991 – Class 486 – straight out of high school. My stepfather was a former Crowley ship’s agent in Puerto Rico. As a teen, there were times when I joined him as he boarded docking vessels. The captains of those vessels would always greet me with, ‘You look like a strong teen, you would be a great seafarer.’ At 18, I decided I wanted to be a part of the SIU, and I have remained in the union for many reasons. Most importantly, I have a level of security and a stable financial backing that has allowed me to provide for my family.” October 2018 �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 ZEIN ACHMAD Brother Zein Achmad, 69, signed on with the SIU in 1980, initially working on the Santa Mercedes. A steward department member, he upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Achmad most recently sailed on the Maersk Idaho. He resides in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. ENRIQUE AGOSTO Brother Enrique Agosto, 60, became a union member in 1981, first sailing aboard the Long Beach. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Agosto’s last vessel was the Ocean Jazz. He makes his home in Houston. LARRY COKLEY Brother Larry Cokley, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1988 when he sailed on the Bay Ridge. He was a deck department member and frequently enhanced his skills at the Piney Point school. Brother Cokley last sailed on the Horizon Hunter. He lives in San Pablo, California. JOSAN CONSTANTIN Brother Josan Constantin, 66, donned the SIU colors in 2001 when he worked aboard the USNS Heezen. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Constantin most recently sailed on the Maersk Kensington. He resides in Ridgewood, New York. DONALD GEARHART Brother Donald Gearhart, 63, began his career with the Seafarers in 1977, first sailing aboard the Mt. Washington. He was a deck department member and a frequent upgrader at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center. Brother Gearhart concluded his career aboard the USNS Pollux. He calls Portland, Pennsylvania, home. JOSEPH HOLZINGER Brother Joseph Holzinger, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1990 when he sailed aboard the Cape Carthage. He was an engine department member and regularly upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Holzinger’s last vessel was the Trader. He calls Corona, California, home. CHROMER JEFFERSON Brother Chromer Jefferson, 65, October 2018 became a member of the union in 1979 when he sailed on the Merrimac. An engine department member, he enhanced his skills on a frequent basis at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. Brother Jefferson most recently sailed aboard the Maersk Chicago before settling in Las Vegas. JENNIFER JIM Sister Jennifer Jim, 58, signed on with the union in 1981, when she worked aboard the Independence. She was a steward department member and enhanced her skills on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Sister Jim’s last vessel was the Horizon Reliance. She makes her home in Kappa, Hawaii. JOSEPH LEBEAU Brother Joseph LeBeau, 68, became a member of the SIU in 1968, first working on the Alcoa Explorer. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills on several occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother LeBeau most recently sailed on the Bellatrix. He lives in New Orleans. GEORGE PAPUCHIS Brother George Papuchis, 65, began his career with the Seafarers in 1970 when he worked for C.G. Willis. He enhanced his skills in 2002 when he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center. A member of the deck department, Brother Papuchis last sailed aboard the USNS Regulus. He calls Ephraim, Utah, home. GEORGE PRICE Brother George Price, 66, started his seafaring career in 1977. He initially worked for Crescent Towing and sailed in the deck department. Brother Price took advantage of the upgrading opportunities at the unionaffiliated Piney Point school, enhancing his skills often. He most recently shipped on the Charleston Express, and resides in Kenner, Louisiana. EDWIN RIVERA Brother Edwin Rivera, 63, joined the SIU in 1979. A deck department member, he first sailed aboard the Mount Explorer. Brother Rivera upgraded often at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. He last sailed on the Garden State before settling in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. ANTONIO SIMON Brother Antonio Simon, 49, signed on with the union in 1994. He first worked aboard the Sealift Pacific and was a member of the engine department. Brother Simon upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center before concluding his career aboard the Ocean Giant. He resides in Mobile, Alabama. STEVE SMITH Brother Steve Smith, 62, joined the SIU in 1998 when he worked for Penn Maritime. He sailed in the deck department and enhanced his skills on several occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Smith last worked on the Steven W. Pless before settling in Stanhope, New Jersey. RAFAEL TANNIS Brother Rafael Tannis, 70, began sailing with the SIU in 2001. One of his first Seafarers-crewed vessels was the Maersk Maine. A member of the deck department, he upgraded at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center. Brother Tannis last sailed on the Maersk Denver. He resides in Bronx, New York. ROBERTO ZAPATA Brother Roberto Zapata, 66, became a member of the union in 2001 when he sailed aboard the Global Link. He was a deck department member and last worked on the Liberty Pride. Brother Zapata makes his home in Houston. BRUCE ZENON Brother Bruce Zenon, 65, joined the SIU in 1989, initially sailing aboard the OMI Champion. An engine department member, he upgraded his skills often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Zenon most recently sailed on the Safmarine Nimba. He calls Gretna, Louisiana, home. deck department member regularly enhanced his skills at the Piney Point school. Brother Gallagher most recently sailed aboard the H. Lee White and settled in Alpena, Michigan. TERENCE HIRN Brother Terence Hirn, 65, started his career with the Seafarers in 1995, initially working for Upper Lakes Towing. He was a deck department member and often upgradeded his skills at the Piney Point school. Brother Hirn last worked on the Prentiss Brown. He makes his home in Bark River, Michigan. INLAND JIMMY DUGGAN Brother Jimmy Duggan, 56, began his career with the union in 1998 when he worked for Crowley Towing. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Duggan remained with the same company for his entire career and makes his home in Jacksonville, Florida. KENNETH BLUITT Brother Kenneth Bluitt, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1971, initially sailing on the Baltimore. A member of the deck department, he frequently upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Bluitt most recently sailed on the Burns Harbor and settled in Delray Beach, Florida. SCOTT GALLAGHER Brother Scott Gallagher, 51, signed on with the SIU in 1989 when he worked for Bob-Lo Island. The Brother Robert Henninger, 62, signed on with the SIU in 1973. He worked for Moran Towing of Maryland for the majority of his career. Brother Henninger makes his home in Baltimore. ALAN LEONARD Brother Alan Leonard, 62, joined the SIU in 1990, initially working for Mariner Towing. He was a deck department member and last worked for OSG Ship Management. He calls Palm Harbor, Florida, home. PHILIP ROBINSON Brother Philip Robinson, 62, became a Seafarer in 1979, initially working for Crowley Towing and Transportation. The engine department member upgraded in 2000 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Robinson concluded his career with Crowley and resides in DeLeon Springs, Florida. STEVEN SORENSON Brother Steven Sorenson, 65, began his career with the Seafarers in 1993. He was a deck department member and sailed with American Marine for his entire career. Brother Sorenson last sailed aboard the California and calls Westminster, California, home. DANIEL GODWIN RORY ST. JOHN Brother Daniel Godwin, 57, joined the SIU in 1992. A deck department member, he worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation for the duration of his career. Brother Godwin calls Jacksonville, Florida, home. Brother Rory St John, 58, joined the SIU in 1997, initially working for Crowley Towing and Transportation. A deck department member, he worked for the same company for the duration of his SIU career. Brother St. John lives in Jacksonville, Florida. JAMES GRENFELL GREAT LAKES ROBERT HENNINGER Brother James Grenfell, 62, joined the SIU in 1975, initially working for Steuart Transportation. A member of the deck department, he upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Grenfell concluded his career with OSG Ship Management and makes his home in the Marshall Islands. ROY HONEYCUTT Brother Roy Honeycutt, 62, began his SIU career in 1995 when he worked for Cape Fear Towing. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Honeycutt remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He resides in Supply, North Caro lina. HOWARD THOMULKA Brother Howard Thomulka, 63, signed on with the SIU in 1974 when he worked for Interstate Oil. A deck department member, he enhanced his skills in 1991 at the maritime training center in Piney Point. Brother Thomulka concluded his career working for Piney Point Transportation before settling in Oxford, Pennsylvania. NMU CLARENCE WALLACE Brother Clarence Wallace, 65, was an NMU member before the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. He resides in Bronx, New York. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA MOHAMAD ABDULLAH Brother Mohamad Abdullah, 55, passed away May 1. He embarked on his Seafarers career in 1991, initially sailing aboard the Hawaii. An engine department member, Brother Abdullah most recently sailed in 2016, on the Eugene A. Obregon. He was a resident of Daly City, California. KENNETH ADAMCZAK Pensioner Kenneth Adamczak, 78, died August 22. He joined the SIU in 1977, first sailing on the JT Hutchinson. Brother Adamczak was an engine department member and last sailed on the El Morro. He went on pension in 2006 and made his home in Ocala, Florida. ALBERT ALEXANDER Pensioner Albert Alexander, 74, passed away August 15. He was born in Norfolk, Virginia, and joined the union in 1965 when he worked for Waterman Steamship Corporation. A deck department member, he last sailed aboard the Performance. Brother Alexander retired in 2003 and settled in Virginia Beach, Virginia. LIONEL DUNKINS Pensioner Lionel Dunkins, 82, died August 29. He joined the union in 1960 and first sailed on the Navigator. Brother Dunkins was a member of the steward department and his last vessel was the Williamette. He began collecting his pension in 1998 and called Mobile, Alabama, home. BOBBY GILLAIN Pensioner Bobby Gillain, 85, passed away May 29. Born in Alabama, he signed on with the SIU in 1960. A deck department member, Brother Gillain first shipped on the Beaugard. He last sailed with Michigan Tankers, in 1980, and resided in Birmingham, Alabama. ALFREDO MARTINEZ-SABIO Pensioner Alfredo Martinez-Sabio, 80, died September 3. He became an SIU member in 2005, initially sailing aboard the Atlantic Forest. Brother MartinezSabio was a steward department mem- 18 Seafarers LOG ber, and he last sailed aboard the Integrity. He began collecting his pension in 2009 and lived in Bronx, New York. 1990, initially sailing on the Gopher State. An engine department member, he most recently sailed on the USNS Stockham. Brother Zalewski lived in Chesapeake, Virginia. RONALD MATHEWS Brother Ronald Mathews, 70, passed away July 12. He began his career with the SIU in 1964. A steward department member, he last sailed aboard the Seatrain Texas. Brother Mathews was a resident of Baltimore. FRANK NIGRO Pensioner Frank Nigro, 95, died July 25. He joined the union in 1951 and initially worked for Waterman Steamship Corporation. Brother Nigro was born in San Antonio, Texas, and was a member of the steward department. He last sailed aboard the Cape Ann, and lived in College Station, Texas. EUGENIO OYA Pensioner Eugenio Oya, 86, passed away July 23. Born in Spain, he joined the SIU in 1960 when he sailed on the Corsair. A deck department member, Brother Oya last shipped on the Express. He went on pension in 2002 and made his home in Brownsville, Texas. GREAT LAKES LEO NOLDE Pensioner Leo Nolde, 65, passed away August 20. He became an SIU member in 2005 and first shipped on the Paul H. Townsend. A member of the deck department, Brother Nolde’s last vessel was the Steel T. Crapo. He became a pensioner in 2018 and called Escanaba, Michigan, home. INLAND DUANE MADDEN Pensioner Duane Madden, 87, died August 14. He joined the union in 1968 and spent most of his career working for Interstate Oil. A deck department member, Brother Madden retired in 1994 and resided in Pennsauken, New Jersey. resident of Flushing, New York, he retired in 1969. LEVERN HUGHES W.F. MILES Pensioner W.F. Miles, 86, passed away July 30. He signed on with the union in 1967 when he worked for Dravo Basic Materials. Brother Miles was a deck department member and remained with the same company until his retirement in 1998. He lived in DeFuniak Springs, Florida. RAILROAD MARINE OSCAR HOLTON Pensioner Oscar Holton, 98, died August 28. He was born in Portsmouth, Virginia, and worked in the Railroad Marine division. Brother Holton became a pensioner in 1966 and settled in Chesapeake, Virginia. Pensioner Levern Hughes, 89, died August 5. Brother Hughes was native of North Carolina and became a pensioner in 1994. He continued to live in his home state in the city of Fayetteville. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. Name Age Ardoin, James 90 Chase, Levi 75 Daniels, George 91 El Jahmi, Abdeh 82 Garcia, Benjamin 91 Givens, James 76 Inman, Daniel 90 Landberg, Lawrence 90 Wallace, Dewaine 80 DOD 08/04/2018 08/28/2018 08/04/2018 08/05/2018 08/17/2018 08/02/2018 08/08/2018 08/22/2018 04/19/2018 NMU THOMAS COOK Pensioner Thomas Cook, 91, passed away August 19. Brother Cook was born in Brooklyn, New York. A Pic From The Past JOSEPH SADLER Pensioner Joseph Sadler, 89, died August 18. He was born in Bel Air, Maryland, and joined the union in 1953. Brother Sadler first worked for New York Dock Railway. An engine department member, he last sailed aboard the Denebola. Brother Sadler retired in 1994 and lived in Coventry, Rhode Island. JAMES SIMMS Pensioner James Simms, 79, passed away August 22. He signed on with the SIU in 1959, initially sailing on the Edith. Brother Simms worked in both the deck department and steward department and last sailed on the John Paul Bobo. He became a pensioner in 2001 and was a resident of Baltimore. PHILIP ZALEWSKI Brother Philip Zalewski, 69, died August 5. He joined the union in Seafarers hit the chow line at the SIU hall in New York during the General Strike of 1946. In September of that year, the strike stopped all shipping throughout the U.S. maritime industry. The strikers, Seafarers prominently included, objected to the government’s post-war National Wage Stabilization Board order that reduced pay increases already negotiated by maritime unions. After eight days, the board rescinded the order and the strike was called off. 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 October 2018 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings ALASKAN FRONTIER (Alaska Tanker Company), May 20 – Chairman Jose Loureiro, Secretary Lewis Johansen, Educational Director Marion Collins, Deck Delegate Ramon Guimba, Engine Delegate Corey Hann, Steward Delegate Justo Reyes. Ship laying up in Labuan for unknown time period. Chairman thanked deck department members for controlling noise during tank cleaning operations and noted good morale among crew. Secretary reminded everyone to stay hydrated. Educational director encouraged members to take advantage of upgrading opportunities at Piney Point and to be sure documents are in order. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members read president’s report from Seafarers LOG. Chairman commended steward department for outstanding food and thanked Corey Hann for buying donuts for shipmates. Next Port: Singapore. OCEAN GLORY (Crowley), June 3 – Chairman Evan Bradley, Secretary Diani Melendez Castillo, Educational Director James Donohue. Ship passed Coast Guard inspection. All departments commended for working well together. Internet currently not working. Captain allowing crew to use satellite phone to check allotment status. Crew doing well with keeping ship clean. Secretary reiterated importance of internet use for members. Educational director reminded crew to keep documents up to date. He encouraged members to upgrade at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Parts for broken washer to arrive when vessel 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. is in Suez Canal. MAERSK HARTFORD (Maersk Line, Limited), June 9 – Chairman Karl Mayhew, Secretary Johnnie McGill, Educational Director Shawn Clark, Deck Delegate Jose Bermudez, Engine Delegate Abdulnaser Saeed, Steward Delegate Angel Bernardez. Discussion held concerning needs for an additional electrician. Educational director reminded members to come to him for guidance with STCW information. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members see lack of consistency for overtime availability, particularly for deck department. Steward department was thanked for their excellence while remaining within budget. Members suggested modifying contract language pertaining to watch standers. Next Port: Newark, New Jersey. MAERSK KENTUCKY (Maersk Line, Limited), June 14 – Chairman Albert Williams, Secretary Wilma Jackson, Educational Director Patrick Milton, Deck Delegate Dominic Marco, Steward Delegate Wardell Paze. Members requested new chairs for crew lounge. Chairman and secretary thanked everyone for working safely. Steward delegate reported ongoing issue regarding food shortage. Members asked for an increase in vacation time and increased medical benefits. Crew requested a rice cooker on ship. Steward department doing a great job. Next Port: Norfolk, Virginia. MAERSK COLUMBUS (Maersk Line, Limited), June 16 – Chair- man Ion Irimia, Educational Director Donald Williams, Deck Delegate Michael Ratigan, Steward Delegate Gertrudis Arzu. Chairman and secretary thanked everyone for a nice and safe trip. Educational director encouraged members to attend upgrading courses at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New contract on ship. Members requested more computers along with Wi-Fi access. Crew asks for 32-inch TVs as per contract as well as correctly sized mattresses for beds. Members would like transportation to and from ship in South Carolina and Georgia. bursement increase when traveling to and from airports. Vote of thanks to steward department for great service and food. Next Port: Newark, New Jersey. MAERSK SELETAR (Maersk Line, Limited), June 17 – Chairman Cleofe Bernardez-Castro, Secretary Steven Dickson, Educational Director Steven Miller, Deck Delegate Ronmel Lopez, Engine Delegate Gregorio Clotter, Steward Delegate Brian McEleney. Chairman informed members of payoff in Newark. Secretary reminded crew to be sure all documents are updated and renewed in advance. He advised members to vote for candidates that support the Jones Act. Educational director urged members to upgrade at the Piney Point school as often as possible and recommended they enroll in the Seafarers 401(k) Plan. He encouraged crew to donate to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New hard drive purchased for movies in crew lounge. Members await installation of satellite phone. Crew was reminded to keep common areas clean and ready for arriving members. Certain crew quarters in need of new transformers. Members request travel reim- MAERSK DENVER (Maersk Line, Limited), June 23 – Chairman Arsenio Obenza, Secretary Caezar Mercado, Educational Director Julio Gomez, Engine Delegate Sandra Baker, Steward Delegate Yolanda Martinez. Washer and dryer in need of repair. Chairman thanked everyone for working safely. He reminded crew to leave clean rooms for oncoming members. Chairman advised members to update credentials before seeking new jobs at the hiring hall. Secretary reminded crew about updated benefits effective in July. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew still awaits update on Wi-Fi and satellite TV. Members request a new monitor in computer room. New mattresses to arrive in Norfolk, Virginia. Next Port: Charleston, South Carolina. CHEMICAL PIONEER (USS Transport), June 20 – Chairman Trevorous Ellison. Chairman reminded members to keep documents current and upgrade at Piney Point. He urged crew to support SPAD. Chairman congratulated everyone on maintaining safe working conditions. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks to the steward department for great food. JEAN ANNE (Pasha), June 26 – Chairman Noel Camacho, Secretary David Stephens, Edu- cational Director David Watkins, Deck Delegate Dennis Bracamonte, Engine Delegate Rosalio Cordova, Steward Delegate Mary Maddox. Chairman welcomed new Steward Stephens. Educational director advised members to apply for scholarships and upgrade at the school. Members discussed new prescription medication regulations and were encouraged to donate to SPAD. Engine delegate urged crew to keep on top of documents. He discussed physical exam requirements, including how often they’re due. MARJORIE C (Pasha), July 7 – Chairman Daniel Davenport, Secretary Samuel Sinclair, Educational Director Milan Dzurek, Deck Delegate Billy Cooley, Engine Delegate Sutthipong Ticer, Steward Delegate Jatniel Aguilera Santiago. Chairman said GVAs will assist electrician with refer duty cargo watch in Honolulu and Los Angeles. He reiterated importance of keeping documents up to date. Chairman also asked members for input with crew requests for purchases of movies and other entertainment items. Educational director encouraged members to donate to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. State rooms now have refrigerators. Permanent shelving and securing will be provided by deck department. To limit disruptions, members asked that meal times be adjusted for riding crew. Members request repair of dishwasher and use of deep fryer. Steward department thanked for hard work including good meals and stripping and waxing passageways. Next Port: Honolulu. 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 October 2018 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 19 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Gap Closing Courses Leadership & Managerial Skills October 13 Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 October 13 October 20 November 3 November 24 December 8 October 19 October 26 November 9 November 30 December 14 Date of Completion October 19 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training/Basic FF November 3 November 9 Basic Training Revalidation November 9 November 30 December 7 December 14 November 9 November 30 December 7 December 14 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation October 13 October 19 Government Vessels October 27 November 10 December 1 November 2 November 16 December 7 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL October 13 October 19 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG October 20 December 8 October 26 December 14 Storekeeper Courses MSC Supply Configuration Management October 20 November 16 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck October 20 November 16 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Students will be advised of dates once accepted. ARPA October 20 October 26 100 Ton Master October 13 November 2 ECDIS October 20 October 26 Lifeboat October 20 November 17 December 15 November 2 November 30 December 28 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW November 17 Notice to All 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. December 14 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers December 1 December 14 BAPO November 17 December 14 FOWT October 20 November 16 Junior Engineer October 27 December 21 Welding October 27 November 16 Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Ops November 10 December 7 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start October 15. Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 October 27 December 1 November 2 December 7 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 # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG 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, or 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. 10/18 October 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #839 – Graduated July 13 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): William Alston III, Roberto Enrique Anaya, Kendall Davis, Zena Louise Escobedo McQuade, Antonio Manuel Gonzales-Esteves, Lorenz Grice, Roman Hutson, Matthew Katona, Robert Kennedy, Derwood Lupton, Zion Lyons, Jackson McDaniel, Attalah Moore, Michael Nims, Andrew Robey, and Christian Vincent. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Also graduating with this class was upgrader William Sullivan (photo below). BAPO – Graduated June 29 (above, in alphabetical order): Frederic Salazar Agsalud, Keondre Bell and Srawut Petchsaitip. Radar Observer – Graduated June 29 (above, in alphabetical order): Glenn Agustin, Timothy Hess, Mason Melland and Shoal Nervo. Advanced Refer Maintenance – Graduated June 15 ((photo at left, in alphabetical order): Derrick Clark, Cirico Laurea Geonanga Jr., Darrell Goggins, Nat Lamb, Lionel Rivera and Steven Tatum McField. Class instructor William Dodd is at the far right. Small Arms – Graduated June 8 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Keith Butts Jr., Timothy Chestnut, William Dowzicky III, William Howell III, Thomas Moore, Gary Torres and Nicholas Turano. Important Notice To All 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. October 2018 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Government Vessels – Graduated June 29 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Felsher Beasley Jr., Jack Ford II, Shavonne Freeman, Daniel Harris, Derrick Horvath, Michael Hunnicutt, Thomas McConville, Montree Nakwichet, Eddy Newman, Robert Owens Sr., Patricia Placek, Marvin Sacaza, George Steube III and Nicole Walton. GMDSS – Graduated June 15 (photo above, in alphabetical order): Daniel Harris, Kelly Krick Jr., Reisa Marie Martinez-Serrano, Mason Melland, Harry Schrefer III, Gavin Scott and Nicholas Selle. Instructor Patrick Schoenberger is at the far left in the back row. Fast Rescue Boat - Graduated July 13 (above, starting from center) Tyler Durant and Shea Connor. Also graduating, but not pictured, was Welton Grooms. Instructor Tom Truitt is at the left. Tank Ship Familiarization DL – Graduated June 15 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Shawn Cox, Michael Palle Durago, Michael Elmore Jr., Shavonne Freeman, Larry Manuel Genetiano, Karen Gossett, Alonzo Griswell, Shantaz Harper, Kennard Latson Graham, Antonio McAdams, Andres Nunezs-Rochez, Charles Ortiz Quinones, Jonathan Perez Borroto Sanchez, Alex Reyes, Marcus Smith, Rahjahn Travail Sorey, Mario Standberry and Giancarlo Arturo Thomae. Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Graduated June 8 (above, in alphabetical order): Romeo Barredo Bendico, Shawn Cox, Ronald Drew, Aaron Ellis, Michael Elmore Jr., Larry Manuel Genetiano, Alonzo Griswell, Shantaz Harper, Kennard Latson Graham, Montree Nakwichet, Charles Ortiz Quinones, Jonathan Perez Borroto Sanchez, Ricardo Flores Salazar, Marcus Smith, Thomas Smith and Giancarlo Arturo Thomae. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 22 Seafarers LOG October 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Basic Training Revalidation – Graduated June 15 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Michael Barron, Robert Eastwood, David Greenamyer, Thomas Griffin, Kevin Hale, Jasper Hayward, David Kendrick, Christopher Kibodeaux, Anthony Kimbrell, Maximo Sarabia Lambert, Montree Nakwichet and Justin Enrique Valencia Rodriguez. Instructor Joseph Zienda is at the far right. Basic Firefighting (Upgraders) – Graduated June 22 (above, in alphabetical order): Tucker Bailey, Peter Crum, Cody Higgs, Derrick Horvath, Kevin Hunt, Exavier Jackson, Shawn Kelly, Reisa Marie Martinez-Serrano, Thomas McConville, Kyle Moccia, Jim Nausbaum, Rolando Nazareno, Robert Owens Sr., Gheorghe Savencu and Michael Zampella. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Certified Chief Cook (Module 3) – Graduated June 15: Sherron Davita DeCoteau. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated June 29 (above, from left) Isaac Newsome Jr., Tracey Newsome and Jatniel Cesar Aguilera Santiago. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated June 22 (above, in alphabetical order): Antoinette Michelle Amato, Thomas Kleine, Marcus Rowe and Gerald Toledo. October 2018 Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated June 8: Paul Diesner (above, left) and Diogenes Camaongay Derecho. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated June 15 (above, in alphabetical order): Brian Burchett, Ronald Drew, Adele George, Benedict Nazareno Opaon and Jermaine Robinson. Chief Steward – Graduated June 8 (above, in alphabetical order): Gilbert Tito Allende Jr., Frances-Brian Toledo Bautista, Carmelo Calderon Santini, Marguerite Diggs and Anthony Harrell Jr. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Seafarers LOG 23 �F E B R U A R2018 Y 2014 OCTOBER o VO L U M E 780, 6 NO. NO VOLUME 10. 2 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 Framed Photo has Special Meaning for Bosun F or Recertified Bosun Carlos Loureiro, 1,000 words wouldn’t begin to cover the experiences he can recall when viewing an unexpectedly acquired photo of the Overseas New York and Alaskan Frontier. While the longtime Seafarer has sailed on many different vessels since joining the union in 1991, he has spent the majority of his career aboard those two ships, dating back to when he first signed onto the New York in June 1996. (That ship was built in 1977 and scrapped in 2005. There’s also a current SIU-crewed tanker named Overseas New York.) Last year, he finished what he thought was his last voyage on the Frontier before the vessel was going to enter deep layup overseas. (The ship subsequently continued sailing until June 2018, then went into layup.) Prior to descending the gangway for what he believed was one final time, he followed friendly orders from an Alaska Tanker Company (ATC) official to find a new home for the photo, which had been taken down specifically for Loureiro after being on display aboard the ship since 2004. “The photo was taken near Valdez, Alaska, during the Alaskan Frontier’s maiden voyage in 2004,” the bosun recalled. “We were anchored for five days at Knowles Head, and the New York was there at the same time. We put a fast rescue boat in the water and took photos. I remember thinking at the time, ‘This picture is mine, and it’s eventually going home with me.’ It took a while, but I did end up with it.” He continued, “That picture has a lot of meaning for me. You’ve got all this time on two ships – that’s something you always want to remember, something I can show my grandkids.” (He has two grandchildren.) While most of his memories of working on those vessels are positive, the ships themselves are “totally different,” he pointed out. “For starters, they had different plants. One was a steamship (the New York) and the other is diesel/ electric. The New York was 90,000 dwt and would carry about 650,000 barrels of oil, whereas the Frontier is 193,000 dwt and carries 1.3 million barrels. One thing they do have in common is they both were built in the same ship- SIU members, including these mariners from the Alaskan Frontier, have significantly contributed to Alaska Tanker Company’s outstanding safety record – a source of pride for all concerned. yard, NASSCO (a union facility in San Diego).” Both ships also stayed on a West Coast run, normally with stops in California, Washington, Alaska and Hawaii. They also had the same operator, Alaska Tanker Company (though the New York initially was run by OSG). “It’s a top-of-the-line company,” the bosun said. “They treat you right, there’s good morale on the ships, and the money is good. There’s a lot of emphasis on safety. “In fact, we are really proud of the safety accomplishments over the years,” Recertified Bosun Carlos Loureiro has spent most of his SIU career on the Alaskan Frontier (larger ship in foreground of photo) and on the old Overseas New York (vessel at right). he continued. “It’s a team effort all the way and the company and crews have earned an outstanding safety record.” Indeed, ATC has accumulated a substantial collection of well-earned safety awards. That list includes the Governor’s 2017 Special Achievement Award, presented during a conference in Anchorage, Alaska. ATC was recognized for its crews having completed more than 21 million man-hours (spanning 15 years) with only a single lost-time injury (a broken finger). Ironically, while the Alaskan Frontier entered service almost three decades after the New York, Loureiro (who completed the bosun recertification course in 1997) said the older vessel had at least one advantage: “It had an elevator all the way down to the machine shop. On the Frontier, it’s all stairs.” Reflecting on his career, the bosun concluded that while it feels natural for him to sometimes consider retirement, he’s in no hurry. “I recently turned 62 and I’ve got my time in, but I love what I do,” he said. “ATC is a great company to work for and the SIU has helped me provide for my family all these years. There’s a lot to be thankful for.” Seafarers depart from the ship in Labuan, Malaysia. � 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 2018 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES G&H TOWING CREWS APPROVE CONTRACT CANADIAN MARITIME UNIONS WIN MAJOR CABOTAGE RIGHTS U.S. REP. MAST NAMED NEW CHAIRMAN OF MARITIME TRANSPORTATION SUBCOMMITTEE G&H BOATMEN APPROVE 3-YEAR CONTRACT PACT BOOSTS WAGES, INCLUDES ADDITIONAL IMPROVEMENTS SEN. KAINE, REP. SCOTT DISCUSS MARITIME SIU PARTICIPATES IN PORT COUNCIL GATHERING IN VIRGINIA LEXINGTON INSTITUTE: NATIONAL SECURITY REQUIRES U.S.-FLAG FLEET, U.S. MARINERS CONGRESSMAN JOHN GARAMENDI NAMED ‘CHAMPION OF MARITIME’ RATIONALE FOR LONGSTANDING MARITIME BILLS IN USA REMAINS POWERFULLY SOUND TODAY JONES ACT, CARGO PREFERENCE, MSP ALL BOOST AMERICAN SECURITY REP. BERGMAN RECEIVES LAKES HONOR GAO REPORT CITES DEFENSE FUNCTION OF AMERICA-FLAG FLEET, U.S. MERCHANT MARINERS LETTERS FROM STUDENTS BRIGHTEN MARINER’S DAY SEAFARERS CONTINUE TRADITION OF COMMUNITY SERVICE THE TUG SCHOODIC: MAN OVERBOARD? TACOMA-AREA MARINERS DONATE TIME COMPLETING PROJECT TO BENEFIT NEIGHBORS FRAMED PHOTO HAS SPECIAL MEANING FOR BOSUN 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 10/01/2018 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. 80, No. 10 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/1d7c3dd0d802f1b85d144b5220aa45e5.pdf 9b727fdbc89d28b4905f149eed66d836 PDF Text Text SEPTEMBER 2018 VOLUME 80, NO. 9 New Jones Act ConRo El Coqui Boosts Jobs, Puerto Rico Service The LNG-powered El Coqui (above) has joined the SIU-crewed Jones Act fleet, following its delivery to Crowley Maritime in July. The vessel, a combination container/roll-on roll-off ship, has started a regular run between Jacksonville, Florida, and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Page 3. (Photo courtesy Crowley Maritime) Seafarers Commend Union, School Recertified Bosuns Share Insights During Graduation The SIU’s newest class of recertified bosuns on Aug. 6 gave a rousing series of graduation speeches that offered keen insights into the union and its affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland (where the photo below was taken). The 11 members completed the top deck department curriculum available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Pages 12-14. SIU-Crewed Vessels Help Ensure Success Of Multinational Drill Eight SIU-crewed ships recently supported the multinational exercise Rim of the Pacific 2018 (RIMPAC), which took place from June 27 to August 2. In the photo above, the Seafarers-crewed USNS Carl Brashear participates in a group sail during the exercise off the coast of Hawaii, July 26. Page 24. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Arthurgwain L. Marquez) Jones Act Support Page 2 Big Win in Missouri Page 4 Lyons Leads USTRANSCOM Page 5 �President’s Report Big Win – And More Work Ahead The labor movement’s victory last month in Missouri against the state’s right-to-work (for less) law is a triumph for all working families, not just for unions. We dive into the details elsewhere in this edition, but the most important takeaway is that American workers still have a voice, and we still have clout when we join together. Leading up to the statewide vote on August 7, union members, officials and staff (including Seafarers) led a grassroots effort to educate fellow citizens about the ugly truth behind so-called right-to-work (RTW) provisions. For starters, the name is intentionally misleading. No one, after all, could possibly be opposed to the literal right to work. But we know that’s not even remotely what RTW is about. It’s actually about driving down wages, weakening workplace protections, and giving an unhealthy amount of power to management. It’s about trying to divide working women and men who’ve come together to form or join a union. Fortunately, the people of Missouri saw through Michael Sacco the big lie of RTW and overturned it in a landslide. This didn’t happen by accident – our movement worked for the win. We’ve got no shortage of other battles ahead, but our decisive victory in the Show Me State demonstrates that reports of labor’s demise have indeed been greatly exaggerated. Heartwarming Speeches Be sure to read this month’s article about the SIU’s newest class of recertified bosuns. And, if you know someone who’s considering joining our union, or just wants to know what we’re all about, give them a copy of that article or send them the link. The Seafarers who complete recertification aren’t the only members who know us extremely well, but they’re among the most familiar with how we operate. I am always energized when I hear class after class describe how the SIU and our affiliated school gave them a career opportunity, enabled them to make a good living and perhaps raise a family, and do a job they enjoy. Many members have talked about how they were able to put kids through college thanks to their maritime career, which is no small financial feat nowadays. Not every individual story is identical, of course, but there are usually common threads. In many cases, including with the new class of bosuns, those stories involve multi-generation SIU families. There’s no greater compliment to our organization and our way of life than for a parent to encourage a son or daughter to join up. And you have my word that we will continue doing everything possible to earn that confidence and trust. Register and Vote As mentioned above, when working families join together for grassroots activism, we get things done. And on that note, you know it’s an election year when I’m constantly tossing out reminders to make sure you’re registered, and to either head to the polls on November 6 or vote absentee if you’ll be on a ship at that time. Brothers and sisters, I cannot over-emphasize that our union does not care about political party! We care about the maritime industry and about workers’ rights. And we will work with anyone who supports the U.S. Merchant Marine and the American labor movement, regardless of whether they’re a Republican, a Democrat or an Independent. Check with your port agent if you’re not sure where the union stands on a particular candidate or issue. But meanwhile, the first step is to make sure you’re registered. It’s really easy to do online – visit vote.org or usa. gov/register-to-vote to get started. Our industry’s survival depends on political support. The best way forward – so that American-flag shipping doesn’t merely survive, but grows – is to elect people at every level of government who agree that the U.S. Merchant Marine is vital to national, economic and homeland security. Volume 80 Number 9 September 2018 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org Source: American Maritime Partnership Jones Act Has No Effect on Prices in Puerto Rico New Report Thoroughly Examines Cabotage Law, U.S. Territory Economists from Boston-based Reeve & Associates and San Juanbased Estudios Técnicos, Inc. on July 18 released a joint report, “The Impact of the Jones Act on Puerto Rico,” that concluded the Jones Act has no impact on either retail prices or the cost of living in Puerto Rico. In addition, the report found that the state-of-the-art maritime technology, Puerto-Rico focused investments, and dedicated closed-loop service offered by Jones Act carriers provide a significant positive economic impact to the island, at freight rates lower or comparable to similar services to other Caribbean Islands. In the first comprehensive report on the impact of the Jones Act in Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria, the authors analyzed the economic impact of the Jones Act – a critical economic and national security law that ensures goods transported from U.S. port to U.S. port be carried on vessels that are Americancrewed, American-built, Americanowned and American-flagged. The report analyzed the impact on consumers by evaluating the competitiveness of freight rates in the United States/Puerto Rico market, the qual- ity of service provided by the Jones Act carriers, and the impact of the carriers’ freight rates on the prices of goods shipped between the United States mainland and Puerto Rico. “There has been much debate about the impact of the Jones Act on Puerto Rico, particularly following Hurricane Maria,” said John Reeve, the principal in Reeve & Associates and the lead economist on the study. “The findings of our analysis show that reliable, efficient, and regular Jones Act services benefit consumers and businesses on the island, and no evidence suggests that exempting Puerto Rico from the Jones Act would reduce consumer prices in Puerto Rico. On the contrary, such an action may well increase prices.” “The results were overwhelmingly conclusive regarding the economic contributions of the Jones Act to Puerto Rico. Their detailed, fact-based analysis found that Puerto Rico received very similar or lower shipping freight rates when compared to neighboring islands and that the transportation costs have no impact on retail prices on the island,” said Matt Woodruff, chairman of the American Maritime Partner- Members of Congress, Economists, U.S. Maritime Industry Leaders Underscore Importance of Jones Act The U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation conducted a roundtable discussion July 26 titled “The Impact of the Jones Act on Consumer Prices in Puerto Rico.” The bipartisan group of congressional members, economists and maritime leaders – including SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez – discussed the findings of a new fact-based, comprehensive study on the economic importance of the nation’s freight cabotage law to Puerto Rico and highlighted its significant economic and national security contributions to the island and nation. In addition to Tellez, other guest panelists included John Reeve, economist and principal, Reeve & Associates; Michael G. Roberts, senior vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary for Crowley Maritime; and Jonathan Kaskin, national vice president for legislative affairs, Navy League of the United States. In the newly released report, “The Impact of the U.S. Jones Act on Puerto Rico,” economists from Boston-based Reeve & Associates and San Juan-based Estudios Tecnicos, Inc., concluded that the Jones Act has no impact on either retail ship, a coalition to which the SIU is affiliated. “Moreover, the study found that prior claims and press reports that questioned the value of the Jones Act to Puerto Rico were erroneous and their validity completely undermined when compared to the economic facts at hand.” In summary, the findings include: Q� The Jones Act has no impact on either retail prices or the cost of living in Puerto Rico. The report found that shipping costs between the mainland and Puerto Rico make up only a small percentage of the retail price. For example, ocean shipping accounts for just three cents (or two percent) in the retail price of $1.58 for a can of chicken soup in San Juan. It found that, “[e]ssentially, transportation costs for Puerto Rico are not materially different than those on the mainland.” Q� A market basket analysis of an assortment of consumer goods at Walmart Stores in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Jacksonville, Florida, found there was “no significant difference in the prices of either grocery items or durable goods between See Report, Page 7 prices or the cost of living in Puerto Rico (see related story, this page). In his opening remarks, U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-California), chairman of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Marine Transportation, reminded attendees about the importance of the Jones Act to the nation and the need to explain the facts about the law. “The bottom line is that the Jones Act was designed to maintain domestic U.S. shipbuilding capacity and to create employment opportunities for American mariners – American jobs, serving American commerce,” Hunter said. “These shipyards, welders, and mariners are the same individuals we would rely on to provide our country the maritime capacity required in times of conflict. There have been a lot See House, Page 7 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2018 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (third from right at table in foreground) and other panelists discuss the Jones Act with members of Congress. 2 Seafarers LOG September 2018 �El Coqui, a ConRo, Joins SIU-Crewed Fleet SIU members are sailing aboard a new addition to the Seafarers-contracted fleet. Crowley Maritime in late July took delivery of the El Coqui, one of the world’s first combination container/roll-on roll-off (ConRo) ships powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). Less than two weeks later, an SIU crew helped complete the vessel’s successful maiden voyage as the ship delivered cargo from Jacksonville, Florida, to Crowley’s modernized Isla Grande Terminal in San Juan, Puerto Rico. “The SIU is excited about this brand-new ship, which will sail in the Jones Act trade,” stated SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “I’m confident that the SIU crew will continue to demonstrate their usual outstanding professionalism. It’s also worth pointing out that new ships like the El Coqui help boost America’s national, economic and homeland security.” Among the Seafarers comprising the El Coqui’s first crew were Recertified Bosun Abel Vazquez Torres, ABs Victor Cortes Maldonado, Julio Perez, Kemer Rojas, Richard Scales, John Telles and Manuel Rodriguez Maldonado, Electrician Rodney PassaperaBarbosa, QMEDs Hector Ginel and Christian Rosado, Oiler Edwin Velez, Recertified Steward Kimberly Strate, Chief Cook Bryan Alvarez, and SA La’sonia Randolph. Built at VT Halter Marine Inc., the El Coqui is the first of two Commitment Class ships being constructed for Crowley’s shipping and logistics services between Jacksonville and San Juan. Construction of sister ship Taino is well underway at VT Halter Marine’s facility in Pascagoula, Mississippi; that vessel is scheduled to enter service later this year. The new vessels are 720 feet in length, 26,500 deadweight tons (DWT), and will be able to transport up to 2,400 twenty-foot-equivalent container units (TEUs) at a cruising speed of 22 knots. According to Crowley, “A wide range of container sizes and types will be accommodated, including 53-foot by 102-inch-wide, high-capacity containers, up to 300 refrigerated containers, and a mix of about 400 cars and larger vehicles in the enclosed, ventilated and weather-tight Ro/ Ro decks. This type of shipboard garage is offered exclusively by Crowley in the trade.” Following the acquisition of the El Coqui (named for the popular indigenous frog in Puerto Rico), Crowley Maritime Chairman and CEO Tom Crowley stated, “This delivery represents another milestone in our unwavering commitment to Puerto Rico and the Jones Act. We have dedicated significant time, effort and more than $550 million, which includes these new ships, to transform our Puerto Rico shipping and logistics services to world-class standards. We thank the men and women at Crowley, VT Halter Marine and other partners, who have dedicated themselves to bringing this magnificent new ship to life.” Matthew Paxton, president of the Shipbuild- ers Council of America, added, “This is a thrilling time for the U.S. shipbuilding industry, as evolutions in LNG technology are providing a historic opportunity for American yards and the supporting industrial base to design, build and outfit some of the most technically advanced and environmentally friendly vessels that are the envy of the world. American skill and ingenuity, as well as critical laws like the Jones Act, serve as the backbone of our industry and embolden innovation and investment in domestic shipbuilding. El Coqui is a shining example of the work being done each day in our industry, and we are proud to support her, her crew and those who built her….” The Jones Act is a federal law that regulates maritime commerce in the United States. The Jones Act requires goods shipped between U.S. ports to be transported on vessels that are crewed, built, owned and operated by United States citizens or permanent residents. Also known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, the law is vitally important to maintaining a strong U.S. maritime capability. Besides full loads of dry containers, the El Coqui’s inaugural cargo also included various equipment and automobiles, trucks and SUVs, as well as refrigerated containers for produce. “We have eagerly anticipated this initial port call for some time now, and very much look forward to the added speed and efficiency that this high-performing ship will add to our customers’ supply chains,” said Frank Larkin, Crowley’s senior vice president and general manager, logistics and commercial services. “The ship’s reduced transit time complements major investments in technology and other infrastructure upgrades to our terminals that make it easier and quicker for our trucking partners to access our terminals for cargo moves. We’ve also evolved our warehouse operations to bring greater efficiencies all the way through to final mile deliveries. We’ve created greater speed to market all the way around.” “This momentous occasion marks yet another milestone in our historic Commitment Class project, which ultimately offers shippers faster and more efficient logistics services that will match the needs of consumers and businesses in Puerto Rico,” said Jose “Pache” Ayala, vice president, Crowley Puerto Rico services, in San Juan. The company reported that fueling the ships with LNG “will reduce emissions significantly, including a 100-percent reduction in sulphur oxide (SOx) and particulate matter (PM); a 92-percent reduction in nitrogen oxide (NOx); and a reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) of more than 35 percent per container, compared with current fossil fuels. Working with Eagle LNG Partners, the ships will be bunkered from a shoreside fuel depot at JAXPORT.” These snapshots, courtesy of Crowley, show the El Coqui during its maiden voyage. The ship made its first delivery July 30 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. OSG Orders Two Tankers, One Barge Seafarers-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG) made two big announcements in July, and the results will mean more jobs for SIU members. On July 16, OSG reported that it has signed contracts with a Korean shipyard to build two product chemical tankers September 2018 that will sail under the Stars and Stripes. Two weeks later, on July 31, OSG announced an agreement for construction of a 204,000-barrel oil and chemical tank barge for dual-mode integrated tug-barge (ITB) service. The two tankers, slated for delivery during the second half of 2019, will be built at Hyundai Mipo Dockyard Company’s Ulsan, Korea, facilities. In a news release, OSG said the vessels “will be built to comply with MARPOL Annex VI Regulation 13 Tier III standards regarding nitrogen oxide emissions within emission control areas. In addition, each vessel will have installed exhaust gas cleaning systems, often referred to as scrubbers, to meet the standards of MAR- POL Annex VI Regulation 14 standards regarding sulphur oxide emissions.” Sam Norton, president and CEO of OSG, stated, “OSG is committed to maintaining a leading presence in the U.S.-flag petroleum transportation sector. Our initiative to pursue construction of modern, efficient and environmentally responsible vessels sends a strong signal to our customers, our stockholders and our employees that we are confident in achieving our commitment and that we have the resources and unique skill sets to enable us to do so. We look forward to the contribution that these vessels will make to our long-term success once delivered.” Meanwhile, the 581-foot barge will be built by Gunderson Marine, a subsid- iary of The Greenbrier Companies. It’s scheduled for delivery during the second quarter of 2020; the agreement includes an option to build a second barge, which would have a slated delivery date during the fourth-quarter of 2020. OSG plans to pair the barge with existing tugs from its SIU-crewed fleet. It will be utilized in the Jones Act trade. “The Gunderson Marine contract for construction of a new barge is an exciting development for OSG,” said Norton. “This transaction represents the first significant new capital investment into our Jones Act businesses in nearly a decade and is an affirmation of our commitment to operate ATBs, as well as tankers, within this market.” Seafarers LOG 3 �Missouri Defeats Right-to-Work (for less) Law Missouri voters on Aug. 7 provided the state’s working families – and the labor movement nationwide – with a tremendous victory by rejecting the state’s so-called right-to-work law. Senate Bill 19, which appeared on the ballot as Proposition A during the state primary, afforded voters the opportunity to strike down a measure the state legislature passed in early 2017. If allowed to stand, Prop A would prohibit employees from being required to join a union (even though a majority of employees would have voted for representation) or to otherwise pay “fair share” fees to a given workplace’s union. In dramatic fashion, the electorate made its feelings crystal clear: There would be no right-to -work (for less) during their watch. By better than a 2 to 1 ratio (67 percent to 33 percent), voters in the Show Me State smashed the measure. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, in a prepared statement released in the wake of the primary’s result, said, “Missouri is the latest sign of a true groundswell, and working people are just getting started. The defeat of this poisonous antiworker legislation is a victory for all workers across the country. The message sent by every single person who worked to defeat Prop A is clear: When we see an opportunity to use our political voice to give workers a more level playing field, we will seize it with overwhelming passion and determination. Tonight is the latest act of working people changing a rigged system that for decades has been favoring corporations, the mega-wealthy and the privileged few. “The victory in Missouri follows a national wave of inspiring activism that is leading to life-changing collective bargaining agreements and electoral triumphs that remind America the path to power runs through the labor movement,” he continued. “From statehouses and city councils to the halls of Congress, working people are fighting back, and this November, we will elect our allies and retire our enemies. Working people across Missouri made this transformational moment possible, and we are following their lead to changing the world.” Mike Louis, president of the Missouri AFL-CIO, was equally pleased with the primary’s outcome, offering “Working people made our voices heard at the ballot box today and overturned ‘right to work.’ It’s a truly historic moment. Thousands of hard-working men and women in Missouri talked to their neighbors, friends and co-workers. We owe them this victory. Promoting Maritime in Virginia SIU Port Agent Georg Kenny (right in both photos) delivered a pro-maritime message last month at the Virginia AFL-CIO Convention in Williamsburg. He’s pictured Aug. 9 with (respectively) U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine (D) (photo above) and U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott (D) – both longtime backers of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Kenny was unanimously re-elected for a third five-year term on the state AFL-CIO’s executive board, where he represents the Eastern Virginia Labor Federation. Richard Trumka (left) and Mike Louis were among the guest speakers who addressed delegates and guests during the Maritime Trades Department’s October 19-20, 2017 Convention in St. Louis. Trumka is president of the AFL-CIO and Louis is president of the Missouri AFL-CIO. “Together, we knocked on more than 800,000 doors, made more than 1 million phone calls and talked to working people on more than 1,000 different job sites across the state,” Louis added. “Tonight, we celebrate, but tomorrow we’re getting back to work. We’re going to take this energy and momentum and build more power for working people in Missouri.” The Missouri vote marked a major victory for unions during an era saturated with anti-worker attacks at different levels of government and from extremists. For instance, as reported earlier in the Seafarers LOG, the U.S. Supreme Court on June 27 issued its opinion in the much-anticipated Janus v. AFSCME Council 31 case, which overturned 40 years of public-sector collective bargaining policy. The 5-4 decision bars states from requiring non-members from paying what are known as agency or fairshare fees to unions who collectively bargain on behalf of an entire unit in a public-sector workplace. The Supreme Court held in 1977 that unions could charge non-members fees for benefits they received from certain representational activities. But the lateJune decision overturned that ruling on First Amendment grounds, and it is expected to weaken workers’ rights. Right-to-Work Laws Hurt Everyone By many measures, quality of life is worse in states with right-to-work laws. Wages are lower, people are less likely to have health insurance and the necessary resources for a quality education, poverty levels are higher, and so are workplace fatality rates. States with Right-to-Work Laws Have Lower Wages and Incomes On average, workers in states with right-to-work laws make $6,109 a year (12.1%) less annually than workers in other states ($44,401, compared with $50,511). Median household income in states with these laws is $8,174 (13.9%) less than in other states ($50,712 vs. $58,886). 29.6 percent of jobs in right-to-work states were in low-wage occupations, compared with 22.8% of jobs in other states. States with Right-to-Work Laws Have Lower Rates of Health Insurance Coverage People under the age of 65 in states with right-to-work laws are more likely to be uninsured (13.0%, compared with 9.4% in free-bargaining states). Only 47% of private-sector employers in states with these laws offer insurance coverage to their employees, compared 4 Seafarers LOG A little more than a month earlier on May 25 in the late afternoon right before the start of Memorial Day weekend, the administration issued three executive orders (numbered 13836, 13837 and 13839) that aggressively restricted collective bargaining in federal organizations and constrained the ability of labor leaders to represent not just their members but all employees in a bargaining unit, regardless of whether they pay dues. The foregoing setbacks and others notwithstanding, the Missouri vote came on the heels of a string of successful red-state protests about teachers’ wages. Teachers strikes and demonstrations in West Virginia, Oklahoma, Kentucky and Arizona were successful as educators rallied and demanded fair wages and improved working conditions for the betterment of students. As a result, many union members around the country now are viewing the win in Missouri as a watershed moment and a sign of victories to come. If polls offer any indications as to where organized labor stands, then union members’ optimism could be well-founded. According to Gallup, Americans’ views on unions hit a 14-year high last year, reaching 61 percent approval, just above its historical average in recent decades. with 52.2% in other states. That difference is even more pronounced among employers with fewer than 50 workers: only 30.1% offer health insurance compared with 38.1% of small employers in other states. Workers in right-to-work states also pay a larger share of their health insurance premiums, on average, than those in free-bargaining states (28.5% of the premium compared with 25.4% in freebargaining states). States with Right-to-Work Laws Have Higher Poverty and Infant Mortality Rates Poverty rates are higher in states with right-to-work laws (15.3% overall and 21.4% for children), compared with poverty rates of 12.8% overall and 18.0% for children in states without these laws. The infant mortality rate is 12.4% higher in states with right to work laws. States with Right-to-Work Laws Invest Less in Education States with right-to-work laws spend 32.5% less per pupil on elementary and secondary education than other states. States with Right-to-Work Laws Have Higher Workplace Fatality Rates The rate of workplace deaths is 49% higher in states with right-to-work laws, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. September 2018 �Lyons Takes Helm at Transportation Command U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Stephen R. Lyons is the new commander of the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) at Scott AFB, Illinois. Lyons, who was confirmed for the post August 1 by the U.S. Senate, replaced U.S. Air Force Gen. Darren McDew. McDew, who had been at the command’s helm since August 2015, retired August 24 following a change of command ceremony. “Lt. Gen. Lyons is a rare soldier, officer, and leader,” said McDew of his successor. “He will be the command’s first Army commander, as well as the Army’s first Logistician Combatant Commander. “As our joint warfighting enterprise continues to evolve in today’s unique environment, Lyons’ expertise will surely enable the continued advancement of our command,” he continued. “Having commanded at every level from company to major subordinate command, and previously serving as USTRANSCOM’s deputy commander, he is up to the crucial task of leading the 144,000-strong USTRANSCOM team. Everyone across the command and the joint deployment and distribution enterprise will benefit from his direction and leadership.” A strong supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine, the American maritime industry and key programs that help keep the industry alive – including the Jones Act, Maritime Security Program (MSP) and cargo preference – Lyons is keenly aware of the crucial role that each plays in U.S. national security and continued economic prosperity. In testimony before the U.S. House of Representatives in May 2016 wherein the size of the country’s maritime security fleet was at issue, Lyons joined a host of congressmen and senior maritime transportation officials who defended and stood behind a strong and robust Americanflag capability. He testified that “the case for a U.S.-flag fleet is compelling” and that several mobility capability studies done by Transportation Command have repeatedly reaffirmed the need for at least a 60-ship MSP fleet. Lyons again spoke out for maritime in June 2017 dur- ing a naming ceremony for the SIU-crewed MV Liberty, an American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier (ARC)-owned vessel that earlier in the year reflagged under the Stars and Stripes and entered the U.S. registry. “ARC plays a significant role in our nation’s commitment to the security of our nation and our NATO allies,” Lyons said to attendees at the ceremony in Charleston, South Carolina. “We can’t underestimate the strategic impact of global images depicting the arrival of an armored brigade combat team on ARC’s Resolve, Endurance, and Freedom, or the arrival of a combat air brigade on Endurance and Honor. And now we are happy to welcome Liberty to the fleet.” A native of Rensselaer, New York, the general graduated from the Rochester Institute of Technology and was commissioned in 1983. He received a master’s degree in logistics management from the Naval Postgraduate School in 1993, and national resource strategy master’s degree from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces in 2005. Lyons previously served as the USTRANSCOM deputy commander. He also served as commanding general of the 8th Theater Sustainment Command in Fort Shafter, Hawaii. Prior to serving as commanding general he served as the director for logistics, operations, readiness, force integration, and strategy, office the deputy chief of staff of the Army, in Washington, D.C. The general has also served in a variety of assignments providing him with extensive logistics and management expertise. He began his career in Germany during the Cold War and subsequently held a wide range of operational assignments to include command at company, battalion, brigade, and major command levels. Since 2003, Lyons has spent more than 40 months deployed to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. USTRANSCOM is a global combatant command and the transportation provider for the Department of Defense. Lt. Gen. Stephen R. Lyons Commander, USTRANSCOM Maritime Administrator Cites Importance of RRF Buzby Credits Mariners, Says Ships are ‘Critical Assets to National Defense’ In a recent blog post, U.S. Maritime Administrator Mark “Buzz” Buzby confirmed what many SIU members already knew from experience: 2017 was a busy year for mariners sailing on vessels in the Ready Reserve Force. “Merchant mariner numbers may be at a low in the U.S., but the men and women of the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) have increased their operating days by 245 percent from Fiscal Year (FY) 2016 to FY 2017,” Buzby wrote. He briefly described some of the various missions these vessels participated in, before continu- Mark Buzby U.S. Maritime Administrator September 2018 ing, “To sum up – in FY 2017 there were about 345 were deployed to support the global effort to end the operating days (days away from layberth) for RRF ves- Ebola virus disease outbreak in West Africa.” sels on cargo missions, exercises, and FEMA mission In his own words, Buzby succinctly explained the assignments. In 2016 there were around 100 operating RRF: “The RRF program was initiated in 1976 as a days for RRF vessels on missions and exercises. 2018 subset of the Maritime Administration’s (MARAD) is on track to match, if not surpass, 2017.” National Defense Reserve Fleet (NDRF) to support the He then provided some historical context for those rapid worldwide deployment of U.S. military forces. numbers: “From 2002 to June of 2008, 118 ship acti- The NDRF consists primarily of RO/RO vessels with vations were called some tankers and for in support of Opmilitary auxiliaries erations Enduring set aside for national “While our crews work hard to keep the RRF defense and national Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. In that fleet ready, that task is becoming increasingly emergencies. Of the period, there were nearly 100 vessels in 13,575 ship operat- challenging and costly for ships with an av- the NDRF, 46 ships ing days with a re- erage age of 43 years – well past the prime are assigned to the liability rate of 99 for most commercial vessels. MARAD is work- RRF and kept in an percent. Almost 25 increased readiness percent of the initial ing closely with the Navy, U.S. Transportation state with a small equipment needed Command, and Congress to recapitalize and crew to be activated to support the U.S. in short order.” Armed Forces op- replace these critical assets to our national He went on to erations in Iraq was defense.” - Mark Buzby, U.S. Maritime Administrator characterize the vesmoved by the RRF. sels operating within By comparison, Milithe RRF, saying, tary Sealift Command’s combined sealift fleet of Large, “Generally, RRF ships must be ready to load military Medium-Speed Roll-on/Roll-off (RO/RO) and Fast cargo for transport to areas of operation within five days Sealift Ships carried 29 percent of the cargo required of activation. Operated under contract by commercial for the invasion.” U.S. ship managers, these vessels form three-quarters of The administrator continued, citing more examples the Government’s surge sealift capacity, and are crewed of the value and utility of the RRF fleet. “The RRF by volunteer, contract, U.S. mariners. The majority of provides significant cost savings to the Department of the RRF ships are RO/RO vessels that are uniquely built Defense by maintaining shipping capacity in a reduced for the movement of vehicles, tanks and rolling stock. operating status until needed,” he pointed out. “These The RRF also boasts six auxiliary craneships, and two vessels also provide maximum flexibility to an already aviation repair vessels. These ocean-going ships prothinly stretched Navy. In 2014, the RRF vessel Cape vide the initial surge of military capability that rapidly Ray was converted into a floating incinerator for the delivers military equipment and supplies during major safe destruction of the most dangerous chemical war- contingencies.” fare materials in Syria’s declared chemical weapons Looking towards the future of the RRF, he conarsenal. The historic mission supported the Defense cluded, “While our crews work hard to keep the RRF Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) in neutralizing al- fleet ready, that task is becoming increasingly chalmost 600 tons of declared chemical weapons, and that lenging and costly for ships with an average age of 43 same vessel is still active today, carrying military cargo years – well past the prime for most commercial vesand supporting a U.S. Army Logistics-Over-the-Shore sels. MARAD is working closely with the Navy, U.S. (LOTS) exercise overseas. In the same year as Cape Transportation Command, and Congress to recapitalize Ray’s DTRA mission, the Cape Rise and Cape Wrath and replace these critical assets to our national defense.” Seafarers LOG 5 �TWIC Cards Get New Look The Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) has been redesigned for the first time in more than a decade. On July 10, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) began issuing TWIC cards sporting the new look, for both new applicants and renewals, officially dubbed TWIC NexGen. TWICs issued before July 10 remain valid until their respective expiration dates. As outlined in documents released by the TSA, “The NexGen effort is focused on enhanced card functionality, new physical security features, and changes to the Technology Infrastructure Modernization system to realize a NexGen card. Where TWIC is used often as a ‘flash pass’ physical updates to deter counterfeiting were a priority of TSA.” The updated design includes, according to the TSA: enhanced card substrates; covert, overt and forensic features; color-coded expiration field; and optically variable devices. In addition, the laminate itself has been enhanced with a variety of security and tactile features. This redesign is part of a larger series of policy changes and enhanced security measures the TSA has been introducing in recent years. The previous design of the TWIC will remain valid until 2023. For additional information, contact the TSA at twic.issue@ tsa.dhs.gov or visit www.tsa. The TSA issued this image of a sample card showing the new TWIC design. gov/twic. Federal Laws Still Regard CBD Oil as Controlled Substance Regardless of the specific laws concerning cannabidiol (CBD) in a mariner’s home state, there’s no ambiguity in the eyes of the government: CBD is a Schedule I controlled substance, and illegal under federal law. As explained in a recent article by Consumer Reports, “Cannabidiol, commonly called CBD, holds the promise of relieving a long list of ailments, from pain to epilepsy to multiple sclerosis. While this chemical compound comes from marijuana or its close relative hemp, CBD does not get users high, unlike another compound from the marijuana plant, tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC.” While it’s true that some CBD oils are made with hemp instead of marijuana, and therefore contain a much lower level of THC, the vast majority of CBD products are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, and the aforementioned claims have not been verified. As CBD is still illegal at the federal level, any positive test for either THC or CBD would cause a mariner to fail that drug screening. With Seafarers Aboard Tanker California Earlier this year, Seafarers-contracted Crowley acquired three tankers from SeaRiver Maritime, signaling new jobs for SIU members. Recertified Bosun John Cedeno submitted these photos from one of those vessels, the California. He reports smooth sailing with the SIU crew and AMO officers. Additionally, even if a mariner legally purchased a product that contains CBD in their home state, they would not be allowed to possess it while aboard a vessel. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “CBD is chemically distinguishable from THC and will not cause a positive drug test result under the current drug testing panel but is a Schedule I drug. However, CBD products may contain other cannabinoids such as THC, therefore, use of CBD oils and marijuanaderived products may result in a positive urine drug test for THCA…. There have been no changes to the drug testing panel regarding marijuana, under the federal Drug-Free Workplace Program (DFWP). The DFWP (as established under Executive Order 12564, Public Law 100-71 and the Mandatory Guidelines) will continue to operate in accordance with federal law, which identifies marijuana and marijuana extracts (e.g. CBD) as a Schedule I controlled substance.” Notice/Reminder Reduced Operating Status, Vacation Pay It has come to the attention of union officialsthat some members may be unaware they can file for vacation benefits for reduced operating status (ROS) time. All time filed must still meet the usual requirements for Seafarers Vacation Plan benefits. Per the current contracts, the following vessels are eligible for ROS vacation pay through the Seafarers Vacation Plan: Q�Sgt. Matej Kocak Q�Stephen W. Pless Q�Eugene A. Obregon Q�Dewayne T. Williams Q�John Paul Bobo Q�William R. Button Q�Baldomero Lopez Q�Jack Lummus Q�USNS Bob Hope Q�USNS Brittin Q�USNS Fisher Q�USNS Pililaau Q�USNS Mendonca Q�USNS Benavidez Q�USNS Gilliland Q�USNS Gordon Q�USNS Seay Q�USNS Yano Q�Shughart The USNS Bob Hope (T-AKR-300) prepares to load an improved Navy lighterage system during exercise Brilliant Tern. Brilliant Tern was conducted by Military Sealift Command ships using real world scenarios. (U.S. Navy photo by MCSA Jasmine Sheard) 6 Seafarers LOG September 2018 �Member Portal Offers Scheduling Clinic Exams Option SIU members are reminded that they have an online option for placing orders for clinic exam services in addition to services offered at the hiring halls. As previously reported, those services may be ordered through the members-only portal on the union’s website, www.seafarers.org. The members-only area itself has been available since June 2011 and is free of charge. It can be directly accessed at https://members.seafarers.org/ Seafarers Health and Benefits Plans (SHBP) Administrator Maggie Bowen stated, “You can order exams within 60 days of your current expiration dates, so don’t wait until the last minute. This site also allows ineligible participants to order exams and pay using PayPal.” She added, “If you do not see the exam that you are trying to order, please email shbpmedical@seafarers.org and if you have any other questions please email map@seafarers.org or call 1-800-2524674.” The SHBP started using a new health clinic system, Comprehensive Health Services (CHSi), in early 2013. CHSi features more than 2,000 participating facilities in the contiguous United States, which has made it much easier for Seafarers to find clinics that are closer to home, whether they’re taking annual exams, functional capacity evaluations or interval exams. Using the member portal allows mariners to order the exams they need as follows: Automated Exams Q� Annual/MSC Physical Examination – Required no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to the expiration date of the previous exam. prior to registration. Q�U.S. Coast Guard Exam – Required once every two years unless the mariner is upgrading. Q�Interval Exam – Needed once every ServSafe Food Handler (entry level) Medical certificate (acquired by passing U.S. Coast Guard physical once every two years and submitting to local REC) Annual physical exam and interval exam (required once every six months) Drug test (every six months unless continuously sailing) If you take prescription drugs, make sure your medications will last longer than the duration of your voyage. If you need early or extended refills, contact the claims department for assistance. Dial 1-800-252-4674 and follow the prompt for prescriptions. ception expires. Q� Benzene Clearance – Mandatory (for mariners sailing on tankers) no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to the expiration date of previous clearance. Q� Food Handler Certification – Required no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to the expiration date of the mariner’s certification. Q� Unlicensed Apprentice Physical Exam – This exam is required for those participating in the UA program. Once the admissions department notifies you of acceptance into the UA program, you must work with a local port office. Q� TB Screening only – Required no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to expiration of existing clearance. The TB screening is included in every Annual/MSC exam, UA exam and New Member exam. Q� MSC Shots only – Required by job order and approved as necessary by the SHBP Medical Department. Q� Commercial Non-MSC Shots only – Approved as necessary by the SHBP Medical Department. six months for deep sea members and under several inland contracts. Q� DOT/U.S. Coast Guard Drug Test (Pre-Employment or Periodic) – Required when renewing documents, returning to work, or when random ex- Approval Required Exams Q� Return to Duty Exam – (repatriation, interval illness or injury, etc.) Required upon demand by SHBP Medical Department. Q� ARC Exam – Approval required by Addictions Rehabilitation Center (ARC) and SHBP Medical Department. Ready to Ship Out? Make sure your documents and paperwork are current: Merchant mariner credential (MMC) with security endorsements (maritime security awareness and/or vessel personnel with designated security duties, abbreviated as VPDSD, vessel security officer/VSO for officers) MMC indicating completion of Basic Training (formerly BST) (VI/1 and related verbiage) Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) Passport ServSafe Management (chief cook and higher) Q� Functional Capacity Evaluation – Required no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to expiration date of previous annual exam. Q�New Member Physical Exam – This is a one-time requirement and is necessary Report Says Jones Act Has No Impact On Product Retail Prices in Puerto Rico Continued from Page 2 the two locations.” In fact, retail prices of goods in Puerto Rico are essentially the same as on the mainland. Q� Foreign vessels can deliver directly to Puerto Rico from foreign countries. Finding that 57 percent of San Juan’s port traffic in 2016 was carried on foreign vessels, the report noted that there is “nothing in the Jones Act that precludes foreign-flag vessels from serving Puerto Rico directly from foreign countries.” It concluded that there was strong competition between carriers serving the island, stating that “if cargo owners in Puerto Rico believed that the Jones Act shipping services were adding costs that negatively impacted their business, you would expect to see [an increase in foreign flag shipping].” Q�There is no Jones Act freight rate premium for ocean transport. The report found that freight rates for shipments between the mainland and Puerto Rico are very similar to or lower than rates for shipping between the mainland and neighboring islands, including the U.S. Virgin Islands, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic. Q� The report flatly refuted assertions in other studies that the negative impact of the Jones Act is $850 million per year, noting that total annual gross revenues for Jones Act shipping services “was substantially below” that level. In other words, “[t]he Jones Act carriers could have provided shipping services for free and … there still would have been a negative economic impact,” according to these studies – which defies logic. Moreover, the report found that since 2000, the carriers’ ocean freight rates in real terms have not increased. Q� Southbound service is vital to Puerto Rico consumers, while the northbound service is a key contributor to economic development on the island. As highlighted in the report, the fact that the vessels operating in the Puerto Rico trade are dedicated to that route “gives shippers very fast transit times directly between the mainland and Puerto Rico without stops in intermediate ports as typically occurs in international shipping markets.” Q� The Puerto Rico-continental U.S. trade operates in a “closed-loop” route. Goods vital for the welfare of the people are delivered promptly from the mainland, while high-value goods are shipped directly to the mainland from Puerto Rico, providing a high-speed and very economical supply chain to Puerto Rican exporters. Q� The dedicated Jones Act vessels’ cargo ca- September 2018 pacity is highly underutilized in the northbound service. As a result, producers in Puerto Rico obtain shipping services at a very attractive rate. Q� Carriers provide highly effective logistics systems, including economical and environmentally friendly vessels, that ensure a high level of supply chain efficiency. Q� According to the report, “The fact that the Jones Act carriers operate dedicated services for Puerto Rico with vessels and intermodal equipment that are uniquely designed to closely integrate the commonwealth with the advanced logistics systems of the mainland provides cargo owners with major economic and service advantages.” Q� The report noted that the “size of equipment has a major impact on the cost of moving cargo ‘intermodally’ in containers.” For example, a 53-foot container that is widely used in Puerto Rican service has 43 percent more cubic capacity than the standard international 40-foot unit – this differential provides an estimated $92 million of cost savings annually through greater efficiency. Q� The report highlighted that the carriers in Puerto Rico offer shippers options that are “designed to meet the requirements of the range of cargoes moving in the trade,” including fleets of thousands of containers and trailers capable of carrying either dry or refrigerated cargoes, as well as vessels and barges designed to carry vehicles in roll-on/roll-off mode and carry breakbulk cargo that is too large to be accommodated in a standard container. Some carriers have also invested in state-of-the-art containerships powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), which is significantly more economical and environmentally friendly than standard bunker fuels used by virtually all other similar vessels. In announcing the results of the study, the American Maritime Partnership noted, “After Hurricane Maria struck Puerto Rico with devastating force on September 20, 2017, a number of news reports claimed that the Jones Act had severely damaged the Puerto Rican economy both over time and in the immediate aftermath of the storm. Following a comprehensive analysis of the facts, this new report sets the record straight on the important role of the Jones Act shipping industry before the hurricane, in the immediate aftermath, and in the months that followed. The Jones Act fleet delivers a dedicated and reliable flow of essential goods to the people of Puerto Rico and provides significant economic benefits for the island.” House Members Express Support for Cabotage Law Continued from Page 2 of unsubstantiated claims regarding the Jones Act, including the claim that the law negatively impacts Puerto Rico…. We are here to discuss a report from a new team of economists to provide actual data on real consumer prices to determine the Jones Act’s impact in Puerto Rico.” U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California), ranking member of the subcommittee, reinforced that the Jones Act does not drive up the cost of consumer goods in Puerto Rico. “This study is extremely important,” he said. “By all accounts and by my reading of it, it is accurate, and it covers the issues that needed to be covered.… The comparative market analysis of consumer prices for common household goods found that there is virtually no difference at all between what you would pay at the Walmart in Jacksonville, Florida, and what you pay in San Juan, Puerto Rico.” Speaking specifically to the cost of automobiles in Puerto Rico compared to the United States, Tellez highlighted a Puerto Rico-specific tax, rather than the Jones Act, as the dominant contributing cause of the higher cost of vehicles in Puerto Rico. “There is a tremendous difference in the cost of cars in the Puerto Rico as compared to the United States,” he explained. “The difference in price comes from the hacienda. They tack on a figure on every car, from 16 to 35 percent. It does not matter whether that car is coming from the mainland or from a foreign country. It is not because of the Jones Act; it is this arbitrary tax imposed by the government.” Reeve stated, “Freight rates between the U.S. mainland and Puerto Rico are very comparable to those between the U.S. and Puerto Rico’s neighbors such as the Dominican Republic, Haiti and the U.S. Virgin Islands… If you apply a freight rate to ship a can of chicken noodle soup, three cents of that $1.58 soup can would be the actual price of port-toport shipping. That is just two percent…. Therefore, there is essentially no cost.” Roberts discussed the benefits of customized shipping and logistics services and the investments made by American carriers in Puerto Rico. “Direct freight service instead of onestop or two-stop freight service gives Puerto Rico’s suppliers and consumers an extremely efficient and reliable supply chain,” he said. “It also gives Puerto Rico’s producers reliable and inexpensive access to their customers on the mainland…. The carriers in the market have invested around $1 billion in ships, infrastructure and equipment to renew their fleets and enhance their services in the Puerto Rico market.” Kaskin highlighted the underlying importance of the Jones Act to maintaining fully qualified, active, certified U.S. mariners for national security. “Now that this report shows that the Jones Act is not responsible for retail prices in Puerto Rico, Congress should be even more committed to this legislation, since any reduction to the Jones Act fleet would be detrimental to our national security,” he said. In later remarks, Hunter reinforced the important role of the Jones Act in ensuring national security, specifically the necessity to have a readied force and shipbuilding capacity in times of crisis: “We need every single commercial yard that we can (have) involved in American trade, so that when the stuff hits the fan, we have the people and the ships and the ability to make more ships quickly if we needed to have it…. In the end, it’s national security.” Garamendi also highlighted how the Jones Act helps maintain state-of-the-art shipbuilding capabilities, which are essential in times of conflict: “Not only does the Jones Act provide tens of thousands of jobs with all kinds of vessels being made in about every place there is water, but it has created advanced shipbuilding in the United States…. Because of the Jones Act, American shipbuilding can and is leading in [the use of LNG] technology.” Reinforcing comments by his colleagues, U.S. Rep. Peter A. DeFazio (DOregon) added to the discussion his view on the indispensable nature of the law. “The Jones Act is not a relic,” he said. “The Jones Act is vibrant and the Jones Act is absolutely essential for the economic and the maritime security of this country.” Seafarers LOG 7 �In Case You Missed it In Last Month’s Edition Hiring Halls Closing on Saturdays Change takes Effect September 1, 2018 As previously reported, during the July membership meetings the union announced that – effective September 1, 2018 – the hiring halls no longer will be open on Saturdays. The corresponding Seafarers Appeals Board action is printed below. The only amendment is the removal of a sentence indicating Saturday hours for the halls. However, please note that in accordance with the union’s constitution, the halls will be open on Saturdays for individual ballot pickup during the next SIU election period, which is scheduled for the final two months of the year 2020. (Ballots also may be obtained at the halls Monday through Friday, or by mail, during the election period.) Seafarers Appeals Board Action 478 Effective: September 1, 2018 The Board has been provided information by the Union supporting the need to adjust prescribed business hours for hiring halls via closure on Saturdays. The Board in its determination to make such amendment considered: a majority of contracted employers are closed on Saturdays, non-peak member utilization of the hiring hall and the continued ability to have on-call persons available to assist in pier-head jump situations. With the aforementioned in mind the Seafarers Appeals Board takes the following action to close union hiring halls for business on Saturdays. AMEND Shipping Rule 4. Business Hours and Job Calls, Paragraphs A. & B. as follows. “A. Except as otherwise provided herein, all Union hiring halls shall be open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The hiring halls shall be closed on July 4, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Labor Day, and such other holidays as are determined by the port agents. Notice of such additional closings shall be posted on the hiring halls’ bulletin boards on the day preceding the Holiday.” Spotlight on Mariner Health Give Foot Problems the Boot Editor’s note: The following article was provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. A significant number of people suffer from foot problems. Most, however, do not pay attention to their feet until something is wrong. A common occurrence is soreness. Sore feet often are symptomatic of underlying conditions or disorders. Depending on the cause of the discomfort, those affected should closely monitor the following indicators that may occur in their feet: redness, tenderness to the touch, inflammation, aching and/or dull pain. Difficulty walking, problems wearing shoes, sores or ulcers, and swelling/edema also should be scrutinized. Soreness in the feet can be caused by various culprits including: the use of improper or ill-fitting shoes, age, obesity, pregnancy, muscle strain, sports injuries, flat feet/arches, poor circulation, diabetes, heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, arch problems, bunions and callouses. Some who suffer from foot pain may need to visit a pediatrist to pinpoint the causes of their problems. Others may require over-the-coun- 8 Seafarers LOG ter medications to treat the pain or use orthotic devices such as inserts and additional padding to increase arch support. Massage, stretching exercises, weight loss, icing, wearing compressions devices (such as ace wraps), support hose, cortisone injections and multivitamin supplements are alternatives that also may be taken. To help prevent the foregoing conditions from occurring, people are encouraged to: Q� Wear quality footwear that will support your feet and provide comfort even if they are worn all day. Q�Keep feet clean and dry. Wear breathable socks. Wash them daily and use powder if you sweat excessively. Q� Use antifungal ointment/ creams if you have athlete’s foot. Also, apply lotion to the feet often and change socks frequently. Q� For avid runners or walkers, be aware of any stress fractures, plantar fasciitis, or pain in the heel and leg areas. If insoles are used in shoes, make sure that they are of high quality. Q� Elevate feet as often as possible, keep toenails trimmed and visit the pediatrist when needed. Q� Be sure to properly break in your shoes or boots by wearing them a few hours each day. Healthful Recipe Chicken Piccata 25 Servings Ingredients 10 pounds chicken breast half without skin, defrosted ½ cup garlic, chopped fine 1/3 cup lemon juice 1 tablespoon granulated garlic 1 ½ tablespoons kosher salt 1 tablespoon garlic pepper 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 ¾ tablespoons olive oil, to drizzle on chicken ½ cup white wine ½ cup capers 1/3 lemon juice Lemon, twists ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped Preparation Q In a large container add the chicken, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and seasonings. Mari- nate for 2 hrs. Q Grill the chicken over med-high heat until half way done. Place in 2” hotel pans. Q Drizzle olive oil and white wine over the top of the chicken to keep moist. Add the capers to the pans evenly. Bake the chicken uncovered in a 325 degree F oven for 15-20 min until internal temp of 165 is reached and browned on top. Q Place one cut lemon on each piece of chicken, drizzle lemon juice over the chicken. Cover and serve. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Nutrition Information: Per serving (excluding unknown items): 193 calories; 4g fat (21.7% calories from fat); 34g protein, 2g carbohydrate; trace dietary fiber; 84mg cholesterol; 459 mg sodium. Exchanges: 0 grain (starch); 4 ½ lean meat; 0 vegetable; 0 fruit; ½ fat; 0 other carbohydrates. Provided by the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship September 2018 �Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby (left) visits the ship and takes a snapshot with Recertified Steward Mike Ingram. ACU Julio Ciliezar, Chief Cook Derrick Williams, ACU Pauline Crespo Former astronaut Michael Fossum (left), who now serves as chief operating officer of Texas A&M University at Galveston, is pictured with Recertified Steward Mike Ingram. SIU Galley Gang Rises to Special Occasion When a unique assignment recently popped up for a dozen steward-department Seafarers, they handled it with smooth, enthusiastic professionalism. That’s the description provided by Recertified Steward Mike Ingram, who teamed up with his fellow SIU members for a two-month voyage aboard the training vessel Kennedy. The ship belongs to the Massachusetts Maritime Academy and was chartered by the Texas A&M Maritime Academy. Seafarers worked with a similar number of employees from a separately contracted food-service provider to make the mission successful. “It was unique because it was more like restaurant service,” Ingram said. “We spent two months on the ship; the cadet training requires two months at sea. We started May 24 in Massachusetts, went to Cape Canaveral (Florida), then New Orleans, Corpus Christi, Tampa and Massachusetts again. We spent three or four days in each port.” Ingram said the vessel master initially admitted he didn’t know what to expect from the combined, larger-than-usual steward department. “But he said it went seamlessly,” Ingram recalled. “My staff was very professional and we are used to being self- Seafarers helped ensure fellow mariners were well-fed aboard the Kennedy. motivated. We don’t need to talk about our job; we just do it. “We learned a lot from each other and [the non-SIU personnel] said they wouldn’t mind working with us in the future,” Ingram added. The trip included a visit from U.S. Mari- time Administrator Mark Buzby, a longtime friend of the SIU and tireless advocate for the U.S. Merchant Marine. Ingram concluded, “Everybody did their jobs. Sometimes you have to think outside the box. We made it work.” SIU members aboard the Kennedy Photo by Glenn L. Fontaine included Ingram, Steward/Baker John Stephens, Chief Cook Derrick Williams, ACUs Ines Castillo Flores, Julio Ciliezar, Pauline Crespo, David Simon and Annie Walker, and SAs Valentin Arzu, Nahun Bernardez, Fernando Castillo and Ariel Lopez. SIU members gather near the vessel. September 2018 Seafarers LOG 9 �TALKING MARITIME WITH CONGRESSMAN – SIU Patrolman Ray Henderson (right) meets with U.S. Rep. Donald Payne (D-New Jersey) during a job fair for military veterans – an event hosted by the congressman. PORT COUNCIL EVENT – SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso recently helped host a Hawaii Ports Maritime Council gathering. She is the executive secretary-treasurer for the port council, which is part of the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO. Pictured from left in photo directly above are Port Council President Randy Swindell, U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-Hawaii) and Galbiso. In the photo at right, the port agent is standing with Hawaii State Sen. Brickwood Galuteria (D). At Sea and Ashore with the SIU WELCOME ASHORE (TIMES 2) IN PHILLY – Two longtime Seafarers recently picked up their first respective pension checks. Recertified Steward Hazel Johnson is at left in photo at left, with his wife, Doretha (center) and Port Agent Joe Baselice. Member John Chapin is at right in the other photo, with Safety Director Andre MacCray. Chapin worked for Crowley at Petty’s Island. WELCOME ASHORE IN JAX – Recertified Bosun Thomas Grosskurth (right) receives his first pension check, at the hall in Jacksonville, Florida. Congratulating him is Safety Director Joseph Koncul. A-BOOK IN OAKLAND – AB Walid Nasser (left) receives his A-seniority union book at the hall in Oakland, California. Congratulating him is Port Agent Nick Marrone II. 10 Seafarers LOG B-BOOK IN HAWAII – OMU Ferdinand Cabanlit obtains his full B-book at the hall in Honolulu, Hawaii. Congratulating him is Shureen Yatchmenoff, administrative assistant. WELCOME ASHORE IN LAUDERDALE – Recertified Bosun Joe Caruso (left) displays his first pension check at the hall in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. At right is SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins. B-BOOK IN BALTIMORE – QMED Vernon Humbles (left) receives his full B-book from Patrolman DeCarlo Harris at the hiring hall. ACTIVE IN LABOR MOVEMENT – SIU Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli (center) is sworn in as a delegate of the Alameda Labor Council, AFL-CIO. September 2018 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD SHIPS IN GUAM – Port Agent Fred Sanchez Jr. submitted these snapshots from the Matson-operated Maunalei (photo at left) and the Crowley-operated Lummus (directly above). Pictured from left to right on the Maunalei are ACU Walter Harris, Sanchez, Chief Steward Steven Bowmer and Chief Cook Mario Ferrer. Pictured from left on the Lummus are SA Patrick Lara, SA Chester Catunao, Chief Cook Christopher Lanier, SA Musa Quraish, Chief Steward Richard Gray and Sanchez. FUTURE SEAFARER – Jaxon Snow, son of Seafarer Curtis Snow, is all smiles at the hiring hall in Mobile, Alabama. (Editor’s note: This photo was a hit on our Facebook page, @SeafarersInternational. Check out the Aug. 1 post, which drew many fun comments.) WITH STARLIGHT MARINE BOATMEN – SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (third from right) meets with Seafarers on the West Coast. ABOARD USNS BOB HOPE – These photos were submitted by AB George Owen, and depict the newly upgraded guard shack aboard the U.S. Marine Management-operated vessel. The shack was redecorated by AB Christopher Jensen, and features tributes to the vessel’s namesake, legendary comedian Bob Hope – who was an ardent supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine. (Check out a transcript of Hope’s 1944 broadcast to mariners online at http://www. usmm.org/hope.html) September 2018 Seafarers LOG 11 �Bosuns Utilize Union, School too Chart Successful Career Paths The union’s newest class of recertified bosuns has plenty of positive experiences to share, as described in their respective graduation speeches Aug. 6 in Piney Point, Maryland. Completing the top deck department curriculum available at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) were Adel Ahmed, John D. Cedeno Jr., Thomas Moore, Victor R. Nunez, Eugene Perez Jr., Amin Quraish, Modesto Y. Rabena Jr., Nicholas Smithling, Sanyboy Whiting, Artis Williams and Josephus Willis. The two-week class includes a mix of refresher and practical training, classroom work, meetings with representatives from different union offices, gatherings with personnel from the Seafarers Plans, a day trip to AFL-CIO headquarters (also home to the Maritime Trades Department), and more. The following are highlights from the graduation speeches (delivered during the monthly membership meeting), supplemented by written statements submitted by the Seafarers. Thomas Moore Recertified Bosun Port of Baltimore Thomas Moore Moore took to the stage first. He joined the union in 1989, and sails from the port of Baltimore. He spoke about his personal journey to becoming a Seafarer: “Before I joined the SIU in August of 1989, I worked for three years in a paper mill, and lived in a school bus. I was searching for a better way, and I told my father I would like to join the U.S. Merchant Marine. A few days later, he gave me a phone number to call, and said, ‘It’s the SIU.’ Soon after, I was here at Piney Point.” He continued, describing his first job aboard a research vessel in Singapore, saying, “It was a good job. I learned to complete jobs, earn my transportation home, and ship back out. I also learned what it meant to me when an SIU bosun said, ‘You can make another trip.’ I never had a bad job; they have all been good.” He concluded, “Since I have been an SIU member, I have seen nothing but improvement, both at the school and in my life. Thanks to President Michael Sacco and our other union leaders for all you do to keep the SIU great. I thank my SIU brothers for a class I will never forget.” Sanyboy Whiting Whiting, who sails from the port of Honolulu, took the podium next. “I have been a part of the SIU since I was 28 years old, and I have been sailing for 28 years,” he began. “I have sailed around the world, and now I work on AT&T and Tyco cable ships, a job that takes me all over the world.” He reflected on the personal significance of the SIU: “The union has been important in my life, because it taught me the value of life, respect, dignity, pride and the importance of absorbing all the experiences of life. Those are the things I treasure the most about my time in the union.” After thanking the union leadership, he turned to another topic that would become a theme of the day’s speeches: the importance of the Seafarers Political Activities Donation (SPAD). “The union leadership needs our help to protect our industry and jobs,” he said. “We need to always do our best on the job, and we need to upgrade our skills, but we need to donate to SPAD so that the union officials have the resources they need to go to work for us on Capitol Hill. And, of course, we need to always vote in elections.” Nicholas Smithling Recertified Bosun Port of Houston Adel Saleh Ahmed Recertified Bosun Port of Tacoma 12 Seafarers LOG Nicholas Smithling Sailing from the Port of Houston, Smithling offered a look Artis Williams Recertified Bosun Port of Oakland into his reasons for graduating from the class, saying, “I have enjoyed continuing my grandfather’s legacy as a recertified bosun. I hope in death that he looks upon me and can see what I’ve done to preserve what he and the union have fought so hard for. I came in at the age of 18, and was given every opportunity to persevere in my maritime career. I received a Maryland State diploma (via the certified program at the Paul Hall Center), after taking a vast array of educational courses. I had dropped out of school as a kid, so that means a lot to me.” He continued, “This industry has afforded me many experiences. I am truly proud of where I have arrived in life. I feel I’ve come a long way from my beginning as a small-town hardhead. And I’ve picked up knowledge from all four corners of the Earth along the way.” Smithling also thanked the staff and instructors at the PHC: “I truly admire your hard work and dedication to the school. I furthermore would like to recognize the union leadership for the daunting tasks of keeping this union and the U.S.-flag fleet so very strong. But it cannot be done without our SPAD contributions.” Modesto Y. Rabena Jr. Rabena was next to receive his diploma. He sails from the Port of Tacoma, Washington. “I’m so blessed, fortunate and lucky enough to be here today,” he said. “I joined the SIU back in 2000 at age 37, and I’ve been sailing for the past 18 years.... This union has been important in my life because it allows me to support the needs of myself and my family.” A frequent upgrader, Rabena said the school continues to improve. “I’m truly in love with the school,” he stated. “I’ve enjoyed my latest stay, and I’m amazed how beautiful and wonderful it is. My overall experience at Piney Point is very precious to me, and I will remember fondly my time here. The training here has challenged me to become who I am today, and has given me a sense of power to be my best self. I will take the methods that I have learned here – with the finest crewmates in the entire SIU – and apply them on whichever ship I sail on next.” He finished his graduation speech by saying, “I would like to thank our teachers and the staff at the school for all that they do, and I’d like to thank the union leadership for all their hard work protecting our jobs. During my visit to headquarters and the Maritime Trades Department, I saw firsthand the kind of work they have to do to protect our jobs and keep our union strong, for this generation and the next.” Josephus O. Willis Willis, a member for 18 years who sails from the Port of Norfolk, Virginia, summarized his thoughts on his most recent experience at the PHC in a single word: “Professional.” He expanded on that thought during his graduation speech, saying, “I would like to thank President Sacco, Mr. (Augie) Tellez (the union’s executive vice president) and all the SIU instructors and staff for a job well done. They’ve showed professionalism at its best. On our trips to Camp Springs and Washington D.C., I saw firsthand their hard work negotiating contracts – and it’s not an easy job. Thank you for what you do for us, and for the whole SIU.” He also outlined some of the specific knowledge he gained from the recertification course, including leadership responsibilities, information on the Seafarers Pension Plan and Sea- Eugene Perez Jr. Recertified Bosun Port of Jacksonville September 2018 farers Health and Benefits Plan, the contracts process and the importance of SPAD. Being armed with this information, he said, “helps me be a better leader for my shipmates, and give them advice on problems or questions they have to the best of my ability.” Adel Ahmed Ahmed, a proud member of 2001’s Class 619, took the stage next. He sails out of the Port of Tacoma. “It’s good to be here. It took me 17 years of hard work and dedication to stand in front of you all today,” he began. “It all started back in 2001 when I was 20 years old. That’s when I decided to follow in my dad’s footsteps. I was travelling from state to state, searching for work that I’d enjoy doing, as my father had spent the past two years trying to convince me to join the SIU. Dad, I’m sorry for not following your advice earlier.” He then reflected on a few memories: “I remember the day I arrived at Piney Point for my first phase. I remember losing my long, silky hair in the barbershop chair – the same chair that is still used today. I remember hearing third-phase students laughing and making jokes about how ugly my head looked without hair…. I remember waking up at 4 a.m. to make my bed and start a long day, from working in the galley to marching to class. I remember asking myself, ‘Why am I here?’ But that answer became clear during my time as a union member.... All the sacrifices we endure, the sleepless nights we go through, it all pays off in the end.” He then thanked the union officials, as well as his father and wife, before specifically thanking some staff members at the PHC. “Special thanks to the academic department, the transportation department and the color guard who raise our flags during morning colors,” Ahmed stated. “I also want to thank to the Port of Tacoma reps: Joe, Ben, Warren and Brenda” (Port Agent Joe Vincenzo, Safety Director Ben Anderson, Patrolman Warren Asp and Administrative Assistant Brenda Flesner). “As a kid coming from the Red Hook projects in Brooklyn, to this beautiful school here in Piney Point, I knew my life was going to change for the better,” he said. “This union has helped me provide very well for my family. I am so proud to be a member of the SIU.” Perez also took a moment to acknowledge the SIU executives, saying, “I would like to thank the leadership for all the hard work they do protecting our jobs. I cannot stress how important it is to donate to SPAD, as those funds give the leadership the resources to help protect the Jones Act and our jobs.” “It has been an awesome experience, one that I will never forget,” he concluded about the recertification class. Amin Quraish Quraish, a member since 2001, offered up his story next. He sails from the Port of Algonac, Michigan. “I started back in 2001 on the Great Lakes. I worked my way up the ladder, working hard every day, and sacrificed a lot of time away from my family to provide for them,” he said. “It’s an honor for me to be here, to celebrate this special day in my life. “I would like to thank our union leaders, instructors and union reps for getting me to where I am today,” he continued. “I would also like to thank our leaders for standing up for us, and what they’ve accomplished behind the scenes to protect and fight for our jobs. An easier way to say it is, they are not just here at Piney Point, brothers and sisters, they are our Continued on Page 14 Sanyboy Saramosing Whiting Recertified Bosun Port of Honolulu Artis Williams Hailing from the Port of Oakland, California, Williams kept his speech short and direct. He first sailed with the SIU from 1980 to 1986, taking some time off before returning to the union in 1993. “I come from a union family. My dad was a local union president,” he said. “The union has been important to me because it keeps me working, and helps me sustain my way of life.” He later spoke on how the union influenced him. “Everything I have today comes from this job,” Williams said. “Being a mariner will show you things that will help you in other parts of your life. I have learned that if I take care of the SIU and take care in my job, then the union will take care of me.” He also recounted his experiences in and out of the classroom, specifically mentioning his trip to the union’s headquarters, saying the trip “helped me get a better understanding of the political side of the SIU, and gave me more insight into the inner workings of contracts and union leadership as a whole.” Eugene Perez Jr. Perez, an SIU mariner since 1984, joined the union at the New York hall, which has since moved to New Jersey. He currently sails out of Jacksonville, Florida. Amin Ali Quraish Recertified Bosun Port of Algonac September 2018 Modesto Yepes Rabena Jr. Recertified Bosun Port of Tacoma John Cedeno Jr. Recertified Bosun Port of Jacksonville Josephus Willis Recertified Bosun Port of Norfolk Victor Nunez Recertified Bosun Port of Baltimore Seafarers LOG 13 �At the conclusion of the union’s August membership meeting in Piney Point, Maryland, SIU President Michael Sacco (wearing white and black shirt in front row) and other union officials joined the eleven recertified bosuns and two family members for this photo. Deck Department Members Realize Career Aspirations Continued from Page 13 backbone that makes us thrive forward.” He had previously talked about his experience at the PHC, saying, “My experience in Piney Point has been very educational. I was very impressed by our instructors; they were very knowledgeable about our jobs.... During the course, I improved my leadership skills, how to coach new members, and learned in greater detail all of my responsibilities as a bosun, and how to keep a professional workplace.” John D. Cedeno, Jr. Sailing from Jacksonville, Cedeno reflected on his 27year career with the SIU during his speech. He said, “As a Seafarer, I’ve traveled to many countries, like India, Singapore, Panama, Costa Rica, Venezuela ... the list goes on and on. But one thing’s for certain, I’ve created a lot of memories. Good ones, for sure. For 27 years now, the union has been a very important part of my life.” He added, “I’m pleased to have been able to attend many programs and courses to help me further my skills and increase my knowledge of all aspects of my career. I enjoy upgrading, as it gives me a chance to meet more of Bosuns Offer Apprentices Advice During their speeches, the newly recertified bosuns offered words of wisdom to the Paul Hall Center apprentices in attendance at the ceremony. Following are excerpts from the bosuns’ respective presentations. “Brothers and sisters, your SPAD contributions are vitally important for the growth of the SIU and this membership, and for you trainees, if you haven’t felt it yet, I believe you will soon know: The SIU is, truly, the Brotherhood of the Sea.” Thomas Moore “Aloha! Study hard while you’re here. Learn from your instructors, and learn to work together with your classmates. When you get out to sea, work hard, carry your load, and never be afraid to ask questions. Be safe and be true to the course in which you are already steering towards.” Sanyboy Whiting “Trainees, please go back to the fleet with an open mind and a strong back. Remember, you are portraying 14 Seafarers LOG my sea brothers and sisters, as well as spending time talking to and mentoring new trainees.” After listing the numerous reasons he’s stayed a union mariner, Cedeno offered up his sincere thanks: “I have much gratitude for all the hard work and dedication our union leadership has demonstrated in protecting our jobs. They’ve also provided us with elite maritime training and education, which leads me into thanking the instructors and staff here at the school. Thank you for all your commitment and hard work. Muchas Gracias!” He closed by offering some words of encouragement, which he attributed as quotes from Manpower Director Bart Rogers, who also serves as PHC assistant vice president. Victor R. Nunez Nunez was the last to speak, and handled the task masterfully. He joined the SIU in 1991 in Puerto Rico, though he now sails out of Baltimore. He said, “I would like to begin by thanking those that made this opportunity possible, and helped me to stand here today. At the age of 21, I joined the SIU through the trainee program in Class 467 here at Piney Point. In the past 28 years, I’ve been able to perform in various capacities, from ordinary seaman to AB, as a the port agent in Puerto Rico, to finally sailing as a bosun.” an image much larger than your own. This union is your future and you are the future of the union.” Nicholas Smithling “Study hard while you’re here. This is it; you are already in. Learn as much as you can from your teachers. Learn to work together with your classmates, and stayfocused. When you get out to sea, challenge yourself, and have faith in yourself. Believe me, if I can do it, I know you can do it as well. Be a good worker, carry your load, never give up, and never be afraid to ask questions.” Modesto Y. Rabena Jr. “Study hard, learn, work together, and when you get on a ship and go to sea, work hard and climb the ladder. This is a great start for your future.” Josephus O. Willis “You have made the right choice in choosing this career, and to be a part of this great union. Not everyone gets to build their career from an early age, and earn all the benefits the union provides for us and our families. Work hard and make the right choices, whether you’re on a ship or on vacation. You are the future of this union.” Adel Ahmed He then spoke briefly about the struggle of growing up in Puerto Rico, before coming to the SIU with literal holes in his shoes: “Joining the SIU changed my life completely. The union not only put shoes on my feet, but made me who I am today: a better man, a better father and a better human being. With the opportunities afforded to me by the union, I was able to raise three beautiful children, and accomplish many of my lifelong dreams and goals.” Nunez continued, “The past two weeks have been a great experience for me, returning here to Piney Point. I couldn’t have asked for better classsmates. This is the biggest accomplishment in my career. We’ve made it to the top!” He then thanked the union officials, saying, “Brothers and sisters, they make the magic happen. They make these jobs that we see on the boards every day, and enable us to be able to provide for our families and enjoy all the benefits we have. But, as they have the responsibility to protect our jobs by fighting the constant political battles, we also have the responsibility to play our role by exercising our right to vote, by getting involved in elections, and continuing to donate to SPAD.” He concluded with an appropriate inspirational quote: “Shoot for the moon, because if you fail, you will land among the stars.” “An old wise man – well, he wasn’t old at the time – once told me, ‘Kid, keep your nose clean, do what you’re told, stay out of trouble, and you will go far in this business.’ For 30 years, I have not forgotten that piece of advice.” Eugene Perez Jr. “I encourage you to have the will to succeed. Learn from your instructors, and when you get out to sea, never be afraid to ask questions.” Amin Quraish “Trust me when I say, we are the greatest union ever! You are the future of the SIU, and together we need to help our union leadership protect our industry and our jobs. So, how do we make this happen? Simple: do your part. Upgrade your skills, put in the hard work and help support what we all believe in.” John D. Cedeno Jr. “You are the future of the SIU. You should feel special for sitting here today, and having this opportunity in your hands. Feel proud, represent the union, and when you get out there, work hard and stand tall. Do what you love, and love what you do, and you will never work.” Victor R. Nunez “Study hard while you’re here. This is your job, and you’ve got to make it last.” Artis Williams September 2018 �TWIC Payment Note According to a communication from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), starting September 1, when an individual applies for a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), all money orders, company checks, and certified/cashier’s checks used during enrollment must be made payable to “IDEMIA.” (Personal checks and cash are not accepted.) Payment must be made during in-person enrollment; credit cards are the preferred method of payment. Enrollment centers accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover credit cards. Money orders, company checks, and certified/ cashier’s checks are accepted if made payable to “IDEMIA” and for the exact transaction amount. Questions may be emailed to TWIC.Issue@tsa.dhs.gov. University Services Relocates University Services, the medical review office utilized by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department for drug screens, has a new address. As of August 1, 2018, the correct address for University Services is: 2800 Black Lake Place Suite A Philadelphia, PA 19154 All other contact information is unchanged, including phone numbers, fax numbers, and email addresses. September & October 2018 Membership Meetings 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 Jersey City.............................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 due to Labor Day and Columbus Day holiday observances, respectively. 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 September 2018 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea July 16, 2018 - August 15, 2018 Total Registered Port A All Groups B Total Shipped Registered on Beach C All Groups A B C Trip Reliefs A All Groups B C 0 0 0 5 0 1 0 9 9 3 0 4 6 2 0 1 2 4 0 6 52 5 2 1 12 0 10 2 21 20 18 0 3 12 7 0 0 3 14 0 14 144 26 4 5 31 4 17 14 113 63 71 8 19 33 20 9 6 9 55 4 46 557 20 2 3 21 2 4 5 23 22 29 4 7 14 2 5 8 17 22 3 16 229 3 4 2 8 0 7 2 27 12 5 1 4 13 6 1 0 3 15 3 7 123 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 15 4 4 15 6 13 8 54 37 48 7 11 19 21 4 5 5 25 5 39 345 18 4 2 18 0 5 6 15 22 17 1 8 6 2 3 5 4 16 2 9 163 2 1 0 5 0 6 2 20 9 4 0 4 8 1 0 0 0 12 2 7 83 Deck Department 16 5 1 5 3 0 27 11 5 1 16 3 5 4 38 12 27 14 33 4 0 2 9 3 15 11 11 2 2 0 3 1 6 4 23 5 2 0 30 8 272 95 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 1 2 13 0 6 10 16 15 12 1 4 16 10 1 5 1 13 1 12 140 0 0 2 5 1 2 2 10 17 12 3 4 8 6 3 6 3 4 1 6 95 1 0 0 1 0 2 0 2 1 2 0 1 8 0 0 0 0 4 1 2 25 Engine Department 6 1 0 0 3 1 9 5 0 1 2 3 10 3 12 6 22 10 13 5 3 2 3 1 6 5 4 5 1 3 1 2 0 1 5 4 0 0 10 4 110 62 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 1 0 1 4 1 0 0 0 2 1 5 21 3 0 3 5 1 1 1 6 11 8 0 2 5 4 3 0 1 2 0 4 60 4 2 3 18 2 8 12 32 28 19 3 8 21 11 1 4 4 27 1 28 236 2 0 7 6 0 2 5 18 31 14 3 7 19 6 3 5 7 12 5 11 163 1 0 0 3 0 3 0 1 1 2 0 1 9 0 0 0 1 5 1 3 31 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 7 1 1 12 2 4 12 20 13 11 3 3 12 16 6 1 4 14 3 20 165 2 0 0 3 0 4 0 6 11 3 1 2 16 6 0 3 3 2 1 11 74 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 2 0 1 1 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 11 Steward Department 5 0 0 0 2 0 9 2 0 1 6 1 8 1 17 4 13 6 9 2 2 1 2 3 9 7 9 1 6 0 3 2 1 2 7 1 0 0 13 6 121 40 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 3 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 10 1 0 0 4 0 1 2 8 9 5 0 1 5 3 1 0 0 5 0 9 54 5 1 0 19 3 8 12 37 26 18 2 7 17 33 5 3 7 27 5 35 270 3 0 0 11 0 3 0 11 13 3 1 2 14 9 0 2 3 3 1 12 91 0 0 0 2 0 2 0 2 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 10 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 0 0 1 0 0 1 4 5 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 6 0 3 25 9 1 1 6 4 0 5 15 21 12 0 0 17 10 1 2 2 9 1 11 127 10 1 6 7 1 0 5 14 37 13 0 2 35 11 0 1 2 5 1 19 170 Entry Department 2 9 0 3 0 3 1 1 0 1 1 2 1 1 2 3 0 12 1 6 0 1 0 0 2 8 1 4 0 1 0 1 0 0 4 10 0 1 1 13 16 80 3 0 3 2 2 0 3 6 22 2 1 1 19 4 0 0 1 3 0 17 89 5 1 4 2 0 0 0 5 4 1 0 0 5 2 0 0 0 3 0 3 35 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 15 7 2 0 0 0 4 3 0 1 6 0 11 54 10 1 0 12 3 0 6 24 27 24 3 0 26 18 1 4 0 17 0 35 211 15 4 3 8 1 2 12 30 67 22 1 3 41 23 3 2 1 18 1 44 301 GRAND TOTAL: 675 459 289 172 293 1,117 694 465 519 277 Seafarers LOG 15 �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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by Seafarers attending classes at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. Question: What are some good things about being in a union? Mario P. Standberry QMED I love the union. It gives me a chance to do a lot of things I’d never be able to do otherwise. The greatest part is that it allows me to take care of my family, and the time off allows me to be home with my family when I need to be. Home is where the heart is, after all. Darrell Bell Chief Cook The union has helped me a lot. I don’t think you can get this level of job training anywhere else. I can’t wait to use what I’ve learned here and use that knowledge to get better and better jobs in this industry. James Rodweller QMED The solid pay, great benefits and job security all helped make me financially sound and able to take care of my daughter. Couldn’t have done that without the union. As an aside, the quality of training and instruction here at the Paul Hall Center has been really great. Rodriques Carson Pumpman It was a good foundation for me to take care of my family over the years, and it has allowed me to spend a lot of time with my family. The job security has also allowed me to start my own business. Cole Briggs Chief Cook Because of the union, I have a good, steady job, and one that allows me to take vacations when I want. Good benefits, good insurance, and a job that allows me to travel the world while still getting my free time. Tonya Johnson Chief Cook As long as I’ve been sailing, life in the union has been pretty good. Good insurance, good benefits, and the travelling is hard to get at other jobs. I’d advise any young person to join the SIU, get your training at the Paul Hall Center, and get to work. HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Pic From The Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 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 Stop 16 1/2 Santurce, PR 00907-4601 (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 original caption from the September 1973 LOG: “The ultra-modern Delta Sud hits the waters of the Mississippi for the first time as she is launched from Avondale Shipyards, Inc., Main Yard Division in New Orleans, La.” The vessel was the third LASH ship built at Avondale for Delta Steamship Lines. 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 2018 �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 ABDO ASHARIKI Brother Abdo Ashariki, 65, became a union member in 1991, first sailing aboard the Harkness. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded on multiple occasions. Brother Ashariki’s last vessel was the Watson. He calls Brooklyn, New York, home. EDWARD AYRES Brother Edward Ayres, 66, joined the Seafarers in 1998, initially sailing on the Fidelio. A member of the deck department, he upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 2001. Brother Ayres most recently sailed on the Freedom and settled in Somerdale, New Jersey. JOHN BODDEN Brother John Bodden, 69, donned the SIU colors in 1996 when he worked for Moran Towing of Texas. An engine department member, he switched to the deep sea division, and upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Bodden most recently sailed on the Seakay Spirit and resides in New Orleans. GARY CARTER Brother Gary Carter, 65, started his career with the Seafarers in 1971, initially sailing on the Steel Rover. He was an engine department member and enhanced his skills on multiple occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Carter last worked on the Balboa and makes his home in Clarksburg, West Virginia. JOSEPH CARUSO Brother Joseph Caruso, 60, became a member of the SIU in 1980, first working on the Del Sol. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Caruso most recently sailed on the Oregon before settling in Deerfield Beach, Florida. DENCIO CAYAN Brother Dencio Cayan, 65, began his career with the Seafarers in 1992 when he sailed on the Spirit. He was an engine department member and last sailed aboard the USNS John Glenn. Brother Cayan calls Carson, California, home. JEREMIAS CEPEDA Brother Jeremias Cepeda, 65, started his seafaring career in 2004. He initially worked on the Tonsina and sailed in the engine department. Brother Cepeda took September 2018 advantage of the upgrading opportunities at the union-affiliated Piney Point school on several occasions. He most recently shipped on the Alaskan Legend and resides in Buena Park, California. CHRISTEN CHRISTENSEN Brother Christen Christensen, 67, signed on with the union in 2004. He first worked aboard the LNG Virgo and was a member of the deck department. He upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center before concluding his career aboard the Horizon Kodiak. AUSBERTO LASPINAS Brother Ausberto Laspinas, 68, signed on with the union in 2002, initially sailing on the Green Mountain State. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Laspinas last sailed aboard the Midnight Sun and makes his home in Gladstone, Oregon. CLIFFORD McCOY Brother Clifford McCoy, 65, joined the SIU in 1988, initially working aboard the USNS Wilkes. He was a member of the engine department and last sailed on the Global Sentinel. Brother McCoy settled in Colville, Washington. JAY DILLON CHRISTOPHER MOSLEY Brother Jay Dillon, 62, joined the SIU in 1979. He first sailed aboard the Capricorn. Brother Dillon sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills often at the Piney Point school. He last worked on the Horizon Pacific before settling in Brookesville, Florida. Brother Christopher Mosley, 63, joined the SIU in 1980, first sailing aboard the El Paso Savannah. He was a member of the steward department and upgraded his skills often at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center. Brother Mosley concluded his career on the Ocean Globe before settling in Reading, Pennsylvania. THOMAS GROSSKURTH Brother Thomas Grosskurth, 60, joined the SIU in 1990, initially sailing aboard the Anders. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Grosskurth most recently sailed on the Independence II. He calls Jacksonville, Florida, home. MARK HAYES Brother Mark Hayes, 65, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1991, first shipping on the Paul Buck. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Hayes’ last vessel was the LNG Virgo. He resides in Bradenton, Florida. PAUL ISHERWOOD Brother Paul Isherwood, 65, donned the SIU colors in 2003 as a steward department member aboard the Maersk Vermont. He enhanced his skills regularly at the maritime training center located in Piney Point. Brother Isherwood’s last vessel was the Maersk Iowa. He resides in Westford, Massachusetts. EARL KENDRICK Brother Earl Kendrick, 69, became an SIU member in 1999 when he sailed on the USNS Altair. The deck department member upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Kendrick most recently worked on the Betty Wood and calls Picayune, Mississippi, home. GREGORY SCOTT Brother Gregory Scott, 66, joined the ranks of the SIU in 1991 when he sailed on the Gopher State. A member of the deck department, he enhanced his skills on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Scott last sailed on the Jacksonville and lives in Forestdale, Massachusetts. MAURICE WHITE Brother Maurice White, 65, began his career with the union in 1978, initially sailing on the Mount Explorer. He was an engine department member and upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1985. Brother White last sailed aboard the Equality State and makes his home in Norfolk, Virginia. GREAT LAKES CARLTON DORRANCE Brother Carlton Dorrance, 65, joined the SIU in 1979, first sailing on the Southdown Challenger. A member of the deck department, he upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Dorrance last sailed on the John Boland before settling in Conway, Michigan. LEO NOLDE Brother Leo Nolde, 65, started his SIU career in 2005 when he sailed aboard the Paul H. Townsend. He worked in the deck department and last sailed on the Steel T. Crapo. Brother Nolde calls Escanaba, Michigan, home. BILL THOMEN Brother Bill Thomen, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1972 when he worked on the JB Ford. He was a deck department member and most recently sailed aboard the Alpena. Brother Thomen resides in Alpena, Michigan. INLAND MICHAEL BRADY Brother Michael Brady, 65, joined the SIU in 2003, initially working aboard the Northerly Island. He was an engine department member and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2015. Brother Brady last sailed aboard the Dodge Island and calls Rhinelander, Wisconsin, home. EDWARD BURDORF Brother Edward Burdorf, 62, began his SIU career in 1978 when he worked with Crowley Towing. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Burdorf remained with the same company for the duration of his career and resides in Jacksonville, Florida. ANGEL CHARRIEZ Brother Angel Charriez, 62, joined the SIU in 1976. He was a deck department member and worked for Crowley Puerto Rico Services. Brother Charriez remained with the same company for his entire career before settling in San Juan, Puerto Rico. JAMES HEBERT Brother James Hebert, 54, became a Seafarer in 1985, initially working for Hvide Marine. The deck department member upgraded often at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Hebert concluded his career sailing aboard the Titan and lives in Brookeland, Texas. MARK HOWELL Brother Mark Howell, 62, began his career with the Seafarers in 1979. He was a deck department member and first worked for Inland Tugs. Brother Howell last sailed with OSG Ship Management and calls Atlantic Beach, Florida, home. EDDIE MOORE Brother Eddie Moore, 62, signed on with the SIU in 1991 when he worked for Red Circle Transport Company. A deck department member, he concluded his career aboard the Anders. Brother Moore resides in Racine, Wisconsin. DANTE MUNGIOLI Brother Dante Mungioli, 60, began his career with the union in 1996 when he worked for Crowley. He was a member of the deck department and remained with the same company for his entire career. Brother Mungioli lives in Berlin, New Jersey. SEAN O’CALLAGHAN Brother Sean O’Callaghan, 55, joined the SIU in 1990, after working as a member of the Seafarers-affiliated United Industrial Workers. He was employed by Crowley Liner Services, Inc. for the remainder of his SIU career. Brother O’Callaghan settled in Norwood, Pennsylvania. EDWARD OLIVER Brother Edward Oliver, 63, became a member of the SIU in 1973, when he worked for Dixie Carriers. He was a deck department member and most recently worked with Moran Towing of Texas. Brother Oliver makes his home in Alpine, Tennessee. THEODORE SCHENDEL Brother Theodore Schendel, 62, joined the SIU in 1981. He was a deck department member and worked for Crowley for his entire SIU career. Brother Schendel lives in Portland, Oregon. BRUCE SWANSON Brother Bruce Swanson, 64, signed on with the SIU in 1996. He was a member of the deck department and worked for Crowley for the duration of his career. Brother Swanson resides in Sicklerville, New Jersey. ERNEST WALSH Brother Earnest Walsh, 64, joined the SIU in 1981, first working for Bulkfleet Marine. A member of the deck department, he upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Walsh concluded his career working for Penn Maritime. He calls Forestdale, Massachusetts, home. NMU ROBERT MARTIN Brother Robert Martin, 65, was an NMU member before the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. He worked as a deck department member. Brother Martin resides in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA chester, Connecticut. KLAUS AHMELS Pensioner Klaus Ahmels, 78, passed away May 22. He joined the union in 1965 when he sailed on the Maiden Creek. Brother Ahmels was a deck department member and last worked aboard the Jacksonville. He retired in 2006 and was a resident of Neihart, Montana. CLARENCE EVANS Pensioner Clarence Evans, 83, passed away June 8. He joined the union in 1978 and first sailed on the Overseas Joyce. Brother Evans was a member of the steward department and last worked aboard the Guayama. He retired in 2001 and called Mobile, Alabama, home. FRANK JOHN BIGORNIA Brother Frank John Bigornia, 30, passed away April 20. He joined the union in 2016 and first sailed on the Buffalo. Brother Bigornia was a member of the engine department and last worked aboard the Charleston Express. He called Kahului, Hawaii, home. WALTER HANTUSCH Pensioner Walter Hantusch, 89, died July 11. He joined the SIU in 1951, initially working with Waterman Steamship Corporation. Brother Hantusch was a deck department member and last sailed aboard the Defender. He went on pension in 1983 and made his home in Houston. MIRIAM CHACON Pensioner Miriam Chacon, 73, died July 23. She joined the SIU in 1995, initially working with Delta Queen Steamboat. Sister Chacon was a steward department member and last sailed aboard the USNS Bob Hope. She went on pension in 2012 and made her home in Kenner, Louisiana. JAMES COLEMAN Pensioner James Coleman, 68, died July 20. He was born in Honduras and joined the union in 2001 when he sailed on the Chelsea. A deck department member, he last worked aboard the Maersk Chicago. Brother Coleman retired in 2016 and lived in Brooklyn, New York. JOSE CONSTANTINO Pensioner Jose Constantino, 72, passed away May 14. He signed on with the SIU in 1996, initially sailing on the USNS Capella. A member of the steward department, Brother Constantino last sailed on the Intrepid. He became a pensioner in 2013 and was a resident of Affton, Missouri. JOSE ESPANOL Pensioner Jose Espanol, 92, died July 16. He signed on with the union in 1959 and first sailed on the Sampan Hitch. Brother Espanol was an engine department member and last sailed on the San Juan. He began collecting his pension in 1990 and lived in Man- 18 Seafarers LOG CLYDE KREISS Pensioner Clyde Kreiss, 90, died July 23. He joined the union in 1951 when he sailed with Waterman Steamship Corporation. A steward department member, he last worked aboard the Missouri. Brother Kreiss retired in 1995 and lived in Houston. SAMUEL MCKNIGHT Pensioner Samuel McKnight, 73, passed away March 27. He signed on with the SIU in 1978, initially sailing on the Westward Venture. A member of the deck department, Brother McKnight last sailed on the Lightning. He became a pensioner in 2009 and was a resident of Bothell, Washington. TONY MOHAMMED-GONZALEZ Pensioner Tony MohammedGonzalez, 59, passed away July 17. He joined the union in 1980 and first sailed on the El Paso Consolidated. Brother Mohammed-Gonzalez was a member of the engine department and last worked for Horizon Lines of Puerto Rico. He became a pensioner in 2006 and called Gainesville, Florida, home. ALI MOSAD Pensioner Ali Mosad, 67, died April 11. He joined the SIU in 1980, initially sailing on the Thompson Pass. Brother Mosad was a deck department member and last sailed aboard the Alaskan Frontier. He went on pension in 2016 and made his home in Detroit. HENRY PETERSON Pensioner Henry Peterson, 76, died June 29. He joined the union in 1983, first working for Dixie Carriers. A deck department member, he last worked aboard the Honor. Brother Peterson retired in 2013 and lived in Little Rock, Arkansas. ANTHONY PITURA Pensioner Anthony Pitura, 90, passed away July 17. He signed on with the SIU in 1953, initially sailing with Seatrade Corporation. A member of the engine department, Brother Pitura last sailed with Steamship Services Corp. He became a pensioner in 1984 and was a resident of Joppa, Maryland. GREAT LAKES FRANKLIN KOSIBOSKI Pensioner Franklin Kosiboski, 77, passed away July 20. He became a member of the SIU in 1977 and first worked for Michigan Interstate Railway. A member of the deck department, Brother Kosiboski last sailed aboard the St. Mary’s Challenger. He became a pensioner in 2011 and called Mount Plymouth, Florida, home. ALI YEHIA Pensioner Ali Yehia, 90, died May 10. He signed on with the union in 1969 when he worked for Great Lakes Associates. Sailing in the steward department, he last shipped aboard the Paul H. Townsend. He began collecting his pension in 1993 before settling in Dearborn, Michigan. INLAND EMETERIO HOOI Pensioner Emeterio Hooi, 86, died July 29. He embarked on his SIU career in 1981, working for Crowley Puerto Rico. The engine department member sailed with the same company for his entire career. Brother Hooi retired in 1997 and resided in San Juan, Puerto Rico. JOHN LACKEY Pensioner John Lackey, 89, passed away July 15. He signed on with the SIU in 1961 when he worked for Bethlehem Steel Company. Brother lackey last worked for Dunbar and Sullivan before retiring in 1987. He made his home in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. STEPHEN LATOCHA Pensioner Stephen Latocha, 78, passed away July 13. He joined the union in 1973 and first worked with Interstate Oil. Brother Latocha sailed in the deck department and worked with the same company for the majority of his SIU career. He became a pensioner in 2002 and was a resident of Felton, Delaware. died June 18. He donned the union colors in 1980, initially working for Hvide Marine. A member of the deck department, brother Welsh most recently sailed with Crowley Towing and Transportation. He went on pension in 2015 and called Danbury, New Hampshire, home. JOHN WINT Pensioner John Wint, 72, passed away July 7. He joined the SIU in 1994. Working in the engine department, Brother Wint sailed with Crescent Towing and Salvage for his entire career. He became a pensioner in 2011 and settled in Chickasaw, Alabama. NMU LUCIUS LEONARD Pensioner Lucius Leonard, 74, died July 2. He began his SIU career in 1967 when he worked for Crescent Towing and Salvage. A member of the deck department, Brother Leonard continued to sail with the same company until his retirement in 2006. He was a resident of Luling, Louisiana. JOSEPH LUQUETTE Pensioner Joseph Luquette, 76, passed away January 25. He joined the SIU in 1968, working for Dixie Carriers. Brother Luquette sailed in the deck department and remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He began collecting his pension in 2006 and lived in Kaplan, Louisiana. PATRICK ROGERS Brother Patrick Rogers, 48, died April 14. A Texas native, he began his career with the SIU in 2003, sailing aboard the USNS Yano. Brother Rogers was a steward department member and most recently shipped on the Resolve. He was a resident of Houston. DONALD VANCE Pensioner Donald Vance, 69, passed away June 27. He signed on with the union in 1966, initially sailing aboard the Northern Lights. A deck department member, Brother Vance last worked for Allied Transportation. He retired in 1988 and resided in Poplar Beach, North Carolina. PATRICK WELSH Pensioner Patrick Welsh, 62, ERIC GAYNOR Pensioner Eric Gaynor, 91, passed away July 14. Brother Gaynor was native to Kingston, Jamaica, and became a pensioner in in 1986. He lived in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. CHARLES PLEASANT Pensioner Charles Pleasant, 73, died July 17. An engine department member, Brother Pleasant’s last vessel was the Cape Horn. He went on pension in 2004 and settled in Bronx, New York. BERLIN SIMMONS Pensioner Berlin Simmons, 72, passed away July 11. Brother Simmons was born in South Carolina and became a pensioner in 2002. He continued to reside in his home state in the city of Charleston. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. Name Age Allen, Charles 89 Bodden, Winston 77 Burrow, James 81 Dawson, Allen 89 Hinson, James 78 Isaac, Roberto 93 Johnson, Darol 68 Johnson, Roosevelt 77 Goff, Leroy 91 McCall, Junious 90 McLaughlin, Carlos 92 McQuade, Bernard 88 Moore, Donald 94 O’Brien, Allan 83 Prevost, Aaron 79 Quinones, Robert 94 Sauvageau, Joseph 91 Schwerzler, Kenneth 90 Sosa, Carin 88 Williams, Christopher 84 Williams, James 89 DOD 07/09/2018 05/28/2018 06/28/2018 05/22/2018 08/05/2018 05/03/2018 08/07/2018 08/04/2018 07/06/2018 08/11/2018 07/19/2018 05/11/2018 06/05/2018 07/10/2018 08/11/2018 05/19/2018 07/18/2018 07/10/2018 05/21/2018 07/10/2018 07/07/2018 September 2018 �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. Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings MAERSK CHICAGO (Maersk Line, Limited), May 12 – Chairman Roy Madrio, Secretary Gregory Johnson, Educational Director Mbarek Nouhairi, Deck Delegate Carlton Banks, Engine Delegate Gregorio Blanco, Steward Delegate Marquisha Simmons. Members requested installation of Wi-Fi to communicate with loved ones. Crew expressed concern over lack of privacy on SAT phone. Chairman noted smooth voyage and thanked crew for their hard work getting ship in order. He commended steward department for a job well done and advised members to keep medical certifications up to date. Relief members were made aware of new linen and linen bags provided outside their doors. Educational director advised members to upgrade at Paull Hall Center to help achieve better pay. Overtime dispute reported and to be handled at the hall. Crew discussed frequency requirements for physicals and would like an increase in vacation days per trip. Members requested new chairs, mattresses for state rooms, refrigerator in crew lounge, new grill and satellite TV service. Next port: Newark, New Jersey. MAERSK SELETAR (Maersk Line, Limited), May 16 – Chairman Cleofe Bernardez-Castro, Secretary Steven Dickson, Educational Director Steven Miller, Deck Delegate Reynaldo Nuqui, Engine Delegate Gregorio Clotter, Steward Delegate Marilou Toledo. Chairman announced payoff in Newark. Secretary reminded crew to keep documents updated and renewed. Members were advised to vote for candidates that support the Jones Act. Educational director recommended members upgrade whenever possible and enroll in Seafarers 401K plan. Crew encouraged to donate to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New refrigerator received in dining room along with new TV in crew lounge. SAT phone available for emergencies. Crew discussed pension benefits and requirements. Members were reminded to keep common areas clean for arriving crew and to carefully check pockets of clothing before loading washing machine. Next port: Newark. SAFMARINE NGAMI (Maersk Line, Limited), May 19 – Chairman Mathew Bevak, Secretary Cleto Lindong, Educational Director Allan Bombita, Deck Delegate Pablo Rochez, Engine Delegate Reynaldo Lacayo, Steward Delegate Noel Segovia. Crew still trying to secure carpet replacement in cabins. Chairman reiterated importance of safety and thanked steward department for great food. He urged members to pay dues on time and support political activities. Chairman commended crew for hard work and professionalism. Secretary gave thanks to members for good housekeeping and reminded them to keep up with their time. Educational director advised crew to take every opportunity possible and upgrade at the Piney Point school. Members requested large dryer for ship linens, new DVD player in crew lounge and water fountain in office. MAERSK PITTSBURGH (Maersk Line, Limited), May 20 – Chairman Domingo Leon, Secretary Jerome Jordan, Educational Director Shawn Pantschyschak, Engine Delegate Roger Nesbeth, Steward Delegate Angel Corchado. Chairman thanked crew for safe voyage. Ship in need of commercial carpet cleaning machine for crew rooms. Secretary gave vote of thanks to all departments and reminded members to leave clean rooms for oncoming crew. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade their skills at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. Members were provided instructions for sea time inquiries and using website. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members request improvement to Wi-Fi and upgraded computer. Crew desires cost-of-living raises as well as raises in pension and vacation pay. Next port: Newark, New Jersey. CALIFORNIA (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning), May 27 – Chairman John Cedeno, Secretary Benjamin Ines, Educational Director Mark Canada, Deck Delegate Anthony Newbill, Engine Delegate Tyesha Boyd, Steward Delegate Quentin Hood. Chairman explained importance of member contributions and SPAD donations. He advised members to keep track of credentials and reiterated importance of safety. Members were reminded to empty all drawers and lockers and leave clean linens for oncoming crew. Secretary instructed members to gather dirty linen in sacks provided in linen locker. Educational director urged members to attend upgrading courses at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman asked for safety ideas from members. Crew discussed increase of vacation days and matching 401K. They request flat screen TVs and refrigerators be available in each room. Congrats to Bosun Cedeno for receiving company safety award. Next port: Long Beach, California. ENDURANCE (TOTE Services), May 27 – Chairman Yamira Colon, Secretary Robert Wright. Chairman read email from Eric Mark, port engineer, expressing his gratitude for improvements to ship. Secretary said new linens located in officers’ linen room. Educational director reminded members to upgrade. Member reportedly doing trash for three days without extra compensation. Steward assistant due extra hour of OT for washing linen. Captain was notified of issue and agreed to pay. Members discussed new information regarding DOT drug testing. Crew requests new printer for lounge. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great barbeque. Deck department commended for hard work. Next port: Beaumont, Texas. ALASKAN EXPLORER (Alaska Tanker Company), May 27 – Chairman Robert Pagan, Secretary John Huyett, Educational Director Winfred Opare, Deck Delegate Francisco Hernandez Davila, Engine Delegate Eric Garcia, Steward Delegate Roberto Martinez. Chairman announced upcoming audit at next port and asked members to keep house clean in preparation for inspection. Crowley now operating three new tankers. Members were reminded to put all trash in cage located in trash room. Steward department thanked for good service and great food. Members read new information concerning health coverage for hearing aids, infertility treatments and sterilization. Educational director discussed free college benefit and encouraged members to take opportunity to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew urged to be sure clothing is fully dried before removing from dryer. Next port: Long Beach, California. MAERSK IDAHO (Maersk Line, Limited), June 3 – Chairman Ronald Mena, Secretary Zein Achmad, Educational Director Fidel Blanco, Deck Delegate Kevin Combs, En- gine Delegate Samuel Addo. Crew revisited requests for TV antennas. Chairman reported zero injuries and thanked everyone for a job well done. He reminded members to shut off TVs after each use and to check paperwork before joining ship. Secretary asked members to return silverware to the galley. Educational director advised crew to take advantage of upgrading opportunities at Piney Point. Members request chairs for bridge and extra heaters in rooms. They discussed interest in increased benefits and vacation time. Next port: Charleston, South Carolina. LIBERTY PEACE (North Star Shipping), June 10 – Chairman Nathaniel Sherrill, Secretary Gordon Major, Deck Delegate Jairo Rochez, Steward Delegate Shawn Mitchell. Chairman reminded members to keep up with documents and recommended the new LNG class. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed pension benefits and motioned to reduce days required to retire. Members asked that company stop requesting Anderson Kelly physicals. Concerns with mattresses and overtime wages discussed. Calling card system not working. LOS ANGELES (Overseas Ship Management), June 17 – Chairman Teodulfo Alanano, Secretary Louis Johnson, Educational Director Edgardo Barrios, Deck Delegate Charles Herrera, Engine Delegate Nestor Montano, Steward Delegate Carmelo Dela Cruz. Chairman thanked crew for job well done and reminded everyone to look out for one another. Educational director recommended upgrading as often as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested that both flavored and regular water be ordered. 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 September 2018 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 19 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Refer Tech October 6 November 16 Pumpman September 22 September 28 Welding September 22 October 27 October 12 November 16 Steward Department Courses Gap Closing Courses Engineroom Resource Management October 6 Leadership & Managerial Skills October 13 October 12 October 19 Advanced Galley Ops November 10 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start September 3. Chief Steward September 22 November 9 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 September 29 October 27 December 1 October 5 November 2 December 7 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 September 15 September 22 October 13 October 20 November 3 November 24 December 8 September 21 September 28 October 19 October 26 November 9 November 30 December 14 ServSafe September 22 September 28 Storekeeper Courses MSC Storekeeper Basic September 29 October 19 MSC Supply Configuration Management October 20 November 16 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck October 20 November 16 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Students will be advised of dates once accepted. ARPA October 20 October 26 100 Ton Master October 13 November 2 ECDIS October 20 October 26 Fast Rescue Boat September 8 September 14 GMDSS September 22 October 5 Lifeboat September 22 October 20 November 17 December 15 October 5 November 2 November 30 December 28 Radar Observer October 6 October 19 Radar Renewal (one day) RFPNW Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training/Basic FF September 22 October 6 November 3 September 28 October 12 November 9 Basic Training Revalidation September 28 November 9 November 30 December 7 December 14 September 28 November 9 November 30 December 7 December 14 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation October 13 October 19 Contact the PHC Admissions Office Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting September 15 September 21 September 22 November 17 Government Vessels September 8 September 28 October 27 November 10 December 1 September 14 October 5 November 2 November 16 December 7 Medical Care Provider September 8 September 14 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL October 13 October 19 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG October 20 December 8 October 26 December 14 October 19 December 14 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers December 1 December 14 BAPO September 22 November 17 October 19 December 14 FOWT October 20 November 16 Junior Engineer October 27 December 21 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 If yes, class # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? †Yes †�No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG December 7 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, or 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. 9/18 September 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class # 838 – Graduated June 4 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Elizabeth Ashworth, Christopher Collins, Michael Day Jr., Jada Gay, Jack Lanier, Johnathan Lebeaux, Nakia Miller, Aaliyah Richardson, Samuel Schwimmer, Shayne Searle and Daniel Villarruel. Also graduating were upgraders (photo below, from left) Felsher Beasley Jr., Raymond Fernandez and Shantel Reid. Fast Rescue Boat – Graduated June 18 (above, in alphabetical order): Annie Bivens, Joshua Gonzales, David Kendrick, Bud Sok Khuth, Nicholas Selle, George Steube III and Dexter Madrona Turija. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Welding – Graduated June 11 (above, in alphabetical order): John Abernathy, Manolito Gener Garcia, Antonio Griffin, Patrick Spark, Robert Thomas and Bryan Velazquez. Instructor Chris Raley is at the far right. BAPO (Phase III Apprentices) – Graduated June 4 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Samuel Ayers, Reco Bennefield, Nicholas Brailsford, Devon David, Eshrak El Sami Dewan, Desmon Graham, Daryl Hicks, Joshua Irvine, Jorge Laboriel Lalin, Kevin Lueddeke, Tresten Porter, Anthony Williams Jr. and Thomas Zamora. Christopher Morgan, their instructor, is at the far left. Upon the completion of their training, each apprentice plans to work in the engine department of SIU-contracted vessels. Government Vessels – Graduated May 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Leo De Los Reyes Bierneza, Henry Callahan, Oscar Tabarejos Catabay, Laura Davies, Rufinio Sacdalan Gonzales Jr., Kaamil Ibn Salam Gray, Carlos Louis Guzman, Rodante Golimlim Niebres, Mohammed Obad, Frederick Fra’quann Radford, Donte Sawyer, Jacqueline Sivels, Rolando Dejarme Torres, Douglas Vaughn, Edward Echague Villanda, De’vine Washington and Antjuan Webb. September 2018 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Government Vessels – Graduated May 28 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Frederic Salazar Agsalud, Arthur Bailey, Ashley Carmichael, Shawn Cox, Paul Diesner, Rocky Dupraw, Aaron Ellis, Michael Elmore Jr., Benito Figueroa, Alonzo Griswell, Srawut Petchsaitip, Alex Reyes, Mario Standberry, James Stimage and Nicholas Turano. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Graduated April 30 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Monasser Mohamed Ali, Warren Armstead Jr., Mark Baclayon, John Brantly, Alvin Cabahit, David Dingman, Emily Glavan, Derrick Martin, Saif Obad, Zarko Vrbljanac and William Young. Notice to All 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. Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting – Graduated June 1 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Robert Brady, Henry Callahan, Tom Dary, Kelly Krick Jr., Reisa Marie Martinez-Serrano, Mason Con Melland, Malek Mohamed Hassan Muhsen, Charles Ortiz Quinones, John Schmanski, Gavin Scott, Nicholas Selle, Marcus Smith, Glen Williams and Joshua Zelinsky. Class instructor Joe Zienda is at the far right. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting Upgraders) – Graduated May 25 (above, in alphabetical order): Warren Armstead Jr., Alan Artman, Scott Branson, Jermaine Colon-Mendez, Michael Elmore Jr., Frederick Gathers, Robert Lupton, Rashaad Mangram, Donald Mann Jr., Brian Peralta, Emma Porter, Yuriy Prytchak, James Stimage and Michael Tiderman. Joe Zienda, their instructor, is at the far right. 22 Seafarers LOG September 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes RFPNW (Phase III Apprentices) – Graduated June 29 (right, in alphabetical order): Erik Andersen, Brandon Caruthers, Jamil Andre Centeno-Rosario, Jeffery Gullett Jr., Thomas Howarth, Da’vonte Junies and Lucas Vasiliades. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the deck department of union-contracted vessels. Upgrader Antony Chapman (photo below) graduated from this course May 4. Certified Chief Cook (Module 1) – Steward Department Upgrader Van Nessa Curd (above) graduated from this module May 18. Certified Chief Cook (Module 2) – Graduated June 1 (above, from left): Alexander Marcelino Dominguez, Christina Leboeuf and Michael Musgrave. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated May 18 (photo above, from left) Gary Loftin and David Dingman. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated May 25 (above, in alphabetical order): Ruti Demont, Rocky Dupraw, Josue Luis Iglesia Jr., Amanda Fedelina Suncin and Stephen Valencia. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated May 4 (photo above, from left): John Stephens and William Grow. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated May 11 (above, from left): Robert Mensching and Joseph Gallo Jr. Galley Ops – Graduated May 18 (right, in alphabetical order): Rowena Melo Daguio, Tomeka Frederick, Hazza Ahmed Hussein, Edilberto Montano Medallo Jr., Dante Moyer, Munasar Ali Abdulla Muthana, Brian Peralta, Nathaniel Paqueo Rana, Tamara Russ, Annie Walker, Michael Wees and Philip Zulueta. Instructor Hillary Dyson is at the far right. September 2018 Seafarers LOG 23 �SEPTEMBER 2018 VOLUME 80, NO. 9 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 In photo above, a U.S. helicopter flies over the Seafarers-crewed USNS Mercy July 2 at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam during the Rim of the Pacific exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jason Isaacs) Sailors assigned to guidedmissile destroyer USS Sterett (foreground of photo at right) stand by for the firing of the shot line during a replenishment-at-sea with the Seafarers-crewed fleet replenishment oiler USNS Henry J. Kaiser during the RIMPAC exercise, July 20. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Alexander C. Kubitza) SIU-Crewed MSC Ships Pitch in During RIMPAC 2018 Seafarers serving aboard eight Military Sealift Command (MSC) vessels participated in the multinational exercise Rim of the Pacific 2018 (RIMPAC), which took place from June 27 to August 2. According to the U.S. Navy, as the world’s largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity designed to foster and sustain cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety and security of the seas. RIMPAC 2018 is the 26th exercise in the series, which began in 1971. Twenty-five nations, 46 surface ships, five submarines, 18 national land forces, more than 200 aircraft, and 25,000 personnel participated in the biennial RIMPAC exercise. During the operation, SIU Government Services Division members sailed aboard the USNS Rappahannock, USNS Charles Drew, USNS Henry J. Kaiser, USNS Carl Brashear, USNS Sioux, USNS Yukon and USNS Mercy. Additionally, cargo for the operation was loaded onto the Brashear by the SIU-crewed USNS Bob Hope in a skin-to-skin operation just prior to the start of the exercise. (The Bob Hope is operated by U.S. Marine Management for MSC.) This year’s exercise included forces from Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Colombia, France, Germany, India, Indone- sia, Israel, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Peru, the Republic of Korea, the Republic of the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tonga, the United Kingdom, the United States and Vietnam. According to the Military Sealift Command Pacific Logistics and Operations departments, over the course of the exercise, MSC delivered more than eight million gallons of diesel ship fuel, four million gallons of JP5 aviation fuel and 1,130 pallets of food and supplies during 101 resupply evolutions at sea. “By providing underway replenishment at sea, we enable the combatant ship to stay on station at sea longer without having to pull into port for resupply,” explained Capt. Stephen Scott, one of two civil service masters who commanded the Brashear during RIMPAC. “During our first evolution we provided replenishment services to seven different ships at once. Five of the ships were U.S. Navy ships and two of the ships were international partners. The partner ships leapfrogged into the formation, came alongside USNS Carl Brashear, thus demonstrating their ability to maintain the position required to perform underway replenishments at sea.” One of the distinctive aspects of RIMPAC is the number of countries participating, and the interaction between them and the U.S. Navy. MSC ships provided logistics services to for- eign navy ships 61 times during the exercise. The logistics aspect of MSC’s task during RIMPAC isn’t limited to just vessels. On the ground, the MSCPAC Combat Logistic Office (CLO) coordinated the acquisition and movement of all the cargo needs for the entire exercise. According to the Navy, “Working in concert with directly with Commander Third Fleet and Commander Task Force (CTF) 173, the MSCPAC CLO coordinated not only the delivery of food and stores, but also the pier-side time at the correct pier for the loadouts of cargo to the specific ships scheduled for later RAS. Six MSC ships, as well as MSC reservists from Military Sealift Command Pacific’s Headquarters Unit, MSCPAC’s Hawaii Detachment, and Expeditionary Port Unit 114, are supporting RIMPAC 2018.” “RIMPAC has continued to grow – more participants, more ships, more evolutions – all requiring logistics support in order to remain at sea and maximize opportunities to train and operate together,” said Capt. Brett Hershman, commander, Military Sealift Command Pacific and CTF 173. “Increased exercise tempo means a greater customer demand signal on MSC. Our CTF 173 operations are more complex this year than ever, with over 100 RAS events providing fuel, food, repair parts and ammunition to everyone out there.” The guided missile destroyer USS Preble (right) pulls alongside the SIU-crewed dry cargo ammunition ship USNS Carl Brashear to conduct an underway replenishment at sea, July 17. (U.S. Navy photo by Bill Mesta) Sailors assigned to the amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry (foreground) receive a pallet of stores from the Seafarers-crewed USNS Yukon July 14. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Logan C. Kellums) The Seafarers-crewed Military Sealift Command ships USNS Carl Brashear (right) and USNS Bob Hope moor feet apart while conducting ship-to-ship transfer operations at Naval Base Everett, Washington. (Photo released by Sarah Burford) � 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 2018 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES: NEW JONES ACT CONRO EL COQUI BOOSTS JOBS, PUERTO RICO SERVICE SEAFARERS COMMEND UNION, SCHOOL RECERTIFIED BOSUNS SHARE INSIGHTS DURING GRADUATION SIU-CREWED VESSELS HELP ENSURE SUCCESS OF MULTINATIONAL DRILL JONES ACT HAS NO EFFECT ON PRICES IN PUERTO RICO NEW REPORT THOROUGHLY EXAMINES CABOTAGE LAW, U.S. TERRITORY MEMBERS OF CONGRESS, ECONOMISTS, U.S. MARITIME INDUSTRY LEADERS UNDERSCORE IMPORTANCE OF JONES ACT EL COQUI, A CONRO, JOINS SIU-CREWED FLEET OSG ORDERS TWO TANKERS, ONE BARGE MISSOURI DEFEATS RIGHT-TO-WORK (FOR LESS) LAW RIGHT-TO-WORK LAWS HURT EVERYONE LYONS TAKES HELM AT TRANSPORTATION COMMAND MARITIME ADMINISTRATOR CITES IMPORTANCE OF RRF BUZBY CREDITS MARINERS, SAYS SHIPS ARE ‘CRITICAL ASSETS TO NATIONAL DEFENSE’ TWIC CARDS GET NEW LOOK FEDERAL LAWS STILL REGARD CBD OIL AS CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE NOTICE/REMINDER REDUCED OPERATING STATUS, VACATION PAY MEMBER PORTAL OFFERS SCHEDULING CLINIC EXAMS OPTION SIU GALLEY GANG RISES TO SPECIAL OCCASION BOSUNS UTILIZE UNION, SCHOOL TO CHART SUCCESSFUL CAREER PATHS BOSUNS OFFER APPRENTICES ADVICE SIU-CREWED MSC SHIPS PITCH IN DURING RIMPAC 2018 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 09/01/2018 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. 80, No. 9 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/4c126afe4b93f54c4699748a1f288bc4.pdf 3da8b96e47591531898641a6c29f10f0 PDF Text Text AUGUST 2018 FEBRU ARY 2014 V O L U MVOLUME E 7 6 o80,NNO. O . 82 SIU Celebrates Inouye Christening Union-Built Matson Containership Honors Late Maritime Stalwart Seafarers and SIU officials joined in welcoming the largest U.S-built containership – Matson’s Daniel K. Inouye (immediate right) – during a June 30 ceremony at Philly Shipyard. The vessel is named after the late senator from Hawaii who was an ardent backer of the U.S. Merchant Marine – and an honorary SIU book holder. Numerous speakers at the christening voiced support for American mariners and U.S.-flag shipping, including high-level representatives from the military and the administration. Pictured from right to left in second photo at right are SIU Port Agent Joe Baselice, VP West Coast Nick Marrone, Exec. VP Augie Tellez and his wife, Susan, and VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi. Some of the 350-plus attendees are shown below. Page 3. SLNC York Signals New SIU Jobs Seafarers are sailing aboard the newly contracted general cargo ship SLNC York, part of the Argent Marine fleet. Pictured aboard the ship during a recent stop in Jacksonville, Florida, are (from left) QMED Derrick Sullivan, Bosun Basil D’Souza, AB Clifford Carroll and AB Erick Toledo. Turn to Page 3 for additional information and more photos. Mattis Praises Mariners Page 2 Hiring Halls to Close on Saturdays Page 4 Great Lakes Photos Pages 12-13 �Defense Secretary Backs Mariners President’s Report Earning Every Gain August is the birth month of a dedicated leader who served as the second president of the Seafarers International Union of North America, the late Paul Hall. While I realize that for our younger members, Paul’s name is primarily associated with our affiliated school in Piney Point (his brainchild), we could all benefit from remembering how hard he fought to advance workers’ rights and the U.S. Merchant Marine. Paul was a visionary when it came to maritime training, but I know from directly working for him that he was also a battler who pushed himself – and who demanded maximum effort from everyone around him. He knew that nothing would be given to our union, and that we had to work for every single gain. He knew that we also had to fight to maintain those gains, whether they involved contracts or legislation or facilities or benefits. That’s the right mindset for us now, just a couple of months shy of our organization’s 80th anniversary. The labor movement is under attack. The U.S. Merchant Marine is under attack. The future isn’t Michael Sacco guaranteed for anyone, in any line of work, but if we don’t continue helping lead the charge to revitalize our movement and our industry, it won’t be pretty. On the labor side, to name a couple of prominent examples, we go into detail elsewhere in this edition about the recent Supreme Court ruling in the Janus case, which can be a big blow to working families if we let it. This month, Missourians go to the polls to vote on repealing its so-called right-to-work (for less) law. There is regular talk about pushing national right-to-work (for less) in the private sector. For now, I’ll just say to anyone who truly believes that the people behind Janus and right-to-work actually have workers’ best interests in mind, I’ve got a nice bridge for sale. On the maritime side, there are a lot of resources being lined up to take another shot at weakening or eliminating the Jones Act this year. I find those attacks disgraceful. The Jones Act is one of the most important laws in our entire country, not just in the maritime industry. It protects our national, economic and homeland security. It’s a huge source of good jobs. These attacks are nothing new. For example, within just a few years of our union’s formation, we teamed up with the Sailors’ Union of the Pacific to protect America’s freight cabotage law. That was one of our first Jones Act fights (the law was enacted in 1920), and like all the ones that followed, it was a win. We’ve got plenty of fight left in us today, as evidenced by two recent triumphs against sneak attacks on cargo preference. Those salvos, led by political extremists, would have eliminated at least a half-dozen American-flag vessels right off the bat (and the SIU jobs that go with them). We thank all elected officials, from both parties, who stood with us. And our union brothers and sisters in the public sector aren’t taking Janus lying down. Make no mistake, the Court’s decision was anti-worker – but it has further awakened people, union and unrepresented alike, about why unions exist in the first place. Just like teachers across the country, it’ll make us work harder to spread the message, but that’s not entirely bad. Put all of that together and you’ll understand why we reach out to rank-and-file members for grassroots support, both for maritime laws and for pro-maritime, pro-worker political candidates, no matter the party. You all know this is an election year. Make sure you’re registered to vote. Talk to your family members, neighbors and friends about getting out to the polls on Election Day. Talk to them about supporting the candidates who’ll back America’s working families. If your port agent asks for help with a block walk or a phone bank, donate your time. If you’re not contributing to SPAD, the SIU’s voluntary political action fund, please consider signing up. It’s an important tool for us. Brothers and sisters, if Paul Hall were with us today, I’ve got a pretty good idea of what he’d say. He’d tell us to roll up our sleeves and get to work. He’d remind us that politics is pork chops. And he’d exhaust every resource in the fights for workers’ rights and our maritime industry. That’s exactly what we’ll continue to do, no matter the arena. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 o U.S. Secretary of Defense James Mattis recently offered strong words of support for the U.S. Merchant Marine. Speaking June 16 to new graduates of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, Mattis said, “You’re going to be the fourth arm of the defense. You’re going to sustain our allies and fuel our ships and ferry our warriors.” During his remarks in Kings Point, New York, the secretary stated, “As small as our merchant marine may be today, it is absolutely essential. We’re going to need you as we see the storm clouds gather elsewhere as our diplomats are in a position where we have to buy time for them to solve problems.” Mattis told the gathering of A few weeks before finishing his time at the helm of the U.S. Coast Guard, Adm. Paul Zukunft reiterated his support for America’s freight cabotage law. During a question-and-answer period following a speech he gave in Washington, D.C., the admiral responded, “There’s this fixation that we need to get after the Jones Act. The consequences of the Jones Act [repeal] could have severe repercussions as well.” The Jones Act requires that cargo moving between domestic ports be carried on vessels that are crewed, built, owned and flagged American. The law enjoys strong bipartisan support and military backing, but also regularly comes under attack by NO. 2 August 2018 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2018 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. 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 less and that is what we still need today.” James Mattis Secretary of Defense Outgoing Coast Guard Commandant: ‘Not the Time to go After Jones Act’ Adm. Paul Zukunft Volume 80 Number 8 nearly 4,500 people that his father had been a merchant mariner during World War II. He relayed a 1935 quote from the leader who guided America’s effort during that war, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, recalling his time as Assistant Secretary of the Navy during World War I: “‘In the event of a war, American-flag ships are obviously needed not only for Naval auxiliary, but also for the maintenance of reasonable and necessary commercial intercourse. We should remember the lessons learned in the last war.’” Mattis reminded the graduates and audience, “Those lessons that he was speaking to are timeless, and I would tell you the essential nature of an efficient and a resilient merchant marine that is fear- foreign-flag interests. Zukunft spoke May 8 at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Continuing with his answer, he warned that if the Jones Act is weakened or eliminated, “All of our coastwise trade will probably be done by a third nation, namely China, [and] not just coastwise trade, but plying our inland river systems as well. If we’re looking at, ‘hey, if we can lower the cost of doing business, we can have a third nation do it on our behalf.’ “The next thing that goes away is the (U.S. and state) maritime academies,” he continued. “You don’t need them because we have foreign mariners. We don’t know who they are, but they’re foreign mariners plying our waters and our internal waters as well to conduct maritime commerce, which is a $4.6 trillion enterprise in the United States.” He concluded, “Then the next thing that goes is our shipyards – our shipyards and the technology that goes with the shipyards.…This is not the time and place to go after the Jones Act.” That wasn’t the first time Zukunft spoke in favor of the Jones Act. During a House hearing in 2016, he said, “You take Jones Act away the first thing to go is these shipyards and then the mariners. If you take the mariners away, what is the world going to look like 10 years from now? If we don’t have a U.S. fleet or U.S. shipyard to constitute that fleet how do we prevail? I am concerned that any repeal of the Jones Act would cut at the heart of that industrial base. “We inspect foreign ships that we trade with and on any given day we detain two or three ships because they are not in compliance even though the flag state claims they are in compliance,” he said. “The U.S. does have a higher standard for safety and security and no one does it better than the United States.” During that hearing, conducted by the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, Zukunft also said that if the Jones Act were eliminated, “Quite honestly, it will bankrupt our maritime resiliency. When we look at the challenges that the Maritime Administrator and TRANSCOM are facing in the event of a contingency and we don’t have a lift within the U.S. fleet to respond to a contingency at a point in time that we are seeing the reemergence of pure competitors – it is in our nation’s best interest to protect our maritime resiliency and the Jones Act does provide that wherewithal.” Adm. Karl L. Schultz became the new Coast Guard commandant during a changeof-command ceremony June 1 in Washington. NY Waterway Crew Rescues Teen From Overturned Vessel on Hudson Three Seafarers who work aboard NY Waterway passenger ferries recently pulled off their second rescue in two months. Capt. Gil Rivera and Deckhands Selena Sobers and Ignacio Minutillo on July 9 pulled a teen to safety after his sailboat overturned in the Hudson River. A New York Police Department Harbor Unit crew pulled the other teen (who also had been in the sailboat) onto its vessel. All three of the Seafarers have taken safety training at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center, located in Piney Point, Maryland. They were sailing aboard the York when the more recent rescue happened – and were on that same boat May 7, when they aided a main in distress in the river near the Brookfield/ Battery Park City Ferry Terminal. According to a NY Waterway news release, both teens were taken to Paulus Hook, where Jersey Police and ambulance crews tended to them. “My deckhands did an excellent job, working well under pressure. We were able to get the young man out of the water quickly. Once again, our training paid off,” Rivera said. In 31 years, SIU NY Waterway crews have rescued almost 300 people from the waters of New York Harbor, including 143 people rescued from U.S. Airways Flight 1549 in “The Miracle on the Hudson,” billed as the most successful marine rescue in aviation history. August 2018 �Matson Ship Inouye Christened in Philly Administration States Support For Jones Act, Cargo Preference More Jones Act tonnage is on the way, following the June 30 christening of the Seafarers-contracted containership Daniel K. Inouye at Philly Shipyard. The Inouye is the largest U.S.-built containership (850 feet long, 3,600 TEUs). It is named in memory of the late U.S. Senator from Hawaii – and honorary SIU book holder – who was a longtime backer of the U.S. maritime industry and its role in supporting Hawaii’s economy. Inouye passed away in December 2012. Among those attending the ceremony for the SIU were Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone, Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi and Philadelphia Port Agent Joe Baselice. Dr. Peter Navarro, assistant to the president and director of the White House Office of Trade & Manufacturing Policy, was a featured speaker. He also wrote an article prior to the ceremony in which he expressed the administration’s strong support for the Jones Act and cargo preference – and he pointed out that the Inouye was built with union labor. Senator Inouye’s widow, Irene Hirano Inouye (left), christened the ship. She is pictured with SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez. Other speakers at the christening included Gen. Darren McDew, commanding officer of the U.S. Transportation Command; Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby; former Pennsylvania Gov. Ed Rendell; company and shipyard officials, and more. Irene Hirano Inouye, Sen. Inouye’s widow, christened the vessel by breaking a ceremonial bottle of champagne against the ship’s hull. The Daniel K. Inouye is the first of two Aloha Class vessels being built for Matson at Philly Shipyard. When the yard announced the start of construction, it said in a news release that the new tonnage would constitute “Matson’s largest ships. They will also be faster, designed to operate at speeds in excess of 23 knots, helping ensure timely delivery of goods in Hawaii. Though bigger, the ships are also designed to accommodate future needs by being able to navigate safely into some of Hawaii’s smaller ports. The new vessels will incorporate a number of ‘green ship technology’ features that will help protect the environment, including a more fuelefficient hull design, dual fuel engines that can be adapted to use liquefied natural gas (LNG), environmentally safe double hull fuel tanks and fresh water ballast systems.” The second ship is scheduled for delivery in 2019. “This is a proud day for all of us at Matson,” said Matt Cox, Matson’s chairman and chief executive officer, at the shipyard ceremony. “Over our first 136 years, Matson’s fleet has evolved from sailing ships to larger steamers to diesel power, consistent with changes in technology and always evolving in step with the needs of a growing Hawaii economy. “This new vessel, designed specifically to serve Hawaii and built with LNG-compatible engines, is the next generation of vessel and sets a new standard for cargo transportation in Hawaii,” he continued. “It also symbolizes Matson’s continuing commitment to serving our island home in the most efficient, effective and environmentally sound way into the future.” Steinar Nerbovik, Philly Shipyard president and CEO, said, “It is with tremendous gratitude and pride that we celebrate the christening of Daniel K. Inouye, alongside Matson, a returning customer. When this ship is delivered, no matter where it travels, it will represent the finest craftsmanship of Philadelphia shipbuilders, and fulfill our promise to provide American More than 350 people attended the ceremony at Philadelphia Shipyard, a union facility (though the event hadn’t begun when this photo was taken). built and owned ships that will safely and securely service our nation.” Buzby commended the shipbuilders and the vessel itself and then added, “America has a proud maritime history, but it has never been just about ships and ports. To me it’s more about the American mariner; the men and women who have advanced the American way of life by serving at sea, and the men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine. They are always among the first called to action to support and sustain our armed forces in national and international crises. Those same mariners will breathe life into this new ship and sail her confidently and competently for years to come.” Navarro said the following in his published article and echoed the same points at the ceremony: “The merchant marine helps to provide our military the mobility it requires, in both troops and equipment, to confront threats around the world. The Inouye and its sister ship will materially help add to the pool of highly trained merchant seamen. The same shipbuilding industrial base that constructs ships such as the Inouye is therefore essential to the maintenance and resilience of a robust United States Navy. The Jones Act and cargo preference were designed to meet these national security objectives, and the Trump administration is committed to im- proving both so that we once again have a robust United States-flag fleet and shipbuilding industry.” Dr. Peter Navarro (left), director of the White House Office of Trade & Manufacturing Policy, expressed strong support for mariners, the Jones Act and cargo preference. With him are (center) Matson Chairman/CEO Matt Cox and SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez. With Seafarers Aboard SLNC York Built in 2010, the SLNC York (photo at left) reflagged earlier this year under the Stars and Stripes. SIU members began sailing aboard the 466-foot-long vessel in mid-May. An outright addition to the SIU-contracted fleet, the York features two cranes and a stern ramp for roll-on/roll-off capability. The ship has a 76-foot beam and a gross tonnage of 12,679. Pictured aboard the Argent Marine-operated vessel in Jacksonville, Florida, are (from left) Chief Cook Rosalie Long and Steward/Baker Victor Jimenez. August 2018 Seafarers LOG 3 �Personnel from the USNS Trenton (photo at right) render assistance to mariners in distress whom they encountered while conducting routine operations in the Mediterranean Sea, June 12, 2018. The Seafarers-crewed USNS Trenton (photo above) has been part of the U.S. Military Sealift Command fleet since 2014. (U.S. Navy photos) USNS Trenton Assists Adrift Migrants SIU CIVMARS recently assisted in a dramatic rescue at sea. On June 12, SIU Government Services Division members leapt into action to aid 41 men and women while sailing aboard the USNS Trenton in the Mediterranean Sea. The crew of the Trenton, a Spearheadclass expeditionary fast transport vessel, rescued the group of maritime migrants from an inflatable raft off the coast of Libya, using two rigid-hull inflatable boats (RHIBs) and one fast rescue boat to facilitate the transit. The survivors were then provided with food, water, clothing and medical care aboard the Trenton. However, due to the complicated politi- cal situation between Mediterranean countries concerning migrants, this rescue was far from over. Once the rescued migrants were safely aboard, according to the U.S. Navy, “The Trenton asked the NGO rescue vessel Sea-Watch 3 to take the survivors on board for transfer to a safe harbor. SeaWatch 3 agreed, but the transfer did not occur, and … the Trenton got under way for Augusta, Sicily to bring the survivors to shore.” After six days aboard the vessel, the rescued migrants were transferred to Italian Coast Guard ships off the coast of Lampedusa, and the Trenton resumed her normal operations. “Although it is seldom that we run into people in distress at sea, it is something we plan, practice and prepare for routinely,” said Susan Orsini, ship master aboard the Trenton. “A rescue at sea involves all hands aboard the ship. I was so proud and impressed by the thoughtful resourcefulness of all hands on board USNS Trenton; it filled my heart with hope and gratitude.” She added, “The pivotal role the shore side units and personnel play in a rescue at sea cannot be minimized; the ship cannot do it alone. Their efforts involve intense and intricate coordination, timely and critical communications to all units and personnel IMB: Piracy Rate Up Sharply in Q1 2018; Gulf of Guinea Dubbed Incident Epicenter The overall downward trend of acts of piracy in recent years has reversed, according to the latest International Chamber of Commerce International Maritime Bureau (IMB) Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report for Q1 2018. Sixty-six incidents were reported to the IMB’s Piracy Response Center (PRC) between January 1 and March 31, an increase of 35 percent over the same period in 2017. According to the report, the incidents can be broken down as 39 vessels boarded, 12 attempted attacks, 11 vessels fired upon and four vessels hijacked. In addition, 100 crew members were taken hostage, and 14 were kidnapped. There is a clear epicenter for this increased activity. As stated in the report, “As a region, the Gulf of Guinea accounts for 29 of the 2018 Q1 incidents and all four of the vessel hijackings. With the exception of one crew member, all crew kidnappings and hostages taken occurred in the Gulf of Guinea. As a country, Nigeria recorded 22 incidents. Of the 11 vessels fired upon, eight occurred off the coast of Nigeria.” Carriers, Tankers Targets of Choice Other regions which have seen an increase in pirate activity include Haiti, Benin, Venezuela and Indonesia. According to the report, the clear targets of choice for pirates remain bulk carriers and product tankers, accounting for 62 percent of all vessels attacked. An example of these attacks, as outlined in the report, details one of the numerous attacks: “On February 26, 2018, a Luxembourg-flagged product tanker Marseille was attacked by five armed persons while anchored at ... Cotonou Anchorage, Benin at approximately 2330 UTC. While boarding the tanker, the armed persons 4 Seafarers LOG involved. The reward for our efforts was seeing the rescued personnel transferred, in good spirits and good health, heading to their next destination.” The Trenton, a 338-foot-long aluminum catamaran, is capable of transporting 600 short tons 1,200 nautical miles at an average speed of 35 knots, with berthing space for up to 104 personnel and airlinestyle seating for up to 312. It can operate in a variety of roles to include supporting overseas contingency operations, conducting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, supporting special operations forces and supporting emerging joint sea-basing concepts. Hiring Halls Closing on Saturdays Change takes Effect September 1, 2018 commenced firing and injured one Benin naval guard. All crew except the D/O retreated into the citadel. As the armed persons made their way to the bridge, and demanded the master, chief officer and chief engineer emerge from the citadel and come to the bridge. The armed persons instructed the master to heave up the anchor. When they were told that the tanker was in ballast, they stole crew properties, and kidnapped the master and one engineer and left the tanker in the tanker’s rescue boat. The Benin Navy was notified to medivac the injured guards. Once the armed persons, in the rescue boat, were safely ashore, they released the master and engineer who were able to make contact with the local police and later re-joined the tanker.” During the July membership meetings, the union announced that – effective September 1, 2018 – the hiring halls no longer will be open on Saturdays. The corresponding Seafarers Appeals Board action is printed below. The only amendment is the removal of a sentence indicating Saturday hours for the halls. However, please note that in accordance with the union’s constitution, the halls will be open on Saturdays for individual ballot pickup during the next SIU election period, which is scheduled for the final two months of the year 2020. (Ballots also may be obtained at the halls Monday through Friday, or by mail, during the election period.) IMB PRC Issues Warning to Vessels Because of these sharp increases in piracy, as well as the prevalence of violence towards the crews, the IMB PRC has issued a warning for Nigeria and Benin. Off the coast of Somalia, merchant and fishing vessels operating in the area are encouraged to continue to adhere to the recommendations and guidelines in the Best Management Practices (BMP4). Established in 1992, IMB PRC offers a 24hour and free service for ship masters to report any piracy, armed robbery or stowaway incidents. PRC is an independent and non-governmental agency based in Kuala Lumpur, working as a single point of contact for ship masters anywhere in the world whose vessels have been attacked or robbed by pirates. All information received is immediately relayed to the local law enforcement agencies requesting assistance. Information is also immediately broadcast to all vessels in the region. The Board has been provided information by the Union supporting the need to adjust prescribed business hours for hiring halls via closure on Saturdays. The Board in its determination to make such amendment considered: a majority of contracted employers are closed on Saturdays, non-peak member utilization of the hiring hall and the continued ability to have on-call persons available to assist in pier-head jump situations. With the aforementioned in mind the Seafarers Appeals Board takes the following action to close union hiring halls for business on Saturdays. AMEND Shipping Rule 4. Business Hours and Job Calls, Paragraphs A. & B. as follows. “A. Except as otherwise provided herein, all Union hiring halls shall be open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The hiring halls shall be closed on July 4, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Labor Day, and such other holidays as are determined by the port agents. Notice of such additional closings shall be posted on the hiring halls’ bulletin boards on the day preceding the Holiday.” Seafarers Appeals Board Action 478 Effective: September 1, 2018 August 2018 �Janus Verdict Weakens Workers’ Rights Corporate-Funded Case Blatantly Attacks Labor Movement On June 27, the Supreme Court issued its opinion in the much-anticipated Janus v. AFSCME Council 31 case, which overturned 40 years of public-sector collective bargaining policy. The 5-4 decision bars states from requiring non-members from paying what are known as agency or fair-share fees to unions who collectively bargain on behalf of an entire unit in a public-sector workplace. The Supreme Court held in 1977 that unions could charge non-members fees for benefits they received from certain representational activities. But the late-June decision overturned that ruling on First Amendment grounds, and it is expected to weaken workers’ rights. “We stand with our brothers and sisters directly and indirectly affected by this decision,” stated SIU President Michael Sacco. “We will not allow the Court’s action to deter us from fighting for the rights of workers.” According to AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, “The Supreme Court’s 5-4 decision in Janus v. AFSCME, Council 31, abandons decades of commonsense precedent. In this case, a bare majority of the court, over the vigorous dissent of four justices, has conceded to the dark web of corporations and wealthy donors who wish to take away the freedoms of working people. Until it is overturned, this decision will be a political stain on what is intended to be the most honorable, independent body in the world. But more importantly, it will further empower the corporate elites in their efforts to thwart the aspirations of millions of working people standing together for a better life. “But here’s the thing: America is heading in a different direction,” Trumka continued. “All over the country, workers are organizing and taking collective action as we haven’t seen in years. More than 14,000 workers recently formed or joined unions in just a single week. This followed a year where 262,000 workers organized and the approval rating of unions reached a nearly 14-year high. Working families know the best way to get a raise, better benefits and a voice on the job is through a union con- tract. The corporate narrative of the labor movement’s downfall is being dismantled by working people every single day.” International Association of Machinists President Robert Martinez Jr. stated, “The Janus decision is just the latest tactic of corporations and wealthy donors who want to take away our freedom at work. The ‘Black-Robed Rulers Overriding Citizens’ Choices’ Justice Elena Kagan penned the dissention to the Court’s ruling on Janus v. AFSCME Council 31, joined by Justices Breyer, Ginsburg and Sotomayor. Below are excerpts from the full dissention. “There is no sugarcoating today’s opinion,” Kagan wrote. “The majority overthrows a decision entrenched in this Nation’s law – and in its economic life – for over 40 years. As a result, it prevents the American people, acting through their state and local officials, from making important choices about workplace governance. “But the worse part of today’s opinion is where the majority subverts all known principles of stare decisis. The majority makes plain, in the first 33 pages of its decision, that it believes Abood was wrong. But even if that were true (which it is not), it is not enough. “Over 20 States have by now enacted statutes authorizing fair-share provisions. To be precise, 22 States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico – plus another two States for police and firefighter unions. Many of those States have multiple statu- radical right will never defeat a wave of working people joining together for a better life. Union membership is growing and we will continue to organize, mobilize and defeat those who want to destroy unions and silence workers. This is war and working people are going to fight back.” “It’s perfectly clear working people Labor Organizations File Lawsuit Against Exec. Orders Attacking Worker, Union Rights Thirteen labor organizations, all members of the Federal Workers Alliance (FWA), have sued the administration for violating the rights of government workers and their unions throughout the federal government. Three executive orders were issued on Friday, May 25 in the late afternoon right before the start of Memorial Day weekend. The unions’ lawsuit was filed June 13 in the U.S. District Court of the District of Columbia. Oral arguments and a decision both were expected at press time for this edition of the LOG. The FWA represents approximately 300,000 federal workers in hundreds of occupations ranging from mariners, teachers in Department of Defense Dependent Schools, welders at Navy yards, firefighters, NASA rocket scientists, nurses, and immigration judges. “This is a democracy and not a monarchy with a king who can unilaterally eliminate the rights of Congress and federal workers,” said Paul Shearon, who serves as secretary-treasurer of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE). The unions contend the executive orders violate the due process and collective bargaining rights of workers employed by the federal government. “Donald Trump did not have the authority to issue these executive orders because the power to do so was not August 2018 can’t get a fair hearing before the corporate-controlled Supreme Court,” AFSCME President Lee Saunders said. “We are recommitted to mobilizing and organizing. This was about corporate CEOs and wealthy special interests rigging the economy.” International Association of Fire Fight- granted to him by either Congress or by the Constitution,” said Sarah Suszczyk, National Association of Government Employees and FWA co-chair. The unions’ lawsuit specifically addresses: ■ Several sections of Executive Order 13836 (concerning time spent representing workers by union representatives) usurp Congress’s legislative authority. The same executive order prohibits representatives from using official time to “prepare or pursue grievances (including arbitration of grievances) brought against an agency,” but allows it for employees working on their own behalf. Treating a union and its representatives differently from individual employees encroaches on a union’s right to take collective action. ■ Executive Order 13837 (concerning due process rights) violates rules related to collective bargaining delegated to the Federal Labor Relations Authority, not the president. The executive order illegally limits how much time employee representatives are able to use to help their fellow unit employees, will not allow payment for union representatives who may need to travel to represent employees in their units, will charge unions to use office space and equipment which the Federal Labor Relations Authority has ruled is negotiable between a union and agency, and will make union repre- tory provisions, with variations for different categories of public employees…. Every one of them will now need to come up with new ways – elaborated in new statutes – to structure relations between government employers and their workers. The majority responds, in a footnote no less, that this is of no proper concern to the Court…. “And maybe most alarming, the majority has chosen the winners by turning the First Amendment into a sword, and using it against workaday economic and regulatory policy. Today is not the first time the Court has wielded the First Amendment in such an aggressive way…. And it threatens not to be the last. Speech is everywhere – a part of every human activity (employment, health care, securities trading, you name it). For that reason, almost all economic and regulatory policy affects or touches speech. So the majority’s road runs long. And at every stop are black-robed rulers overriding citizens’ choices. The First Amendment was meant for better things. It was meant not to undermine but to protect democratic governance – including over the role of public-sector unions.” ers President Harold Schaitberger said, “We are ready to take the best punch and deliver some blows ourselves to those that want to see fire fighters and their unions weakened. Every attack can be turned into an opportunity, and we are determined not to let this decision hold us back. The IAFF has operated successfully under Janus-like sentatives take personal leave time to help process grievances, among other newly imposed restrictions. ■ Executive Order 13839 (concerning merit principles) is an attempt to exclude matters from the negotiated grievance procedure, such as removals based on misconduct and incentive awards. Order 13839 also excludes from the negotiated union and arbitration procedures disputes over employee performance ratings, incentive pay, cash awards, quality step increases, retention and relocation expenses despite the fact that Congress has allowed these issues to be included for decades. In their lawsuit, the unions argue that Trump exceeded his authority by interfering with rights granted by Congress to unions and federal agencies to decide which matters are and are not subject to the negotiated grievance procedure. “President Trump has made it clear that he believes he is above the law,” said Randy Erwin, National Federation of Federal Employees’ national president and FWA co-chair. “Trump seeks nothing more than the full authority to fire anyone who disagrees with him or challenges his ideology. By limiting the rightful authority of unions to lawfully represent their members, he gets closer to instilling a culture of fear and intimidation in the Executive Branch.” The coalition is concerned that as systematic protections – such as representation, due process, and the right to communicate with Congress – are eroded for federal employees, whistleblowers and other workers will fall prey rules in right-to-work and non-collective bargaining states for decades. We have proven you can have strong affiliates that deliver better pay, health care, retirement security, health and safety provisions and a voice in keeping their communities safe in these tough environments. We represent more than 85 percent of all professional fire fighters and paramedics in the U.S. because we consistently demonstrate our value, through our strong affiliates, that being union fire fighters provides a significantly better standard of living and safer working environment than those who are not union. That difference will become even more stark, and we are working to represent that small percentage of fire fighters who aren’t in our union so that we can raise their standard of living and increase their ability to have a strong voice in public safety.” American Federation of Government Employees President J. David Cox noted, “On behalf of the wealthiest one percent and special interest groups, the Supreme Court has attempted to strike the death knell for public-sector unions, but the workers themselves will ultimately decide their own fate. Workers know the importance of unions in the workplace and they will survive…. If you’re covered by the union contract but you don’t belong to the union, it’s time to join your union and pay for the benefits you receive – because those benefits could vanish tomorrow unless workers take a stand and fight for their rights at the worksite.” American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten said, “Our members are sticking with us and we are sticking with the community. We will continue fighting, organizing, campaigning, showing up – and voting. We’re doubling down.” The AFL-CIO pointed out, “When union membership is high, entire communities enjoy wages that represent a fair return on their work and greater social and economic mobility. And unions use our collective voice to advocate for policies that benefit all working people – like increases to the minimum wage, affordable health care, and great public schools.” to political corruption and extortion. “These protections were put in place to ensure that the men and women, who defend our borders and care for our veterans, have a voice in a workplace that is free from political influence,” said Erwin. Other unions representing federal workers have also filed suit, including the American Federation of Government Employees, AFMSCE and the American Federation of Teachers. The National Treasury Employees Union filed a suit citing violations of the First Amendment and other grounds. The cases have been consolidated and will be heard by Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson. The 13 labor organizations that are party to the Federal Workers Alliance lawsuit are: Federal Education Association/National Education Association (FEA/ NEA); International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW); International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT); International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers, AFLCIO (IFPTE); Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association, AFLCIO (MEBA); Metal Trades Department, AFL-CIO (MTD); National Association of Government Employees, SEIU (NAGE); National Federation of Federal Employees, IAMAW, AFL-CIO (NFFE); National Labor Relations Board Professional Association (NLRBPA); National Labor Relations Board Union (NLRBU); National Weather Service Employees Organization (NWSEO); Patent Office Professional Association (POPA), and Seafarers International Union of North America, AFL-CIO (SIU). Seafarers LOG 5 �Op-Ed Stresses Jones Act’s Importance To Alaska’s Economy, National Security In a recent op-ed featured in Alaska Economic Trends, Alaska Department of Labor Commissioner Heidi Drygas extolled the virtues of the U.S. domestic shipping trade as it relates to the Alaskan economy. “Since joining Governor Walker’s cabinet as labor commissioner, I have been working to achieve his goal of improving Alaska Hire,” said Drygas. Alaska Hire is an initiative designed to help Alaskan residents get jobs in several industries through a resident hire preference. She continued, “As most Alaskans know, we can’t achieve that goal without good state and federal policies. I want to highlight one federal policy that is essential to Alaska Hire: the Merchant Marine Act, commonly known as the Jones Act.” She continued, “The Jones Act requires that interstate and intrastate shipping is conducted through ships that are built, owned, and crewed by Americans. Today, the Transportation Institute estimates 1,200 Alaskans have jobs in the maritime sector thanks to the Jones Act. In addition, maritime companies have invested $350 million in infrastructure for shipping in Alaska over the last 10 years.” Drygas said that America’s freight cabotage law, which has protected U.S. national, economic and homeland security for nearly a century, is a commonsense policy. “Without the Jones Act, many of those jobs and investment dollars would have gone overseas, to the detriment of our economy,” she wrote. “The math is simple. It is cheaper to build boats in overseas factories, where workers have few or no rights, than to employ Alaskans at shipyards such as our world-class facility in Ketchikan. It is cheaper to operate boats with underpaid foreign workers rather than hire Alaskan seamen who earn a good middle-class wage.” She also mentioned one of the most critical ways the Jones Act fleet supports the nation: “We also must consider national security preparedness. Maintaining a strong shipbuilding industry in the United States means we have the capacity to scale up production quickly. That capacity helped us win World War II, and we should never surrender our industrial strength to overseas adversaries.” Speaking specifically on the domestic maritime industry’s importance to Alaska, she said, “There are always those who think a race to the bottom will somehow create jobs or attract investment. In the maritime sector, nothing could be further from the truth. We know based on decades of experience that the Jones Act creates thousands of solid middle-class careers for Alaskans while sustaining our region’s shipbuilding industry. Repeal of or exemptions from the Jones Act would put our shipyards out of business and send Alaskans’ jobs overseas. It would also raise the risk of oil spills and undermine national security.” She concluded, “At the state, we’re working hard to strengthen Alaska Hire policies, and repeal of the Jones Act would be contrary to those efforts. Alaskans are fortunate in that our congressional delegation has a long record of supporting the Jones Act because its repeal would be devastating for our economy. Alaska’s current maritime workers, and the generations to come, are best served by keeping the Jones Act intact.” Alaska Department of Labor Commissioner Heidi Drygas Notice to Seafarers: New Password Requirements for Member Portal Seafarers changed the password requirements for signing on to the portal in order to increase protection of your personal information, effective July 16. The new password requirements are more complex, to prevent others from guessing your password and gaining access to your information. All portal account passwords expired on July 16, even if they already met the new rules. The new password must meet the following requirements: n Must be at least 8 characters long n Cannot contain any spaces n Must have at least one uppercase letter n Must have at least one lowercase letter n Must have at least one number The work of SIU crews and SIU-contracted companies contributes to many of the statistics included in this graphic from the American Maritime Partnership (AMP), to which the union is affiliated. The legislative heart of the domestic maritime industry is the Jones Act, which has boosted U.S. national, economic and homeland security for nearly a century. Much more information about America’s freight cabotage law is available online at americanmaritimepartnership.com 6 Seafarers LOG n Must have at least one symbol n Cannot be one of your previous 6 passwords n Cannot re-use passwords set in the previous 365 days Beginning on July 16, you should get a prompt to change your password the first time try to sign on to the portal. That screen will include all of the new requirements (the same ones listed above). Your new password will last for one year. The information contained in this notice also was emailed to all member portal users the week of July 9. For help, contact the Membership Assistance Department at (800) 2524674 (option 2) or map@seafarers. org This prompt will greet members the first time they sign on to the portal beginning July 16. August 2018 �USNS Mercy Supports RIMPAC 2018 Fresh from participating in Pacific Partnership, the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy joined this year’s Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise by conducting a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) drill on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam from July 11-13. The inclusion of the Mercy, which is crewed by SIU Government Services Division members, allows the mission commanders to take the HADR exercise from a tabletop scenario inside a conference room into the real world, the Navy noted. RIMPAC 2018 is the second time that the Mercy has answered the call, though SIUcrewed vessels routinely participate in the exercise. “It’s really special to be a part of something like RIMPAC,” said Captain Brian Mershon, Mercy’s civil service master. “This is a once-every-two-years exercise and it’s exciting for all of us to be a part of it and to show off this awesome capability to other nations in a controlled environment like this, instead of in a time of national disaster.” According to the U.S. Navy, “The HADR scenario featured the fictional nation of Griffon and the national disaster situation found in the aftermath of a 7.1 earthquake and a follow-on tsunami. Victims of the disaster were brought to a field treatment area for assessment and triage. Many of these patients were then transported to Mercy either by U.S. Coast Guard helicopter or by small boats from the Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf (WMSL 750) and Japanese Maritime Defense Force destroyer helicopter ship JS Isi (DDH 182). Once on board, the military treatment Civilians wave as the Seafarers-crewed Military Sealift Command (MSC) hospital ship USNS Mercy arrives at Joint Base Pearl HarborHickam in preparation for the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2018 exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communications Specialist 1st Class John Herman) facility (MTF) conducted assessment and treatment protocols that included chemical decontamination and orthopedic injuries.” According to Mershon, while the MTF tested its skills, the Mercy’s civilian mariner crew played a major role in the mission, including delivering the ship to the exercise area, and conducting flight and small boat operations, all of which ensured patients made it safely to the ship for medical care. In addition, the approximately 70 CIVMARS who crew the ship contributed by navigating, conducting shiphandling and technical maneuvering while under- Maritime Leaders Get Nod to Receive AOTOS Awards The United Seamen’s Service (USS) 2018 Admiral of the Ocean Sea Awards (AOTOS) will be presented to Paul Doell, national president of the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers (AMO); Salvador Bruno, president and CEO of HapagLloyd USA; and Raymond F. Fitzgerald, chairman of the ARC Group, one of the leading U.S.-flag transportation and logistics enterprises. The prestigious awards will be distributed at the 49th annual gala in New York City on November 2, 2018. Also during this event, American mariners will receive recognition for their specific acts of bravery and heroism while at sea during the past year. In announcing the primary recipients, Lt. Gen. Kenneth Wykle, (U.S. Army, way, and providing the fresh water and electricity needed to run the shipboard hospital and to support the mission personnel living and working aboard. For civil service mariner Julie Flaherty, Mercy’s navigator, the excitement of RIMPAC came during the pre-sail planning conference aboard the Japanese ship. “It was really interesting to be over on the Japanese ship and talking with some of the people from the other nations participating in RIMPAC, and hearing how they do business,” Flaherty explained. “We also got to tour some of the other navies’ ships. We see a lot of countries on our Pacific Partnership missions, but we don’t get to tour other navies’ ships, so this was pretty exciting.” Twenty-five nations, 46 surface ships, five submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in the biennial RIMPAC exercise June 27 to Aug. 2. This year’s exercise includes forces from Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Colombia, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Peru, the Republic of Korea, the Republic of the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tonga, the United Kingdom, the United States and Vietnam. As the world’s largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity designed to foster and sustain cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world’s interconnected oceans. RIMPAC 2018 is the 26th exercise in the series that began in 1971. Ret.), AOTOS committee chairman, said, “The U. S. maritime industry is fortunate to have such outstanding leaders who continue to make significant contributions to the U.S.-flag fleet and are deserving of the AOTOS Award. Tony Bruno has devoted his entire career to operating American liner services. Paul Doell has made a lifelong commitment to maritime labor. Ray Fitzgerald has 35 years in ship management and focuses on innovation in our industry. USS is proud to recognize their collective accomplishments.” 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 personnel overseas. Michigan State AFL-CIO Selects Powell As Newest Member of Executive Board On June 7, SIU Assistant Vice President Bryan Powell was sworn in as the newest member of the Michigan State AFL-CIO’s Executive Board. He is now serving a four-year term, as dictated by the federation’s constitution. For more information on the Michigan State AFLCIO, visit http://miaflcio.org/. Powell launched his career with the SIU at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center, attending the apprenticeship program in 1993. Since then, he has worked in several capacities and in various locations for the organization. In addition to serving as an assistant vice president of the SIU, he also serves as an assistant vice president for the SIUaffiliated Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union (SEATU). Powell has served as secretary-treasurer of the Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority since April 2018. August 2018 Bryan Powell SIU Asst. VP A study for the Transportation Institute analyzed the domestic gasoline transportation markets and concluded that when looking at the entire U.S. gasoline market, the maximum potential impact of domestic shipping on the cost of gasoline is approximately one tenth of a cent per gallon. It also determined that only about 6.7 percent of the gasoline sold in the United States could be impacted by the domestic shipping requirements of Jones Act. Seafarers LOG 7 �SHBP Office Releases Notice Regarding Yellow Fever Vaccine The following information is provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. For most people, a single dose of yellow fever vaccine provides long-lasting protection, and a booster dose of the vaccine is not needed. However, certain countries might also require a booster dose of the vaccine. Talk to your shipping company to determine if you need a yellow fever booster shot before your trip to an area at risk for yellow fever. Due to the ongoing yellow fever vaccine shortage (referred to as a total depletion of the YF vaccine by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) (CDC) many members are experiencing difficulty obtaining the YF vaccine necessary for their shipping jobs. The YF vaccine is expected to be available by the end of 2018, per the CDC, according to the manufacturer. In the meantime, an alternative, Stamaril, has been approved as a replacement for the YF vaccine. Stamaril has been distributed to limited clinics and physician offices around the United States. Members may face unusual travel time to reach an authorized facility. Many non-coastal states only have one facility in the entire state authorized to administer Stamaril. Comprehensive Health Services (CHS) will work closely with members to find the most suitable clinic in their area. Following are some additional strategies for obtaining a YF (Stamaril) vaccine: 1. If the mariner is attending class in Piney Point it may be possible for CHS to schedule an appointment at a Baltimore clinic that is able to provide Stamaril (to be scheduled through CHS outside of classroom time). 2. If the mariner has a military background it may be possible for him or her to get a YF vaccination through a military medical facility (for example, a VA clinic). The member should submit vaccination documentation to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) Medical Department. 3. Mariners may check their local health departments for YF vaccine availability and present an itemized receipt to the SHBP Claims Department for possible reimbursement. The member should submit vaccination documentation to the SHBP Medical Department. 4. If the mariner is traveling to a port to catch a job, it may be possible to be scheduled for Stamaril there (through CHS). It is important to remember that yellow fever/ Stamaril are live vaccines. If the member is supposed to have other live vaccines, like the MMR, they must be administered at the same time or the member must wait 30 days in between live vaccine administration. In the event that a member finds an office or clinic outside of the CHS network that has YF vaccine in stock or one that administers Stamaril, the member should ask if the office participates with Cigna and will they bill Cigna directly (give them your insurance card so they may verify participation). If the office participates with Cigna you will still incur out-of-pocket expenses for office co-pay, deductible, etc. If the office does not participate with Cigna you may still obtain the vaccine by paying out of pocket for the office visit and vaccine. You may submit a request for reimbursement to our claims department. The claim will still be sent to Cigna for repricing. You will be reimbursed at a rate of what Cigna would pay for the vaccine, not necessarily what you paid out of pocket. For more information call the SHBP Claims Department at 1-800-252-4674. You will need the following information to request reimbursement: n Itemized bill including the diagnosis n CPT/HCPCs code n Date of Service n Charge n Provider Tax ID Members should submit vaccination documentation to the SHBP Medical Department. EARN YOUR COLLEGE DEGREE THROUGH THE PAUL HALL CENTER ! The Paul Hall Center’s Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship (SHLSS) has partnered with the College of Southern Resident courses at Piney Point begin October 15, 2018 Maryland (CSM) to offer an Associate of Applied Science degree in Maritime Operations Technology with a concentration in either x Nautical Science (Deck department) -or- x Marine Engineering (Engine dept.) Students must complete a combination of academic general education courses and technical education courses in order to earn x Associate of Applied Science Degree x UA courses apply toward the degree x Fully accredited x Some courses held at SHLSS the degree. Courses completed during the Unlicensed Apprentice program apply toward the x Online classes degree. Students can complete English, Math and x Scholarships available Physics courses at SHLSS. The remaining general education courses can be completed online. The following classes will convene at SHLSS: October 15, 2018 through November 7, 2018 English 1011 – Composition and Rhetoric Math 1011 – Math for Technologies Enrollment Information Please contact Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School Academic Coordinator Dale Rausch 7 Credit Hours Includes: tuition, textbooks, room and board plus one hour of tutoring following (301) 994-0010 Ext. 5411 -or- each daily class session drausch@seafarers.org Spotlight on Mariner Health Understanding Causes, Types of Cancer The following article was provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. Your body is made up of many, many cells. These cells become the building blocks of your body. Normally, your body will form new cells as they are needed that will replace the old ones as they die out. Sometimes this process goes wrong for no apparent reason. The cells will start to divide at an uncontrolled and abnormal rate. These cells may then turn into tumors, which can either be benign or malignant. Benign tumors are not cancerous; malignant tumors are cancerous. Cells become cancerous due to the accumulation of defects, or mutations, in their DNA. Cells from malignant tumors can invade nearby tissues or can break away and spread to other parts of the body. There are more than 100 different types of cancers. Cancers are usually named from the area where they begin. Cancer can be inherited – especially the BRACA 1 and 2 mutations. Certain infections can cause cancer, while environmental influences such as air quality and pollution are also causes. Poor lifestyle choices such as smoking and heavy alcohol use can also damage DNA and lead to cancer. Most of the time the cell can detect and repair DNA damage. Cancer happens when a damaged cell starts to grow. Symptoms and treatments depend on the type of cancer a person has and how advanced it is. Most treatment consists of an operation, radiation and possibly chemotherapy. Some may involve hormone therapy or immunotherapy. Some even require stem cell transplantation. 8 Seafarers LOG There are many tests to screen and possibly diagnose cancer. The definite diagnosis is made by the examination of a biopsy sample. Cancer staging is often determined by biopsy results and helps to determine the cancer type and the extent of the cancer spread. Staging (zero to four) helps the doctor determine the type of treatment needed. The more aggressive types of cancer have cells that multiply rapidly and invade other tissues quickly. Staging methods are different with the type of cancer that a person has, and must individually be discussed with your doctor. Treatment protocols vary according to the type and stage of the cancer involved. Most treatment is designed to fit that individual’s type of cancer. There are many alternative treatment options for cancer. Patients are encouraged to discuss these with their personal doctor. The prognosis of cancer can range from excellent to poor. This is determined by how quickly the cancer is found and what stage it is. Other important factors include the selected treatment options and how well the patient tolerates the side effects of that treatment. The most common types of cancer in men are prostate, lung, and colorectal. For women, the most common types are breast, lung and colorectal. For children, the most common ones are leukemia, brain tumors, and lymphoma. The National Cancer Institute lists these additional types of cancer that are seen worldwide: bladder, kidney, liver, melanoma, lymphoma, stomach, pancreatic, and thyroid. Remember that cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide. The incidence of cancer and cancer types are influenced by many factors such as age, gender, race, local environmental circumstances, diet, and genetics. Healthful Recipe Braised Codfish Italiano Servings: 25 7 1/2 pounds cod fillets, 4 oz portions 2 2/3 tablespoons Mrs. Dash seasoning 2 2/3 tablespoons kosher salt 2 2/3 tablespoons olive oil 2 1/2 quarts tomato filets, or puree 1/3 cup garlic, minced fine 1 1/3 cups olives, halved 1 1/3 cups onions, diced small 1/3 cup fresh basil, stems removed/ripped in pieces 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped Season the cod with the Mrs. Dash and kosher salt. Grill the fish on an oiled grill or flat top, 3-5 min each side. Place the fish in 2” hotel pans about 1” apart. In a steam kettle or stock pot sauté the onions and garlic, 3-5 min until tender. Add the tomato, olives, and basil. Pour the sauce around the fish equally. Bake the fish in a 325-degree F oven uncovered, 10-15 min until flaky. Cover and serve. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 154 Calories; 3g Fat (20.0 percent calories from fat); 25g Protein; 5g Carbohydrate; 1g Dietary Fiber; 59 mg Cholesterol; 745 mg Sodium. Exchanges 3 1/2 Lean Meat; 1 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 1/2 Fat. Provided by the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship August 2018 �Union Backs Pro-Maritime Candidates SIU members and officials recently took advantage of several opportunities to promote the U.S. Merchant Marine to political officeholders and candidates. One such occasion was the Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO Salute to Leadership Awards dinner in mid-June, in Baltimore. The others were a mix of grassroots political gatherings and a Hawaii Ports Maritime Council event in the Aloha State. The photos on this page were taken at those respective get-togethers. U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono, GUDE Saber Naser Pictured from right to left in the photo at the immediate left are Recertified Bosun Rene Govico, QMED Julius Bollozos, U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono and Lyn Govico (Rene’s wife). The senator is running for reelection. U.S. Sen. Ben Cardin, SIU Port Agent John Hoskins Several Seafarers marched with U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (third from left) during an Independence Day parade. The congresswoman is running for reelection. Also pictured (from left) are Recertified Bosun Rene Govico, SA Luis Guardado, QMED Julius Bollozos, Asst. Refer Engineer Raymond Orosco and OMU Ferdinand Cabanlit. Port Agent John Hoskins, U.S. Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger, SIU Safety Director DeCarlo Harris Port Agent John Hoskins, U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer Maritime labor has strongly endorsed Donna Mercado Kim (center) in her campaign for U.S. Congress. Currently a state senator, she is pictured with (from left) SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso, Luke Kaili of MEBA, Donovan Duncan of IBU, Randy Swindell of MM&P, Sal Alvarado of MFOW, and Mike Dirksen of SUP. In photo at left, union representatives show support for Jill Tokuda’s run for lieutenant governor. Tokuda, a state senator, is in the center. Among those also pictured are Port Agent Hazel Galbiso (third from right). The 2018 United States mid-term elections will be held on Tuesday, November 6, 2018. All 435 seats in the United States House of Representatives and 35 of the 100 seats in the United States Senate will be contested. In addition, 39 state and territorial governorships and numerous other state and local elections also will be contested. It’s definitely not too soon to make sure that you have everything in order to exercise your Constitutional right to cast your ballot during these important contests. If you are not sure about your status, just go online to Vote.org and take it from there. Among other actions, you can: n Register to vote n Find out if you are registered to vote n Obtain an absentee ballot n Find out where to vote, and more. August 2018 See You At The Polls! Seafarers LOG 9 �WORKING WITH NAVY PERSONNEL – SIU members aboard the Ocean Duchess-operated USNS Algol participated in a cargo-handling exercise with members of the U.S. Navy in San Francisco from June 28-July 1. Recertified Bosun Ritche Acuman (left in photo at left) shares some tips with USN ET1 Tory Powell as the crane is used to pick up 38.1 long tons of hatch cover. The same two individuals also are shown in the photo at right, this time with the bosun at right. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU OBSERVING INDEPENDENCE DAY – SIU AB/Tankerman Jimmy Hargrove shows the Fourth of July spirit aboard the OSG tug and barge Intrepid/254 in Galveston, Texas. ABOARD OCEAN CRESCENT – Pictured from left aboard the Crowley-operated heavy-lift vessel in Concord, California, are QEE Gregg Jensen, Oiler Anthony Henry, ACU Oscar Catabay, AB Gerald Freeman, AB Aurelio Ortiz, Recertified Bosun Joseph Casalino, Port Agent Nick Marrone II, AB Amer Saleh and Steward/Baker Antonio Bragado. Be sure to visit the SIU Facebook page (@SeafarersInternational) and check out the July 3 photo album for snapshots of some delicacies served up by Bragado. ABOARD ATB MILLVILLE – Pictured aboard the Key Marine vessel in Vidor, Texas, are (photo at left) AB/Tankerman Connor Shea, and (center photo, from left) Engineers Kevin Hale and Christopher Beath. Shea is signing up for inland dues check-off, while the other Seafarers are displaying copies of their new contract. ABOARD USNS SEAY – Bosun John Wells (left) and Capt. Dave Centofanti, an SIU hawsepiper, are pictured on the U.S. Marine Management vessel in a Boston shipyard. The bosun is a graduate of Trainee Class 50, while the captain graduated with Class 235. “We’ve had a lot of hawsepipers on here over the years,” Wells said. “Shows if you work on it, you can make it to the top.” ABOARD MAERSK IDAHO – SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins (center) is pictured with Recertified Bosun Ron Mena (left) and Recertified Steward Zein Achmed aboard the vessel in Port Everglades, Florida. ABOARD (AND NEAR) CROWLEY TUG PATRIARCH – Both of these snapshots were taken while servicing the boat at the Talleyrand Terminal in Jacksonville, Florida. The photo at left includes SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware (far left), Capt. Leon Verdin, CM Angel Ayala, 2M William Kerns, CE Robert Thorne, AB Mark Ballengee, AB Gabron Turner and AB Arthur Stubbs. The photo above includes CM Jeffery Jones, Capt. Ray Adams, Capt. Nicholas Conway, AB Timothy Jackson, AB Mark Stuart and Capt. Steve Sears. 10 Seafarers LOG August 2018 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU B-BOOK IN HAWAII – AB Lindsey Austin (left) picks up her full B book at the hall in Honolulu. She’s pictured with Port Agent Hazel Galbiso. B-BOOK IN HOUSTON – QMED Orlin Thomas (right) receives his probationary B-book after taking the oath at the hall. He’s pictured with Patrolman John Niday. MILESTONE IN NORFOLK – After sailing with the SIU since 2000, Talib Aekins (left) has climbed the hawsepipe, having recently earned his third assistant engineer’s license. Congratulating him at the hiring hall is Port Agent Georg Kenny. AROUND THE JACKSONVILLE HALL – In photo at left, Bosun John Cedeno (right) happily displays his letter of acceptance into the recertification program. He’s pictured with Patrolman Joseph Koncul. In the center photo, Cole Shuford (right) takes the union oath (administered by Patrolman Adam Bucalo) while receiving his A-seniority book. In the photo at right, Asst. VP Archie Ware (left) presents a first pension check to longtime member Patrick Ray. A recertified bosun, Ray started sailing with the SIU in 1979. (Note: Brother Ray’s fully restored Oldsmobile 442 isn’t actually hauling an anchor, but a reliable source told the LOG that his trunk did contain golf clubs.) CONTRACT AT PENN TERMINAL – Seafarers recently approved an agreement at the Eddystone, Pennsylvania, facility (near Philadelphia). Pictured from left are members George Vazquez, John Harvey, Jeff Pope, Mike Fay, Vernell Cornell, and Scott Musick, Port Agent Joe Baselice, Safety Director Andre MacCray and Seafarer John Wozunk. AS SEEN IN LONE STAR STATE – The SIU-crewed Independence II sails near Pier 10 in Galveston, Texas. The ship is operated by TOTE Services. August 2018 SEASONED SAILORS – These gentlemen, pictured on the Maersk Peary, have a combined 160 years of service in the U.S. Merchant Marine. From left: Recertified Bosun Ahmed Mihakel (41 years), Captain Chris Fox (39 years), AB Lloyd La Beach (40 years), and Recertified Steward Tony Spain (40 years). The captain is an SIU hawsepiper. ABOARD TUGBOAT EXPORTER – Pictured from left are Captain Cory Arnaud, Cadet Jared Yawn, AB Jason Moody, Mate Nick Berger and Chief Engineer Jim Callahan. Thanks to Patrolman John Niday for the photo. The boat is operating under the G&H Towing contract. Seafarers LOG 11 �Indiana Harbor Walter J. McCarthy St. John Bosun Bill Mulcahy, Conveyorman Dean Parks Walter J. McCarthy A boom extends from the Walter J. McCarthy, ready to unload cargo. Seafarers Keep Cargoes Moving On Nation’s ‘Fourth Sea Coast’ SIU members are in the midst of another active season on the Great Lakes, where they help transport cargoes that are vital to the U.S. economy. Seafarers sail aboard dozens of self-unloading vessels that call on ports along Lakes Superior, Huron, Michigan, Ontario and Erie. They also sail on tugboats that are vital to overall operations throughout the region. Known as America’s fourth sea coast, the Great Lakes feature 60 federally maintained ports as well as others that are privately operated. According to the Lake Carriers’ Association, which represents a number of SIU-contracted companies, Great Lakes ships transport materials “that are the foundation of American manufacturing, power generation, and construction: iron ore, limestone, coal, cement, and other dry bulk materials such as grain and sand. In turn, these cargos generate and sustain more than 103,000 jobs in the eight Great Lakes states and have an annual economic impact of more than $20 billion.” The association further notes that in a strong economy, American-flag Lakes vessels can deliver upwards of 100 million tons of cargo per year. The photos on these two pages (courtesy of SIU Port Agent Todd Brdak) were taken from late April to late May. The respective locations were as follows: St. John, Erie, Pennsylvania; Walter J. McCarthy and Indiana Harbor, St. Clair, Michigan; and H. Lee The Indiana Harbor docks in St. Clair, Michigan. Pictured in the photo above (from left) aboard the St. John are SIU Asst. VP Bryan Powell, Pumpman Matt Smith, Port Agent Todd Brdak and AB/Deckhand Dan Fish. Pensioner Gerald Bollinger (left in photo at immeadite left) pays a visit to the St. John. Pictured at right is AB/Deckhand Dan Fish. Attending a meeting aboard the St. John (next photo,from left) are AB/Deckhand Mike Sweeny, Pumpman Matt Smith and Asst. VP Bryan Powell. The SIU-crewed St. John (immediately below) is pictured in Erie, Pennsylvania. White, Detroit. The Indiana Harbor, H. Lee White and McCarthy are part of the American Steamship Company fleet; the St. John is operated by Carmeuse Lime Inc., Erie Dock Operation. Chief Cook Theo Igielski Walter J. McCarthy AB/Wheelsman Abdo Alasaadi Walter J. McCarthy H. Lee White Chief Cook Saleh Saleh Indiana Harbor Bosun Jeremy Shenett Indiana Harbor 12 Seafarers LOG ACU Dave Warner Indiana Harbor Port Agent Todd Brdak, Bosun Nagi Musaid H. Lee White Port Agent Todd Brdak, GUDE Eli Lopez H. Lee White August 2018 August 2018 Chief Cook Steve Eberspacher H. Lee White ACU Mohamed Alhubaishi H. Lee White The Stars and Stripes flies proudly from the sterns of all four vessels. Seafarers LOG 13 �Free College The Union Plus Free College Benefit offers working families an accessible, debt-free and convenient higher education opportunity. You, your spouse, children, financial dependents and grandchildren, can all take advantage of this exciting opportunity. Find out more about this and other great Union Plus programs by visiting unionplus.org. WIRELESS DISCOUNTS CREDIT CARDS FLOWERS & GIFTS MORTGAGE PROGRAM 8/18 1-888-590-9009 14 Seafarers LOG unionplusfreecollege.org August 2018 �Ready to Ship Out? Make sure your documents and paperwork are current: n Merchant mariner credential (MMC) with security endorsements (maritime security awareness and/or vessel personnel with designated security duties, abbreviated as VPDSD, VSO for officers) n MMC indicating completion of Basic Training (formerly BST) (VI/1 and related verbiage) n Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) n Passport n ServSafe Management (chief cook and higher) n ServSafe Food Handler (entry level) n Medical certificate (ac- quired by passing U.S. Coast Guard physical once every two years and submitting to local REC) n Annual physical exam and interval exam (required once every six months) n Drug test (every six months unless continuously sailing) n If you take prescription drugs, make sure your medications will last longer than the duration of your voyage. If you need early or extended refills, contact the claims department for assistance. Dial 1-800-252-4674 and follow the prompt for prescriptions. August & September 2018 Membership Meetings 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 Jersey City...............................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 due to Labor 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 August 2018 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea June 12, 2018 - July 15, 2018 Total Registered Total Shipped All Groups A B Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 33 14 0 26 10 0 7 32 9 2 1 5 3 2 1 2 2 3 6 3 5 1 3 4 1 2 3 7 2 2 39 15 9 15 8 2 9 45 18 10 1 0 1 3 3 1 0 3 1 0 13 3 6 9 2 1 7 17 3 5 7 5 3 4 6 2 4 16 5 3 42 19 14 33 14 11 25 99 24 25 53 17 5 37 19 7 25 56 22 19 43 19 8 32 8 5 10 76 20 6 2 4 2 3 4 2 1 2 6 1 12 3 5 4 3 7 1 19 6 6 29 17 11 14 12 7 8 33 21 9 20 5 6 15 6 1 11 22 5 12 5 1 1 3 1 0 2 8 4 2 2 2 1 0 1 0 1 5 3 1 5 3 3 6 3 1 1 12 7 3 30 8 5 30 6 4 15 57 12 10 1 1 1 2 1 2 0 2 2 1 33 17 6 26 13 3 13 55 16 11 376 159 93 268 122 60 145 569 192 131 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 9 3 2 6 3 0 0 9 6 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 4 0 2 3 0 3 4 7 1 9 6 3 8 3 1 3 15 10 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 1 0 3 5 2 1 3 1 5 5 4 1 4 6 0 2 4 0 3 17 4 0 14 9 3 10 6 0 6 32 16 8 21 19 0 16 9 2 10 45 30 0 13 3 2 11 1 0 3 26 10 2 5 2 0 2 0 0 1 5 2 0 5 3 1 0 2 1 1 9 5 1 16 15 6 14 10 4 4 16 18 4 8 7 2 10 3 2 3 10 5 3 2 3 0 2 4 0 1 4 2 0 2 1 0 1 0 0 1 2 2 0 4 1 2 4 1 1 0 5 6 4 17 8 2 14 3 3 6 25 16 4 1 3 1 2 1 1 2 0 4 1 14 10 5 11 9 4 10 20 13 14 151 108 31 118 65 20 62 252 161 47 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 3 1 2 5 1 1 0 5 5 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 1 3 0 0 14 7 2 9 1 2 3 19 11 3 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 8 1 0 3 1 0 2 11 1 0 8 1 0 8 1 0 2 7 1 1 26 5 2 19 1 1 7 35 7 4 19 8 2 16 4 1 6 28 13 2 13 5 0 6 3 0 3 22 4 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 3 2 1 2 2 1 1 7 3 0 18 3 0 17 6 0 7 21 10 0 26 3 2 17 2 1 8 32 4 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 3 1 1 1 1 0 1 7 3 1 1 2 0 2 3 0 3 4 6 0 18 0 0 8 2 0 5 29 5 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 3 0 1 23 8 0 11 6 1 5 37 13 1 190 48 12 128 36 8 54 278 88 15 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 0 13 17 0 5 5 2 1 15 15 0 1 4 0 0 2 0 0 4 5 0 1 3 0 1 2 2 0 2 3 1 7 3 1 3 0 2 1 6 6 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 1 2 2 1 2 1 1 1 3 5 2 3 9 0 8 6 2 2 3 10 2 13 14 1 7 4 3 16 12 35 3 16 36 3 14 29 4 3 26 72 1 10 9 0 6 8 1 3 25 17 0 3 2 0 0 1 0 0 4 2 0 1 3 0 2 2 2 0 0 4 0 15 26 0 10 9 2 1 21 44 6 14 14 1 6 5 3 6 17 19 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 3 1 4 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 16 12 4 10 3 0 8 25 21 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 24 22 2 13 8 2 9 38 59 21 143 180 13 89 86 26 54 205 325 C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C A All Groups B C GRAND TOTAL: 738 458 316 527 312 174 287 1,153 646 518 Seafarers LOG 15 �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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by Seafarers at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. Question: What’s the best vacation you’ve ever taken? Giancarlo Thomae AB Probably last year, just being a surf bum in Hawaii and basically camping out two weeks straight. I have friends on the island and I’m a marine biologist. I’ve always been fascinated by the area. Shawn Cox Chief Cook I guess when my parents took me to Hilton Head Island. I was 11 years old and it was the first time I saw the ocean. I got stung by a jellyfish – that was memorable. We lived in Morristown, Tennessee, at that time and I’m still there. Anthony Harrell Chief Cook The one I’m about to go on with my kids. I’m going to take them to a water park, stuff like that. We’re going to Orlando. I’m from Jacksonville, so it’s not too far. There’s a lot to choose from around there. Alonzo Griswell Electrician South Beach, Miami, just recently. I had quite a good time there. There are nice restaurants, and the beaches. There are also a lot of old houses and culture that’s off the beaten path. That vacation was a suggestion by my girlfriend. Shantaz Harper AB I just came off one in the Bahamas with my wife and kids. We had a lot of fun. I’m always traveling with this job, but the family finally had a chance to go somewhere. We went to Freeport, Nassau. It was fun. Darrell Bell Chief Cook There have been so many of them, but my best was in south Florida, visiting family. I’ve got a lot of family in Fort Lauderdale and Miami. That was two years ago. We went to the beach and went out to eat a lot. HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Pic From The Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 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 Stop 16 1/2 Santurce, PR 00907-4601 (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 Bosun/AB Joseph LeBeau recently brought this snapshot to the New Orleans hall. That’s him as an OS aboard the Delta Lines vessel Del Mundo in 1969, en route to Africa. Brother LeBeau started sailing with the SIU in 1968 and he’s still at it, most recently aboard the USNS Bellatrix. 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 2018 �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 CONFESOR ARZU Brother Confesor Arzu, 65, joined the SIU in 2001 and first sailed aboard the Global Link. He was a member of the deck department and last sailed on the ATB Freeport. Brother Arzu makes his home in Miami. MICHAEL BROWN Brother Michael Brown, 60, signed on with the union in 1978, initially sailing aboard the USNS Potomac. He worked in the engine department and upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Brown last sailed on the Midnight Sun. He resides in Elma, Washington. EBERTO CASTRO Brother Eberto Castro, 66, joined the SIU in 1999 and first sailed on the Performance. He worked in the deck department and in 2001 upgraded his skills at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center. Brother Castro last sailed on the Maersk Pittsburgh before settling in Channelview, Texas. HARDIN CHANCEY Brother Hardin Chancey, 65, joined the union in 1971, initially sailing aboard the Pittsburgh. He was an engine department member and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Chancey last sailed aboard the Horizon Producer and resides in Deland, Florida. JUDITH CHESTER Sister Judith Chester, 65, signed on with the union in 1989 after she worked as a member of the SIUaffiliated United Industrial Workers. She was a steward department member and initially sailed on the Independence. Sister Chester upgraded her skills often at the Piney Point school. She last sailed on the Overseas New York and settled in Baden, Pennsylvania. JON DILLON Brother Jon Dillon, 57, began his career with the SIU in 1985, when he worked for Orgulf Transporta- August 2018 tion. He was a deck department member and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on several occasions. Brother Dillon most recently sailed on the Isla Bella. He makes his home in Brooksville, Florida. HAZEL JOHNSON Brother Hazel Johnson, 62, donned the SIU colors in 1978, initially shipping on the Point Margo. The steward department member upgraded his skills at the unionaffiliated Piney Point school on several occasions. Brother Johnson last shipped on the Florida. He calls Wilmington, Delaware, home. THEOPOLIS JORDAN Brother Theopolis Jordan, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1972. He first worked aboard the Overseas Arctic and was a member of the engine department. He upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 1977 and last sailed aboard the American Heritage. Brother Jordan resides in Mobile, Alabama. HARRY KINSMAN Brother Harry Kinsman, 61, signed on with the union in 1977, first working on the Fort Hoskins. A member of the engine department, Brother Kinsman upgraded often at the Piney Point school. He most recently sailed on the USNS Pililaau and makes his home in Zephyrhills, Florida. on multiple occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point. Brother Lanas most recently sailed on the Tyco Decisive and makes his home in Reisterstown, Maryland. settled in Englewood, Florida. ERIC MANLEY Brother Michael Arendt, 62, signed on with the union in 1976. He first worked for National Marine and was a member of the deck department. Brother Arendt upgraded his skills on several occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point. He most recently worked for Piney Point Transportation, and resides in Meridian, Mississippi. Brother Eric Manley, 55, donned the SIU colors in 1987 when he worked on the LNG Gemini. He was a steward department member and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Manley most recently sailed aboard the Cape Intrepid. He lives in Tacoma, Washington. ALLEN RICE Brother Allen Rice, 65, signed on with the union in 1990, when he worked aboard the Great Land. He was a deck department member and last sailed aboard the Comet. Brother Rice makes his home in Reno, Nevada. GREGORY WHITE Brother Gregory White, 66, signed on with the SIU in 1978. He first shipped on the Maine and was a deck department member. Brother White upgraded often at the Piney Point school. He last sailed on the USNS Wright and resides in Clinton, Maryland. ROBERT WILSON Brother Robert Wilson, 73, donned the SIU colors in 1979, initially working aboard the Long Beach. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Wilson most recently sailed on the Cape Horn and settled in Mount Shasta, California. VINCENT KIRKSEY PRESCILO ZUNIGA Brother Vincent Kirksey, 62, joined the SIU in 1976, initially sailing aboard the Yukon. He worked in the engine department and upgraded often at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Kirksey most recently sailed on the Ocean Grand. He lives in Eight Mile, Alabama. Brother Prescilo Zuniga, 72, became a member of the SIU in 1997 when he sailed aboard the Independence. A member of the engine department, Brother Zuniga upgraded often at the Piney Point school. He last sailed on the USNS Antares and lives in Sterling, Virginia. JORGE LANAS Brother Jorge Lanas, 66, joined the SIU in 2001 when he sailed aboard the Wave Sentinel. A deck department member, he upgraded GREAT LAKES DONALD JAEGLE Brother Donald Jaegle, 65, joined the SIU in 1997, first working for Great Lakes Towing. The engine department member upgraded at the maritime training center in Piney Point in 2008. Brother Jaegle most recently shipped aboard the Sam Laud and INLAND MICHAEL ARENDT City Beach, Florida. RANDY HOPSON Brother Randy Hopson, 62, signed on with the union in 1975, when he worked for Higman Barge Lines. The deck department member remained with the same company for the duration of his career. Brother Hopson resides in Nederland, Texas. TIMOTHY HUGHES Brother Patrick Bradley, 63, signed on with the SIU in 1996 when he worked with Crowley. He upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 2008. Brother Bradley worked for the same company for the duration of his career. He settled in Aston, Pennsylvania. Brother Timothy Hughes, 59, became an SIU member in 1989, after initially being a member of the Seafarers-affiliated United Industrial Workers. He was employed by Crowley for his entire SIU career. Brother Hughes calls Bensalem, Pennsylvania, home. EDWARD BROWN KENNETH JOHNSON Brother Edward Brown, 58, became an SIU member in 1996, after he worked as a member of the Seafarers-affiliated United Industrial Workers. He was employed by Crowley for the duration of his SIU career. Brother Brown resides in Media, Pennsylvania. Brother Kenneth Johnson, 60, became a union member in 1979. He first sailed aboard the El Paso Arzew and was a member of the deck department. After upgrading on several occasion at the Paul Hall Center, Brother Johnson last worked for Penn Maritime. He is a resident of Warren, Maine. PATRICK BRADLEY JOHN CHAPIN Brother John Chapin, 58, joined the union in 1996, after he worked as a member of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers. Brother Chapin upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 2008. He worked for Crowley throughout his SIU career and makes his home in Bensalem, Pennsylvania. RANDAL GOODISON Brother Randal Goodison, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1990, initially working for Mariner Towing. A member of the deck department, Brother Goodison upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2001. He last sailed with OSG Ship Management and lives in Gulfport, Mississippi. BRUCE HEATH Brother Bruce Heath, 57, started shipping with the SIU in 1993. He was a member of the deck department and initially sailed on the Padre Island. Brother Heath concluded his career on the same vessel after many upgrades at the Paul Hall Center. He settled in Panama GREGORY LUKOWSKI Brother Gregory Lukowski, 62, started shipping with the SIU in 1975, when he worked for McAllister Towing. He was a deck department member and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Lukowski concluded his career with the same company, after working with them for the majority of his career. He resides in Glen Arm, Maryland. CHARLES POWELL Brother Charles Powell, 61, donned the SIU colors in 1979, when he worked for Virginia Pilot Corporation. A member of the deck department, he remained with the same company for the duration of his career. Brother Powell resides in Port Haywood, Virginia. JOHN VOGEL Brother John Vogel, 63, became an SIU member in 1980. A deck department member, he worked for Virginia Pilot Corporation for his entire career. Brother Vogel calls Virginia Beach, Virginia, home. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA OSWALD CHASE Pensioner Oswald Chase, 88, passed away May 27. He joined the union in 2000 and first sailed on the Independence. Brother Chase was a member of the engine department and last worked aboard the APL Cyprine. He retired in 2007 and settled in Brooklyn, New York. deck department, Brother Rivera last sailed on the Edward A. Carter Jr. He became a pensioner in 2014 and was a resident of Spring Hill, Florida. BRETT WHEATLEY Brother Brett Wheatley, 22, died June 2. He signed on with the union in 2015 and first sailed on the Invincible. Brother Wheatley was a steward department member. He last sailed on the Maersk Atlanta and lived in his hometown of Jacksonville, Florida. GREAT LAKES CHARLES LUDWICK Pensioner Charles Ludwick, 89, died June 23. He joined the SIU in 1952, initially sailing on the Santa Venetia. Brother Ludwick was a steward department member and last worked for Michigan Tankers. He went on pension in 1974 and made his home in Houston. PAUL PAINTER Pensioner Paul Painter, 90, died May 18. He was born in South Carolina and joined the union in 1946 when he shipped with Delta Lines. An engine department member, he last worked aboard the Cape Lobos. Brother Painter retired in 1997 and lived in Laurinburg, North Carolina. EDWIN RIVERA Pensioner Edwin Rivera, 68, passed away April 18. He signed on with the SIU in 1989, initially sailing on the Anders Maersk. A member of the HOWARD HEROLD Pensioner Howard Herold, 75, passed away June 12. He became a member of the SIU in 1968 and first worked for Inland Lakes Management. A member of the deck department, Brother Herold last sailed on the American Republic. He became a pensioner in 2001 and called Griffith, Indiana, home. INLAND WILLIAM BRAINARD Pensioner William Brainard, 69, died June 8. He signed on with the union in 1995, first sailing on the Long Island. The steward department member primarily sailed with Great Lakes Dredge & Dock, including many voyages on the Manhattan Island. Brother Brainard retired in 2018 and resided in Portsmouth, Virginia. TOM CAMPBELL Pensioner Tom Campbell, 83, passed away June 16. He signed on with the SIU in 1978 when he worked for G&H Towing. As a member of the engine department, Brother Campbell re- mained with the same company until his retirement in 1998. He made his home in Killeen, Texas. STEVEN HARDIN Pensioner Steven Hardin, 71, passed away June 25. He joined the union in 1971 and first sailed with McAllister Towing of Baltimore. Brother Hardin sailed in the deck department and remained with the same company for the majority of his SIU career. He became a pensioner in 2003 and was a resident of Baltimore. DAVID LAFFAN Pensioner David Laffan, 72, died June 3. He donned the union colors in 1977, initially working for Allied Transportation. A member of the steward department, brother Laffan remained with the same company until his retirement in 2001. He lived in St. Petersburg, Florida. BERNARD PALOMBO Brother Bernard Palombo, 58, died May 15. He was born in New Orleans and signed on with the SIU in 1990. A member of both the deck and engine departments, Brother Palombo worked for Crescent Towing and Salvage for the duration of his career. He called Gretna, Louisiana, home. GLENN RANSOM Pensioner Glenn Ransom, 71, passed away July 2. He signed on with the SIU in 1989 when he worked for OLS Transport. Brother Ransom was an en- gine department member. He last worked for Ameristar Casino, and went on pension in 2010. Brother Ransom settled in Sodus, Michigan. WALLACE ROSSER Pensioner Wallace Rosser, 68, passed away June 16. He became a union member in 1970, initially working for Whiteman Towing. Brother Rosser was a deck department member and most recently worked for Turecamo Maritime. He lived in Waggaman, Louisiana. ROBERT SANDERS Brother Robert Sanders, 69, died May 20. Born in Alabama, he joined the SIU in 2002. Brother Sanders worked for OLS Transport and was a member of the deck department. He resided in Elberta, Alabama. BEN MCLENDON Pensioner Ben McLendon, 93, passed away June 5. Brother McLendon joined the union in 1943 and became a pensioner in 1985. He made his home in Savannah, Georgia. NMU RUDY FLOWERS Pensioner Rudy Flowers, 80, passed away May 7. Brother Flowers was native to Honduras and became a pensioner in in 1995. He lived in New Orleans. LUCIO PIRES Pensioner Lucio Pires, 72, died June 9. After working as a deck department member, Brother Pires became a pensioner in 2008. He was a resident of Providence, Rhode Island. JOHN SHURTLEFF Pensioner John Shurtleff, 78, passed away June 22. Born in Montclair, New Jersey, he was a member of the deck department. Brother Shurtleff last worked aboard the Delaware Bay and began collecting his pension in 2005. He made his home in Honey Brook, Pennsylvania. LUMAN WHITTAKER Pensioner Luman Whittaker, 76, died March 24. He became a pensioner in 2006 and resided in the Cayman Islands, his birthplace. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. Name Age Beech, Freddie 69 Bullock, Paul 88 Campbell, Homa 93 Conley, John 92 Cotton, Charlie 107 Davis, Levoid 90 Deniso, Anthony 92 Ferreira, Lloyd 87 Formyduval, Bunsen 90 King, Egbert 103 Lofton, George 85 Nieves, Felix 85 Osborne, Daniel 91 Seminario, Valentine 91 Soto, Jose 82 Thompson, Ruben 87 Zirk, Frederick 67 DOD 06/26/2018 04/25/2018 06/30/2018 06/23/2018 05/29/2018 07/09/2018 02/01/2018 06/12/2018 06/04/2018 05/29/2018 05/25/2018 03/10/2018 04/11/2018 07/01/2018 07/05/2018 06/22/2018 07/05/2018 Seafarers Help Supply Carrier The Seafarers-crewed USNS Arctic welcomes an American helicopter July 11 in the Atlantic Ocean during an at-sea replenishment with the aircraft carrier USS Harry S Truman. The Arctic is crewed by SIU Government Services Division members. The Truman is deployed as part of an ongoing rotation of U.S. forces supporting maritime security operations in international waters around the globe. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Gitte Schirrmacher) 18 Seafarers LOG August 2018 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings USNS SBX (TOTE Services), April 1 – Chairman Weldon Heblich, Secretary Larry Pugh, Educational Director Michael Rueter, Engine Delegate James Ross, Steward Delegate Tania Ramirez-Diego. Crew discussed vacation benefits. Members were encouraged to contact vacation department at headquarters if pay not received. Chairman reminded members that SPAD is voluntary and urged them to stay on top of their documents. Secretary reminded members to update beneficiary cards and to register as soon as possible. Educational director advised members to upgrade at their earliest convenience. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members discussed lodging fees during last port period and motioned to increase retirement benefits. Crew requested ability to pay membership dues using PayPal and discussed company policies on alcohol and personal conduct. Crew may now send Coast Guard physical documents directly to NMC. Possible changes to training certification requirements noted by chairman. Malfunctioning TVs and DVD players to be replaced. MARJORIE C (Pasha), April 7 – Chairman Daniel Davenport, Secretary Thomas Kleine, Educational Director Michael Papaioannou, Deck Delegate Abdulataef Ali, Engine Delegate Steven Rollins, Steward Delegate Jatniel Aguilera Santiago. Crew discussed modifying requirements for physical. Chairman anticipates arrival of new refrigerators for cabins and confirmed possibility of internet by the end of the year. Steward department was thanked for great 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. food. Secretary urged members to be sure physicals are valid before submitting applications to upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested clarification for trip requirements after noting past trips lasting less than the current 70 days. Next Port: San Diego. SAFMARINE NGAMI (Maersk Line, Limited), April 9 – Chairman Mathew Bevak, Secretary Cleto Lindong, Educational Director Allan Bombita, Deck Delegate Tirso Sarmiento, Engine Delegate Justin Nicholson. Washing machine and old mattresses replaced. Chairman reiterated importance of safety. He thanked members for participating in union meetings and reminded them of SPAD and union dues. Members thanked steward department for good food. Secretary thanked all members for help with stores. Educational director encouraged crew to check availability of classes and to be sure documents are up to date. Departmental delegates reported disputed OT and no launch service. Members requested replacement carpet in cabins and elsewhere. They suggested increasing pension benefits. ALASKAN EXPLORER (Alaskan Tanker Company), April 29 – Chairman Michael Moore, Secretary John Huyett, Educational Director Winfred Opare, Deck Delegate Domingo Cazon, Steward Delegate Deandre Speight. Crew continues to wait for repairs to broken chairs. Chairman discussed various reports including Washington Activities, which described recent happenings related to Jones Act and (separately) federal budget. Secretary continued sharing reports featuring information about W-2s and the union’s disaster relief fund. Educational director discussed benefits and urged members to utilize facilities at the Piney Point school. Treasurer encouraged members to donate to SPAD and discussed contracts. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for good food and purchase of specialty snacks. Next Port: Valdez, Alaska. MIDNIGHT SUN (TOTE Services), April 29 – Chairman Darryl Smith, Secretary Norman Cox, Educational Director Ronald Embody, Steward Delegate Christopher Hopkins. Chairman requested that vacation checks consist of 45 days. Otherwise, he suggests a minimum of 60-day reliefs. He encouraged Seafarers to contribute to SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. Secretary reminded members to get all shipping papers in order. He recommended members pay union dues at the start of the year. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested that temperature in ship house be cooler. Crew in need of more linens. Next Port: Anchorage, Alaska. RESOLVE (TOTE Services), April 29 – Chairman David Martinez, Secretary Donald Williams, Deck Delegate Joe Legree, Engine Delegate Jared Latta, Steward Delegate Ragab Ayed. Chairman thanked each department for a job well done. Secretary reminded members to take advantage of the upgrading opportunities at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew pleased with media’s part bringing forth numerous positive facts about Jones Act. Members request new mattresses, new linen and better Wi-Fi aboard ship. HORIZON KODIAK (Horizon Lines), May 2 – Chairman Garry Walker, Secretary Scott Opsahl, Educational Director Kevin McCagh. Chairman noted a smooth voyage and thanked crew for a job well done. He urged members to stay current on their dues. Secretary expressed appreciation for crew keeping mess hall and lounge clean. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to upgrade, stay up-to-date, and use the member portal online to keep track of expiration dates. Members were reminded to leave a clean room for oncoming crew. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman motioned a vote of thanks to SIU President Mike Sacco for tireless efforts to keep union strong and secure. He went on to thank Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President Contracts George Tricker and Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen. Citing personal experiences, chairman reiterated importance of medical insurance for members and credited the administrator for managing Seafarers Plans so well. He also thanked Port Agent Joe Vincenzo and entire Tacoma port staff. Recliners in need of replacement. Members request a minimum of 60 days for relief to allow the qualification for benefits. Members were encouraged to offer relief when their union brothers or sisters are in need. Next Port: Tacoma, Washington. ALASKAN NAVIGATOR (Alaska Tanker Company), May 13 – Chairman Gregory Hamilton, Secretary Albert Sison, Educational Director Rollin Crump, Deck Delegate Nicholas Ciabatoni, Engine Delegate Aljohn Fernandez, Steward Delegate Steve Concepcion. Crew awaits status update of new recliners. Reimbursement denied for humidifiers in crew’s state room due. Chairman informed crew that no one showed up to deliver copies of new contract. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members motioned for improvement in vision care insurance coverage. Crew requests repair to broken washing machine. Steward department recognized for job well done. Next Port: Valdez, Alaska. GOLDEN STATE (Crowley), May 14 – Chairman Philip McGeoghegan, Secretary Michael Carello. New mattresses and linens in. New dryer installed, but satellite television still needs repair. Chairman explained written resolutions and motions and went over cabotage laws. Secretary stressed importance of maritime trades. Educational director urged crew to keep current on paperwork. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members request replacement of microwave in crew mess hall and upgrade for crew lounge computer. Crew expressed concern with air conditioner vents. Members were reminded to secure mess hall fridge better. 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 August 2018 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 19 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Machinist September 1 September 21 Marine Electrician August 11 October 5 Gap Closing Courses Engineroom Resource Management October 6 Leadership & Managerial Skills October 13 Marine Refer Tech October 12 October 19 Storekeeper Courses MSC Storekeeper Basic September 29 October 19 MSC Supply Configuration Management October 20 November 16 Deck Department Upgrading Courses FOWT October 20 November 16 Junior Engineer August 11 October 5 October 27 December 21 October 6 November 16 Pumpman September 22 September 28 Welding August 18 September 7 September 22 October 12 October 27 November 16 Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Ops August 25 September 21 November 10 December 7 Able Seafarer Deck August 25 September 21 October 20 November 16 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start August 6. AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Students will be advised of dates once Chief Steward September 22 November 9 accepted. ARPA October 20 October 26 100 Ton Master October 13 November 2 ECDIS October 20 October 26 Fast Rescue Boat August 11 August 17 September 8 September 14 GMDSS September 22 October 5 Lifeboat August 25 September 7 September 22 October 5 October 20 November 2 November 17 November 30 Radar Observer October 6 October 19 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW September 22 October 19 November 17 December 14 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers December 1 December 14 BAPO September 22 October 19 November 17 December 14 FOWT August 25 September 21 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 # and dates attended___________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 August 11 August 17 September 29 October 5 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 August 18 August 24 August 25 August 31 Serve Safe September 22 September 28 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training/Basic FF August 18 August 24 September 22 September 28 Basic Training Revalidation August 10 August 10 September 28 September 28 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation August 18 August 24 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting September 15 September 21 Government Vessels August 11 August 17 September 8 September 14 Medical Care Provider September 8 September 14 Tank Barge DL August 25 August 31 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL August 25 August 31 October 13 October 19 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG August 18 August 24 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, or 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. 8/18 August 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #837 – Graduated May 18 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Nicholas Banks, Robert Coleman III, Norman Comeaux Jr., Michael Cruz Cordova, Adam Salim Elmenani, Jovanni Capistrano Garcenila Michael Hickey, Nicolas Holt, Darius Jackson-Jordan, Julian Jordan, Cristian Lalin, Tanner Lipsky, Anthoine Nichols, Joseph Nicolosi, Nicholas Sweeney and Mervin Zamora. Upgrader George Arthur (pictured below) also graduated from this course. Welding & Metallurgy – Graduated May 25 (above, from left): Tom Dary, John Zimmerman and Gregory Crowder. Instructor Chris Raley is at the far right. Machinist – Graduated May 18 (above, in alphabetical order): Frank Harris III, Mark Loughman, Mario Toniza Moralita, Anatoli Vetsinov and Paul Watts. Class instructor Keith Adamson is at the far right. Radar Observer – Graduated May 11 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Michael Hodges, Brennon Hough, Reisa Marie Martinez-Serrano, Gavin Scott and Nicholas Otto Farrar Selle. Patrick Schoenberger, their instructor, is at the far left. Notice to All 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. BAPO (Phase III Apprentices) – Graduated May 4 (above, in alphabetical order): Rahsaan Kwasi Alexander, Alberto Luis Alvarez-Gonzalez, Charles Bell, Mashrur Islam Dewan, Luzern Hawkins, Raphael Henson, Sherman Kennon Jr., Justin Krainis, William Means, Maksim Shpylyevyy, Shawn Smith, Tyler Summersill, Thomas Tooke and Kevin Willis. Class instructor John Wiegman III is at the far left. Upon the completion of their training, each of these apprentices plans to work in the engine departments of union-contracted vessels. August 2018 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes RFPNW (Phase III Apprentices) – Graduated May 4 (above, in alphabetical order): Julien Kei Charlet, Samual Moore, Gian Antonio Nicolo, Devon Pullins, Alton Robinson, Dzmitry Sasnouski and Chauncey Wilkerson. Each of these apprentices plans to work in the deck department aboard union-contracted vessels at the conclusion of their training. Basic Shiphandling & Steering Control System – Graduated April 20 (above, in alphabetical order): Martin Baker, Matthew Botterbusch, Joshua Gonzalez, Brian Luba, Bryan Page, George Steube III, Dexter Madrona Turija, James Wunder and Slavi Zahariev. BAPO – Graduated May 4 (above, in alphabetical order): Clarence Kinson Jr., Gavin Kuehn Jr., Donte Sawyer, Leroy Turrentine, Roy Dinoy Villanueva and Shavis Williams. John Wiegman III, their instructor, is at the far left. MSC Supply Configuration Management – Graduated April 6 (above, in alphabetical order): Tyesha Boyd, John Cedeno Jr., David Dunklin, Joseph Evans, Joseph Garnett, Christopher King, Sebastian Krowicki, William Mulcahy, Miles Partridge, Matthew Rogers, Zarko Vrbljanac and William Young. Instructor Matthew Rogers is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Basic Training Revalidation – Graduated April 6 (above, in alphabetical order): Mark Baclayon, Felsher Beasley, David Dingman, Robert Farley, Jackson Gourgue, Anthony Navarro Hermoso, Terry Hester, Gary Mann, Joel Marcano Sr., Jerry Mercer, Jeffery Pope Jr., Michael Ray, George Steube III and Annie Walker. Instructor Joseph Zienda is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Basic Training Revalidation – Graduated April 13 (above, in alphabetical order): Mohamed Elazzouzi, Richard Gathers, Rene Guity, Fadhel Hussein, Gerren Jenkins, David McCarthon, Meree Ali Mused, Walid Kassem Nasser, Richard Parks, Roy Patterson, Lea Emilia Ramos, Israel Micah Serrano and Sherre Wilson. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 22 Seafarers LOG Basic Training Revalidation – Graduated April 6 (above, in alphabetical order): Ahmed Mosad Al-Arashi, Monasser Mohamed Ali, Jose Argueta, Rolando Batiz, Clifford Christopher, Brian Dillon, Richard Flores, Gary Hirsch, Manuel Javier Lata, Charles McAllister III, Richard Molina-Blackman, Nee Tran, William White III and John Worae. Joseph Zienda, their instructor, is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Basic Training Revalidation – Graduated April 13 (above, in alphabetical order): Marciano Amancio Amandoron, Sylvestre Sam Llamido Bautista, Ines Armando Castillo Flores, Thomas Flanagan, Darrell Goggins, Catherine Hays, Casey Matheson, Amador Hernandez Mendez, Mohamed Husain Mosed, Paul Sharo, Lamont Stewart II, Steven Wilson and Papa Yankeh. (Note: Not all are pictured.) August 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes UA to Able Seaman Deck – Graduated June 1: (above, in alphabetical order): Antony Chapman, William Doyle II, Scott Forrer, Luke Yves Fouilloux, Rainiel Natividad and Angel Thompson. Class instructor Tom Truitt is at the far left. Pumpman – Graduated May 25 (above, in alphabetical order): Frank Harris III, Mark Loughman, Mario Toniza Moralita, Anatoli Vetsinov, Paul Watts and Jason Young. Keith Adamson, their instructor, is at the far right. UA to FOWT (Steam) – Graduated June 1 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Christian Cruz, Marsalis Dawson, Luke Leusoga Failauga, Deidra Hunter, Gavin Kuehn Jr., Jacob Laroche, Lionel Manuel Felix Lugo, Durell Mitchell, Matthew Palmer, Samuel Parkinson, Benjamin Thuringer and Bryan Velazquez. Instructor Christopher Morgan is at the far left. Medical Care Provider – Graduated May 25 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Henry Callahan, Johnathon Gager, Kelly Krick Jr., Reisa Marie Martinez-Serrano, Mason Con Melland, Charles Ortiz Quinones, John Schmanski, Patrick Schoeberger, Harry Schrefer III, Gavin Scott and Nicholas Selle. Mike Roberts, their instructor, is at the far left. SUA (Government Vessels) – Graduated May 4 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Eric Manuel Cardona Rivera, Warees Clark, Hyeyoung Choi Forrer, Barton Hatch, Kristina Jones, Tyson Mariano Ramirez, Fikera Winfield and Ludi Zamudio. Galley Ops (Phase III Apprentices) – Graduated May 18 (above, from left): Brian Peralta, Philip Zulueta and Dante Jibre Moyer. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the steward departments of union-contracted vessels. August 2018 SUA (Galley Ops) – Graduated April 20 (above, in alphabetical order): Seth Duke Alejandro Alonzo, Malia Arianna Bouchee, Shawna Freed, Ronald Glenn Jr., Charlotte Hardwick, Janelle Harper, Amelia LaBeur, Ana Mohler and William Johan Otero-Munoz. Seafarers LOG 23 �F E B R U A2018 RY 2014 AUGUST o V O LVOLUME U M E 7 6 80, NNO. O . 82 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 ship 2018 SIU Members Back U.S. Military Personnel in Multinational Mission The expeditionary fast transport ship USNS Brunswick arrives in Sattahip, Thailand, during Pacific Partnership 2018. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joshua Fulton) A lways ready to answer the call, SIU Government Services Division mariners aboard the USNS Mercy and the USNS Brunswick participated in Pacific Partnership 18, which began in May and ran until June 21. The annual multilateral, multi-service mission included stops in Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and Thailand, among other places. During these mission stops, the Pacific Partnership team conducted 765 host nation engagements, including 546 medical events, in addition to conducting what the U.S. Navy described as “cooperative health engagements and subject matter expert exchanges.” More than 12,700 patients were treated and around 62 surgeries were conducted aboard the hospital ship Mercy during the mission. “It has truly been an honor to lead the dynamic men and women of Pacific Partnership 18,” said Captain David Bretz, Pacific Partnership 18 mission commander. “This mission is something myself, along with our entire team from Mercy and Brunswick will never forget. We set out to strengthen the bonds with our host and partner nations, and we achieved this with resounding success. I could not have done it without the hard work and dedication of our entire team and it is something I will look back on fondly for the rest of my life.” “USNS Brunswick proved to be an incredibly valuable platform for Pacific Partnership,” said Royal Navy Captain Peter Olive, Deputy Mission Commander of Pacific Partnership 2018. “The versatility of the ship allowed us to transit shallow waters and visit ports like Yap and Palau, places that wouldn’t be able to accommodate Mercy.” The mission’s final stop, in Nha Trang, Vietnam, saw the embarked medical professionals working alongside Vietnamese personnel in a variety of knowledge exchanges, seminars and patient care activities. In addition, civil engineers built and repaired schools and medical clinic facilities, as well as conducted workshops to discuss methods of storm-resistant construction. “Having U.S. and Vietnamese personnel work together on such a broad range of events highlights that we have forged a strong and lasting comprehensive partnership – one that benefits not just our two countries, but the entire Indo-Pacific region,” said U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Daniel J. Kritenbrink. Now in it’s 13th year, Pacific Partnership consists of more than 800 U.S. military personnel stationed worldwide, working side by side with host-nation counterparts to be better prepared for potential humanitarian assistance and disaster relief situations. Service members assigned to the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy for Pacific Partnership 2018 participate in an all-hands call on the flight deck. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kelsey L. Adams) The Seafarers-crewed USNS Mercy (photo at left) arrives in Yokosuka, Japan as part of a goodwill port visit. (Photo by Ryo Isobe/ Released by FLEACT Yokosuka Public Affairs Office). In the photo above, the hospital ship, shown in Japan, helped treat more than 12,700 patients during this year’s Pacific Partnership mission. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jess E. Toner) � 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 2018 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU CELEBRATES INOUYE CHRISTENING UNION-BUILT MATSON CONTAINERSHIP HONORS LATE MARITIME STALWART SLNC YORK SIGNALS NEW SIU JOBS DEFENSE SECRETARY BACKS MARINERS OUTGOING COAST GUARD COMMANDANT: ‘NOT THE TIME TO GO AFTER JONES ACT’ NY WATERWAY CREW RESCUES TEEN FROM OVERTURNED VESSEL ON HUDSON MATSON SHIP INOUYE CHRISTENED IN PHILLY ADMINISTRATION STATES SUPPORT FOR JONES ACT, CARGO PREFERENCE USNS TRENTON ASSISTS ADRIFT MIGRANT IMB: PIRACY RATE UP SHARPLY IN Q1 2018; GULF OF GUINEA DUBBED INCIDENT EPICENTER JANUS VERDICT WEAKENS WORKERS’ RIGHTS CORPORATE-FUNDED CASE BLATANTLY ATTACKS LABOR MOVEMENT ‘BLACK-ROBED RULERS OVERRIDING CITIZEN’S CHOICES’ LABOR ORGANIZATIONS FILE LAWSUIT AGAINST EXEC. ORDERS ATTACKING WORKER, UNION RIGHTS OP-ED STRESSES JONES ACT’S IMPORTANCE TO ALASKA’S ECONOMY, NATIONAL SECURITY USNS MERCY SUPPORTS RIMPAC 2018 MARITIME LEADERS GET NOD TO RECEIVE AOTOS AWARDS MICHIGAN STATE AFL-CIO SELECTS POWELL AS NEWEST MEMBER OF EXECUTIVE BOARD SHBP OFFICE RELEASES NOTICE REGARDING YELLOW FEVER VACCINE UNION BACK PRO-MARITIME CANDIDATES SEAFARERS KEEP CARGOES MOVING ON NATION’S ‘FOURTH SEA COAST’ MARINERS SUPPORT PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP 2018 SIU MEMBERS BACK U.S. MILITARY PERSONNEL IN MULTINATIONAL MISSION Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 08/01/2018 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. 80, No. 8 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/40c14544039016603bebc8202a825812.pdf 99bee29be2a81b5ac4a5dbe8f4d94446 PDF Text Text JULY F E B2018 RUARY 2014 VOLUME VOLUME 7 6 o 80, N ONO. . 27 U.S. DOT Hosts Maritime Day Ceremony Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao (above, left) delivers the keynote address during the May 22 National Maritime Day ceremony at U.S. Department of Transportation headquarters in Washington, D.C. The SIU had another strong turnout as a crowd of more than 200 people attended the event, including high-level leaders from the U.S. government, military and maritime transportation industry. World War II (WWII)-era Merchant Mariner William Tiernan (center, in photo at right, above), a former member of both the National Maritime Union and the Seafarers International Union, receives an award in recognition of his service to the country. Making the presentation are Gen. Darren McDew, commander, U.S. Transportation Command (left) and retired Navy Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, U.S. Maritime Administrator. Apprentices from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (photo below) pose with a host of dignitaries following the ceremony’s end. Included (from left to right) were WWII Merchant Mariner Robert Weagant, SIU Political and Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman, WWII Merchant Mariner Charles Mills, WWII Merchant Mariner William Tiernan, SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez, Buzby, SIU VP Contracts George Tricker, WWII Merchant Mariner Eugene Barner and SIU Port Agent Pat Vandegrift. Pages 12-14. Pro-Maritime Bill Introduced Page 3 Editorial Backs Jones Act Page 5 More Maritime Day Coverage Page 11 �SHBP Trustees Announce New Benefits for Seafarers, Spouses President’s Report Defending Cargo Preference If it seems like a month never goes by without an attack on American-flag shipping, that’s probably not far from the truth. Most recently, the SIU in late May teamed up with industry allies to forcefully defeat an attempt to kill cargo preference requirements in the Food for Peace program. The attack on cargo preference would have eliminated at least a half-dozen U.S.-flag ships – and the jobs that go with them – right off the bat, and wouldn’t have actually benefited anyone. It was just the latest misguided attempt to undermine a successful program that helps feed the needy around the world while maintaining good American jobs not only in maritime but also in other industries. While there’s never anything desirable about people trying to sink American-flag shipping, the powerful bipartisan pushback on this latest attempt sent an important message. Namely, that our country cannot and will not stand for any more Michael Sacco reductions to our U.S. Merchant Marine. America’s national, economic and homeland security depend on a viable American-flag fleet and reliable, well-trained U.S. crews. It’s no secret that our industry is at a tipping point, but it’s an ongoing task to drive that point home with some members of Congress (and some in the media). The bottom line is that America is best-served by a strong U.S.-flag maritime industry with U.S. mariners. And that means we must maintain the Jones Act and the Maritime Security Program. Our country would also benefit from ramping up our cargo preference laws, rather than simply staying with the status quo or (foolishly) weakening them. As always, the SIU is in the middle of the ring for this never-ending fight, and we’ll keep landing accurate punches. You can help us by continuing to support SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. It’s a critically important tool for us in our efforts to protect your jobs. Ready Then, Ready Now Be sure to check out all the National Maritime Day coverage in this edition. May 22 was especially eventful in the nation’s capital, where the SIU participated in an afternoon press conference kicking off new legislation that would greatly boost U.S. shipbuilding and American-flag shipping. As noted in the article about the new bill (Page 3), there have been some rumblings about whether or not our civilian mariners would sail into harm’s way today if needed. That’s not a widespread question, thankfully, but I find it insulting that anyone in a position of authority would bring it up in the first place. It’s unbelievable, really, when you look at the centuries-old record of patriotism, dedication and reliability demonstrated by the U.S. Merchant Marine. We’ve always answered the call and we always will. Period. Register and Vote It may seem hard to believe, but its almost election time again. In November, the entire U.S. House of Representatives will be up for election, along with 35 U.S. Senate seats and 39 state and territorial governorships. Many other state and local elections also will take place. With that in mind, it’s definitely not too soon to make sure you’re registered to vote. Just go online to Vote.org and take it from there. The site is run by a non-profit organization and it’s very user-friendly. Seafarers know the importance of electing people who support our industry. This year is critical, as we’re facing the retirements of some longtime maritime stalwarts. It’s not easy having to constantly educate new members of Congress about the U.S. Merchant Marine, but it’s a job made simpler when we help put people in office who back us to begin with. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 80 Number 7 o NO. 2 July 2018 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2018 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. Editor’s note: The following notice has been issued by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan: New Health Benefits The Trustees of the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) regularly evaluate the benefits available from the Plan in an effort to better serve the Plan’s participants. They have recently approved two new benefits for active employees and their spouses at the Core-Plus and Core benefit levels, and a benefit increase that applies to eligible pensioners as well as to employees at the Core-Plus and Core level. Increase in Hearing Aid Benefit In the past, the SHBP provided a $350 benefit towards the purchase of a hearing aid every five years. Effective July 1, 2018, this benefit is being increased to $3,000 every three years. This $3,000 benefit may be used toward the purchase of one or two hearing aids; however, $3,000 is the maximum benefit amount you may receive in a three-year period. The hearing aid benefit is available to eligible employees at the Core-Plus and Core benefit levels, and to eligible pensioners. Dependents are not eligible for hearing aid benefits. New Infertility Benefit Until now, SHBP did not cover services to diagnose the cause of infertility, or to treat infertility. Effective July 1, 2018, all eligible employees and their spouses at the Core-Plus and Core benefit level are eligible for benefits to diagnose infertility. The Plan will pay for these services in the same manner as the Plan pays for doctor’s visits and diagnostic tests for any other health condition. The Plan will also pay up to $10,000 per eligible employee or spouse to treat infertility. Once this $10,000 is used, the Plan will not provide any additional benefits for treatment of infertility. Dependent children, pensioners and spouses of pensioners are not eligible for this benefit. New Sterilization Benefit The SHBP previously excluded coverage for tubal ligation and for vasectomy. Effective June 1, 2018, the SHBP will provide benefits for both of these procedures. Employees and their spouses at the Core-Plus and Core benefit are eligible for these benefits. Dependent children, pensioners and spouses of pensioners are not eligible for benefits for sterilization. The Plan will not pay for the reversal of a vasectomy or tubal ligation. If you have any questions about these benefits, please contact the Plan at (800) 2524674. Rep. Wittman Lands ‘Salute to Congress’ Award A longtime backer of the U.S. Merchant Marine recently picked up a prestigious award near the nation’s capital. On May 16, U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman (R-Virginia) was honored by the International Propeller Club of the United States during the organization’s annual Salute to Congress awards ceremony, which took place at the Army Navy Country Club in Arlington, Virginia. In attendance from the SIU were Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman and Piney Point Port Agent Pat Vandegrift. Wittman, who chairs the House Armed Services Committee’s Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, was honored for his steadfast support of the American Merchant Marine and the U.S.-flag fleet. He founded and co-chairs the Congressional Shipbuilding Caucus because he understands the importance of protecting laws like the Jones Act and the Maritime Security Program, which in turn help to keep the nation’s waterways safe from potential threats. In his acceptance speech, he spoke of the need to strengthen the Ready Reserve Force with the addition of new ships. “We are at one of those crossroads where we must recapitalize those fleets,” he said, before expressing strong support for the “three pillars” that enable American mariners to fulfill their important role in our nation’s economy, security and national defense: the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program and cargo preference laws. “Continued Congressional support of a healthy commercial maritime industry is essential to domestic security,” he continued. “Despite the usage of heavy lift aircraft, large oceangoing vessels remain crucial to military mobility in the 21st century. U.S. troops stationed in the Middle East and Afghanistan receive much of their supplies via U.S.-flag vessels because of their capacity and low cost. In the long term, we must find ways to rebuild the U.S. shipbuilding infrastructure and commercial shipping industry – because, in the end, it is much more strategic than lowering transportation costs. I am truly humbled to receive this award and will continue to work each day to be deserving of this honor.” Schoeneman remarked, “Not only did Chairman Wittman give a great speech, he did it without notes. He is one of the most knowledgeable members of Congress and we are fortunate to have him not only as chairman of the Seapower Subcommittee, but also as a strong maritime and SIU supporter.” “Representative Wittman has certainly earned the Salute U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman (R-Virginia) to Congress honor with his outstanding support for the U.S. maritime industry,” said the Propeller Club’s International President Rear Adm. Joel Whitehead. “We are grateful for his leadership of the Seapower Subcommittee and of the Shipbuilding Caucus.” The International Propeller Club of the United States is a non-profit, international association dedicated to the promotion of the maritime industry, commerce and global trade. Through more than 75 chapters located in port cities in the U.S. and abroad, the Propeller Club promotes the maritime industry and contributes to professional development of its members. SIU Jobs Secure Aboard Wheeler The Department of Defense in early June announced that TOTE Services has been awarded a contract for the ongoing operation of the USNS Wheeler (right) and its support ship, the USNS Fast Tempo. Including options, the new award spans 5.5 years. SIU members already sail aboard the Wheeler, and TOTE has operated it for several years, for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. The two vessels are part of what’s named an offshore petroleum discharge system. They utilize gear that can transfer fuel from tankers to depots ashore from up to eight miles off the coast. (U.S. Navy photo) Reversed to White Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG July 2018 �SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (at podium) speaks in support of the bill and notes the reliability of U.S. mariners. He’s flanked by (from left) Congressman Duncan Hunter (D-California), Senator Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi) and Congressmen John Garamendi (D-California), Donald Norcross (D-New Jersey) and Alan Lowenthal (D-California). Seafarers Fully Back New Maritime Bill Tellez: Don’t Question U.S. Merchant Marine’s Willingness to Answer the Call The SIU is fully backing new, bipartisan legislation aimed at boosting America’s maritime industry. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez spoke May 22 at a Capitol Hill press conference announcing the Energizing American Shipbuilding Act of 2018. Cosponsors U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (DCalifornia) and U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi) kicked off the conference; other members of Congress also addressed the audience, as did industry and labor spokesmen. Tellez noted that despite supportive comments from many sources leading up to National Maritime Day (observed each year on May 22), the far more important political action hasn’t matched the rhetoric. “As foe and friend alike understand this and expand their maritime prowess, we languish on the vine, operating with an international fleet that’s been reduced to a number that’s nothing short of a disgrace,” Tellez said. He also pointed out that the industry collectively was fighting against a newly hatched effort to kill America’s cargo preference laws. (The SIU and many allies prevailed in that legislative battle later in the month.) “It gets even worse,” he continued. “We now have senior folks – civilian and in uniform – questioning whether our people will go into harm’s way. To those naysayers, I say look at the record. Read your history books. From the founding of this republic to Iraq and Afghanistan, and in every crisis and conflict in between, we have shown up. And whether or not we show up for the next one is not a question of our courage and will, but of yours. Does this country have the courage and will to maintain and support a viable merchant fleet that’s going to get the job done? All we need is the capacity and the tools, and we will get the job done. This legislation is a step in that direction.” Tellez added that the new legislation “creates good-paying jobs – thousands of them, at sea and ashore.” In announcing H.R. 5893, Garamendi, the ranking member of the Subcommittee on the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, explained that the legislation seeks to rebuild America’s domestic shipbuilding and maritime industry by requiring a small percentage of exported crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) be July 2018 “Congress has neglected our maritime industry for too long…. This bill seeks to turn the ship around by taking advantage of America’s energy export boom to bring back American shipbuilding, shipyard and mariner jobs rather than continuing to outsource them to countries like China.” – Congressman John Garamendi (D-California) transported on U.S.-built and U.S.-flagged vessels. The bill would require the construction of more than 50 ships and would create thousands of maritime jobs, both aboard ship and ashore. Other speakers at the press conference included U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-California), chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee; U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross (D-New Jersey); U.S. Rep. Alan Lowenthal (D-California); Rob Mullins of the Shipbuilders Council of America; Steelworkers official Robert LaVenture; Bob McCracken, an executive from the American Iron & Steel Institute; Alan Kaplan, national president of the Navy League of the United States; MEBA Secretary-Treasurer Bill Van Loo; and MM&P Vice President Klaus Luhta. “Rebuilding America’s shipbuilding and mariner base is an idea that unites Democrats, Republicans, metallurgical trades, the business community, labor, and our armed forces,” said Garamendi. “These industries are not only vital to our economy – they’re vital to our country’s national security. Congress has neglected our maritime industry for too long, to the point that we’re now several dozen merchant ships and 1,800 mariners short of what’s needed to guarantee sufficient sealift support in times of crisis. This bill seeks to turn the ship around by taking advantage of America’s energy export boom to bring back American shipbuilding, shipyard, and mariner jobs rather than continuing to outsource them to countries like China. I believe this bill is the start of a long-term reinvestment in the idea of America as a maritime, seafaring nation.” U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (at podium) lists the many potential benefits of the Energizing American Shipbuilding Act. “The domestic maritime industry supports hundreds of thousands of American jobs and is critical to our military readiness and national security,” said Wicker. “This bill would strengthen our shipbuilding industry and would recognize the importance of having more Americanflagged ships to transport our growing exports of oil and natural gas. China, India, and other nations are investing heavily in their shipbuilding capacity. The United States must keep up.” “We can have the best military equipment and trained warfighters in the world, but without the sealift capacity to get them to where they need to go, it doesn’t do much good,” said Hunter. “Today, the U.S. international fleet has fallen to about 80 ships from a high of more than 1,200 during World War II. Unless we reverse that trend, our nation will be forced to rely on foreign countries for force projection, a situation we cannot allow to happen. This legislation will strengthen America’s shipbuilding base by ensuring we have the necessary industrial infrastructure and skilled labor pool of welders, fitters and sailors needed to rapidly mobilize in times of conflict. This bill will have strong national security implications and I applaud its introduction.” Kaplan stated, “American mariners and the U.S. shipbuilding industrial base are a crucial part of our national security, delivering crucial armaments and supplies the warfighter needs on U.S.-built ships. This bill ensures there will be enough American mariners and U.S.-built ships in the future to support the needs of our men and women in uniform.” U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman (R-Virginia), chairman and ranking member of the House Armed Services Seapower Committee, couldn’t attend the media event but submitted this written statement: “Continued Congressional support of a healthy commercial maritime industry and U.S. Merchant Marine is essential to domestic security. Despite the usage of heavy-lift aircraft, large oceangoing vessels remain crucial to military mobility in the 21st century. U.S. troops stationed in the Middle East and Afghanistan receive much of their supplies via U.S.-flag vessels because of their capacity and low cost. Bringing manufacturing and maritime jobs back home will not only help in the event of a disaster but will also show our domestic industrial base that we support them.” Seafarers LOG 3 �Randi Weingarten President American Federation of Teachers Tim Nolan President TOTE Maritime SIU President Michael Sacco (left) congratulates U.S. Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-Louisiana) on being the recipient of one of three awards during the annual dinner-dance of the Maritime Port Council of Greater New York/New Jersey and Vicinity. The event was held June 9 in New York. Port Council Honors Nolan, Richmond, Weingarten The annual dinner-dance hosted by the Maritime Port Council of Greater New York/ New Jersey and Vicinity on June 9 celebrated the past with a compass pointing straight at the future. All three awardees – U.S. Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-Louisiana), American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten and TOTE Maritime President Tim Nolan – acknowledged what has been done by the U.S.flag maritime industry but proclaimed more is to come. The port council is part of the Maritime Trades Department (MTD), a constitutional department of the AFL-CIO. SIU President Michael Sacco also serves as president of the MTD, which has 23 affiliated unions representing approximately five million workers. Richmond not only heads the Congressional Maritime Caucus, he also chairs the Congressional Black Caucus. First elected in 2010, Richmond’s second congressional district includes more maritime workers than any other in the country. He received the port council’s Government Man of the Year Award. He told the crowd of more than 300 that his mother was a longtime union teacher in New Orleans public schools and his stepfather had been a merchant mariner. Those are some of the reasons he works to make sure “people can make a living wage.” Richmond declared, “It takes labor to protect the Jones Act and cargo preference. This has been done in no small part by the brothers and sisters in the Maritime Trades, but the whole AFL-CIO.” He said the folks of the maritime industry are people of “courage and patriotism. They are people who make a difference. They have an obligation to this country. The entire Congress is starting to understand the importance of the maritime industry. We are educating them.” SIU Political Consultant Terry Turner introduced Richmond, noting he has come far in leadership in a short time because he listens and works with all. Turner pointed out that despite their political ideologies, Richmond works closely with House Republican Whip Steve Scalise (R-Louisiana) because both of them understand the bipartisan nature of the U.S.-flag fleet. In presenting Weingarten for the Paul Hall Award of Merit, Sacco recalled how she introduced maritime to a potable water filtration program called Operation Agua during last year’s AFL-CIO Convention. “Under Randi’s leadership, from West Virginia to Arizona and in many other places, the AFT has breathed new life into the labor movement. And they’ve helped educate – no pun intended – the general public about all the great things unions stand for.: Weingarten raced to the dinner straight from the airport after visiting with an ailing AFT official. She apologized for not changing by saying, “We are family. We care and we show up where we are needed.” She remembered the fight over the Jones Act in the days after Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico. “The moment people don’t want to do anything, they blame somebody,” she said. “Don’t tell me the Jones Act caused the hurricane! The people who really showed up for the Puerto Rican people is the maritime industry! The maritime industry got to the port after the storm!” Weingarten noted that “the island looked like Europe after World War II” when she arrived days after the impact to assess what needed to be done for her members. She began a process of working with others to figure out how they could help all of Puerto Rico immediately. One problem was people were scavenging for drinkable water. As part of a coalition, the Teachers worked with Kohler to have thousands upon thousands of non-electrified water filtration systems made available to the island. A major part of the coalition was the MTDaffiliated SIU, which arranged for the filters to be sent free of charge aboard U.S.-flag vessels. “By this summer, we will have reached our goal of 100,000 filters to the island. That is what America is all about! That is what you have done. I am so grateful for this partnership,” Weingarten stated. “We have to ensure the U.S.-flag industry stays alive.” From the industry side, TOTE Maritime’s newly announced president and CEO, Tim Nolan, worked directly with Operation Agua and continues to oversee relief efforts for Puerto Rico. He had been serving as president of TOTE Maritime, Puerto Rico. Nolan, the recipient of the Herb Brand Memorial Award (which goes to a U.S.-flag industry leader), reminded all what the American-flag companies already have accomplished since Maria as well as what still has to be done for the island to recover. “The U.S. maritime industry was the first to arrive. Our collective response to Hurricane Maria is what makes the U.S. maritime industry so great. The U.S. maritime industry added 50 percent more capacity after the storm,” he explained. While noting he never had the honor of meeting Brand (a former Seafarers LOG editor who worked and promoted the industry from the union and business side for more than 50 years), Nolan said, “This is what Herb Brand and others strove to achieve.” SIU Executive Vice President and MTD Executive Board Member Augie Tellez pointed out that Nolan’s character was tested as TOTE had introduced two new LNG-powered, U.S.built, U.S.-flag vessels when the hurricane struck. “He came through and stood tall,” Tellez stated. “He was an ally in Operation Agua. He came and answered the call to the people of Puerto Rico – a job that is still ongoing.” Seafarers Executive Board Salutes Mike Sacco’s Visionary Leadership Following the announced awards at the annual Greater New York/New Jersey Maritime Port Council DinnerDance on June 9, the SIU Executive Board took over the stage to make a special presentation. That is, all the board members except one. Executive Vice President Augie Tellez told the more than 300 in the audience that the union was celebrating several milestones, including the 80th anniversary of the Seafarers International Union of North America. “For the last 30 years, we have had an unprecedented period of peace and prosperity,” Tellez stated. “We have enjoyed a piece of the American Dream. This comes as no accident. This is the 30th anniversary of our leader – Mike Sacco (being in office). His vision and his tremendous drive motivate us to do what we do.” Secretary-Treasurer Dave Heindel followed Tellez at the microphone to recognize and thank Sacco’s wife, Sophie, before using one of President Sacco’s favorite analogies: “Mike has referred to us (the Executive Board) as his Super Bowl team. On behalf of the Board, we would like to present our coach with his own Super Bowl trophy.” The unexpected tribute with a standing ovation caught Sacco completely by surprise. As he accepted the lookalike trophy, Sacco said it has been “a wonderful 30 years. Coaches don’t win games; players win games. These are the players. These are 4 Seafarers LOG SIU Secretary Treasurer Dave Heindel (third from left) presents SIU President Michael Sacco (fifth from left) with a replica of the Vince Lombardi Super Bowl Trophy. Joining Sacco for the presentation are members of his administration, including his executive vice president, regional vice presidents and the national director of an SIU-affiliated union. the guys who get it done.” Sacco acknowledged the many industry officials attending the dinner by reminding all that labor and business have worked and will continue to work together in order to succeed: “We want a fair shake. We don’t want more, we don’t want less. We will help you.” July 2018 �AFL-CIO Launches Ad Blitz, Urges Organizing The AFL-CIO in late May announced a major, national print and digital ad campaign calling on workers to join together in the face of what the federation described as continued corporate assaults on the freedom to join together in union. An open letter to working people, penned by AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, ran in USA Today, the Washington Post and regional newspapers in nine states, including Florida, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Massachusetts. Trumka’s letter offers an urgent call to action: “If you want a raise, better benefits and the dignity of having a voice on the job, we’re saving a seat for you,” he wrote. “Join us – be a part of the fight to build a brighter future for you, your family and working people everywhere.” An accompanying digital ad campaign targets workers online and directs them to FreedomToJoin.org, a new website “that outlines efforts by wealthy corporate interests to take away the freedoms of working people.” Additionally, the website offers background on Janus v. AFSCME Council 31, a Supreme Court case funded by the Koch brothers to “deprive teachers, firefighters and other public-sector workers of their freedom to join together,” the AFL-CIO noted. (A ruling was expected around press time.) It also offers resources for forming a union and information about ongoing organizing campaigns. “This comes as a wave of collective action has continued to sweep the country,” the federation said in announcing the ad campaign. “As striking teachers march and secure raises even in anti-labor states, working people from all backgrounds are embracing the power of solidarity. Unions’ approval rating has broken above 60 percent, while dissatisfaction with corporations has risen to similarly high levels. “Young people, who are disproportionately impacted by corporate-driven policy decisions, have been leading the most recent surge in unionization,” the announcement continued. “Of the 262,000 new union members last year, more than three-quarters were under the age of 35.” This trend has continued steadily into 2018. In April, nearly 15,000 workers organized unions in a single week, ranging from nurses and flight attendants to Harvard graduate workers. “From the boardroom to the steps of the Supreme Court, a dark web of corporate interests is trying to stop us with everything it has,” Trumka concluded. “But no matter what any CEO or lobbyist does, we’re standing up for the freedom to join together in a union.” In a communication specifically about the Janus decision, the AFL-CIO said, “The Supreme Court case Janus v. AFSCME Council 31 is nothing more than a political Washington Times: ‘Jones Act Assures Freedom of Seas’ An editorial published in late May by The Washington Times states unequivocal support for the Jones Act. The piece, headlined “The cost of not having a Merchant Marine,” provides background on why America’s freight cabotage law was enacted in the first place, in 1920. It powerfully concludes that the United States would risk catastrophe by eliminating the law, which requires that cargo moving between domestic ports be carried on ships that are crewed, built, owned and flagged American. Published and posted May 23, a day after National Maritime Day, the editorial in part notes, “Freedom of the seas is critical to America’s economic and political security, enabling the transportation of goods manufactured in the United States to other places around the world, and enabling Americans to obtain things otherwise unobtainable here…. Americans have taken freedom of the seas for granted when they think about ships and seas, particularly in the years following the end of World War II, when despite the tension between the superpowers nothing much happened in either the Atlantic or Pacific that America didn’t want to happen.” But new threats are emerging, according to the Times. For instance, they point out, China recently launched its first domestically constructed aircraft carrier. “Aircraft carriers are not defensive weapons,” the article states. “They’re floating islands bristling with weapons of mass destruction, to project power far beyond the shores of a homeland. Together with Beijing’s plan to increase the size of its combat navy to more than 400 ships, and the man-made islands created in the South China Sea to wage war, foreshadows a coming crisis that threatens ev- erybody’s freedom to sail one of the world’s busiest sea lanes.” After further describing China’s maritime strength, the editorial says things for the U.S. would be comparatively even worse “without the Merchant Marine Act of 1920 (formal name of the Jones Act), enacted when a sobered Congress wanted to make sure the United States could supply troops in conflicts anywhere in the world. Getting the American Expeditionary Force and its supplies across the Atlantic in World War I had been tortuous and difficult indeed, and Congress was determined that it should never be repeated. “This law assured the survival of the American Merchant Marine,” the article continues. “Without it … the nation’s movement of crucial goods would have been outsourced years ago.” The piece concludes, “The Jones Act assures freedom of the seas and on the cheap. The merchant fleet supports the military in times of crisis. The cost to replicate it, according to some estimates, would be as much as $65 billion, money America does not have and which would be better spent building combat ships to keep pace with the Chinese. The possibility of conflict with China or other seagoing powers dictates the absolute necessity of a robust shipbuilding and repair industry together with a robust and capable Merchant Marine. The Jones Act makes that possible even if, as some economists argue, it adds a few pennies to the cost of goods that come to America by sea. The cost of not having a robust Merchant Marine when the nation needs it would be much higher, all to prevent catastrophe when the cost of prevention is highest.” The full article is available online at washingtontimes.com. Jones Act vessels including the SIU-crewed Overseas Nikiski boost U.S. national, economic and homeland security. July 2018 attack that aims to further rig our economy and democracy against working people. It’s an attempt to divide us and limit our power in numbers because unions give workers a powerful voice in speaking up for themselves, their families and their communities. When teachers, nurses, firefighters and other public service workers are free to come together in unions, they win benefits like better working conditions, better wages, health care, clean and safe environments and retirement security that benefit non-union members as well. But the CEOs and corporate special interests behind this case simply do not believe that working people should have the same freedoms and opportunities as they do: to negotiate a fair return on our work so that we can provide for ourselves and our families. They are funding this case through organizations like the National Right to Work Foundation because they view unions as a threat to their power and greed.” ‘Time to Save Our Merchant Marine is Now’ America’s national, economic and homeland security demand the sustainment of a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. That was the firm conclusion of a recent op-ed coauthored by Brian Schoeneman, political and legislative director of the SIU, and Bryant Gardner, a partner with the law firm Winston & Strawn LLP. The piece ran in The Hill newspaper on May 22 (National Maritime Day) and remains available on the publication’s website. Schoeneman and Gardner provide background on America’s proud history as a maritime nation. Whether projecting military power or providing humanitarian assistance, U.S. civilian mariners have delivered for centuries, they note. That’s still the case today, they continue. For instance, more than 90 percent of the materiel needed by our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan was carried aboard U.S.-flag vessels with American crews. “Because the Defense Department can rely upon our commercial fleet, it doesn’t have to hire tens of thousands of government employees and build hundreds of ships, saving taxpayers billions,” Schoeneman and Gardner point out. “Because America can rely upon its U.S. Merchant Marine, it will never again face the crisis it faced at the start of the last century, when American exports sat on the docks rotting because foreign fleets were unable or unwilling to take them to market. “As representatives of the shipping industry and maritime unions we see the importance of this issue from all sides,” the continued. “Yet, despite the importance of the Merchant Marine to America’s economic, national, and homeland security, many of the programs designed to help maintain it have come under attack. One such program is our cargo preference law. Cargo preference requires that when taxpayer-funded cargoes are shipped by the U.S. government, at least a portion of those cargoes move on U.S.-flag vessels, provided they are available at fair and reasonable rates. This allows us to leverage transportation dollars we are already spending, accomplishing two goals at once.” They go on to contrast the high standards applied to American crews and vessels as compared to the oftencutthroat world of runaway-flag or so-called flag-of-convenience shipping. In that light, “The only way the U.S. Merchant Marine can remain viable is through support programs that help counter these disadvantages inherent to the requirement that the U.S. Merchant Marine be an American institution we can count upon in times good and bad. In peace and war – the motto of the Merchant Marine,” the coauthors say. When the piece was published, the industry was battling against a blindside attack (ultimately unsuccessful) on cargo preference. “If the federal government is paying the freight, it makes sense to employ Americans to do the work,” Gardner and Schoeneman point out. “Despite this, cargo preference has been under attack by well-intended ‘reformers’ looking to trim shipping costs regardless of the other impacts. Nowhere have these attacks been more fervent than among the foreign-aid community, who would carve-out international food aid shipments from cargo preference rules, promoting foreign fleets over our own. “Critics claim that this cargo isn’t essential to the U.S. Merchant Marine,” they add. “Not true. Food aid is the largest source of government cargo available. When Congress reduced ship-American requirements for food aid from 75 percent to 50 percent, we lost a quarter of the fleet. The change had almost no impact on the overall food aid program, since using American ships instead of foreign ships represents barely one percent of the overall food aid budget…. Instead of cutting cargo preference, we should be looking to increase it. The military already aspires to ship 100 percent of its cargoes on U.S.flag vessels. Requiring the civilian agencies to do the same would go a long way toward reversing the trend.” They conclude, “On this, National Maritime Day, we need to stop taking our U.S. Merchant Marine for granted, and dedicate to serious discussion about ways to restore its capability. Restoring and bolstering cargo preference with new reforms is a good place to start.” Seafarers LOG 5 �Lummus Mariners Donate to Philippines-Based Charity The Seafarers’ time-honored tradition of providing humanitarian assistance to those in need continues to be displayed on the world’s international stage. The latest episode occurred May 10 in the Republic of the Philippines when – during an official visit – SIU crew members and AMO officers from the USNS 1st Lt Jack Lummus presented a $1,000 donation to the Pampangabased Smile Train Philippines Foundation, Inc. Smile Train is an international children’s charity (a hospital) that provides 100-percentfree cleft repair surgery and comprehensive cleft care to children in more than 85 developing countries around the world. The offer to look in on the facility was sent to Lummus Master Capt. David Hagner. The invitation to visit the hospital was “… based upon my own recent marathon fundraising for them (London 2017, Jacksonville 2017),” Hagner said. “So, I asked them to expand the guest list as an opportunity to bring some favorable exposure to both the program/ ship/crew and to their great charity.” According to Hagner, the Lummus at the time was in the Philippines supporting Exercise Balikatan 2018, an annual joint forces U.S.Philippines military partnership operation. “We were anchored in Subic Bay conducting routine maintenance between the partial discharge and backload of our prepositioned USMC roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) cargo used in the exercise when we made the visit to Pampanga,” he said. Joining Hagner during the visit and donation presentation were OS Charles Catunao, Chief Engineer Michael Fagan and Electronics Officer Clifford Ward. Catunao, on behalf of Lummus’ officers and crew, presented the $1,000 check to Smile Train’s Director for the Philippines Kimmy Flaviano. Also present were Dr. Edmund Mercado, a plastic surgeon who performs many of the procedures at the facility, and Marlon Punzalan, an Ambyth shipping agent. According to Hagner, the Ambyth family of companies and it principals were generous sponsors of his 2017 fundraising efforts for SIU Ordinary Seaman Charles Catunao (second from left in back row in photo above) poses with officers from the USNS 1st Lt. Jack Lummus, along with officials, patients and parents at the Smile Train Philippines Foundation, Inc., hospital during a May 10 visit. The facility is based in Pampanga, Philippines. In the photo at right, Catunao presents a $1,000 donation from the crew of the Lummus to Smile Train’s Director for the Philippines Kimmy Flaviano. Smile Train in London and Jacksonville. During the recent visit, members of the Lummus delegation had lunch with the facility’s director and members of her staff. They also saw a number of children who had undergone procedures the day before as well as others who were back for suture removals and follow-ups. Delegation members also saw a few infants who were at the facility for pre-op assessments. Proceeds for the donation were taken from a cash reserve that accrues from the onboard sale of assorted goods (soft drinks, snacks, etc.) to mariners in the vessel’s slop chest. “Rather than solicit from individual crew members, we made the donation from a small crew fund we maintain for such purposes,” said Hager. “We have previously supported (from the same fund) a charity golf tournament for The Heart of Texas Young Marines and sponsored a rider in the Dana Farber Pan-Mass Challenge bike ride for cancer.” The Lummus is operated by Crowley Liner Services. NTSB Publishes El Faro Summary New Books Cover 2015 Tragedy Involving SIU-Crewed Ship The tragic sinking of the SIU-crewed cargo ship El Faro happened nearly three years ago, but the incident made recent headlines following the release of two new books plus a summary from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The board in late May posted a 16-page PDF file which it described as an “illustrated digest (that) summarizes the critical events and decisions that led to the Oct. 1, 2015, sinking of El Faro and the loss of all 33 crewmembers. The digest also synopsizes the more than 60 recommendations issued throughout the The NTSB posted a 16-page PDF file summarizing its findings about the El Faro. 6 Seafarers LOG NTSB’s investigation of the sinking. The infographics and summary make for an easy-to-read digest, compared with the thousands of pages that comprise the NTSB’s final report and associated investigative documents, while still imparting potentially lifesaving information to our stakeholders.” The NTSB announcement concluded, “While the full accident report, available at www.ntsb.gov, remains the agency’s definitive document on our investigation of the sinking, this digest provides an overview of this landmark marine accident, and a review of what government and industry can do to prevent such an ac- cident from happening again.” The summary is easy to find on the NTSB website. Use the search feature and enter the words “El Faro illustrated digest.” Meanwhile, the books were released in early May. One is titled “Into the Raging Sea” and is authored by Rachel Slade. The other is titled “Run the Storm” and is written by George Michelsen Foy. Both are available on Amazon. The hardcover edition of Slade’s book is 416 pages, and it appears to be the more critically acclaimed of the two. Foy’s book is 272 pages. Seventeen SIU members were among the El Faro’s final crew. Two new books revisit the tragic sinking. July 2018 �SHBP Announces Winners of Annual Scholarships The higher education goals of nine individuals moved one step closer to fruition May 4 when the Seafarers Heath and Benefits Plan (SHBP) Scholarship committee conferred upon them scholarships totaling $132,000. Convening in San Diego, the committee bestowed a series of grants to four active Seafarers and five dependents. On the SIU side of the ledger, JonDa Tanner was the recipient of a three-year $15,000 award; Joseph LoGuidice and Karl Mayhew each claimed a two-year, $6,000 grant; and Jarvis Atkins collected a oneyear, $5,000 scholarship. Dependents Katherine Conway, Junnel Grace Dingman, Ruth Isabel Dinongm, Gabriel Garcia, and Guan Polompo were the recipients of four-year awards totaling $20,000 each. JonDa Tanner Deep Sea Chief Steward JonDa Tanner was born in Alaska but currently calls Lynwood, California, home. A 1996 graduate of Foster High School in Tukwila, Washington, she completed three semesters of classes at North Seattle Community College in Seattle. She later spent five years working with Norwegian Cruise Lines. Tanner donned the SIU colors in 2000 and graduated from the apprentice program at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. Since completing the apprentice program, Tanner has returned to the school on several occasions to upgrade her skills. Most recently, she completed the Chief Steward 2.0 Orientation/Assessment course. While working for Norwegian Cruise Lines, Tanner said she discovered that life on the high seas was a career that truly fit her personality. She became a union delegate and became hooked on organized labor. “I felt the union saved me and now I could give something back to them,” she said. “After five years, I decided to switch to the SIU (from the SIU-affiliated Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union). I want to be an example for the members of the union to rise above their circumstances. I want to finish what I started by getting my college degree with the help of the union.” Tanner has applied for admission to North Seattle Community College, the same institution she attended following her graduation from high school. She will pursue a double major on literature and drama. Joseph LoGuidice Deep Sea QMED Joseph LoGuidice joined the union in 2011 and was a members of Apprentice Class 747 at the Seafarers-affiliated maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. The husband of a U.S. Air Force spouse, he recently sailed aboard the USNS John Glenn, operated by Ocean Shipholdings, Inc. A frequent upgrader, LoGuidice has returned to the school on several occasions to improve his skills. Most recently, he completed his requirements in the Basic/Advanced Firefighting and Tanker Familiarization LG courses. A native of Denville, New Jersey, LoGuidice is a 1996 graduate of McClintock High School in Tempe, Arizona. While in high school, he was a member of the wrestling team. “I finished my apprenticeship in 2012 and started sailing in the engine department,” he said. “I’ve been back to Piney Point to upgrade numerous times. I’m applying for this scholarship to help me pay for the 10 classes I would need to get my associate’s degree through the College of Southern Maryland. This degree would give me the opportunity to stay on land in the future and support my wife through her Air Force career as she has done for me the last six years while I’m out at sea.” Karl Mayhew Deep Sea Recertified Bosun Karl Mayhew donned the SIU colors in 2001. Born in New York City, he graduated from H.C. Williams High School in Canton, New York. Mayhew earned 32 credits at the State University of New York at Canton. July 2018 Since joining the union, he has upgraded his skills no fewer than 11 times at the PHC, including in 2016 when he completed the bosun recertification course, the highest level of training available to unlicensed members who sail in the deck department. Looking back over his career as a merchant mariner and member of the SIU, Mayhew has no regrets. “I believe entering the U.S. Merchant Marine (USMM) was the best decision I have ever made,” he said. “It has allowed me to learn the importance of working in a team environment and has instilled many positive values (in me).” He continued, “Essentially, it has made me see the importance of always doing the right thing. Further, the USMM has provided a reliable means of making a living and providing for myself and family.” Now, Mayhew aspires to take his career to the next level. “I would like to further my career by gaining a college degree and continuing my education in an ever-changing merchant marine environment,” he said. “I am very thankful I have chosen this career path and intend on being part of it until my retirement.” Mayhew plans to pursue a degree in nautical engineering at the College of Southern Maryland. Jarvis Atkins Deep Sea OMU Jarvis Atkins was born in Roanoke, Virginia, and now resides in Portsmouth, Virginia. He currently works aboard the MV Capt. David I. Lyon, operated by Sealift, Inc. “For the past three years … I have been sailing as an oiler or junior engineer, depending on what ship the company needs me on,” he said. Married and the father of two children, Atkins is a 1996 graduate of Stafford High School in Stafford, Virginia and holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from Norfolk State University in Norfolk, Virginia. He is veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. Atkins signed on with the SIU in 2013 and was a member of PHC Apprentice Class 764. A frequent upgrader, Atkins has enhanced his skills on numerous occasions at the union-affiliated school, most recently in March of this year when he completed five U.S. Coast Guard-approved courses. He applied for the SHBP Scholarship program in order “to be considered for the two-year scholarship to continue my quest in obtaining my Third Engineer’s License,” he said in his application package. “I am currently sailing as a QMED for Sealift Inc. and will soon have the required amount of sea days to sit for my Third Engineer Exam.” Atkins also said he needed to successfully complete five classes to achieve his goal. “My plan is to take two classes in the fourth quarter of 2018 and the remaining three classes in the first or second quarter of 2019,” he said. He has applied for admission to the Mid Atlantic Maritime Academy in Norfolk, Virginia, as well as the Chesapeake Marine Training Institute in Hayes, Virginia. Katherine Conway Katherine Conway is the daughter of Inland AB Nicholas Conway (and mother Susan, a teacher) who joined the union in 1999. Conway is a 2018 graduate of Gloucester County Institute of Technology in Sewell, New Jersey, where she was involved in a number of athletic as well as other extracurricular activities. Included were membership on the school’s junior as well as varsity cross country, track and bowling teams. Additionally, Conway was active in her school’s student council, holding the office of public relations officer from 2017 to 2018. She also volunteered her time supporting the school-based youth services program and other community outreach activities. Ultimately, Conway hopes to become a nurse. To achieve this objective, she has applied for admission to the following schools: Neumann University, Aston, Pennsylvania; Rutgers University, Camden, New Jersey; Stockton University, Galloway, New Jersey; and LaSalle University, Philadelphia. Junnel Grace Dingzon Junnel Grace Dingzon is a 2018 graduate of Baltimore Polytechnic Institute in Baltimore. She is the daughter of Deep Sea ABG Julian Dingzon (and mother Nelia, an office staffer) who has been sailing with the SIU since 2010. Born in the Republic of the Philippines, Junnel Grace now resides in Baltimore. She has five siblings. While in high school, she participated on the tennis team and held membership in the ethics, environmental, yoga/meditation and German clubs. She also volunteered with the Maryland Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Junnel Grace currently works at a frozen yogurt shop at the Baltimore Washington International Airport where she “hopes to save up money for college and develop better communication skills.” Her ambition is to earn her degree in biochemistry. “I aspire to be a neurologist someday and give back to the field that I’m so passionate about,” she said. To achieve her goal, Junnel Grace has applied for admission to the following institutions of higher learning: Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore; Bucknell University, Lewisburg, Pennsylvania; Lafayette College, Easton, Pennsylvania; and New York University in New York City. Ruth Isabel Dinong Ruth Isabel Dinong is the daughter of Deep Sea ABM Rolando Dinong (and mother Ofelia, a dental assistant) who sails aboard the Ocean Ships, Inc.-operated USNS Montford Point. Ruth Isabel was born in the Republic of the Philippines and currently resides in Daly City, California. She has one sibling. A 2018 graduate of Westmoor High School in Daly City, she was active in her school’s student government as well as the California Scholarship Federation and the Westmoor Service Commission. Ruth Isabel also spent numerous hours volunteering at the Second Harvest Food Bank where she helped distribute meals to low-income households and senior citizens. She plans to pursue a career in global studies and has applied to 10 institutions of higher learning to achieve her objective. Her top choices are: Northeastern University in Boston; the University of Washington in Seattle; the University of California, Los Angeles; and the University of California, San Diego. Gabriel Garcia Gabriel is the son of Deep Sea Recertified Steward Raymond Garcia (and mother Mazie, a staff member at the University of California, San Francisco.) He has six siblings. A 2018 graduate of Novato High School in Novato, California, Garcia since an early age has had a deepseated passion for gardening. While in high school, this passion led him to be more involved in his community. He took a leadership role in his school’s gardening club and volunteered many hours at gardens in his area. Along the way, he coordinated and consulted with “master gardeners,” a group of volunteers who are trained and certified by the University of California. Garcia also helped launch a campus beautification project. Besides restoring his school’s garden irrigation system, the endeavor sought to increase student participation in environmentalrelated undertakings. “I want to be a research doctor while simultaneously advocating for environmental awareness,” he said in his scholarship application package. His goal is to obtain his degree in plant biology. Garcia has applied for admission to the following schools: University of CaliforniaBerkley, Berkley, California; University of California-Davis, Davis, California; Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island; and Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore. Guian Palompo Guian Palompo is the son of retired inland DEU Nestor Palompo (and mother Jeannette, a delicatessen employee) who spent most of his career working with Crowley Towing and Transportation in Jacksonville, Florida. Palompo is a 2018 graduate of Jacksonville’s Atlantic Coast High School where he was active in a host of student activities. He was a member of the National Honor Society and served as vice president of the Multicultural Club. Additionally, he was heavily involved in his school’s math, science and history clubs. In the community service arena, Palompo spent numerous after-school hours volunteering. He served as camp counselor for a local high school and was a resolute supporter of a Baptist health volunteer program. Guian’s goal is to obtain his degree in mechanical engineering. To realize his ambition, he has applied for admission to the University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida; University of North Florida in Jacksonville, Florida; and the University of Florida, Gainesville. Members of the calendar year 2018 SHBP Scholarship Committee convened May 4 in San Diego to deliberate on this year’s scholarship winners. Comprising the committee (above, from left) were Dr. Gayle Olson, University of New Orleans (retired); Dr. Louis Fernandez, provost and vice president academic affairs, California State University; Dr. Marla Kohlman, professor, Department of Sociology, Kenyon College; Dr. Hank Toutain, dean of students, Kenyon College (retired); and Dr. Trevor Carpenter, College of Southern Maryland (retired). Seafarers LOG 7 �WELCOME ASHORE IN NEW ORLEANS – Longtime inland member Dave Walker (right) recently called it a career after 40 years as an engineer at Crescent Towing. He also served as a delegate on negotiating committees five different times. Presenting him with his first pension check is Port Agent Chris Westbrook. WELCOME ASHORE IN NORFOLK – Congratulations to Captain Mark Faust (center), pictured at the hall with his wife, Mary (right), and Port Agent Georg Kenny. Upon receiving his first pension check, Mark expressed gratitude to the union and to the Seafarers Pension Plan. He spent the past 15 years at the helm with Express Marine. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU LICENSE EARNED – Seafarer Jose Encarnacion (left) proudly displays his new third assistant engineer license, recently received from the U.S. Coast Guard. He’s pictured with Port Agent Amancio Crespo in San Juan. Encarnacion stated, “Since I got into the maritime industry in 2005, my life has been fun. Trip after trip, I’ve learned the true value of work, family and union. I want to thank our union leaders for a job well done, especially in helping maintain our cabotage laws.” MILESTONES IN OAKLAND – In photo at left, QEE Douglas McLaughlin (right) receives his A-seniority book from Port Agent Nick Marrone II. The photo above features Recertified Steward Louis Nicoud (center) picking up his first pension check and being WITH SEAFARERS ON WEST COAST – SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (standing congratulated by Asst. VP Nick Celona (right) and fourth from right) meets with ROS crews from the USNS Algol and USNS Capella the port agent. in San Francisco. Both ships are operated by Ocean Duchess. STEWARD SELFIE – Chief Cook Jason Beckford is pictured along with some of the delicious menu items aboard the APL Guam. TALKIN’ JONES ACT IN PUERTO RICO – Port Agent Amancio Crespo (fourth from left) submitted this snapshot after an informal gathering to discuss the Jones Act and its vital importance to the territory with several key supporters. Joined by their respective spouses were (far left) Wilfredo Cameron, office coordinator for the Hon. Michael Abid Quinones; (fifth from left) the Hon. Carlos Johnny Mendez, president of the Puerto Rico House of Representatives; and (far right) Rep. Quinones. ABOARD ATB INNOVATION – SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins (right) meets with Recertified Steward Bruce Mesger (left) and AB/Tankerman Mike Eaton to discuss contract negotiations. The vessel is operated by Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning. 8 Seafarers LOG July 2018 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU NEW PACT APPROVED – Seafarers recently voted in favor of a three-year contract covering the Delta Mariner. The pact features wage increases along with improved benefits and working conditions. Among those pictured on the Foss Maritime ship are Bosun Marcus Chambers (fourth from right), SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (center) and Port Agent Jimmy White (left). Corgey said the bosun “deserves special recognition for his leadership and service as ship’s delegate.” A-BOOK IN JERSEY – Congratulations to AB Sal Mothana (left) on receiving his A-book last month. He’s pictured at the Jersey City hall with Port Agent Mark von Siegel. ABOARD OVERSEAS LOS ANGELES – Pictured aboard the Overseas Ship Management vessel in early May in Richmond, California, are (from left) AB Khamisi Kayanda, Port Agent Nick Marrone II, Recertified Steward Dennis Skretta, Chief Cook Carmelo Dela Cruz, SA Karen Thomasson, GUDE Nestor Montano, AB Joseph Nicodemus, Bosun Teodulfo Alanano and GUDE Ali Mohamed WITH USNS PETERSBURG CREW – Pictured from left in photo at left are Chief Steward Ruben Ong, GUDE Julian Lacuesta, Port Agent Nick Marrone II and Bosun Roberto Flauta. The Ready Reserve Force ship is operated by TOTE Services. ABOARD OCEAN GLORY – Pictured from left aboard the Crowley ship in Seaport, Maine, are Bosun Augustus Udan, SIU Safety Director Osvaldo Ramos and Steward/Baker Reyna Abel. “It’s a great ship with good shipmates who emphasize safety,” Ramos observed. SIU AT FLEET WEEK – The SIU-crewed USNS Maury recently took part in Fleet Week in New York. Pictured aboard the vessel (operated by Ocean Shipholdings) are (photo at left) MDR Brandon Maeda and (photo at immediate right, from left) GVA Crystal Cobbs (left) and STOS John Hodges. WITH SEABULK BOATMEN – This snapshot was taken last month after completion of Seabulk Towing contract negotiations in Port Arthur, Texas. Pictured from left are Patrolman John Niday, AB William Soileau, Chief Engineer Chris Butts, Capt. Chris Kibodeaux, SIU Asst. VP Mike Russo and Mate Josh Rodriguez. B-BOOK IN HONOLULU – Chief Cook Tiffany Davis (left) receives her full B-book at the union hall in Hawaii. Congratulating her is Port Agent Hazel Galbiso. July 2018 Seafarers LOG 9 �With Starlight Marine Crews SIU Port Agent Joe Vincenzo recently met with Seafarers aboard Starlight Marine Services tugboats in the Pacific Northwest. These photos were taken in early May. Pictured aboard the Hank Kaplan in Seattle are (from left) Junior Capt. Katie Ann Love, Capt. Matt Jeffcott, AB/Deckhand Tim Alexander, Capt. Jeff Johnson and Engineer Jon McCutcheon. Gathering for a photo aboard the Rich Padden are (from left) Engineer Joe Corey, Port Agent Joe Vincenzo, AB/Deckhand Wesley Shoemaker and Capt. Mitch Hetterlee. Aboard the Michelle Sloan in Tacoma, Washington, are (from left) Engineer Brian Alexander, Port Agent Joe Vincenzo and AB Maxwell Fleischfresser. Spotlight on Mariner Health All About Shingles Virus Shingles is a condition caused by the varicella-zoster virus. This is the same virus that causes chickenpox. Once a person has chickenpox, the virus will stay in their system for life. It usually stays in an inactive form and will only come out again if your immune system is weakened. Shingles causes open, oozing blisters, and this varicella-zoster virus can spread through contact with unscabbed shingles blisters. If you have never had chickenpox, you can get the varicella-zoster virus from contact with someone else’s oozing shingle blister. This, in turn, can lead to chickenpox. The virus does not spread once the blisters have formed a crusty scab. Once the scab forms, they are no longer contagious. The virus can also be contained by covering the area that is affected. Early symptoms of shingles can start with pain along the nerve root. Your skin might feel like it is tingling or like it is burning before the blisters appear. Some itching and sensitivity to touch can also occur. The real sign that someone has shingles is when the blisters start to appear. They remind people of chickenpox. They are raised blisters that are fluid-filled. They will eventually open and ooze. Finally, they will crust over. Most people that experience shingles do 10 Seafarers LOG have pain. This is usually for a short period of time and then they fully recover. Most people only have one episode of shingles in their lifetime. However, there are some that have a recurrent outbreak if their immune system is compromised again. Some people have long-lasting nerve pain from the shingles outbreak. This usually happens with older adults. The virus affects the nerve that it followed on the skin and can cause a continuous burning or stabbing type of pain. This is why it is very important when you first suspect that you have shingles, to get to your doctor’s office or other emergency care/treatment areas as soon as possible, to get antiviral medications. Once you are on these meds, the virus or vesicle eruptions will not be as bad or as long-lasting. The post-neuralgic pain will not be a severe, either. Some doctors use ointments on the blisters to help in their healing. Keep the areas clean and dry. Cover them as needed and follow the doctor’s advice. Wash your hands constantly and keep your fingers away from your face. Talk with your doctor about getting the shingles vaccine shot so that you have a better chance of never getting shingles. Keep active. Get your vaccines as your doctor recommends and you will have a longer, healthier life! Healthful Recipe Honey Citrus Glazed Chicken Servings: 8 Ingredients 8 chicken breast halves, without skin, trimmed – fresh 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 teaspoons Mrs Dash 1 tablespoon kosher salt ¼ cup honey ½ teaspoon granulated garlic ¼ cup orange juice, fresh squeezed ¼ lemon juice, fresh squeezed Preparation Butterfly the chicken breast and pat dry, season with the Mrs Dash, kosher salt, and olive oil evenly on both sides. Sauté the seasoned chicken 1-2 min on each side, just to brown them. Place into hotel pan. Mix together the honey, orange juice, lemon juice, and granulated garlic in a container big enough to hold it. Glaze the chicken with the sauce evenly. Bake in a 325-degree F oven for 10 min until the inside is 165 degrees F. Garnish with lemon and chopped green onion or parsley. Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 198 Calories; 5g Fat (22.5 percent calories from fat); 27g Protein; 10g Carbohydrate; trace dietary fiber; 68mg Cholesterol; 782mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain (starch); 4 Lean Meat; 0 Fruit; ½ Fat; ½ Other Carbohydrates. Provided by the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship July 2018 �Representatives from the SIU and other maritime unions, the Coast Guard, the Maritime Administration, American-flag vessel operators and the office of U.S. Rep. John Garamendi turn out in Oakland, California. SIU Observes Maritime Day Across U.S. While the annual National Maritime Day observance in the nation’s capital often garners the biggest headlines, the SIU traditionally also participates in several other noteworthy ceremonies across the country on May 22. SIU members, officials and staff upheld that custom this year, taking part in National Maritime Day gatherings in Virginia, Texas and California. SIU Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram, Port Agent Georg Kenny, Safety Director Anthony Houston, Government Services Division Representative Sam Spain and Administrative Assistant Sheila Burton were among a crowd of approximately 400 individuals celebrating the gathering that was hosted by the Norfolk Propeller Club and the Port of Norfolk, Virginia. The USNS Medgar Evers, crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division, served as a reception area for part of the event. Additionally, longtime Chief Steward Army Joe Leake was one of several mariners honored for his years of dedication to the industry. “National Maritime Day has evolved to become so much more as we recognize the importance of the maritime industry to our nation’s economic strength,” said Rear Adm. Dee L. Mewbourne, commander, Military Sealift Port Agent Nick Marrone II speaks at the event in Oakland, California. Command. “Let us keep all our nation’s mariners in our thoughts and prayers as they contribute courageously to the security and prosperity of our nation.” “I’m proud to celebrate National Maritime Day, a day where we honor American mariners who have served the U.S. admirably in time of war and crisis, including many who have made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Rear Adm. (Ret.) Mark Buzby, Maritime Administrator. “By delivering supplies and equipment to our military forces overseas, and commercial partners here at home and to other nations, our mariners have helped establish and sustain our way of life.” (Buzby spoke earlier the same day at the ceremony in Washington, D.C.) In Port Arthur, Texas, SIU Safety Director Kevin Sykes shared some SIU history. “My union was formed in 1938,” he said in his prepared remarks. “Our members have sailed in every conflict since then, proudly serving as America’s fourth arm of defense. From World War II to Korea to Vietnam, and from the first Persian Gulf War to Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, among other missions, SIU members have delivered the goods wherever and whenever needed.” He added, “I would be remiss in not briefly stating the case for why we need a strong U.S. Merchant Marine moving forward. Our domestic maritime industry alone supports nearly 500,000 American jobs and pumps billions of dollars into the economy every year. Our internationally trading deep-sea ships help ensure that we won’t be held as economic hostages by other nations, and our civilian-crewed military support ships guarantee that our brave men and women in uniform won’t have to cross their fingers and hope that foreign crews on foreign-flag ships decide to deliver the vital materiel they need in times of conflict. We can honor the past by working hard to ensure the ongoing vibrancy of this vital industry.” The Rev. Sinclair Oubre, who also is a longtime Seafarer, spoke at the Port Arthur ceremony. He reminded attendees that the maritime industry is vital to the nation, and still offers excellent career opportunities for those willing to put in the work. In Oakland, California, Port Agent Nick Marrone II was one of a number of speakers representing (respectively) labor, management and government. He underscored the importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine not just in the past but also today and in the future. Later that week, SIU Assistant Vice President Government Services Chet Wheeler joined a memorial event aboard the World War II victory ship Jeremiah O’Brien, based in San Francisco. The service honored all mariners who have perished at sea. Participants head to the Seamen’s Memorial Sundial in Port Arthur, Texas. Pictured from left in photo at left are Port Agent Georg Kenny, retired Chief Steward Army Joe Leake and SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram. Tugboats (photo above) were part of the National Maritime Day ceremony in Virginia. The Seafarers-crewed USNS Medgar Evers hosted a reception and supported a nearby wreath-laying ceremony with tugboats conducting a water salute on the Elizabeth River. Fr. Sinclair Oubre (at podium) speaks during the 32nd annual National Maritime Day observance in Port Arthur, Texas. July 2018 Safety Director Kevin Sykes reminds the Texas crowd that SIU members have always answered the nation’s call. Seafarers LOG 11 �Members of the HOV-4 Quartet performed the National Anthem as part of the Maritime Day Ceremony’s opening festivities. The Honorable Elaine Chao U.S. Transportation Secretary Rear Adm. Mark Buzby (USN, Ret) U.S. Maritime Administrator Gen. Darren McDew Commander, USTRANSCOM Kevin McAleenan, Commissioner U.S. Customs and Border Protection DOT Honors Seafarers with Maritime Day Ceremony Sec. Chao Says SIU is ‘One of the Strongest Unions in the Country’ While National Maritime Day was observed on May 22 with ceremonies across the country, only one featured an inspired speech from a current U.S. Cabinet Secretary. At the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) headquarters in Washington, D.C, Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao headlined the day’s ceremony with her keynote address, speaking to an assembled crowd of over 200 maritime industry leaders. Chao was in good company, with the ceremony’s other speeches given by (in order) Rear Adm. Mark “Buzz” Buzby (Ret.), administrator of the Maritime Administration (MARAD); Gen. Darren McDew, commander of the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM); and Kevin McAleenan, commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Representing the SIU at the event were Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman, Piney Point Port Agent Pat Vandegrift and 17 apprentices from the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Apprentice Carlos Gutierrez served as the ceremony’s wreath tender, while fellow trainee Joshua Bonita rang eight bells, the traditional “end of watch” signal. Buzby opened the ceremony with words of thanks and a reminder of the importance of maritime: “We’re here today to take a Paul Hall Center Apprentice Joshua Bonita sounds the traditional eight bells during the ceremony. 12 Seafarers LOG few minutes out of our very, very busy lives to recognize the many dedicated seafaring men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine, who have fueled the economy of the United States and helped defend her for more than 240 years. Longer, in fact, then we have had armed forces.” He continued, “We owe a collective great debt of gratitude to our mariners. By delivering supplies and equipment to our military forces overseas, and commercial cargoes here at home and to other nations, they have helped establish the American way of life.... By serving our nation in peace and war, and by providing humanitarian assistance around the globe, they have carried on the unwritten diplomatic mission of the United States: to keep our country strong, and to make the world a better place.” Chao began by thanking those in attendance, then made special mention of the SIU leadership, saying, “I’m especially pleased to have a great leader within the maritime industry, and that’s Mr. Augie Tellez, the executive vice president of the Seafarers International Union. President Mike Sacco and Executive Vice President Augie Tellez leads one of the strongest unions in the country, and they are one of our country’s strongest advocates of the maritime industry and for mariners, as well. So, Augie, we want to thank you for everything that you do to protect our mariners.” She continued, “The theme for this Maritime Day is, ‘Voices – Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow’. And what an appropriate focus during this time of change and opportunity. The maritime community has always had a strong and constant voice, as steady as the roar of the sea. Its values are timeless, the product of centuries of hardearned experience: Stand by your shipmates, do your duty, train hard and stay the course. Those voices continue to guide us with the wisdom that only experience can bring. “As you know, Maritime Day commemorates the American innovation that changed the seagoing world: the first successful crossing of the Atlantic by a steam-powered ship, the Savannah,” she noted. “It was revolutionary, and led to even more innovation and change. Iron and then steel replaced wood, propellers replaced sails, diesel replaced steam ... and now we have new LNG-powered containerships that are now putting to sea as part of our innovative U.S.-flag fleet.” Chao outlined additional improvements made within the shipping industry over the years, before saying, “However, one thing remains constant: the absolutely critical role that the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine vessels play in our economic and national security. As our flag says, ‘In Peace and War’.” The secretary then spoke about the Maritime Security Program, which she called “a vital part of that readiness. MARAD is currently conducting a study called MSP 4.0, to determine what direction the program needs to move in the future. I tell people the Maritime Security Program is a great example of the public-private partnerships that are often talked about in this administration’s infrastructure proposal. In this case, the Navy needs to move civilian and non-military goods around the world to vital locations. The military sealift program links it with commercial operators, who have developed knowledge and networks of ports, pilots, stevedores, port infrastructure.... For the Navy to try to replicate this experience and these connections, it would cost so much more than the prices that the Maritime Security Program delivers. “The Transportation Institute estimates that the MSP has saved the U.S. Navy $60 billion in transportation costs,” Chao continued. “So, to our MSP carriers who are represented here today, thank you for your patriotism and willingness to dedicate your ships and mariners to the cause. And of course, we thank the mariners as well. We thank you for performing this vital service so efficiently and effectively for the Navy, for our country and for the taxpayers, as well. We also appreciate the hard work done by our operating companies, and the mariners who efficiently and professionally maintain our U.S. Government Surge Sealift ships in the Ready Reserve Force.” After multiple awards were presented to World War II veteran mariner William Tiernan, who sailed with both the NMU and the SIU, McAleenan spoke on how the goals of CBP align with the intentions of the U.S.-flag shipping industry. He said, “What I’ve learned is that every person who’s taken the title of mariner has in common a commitment to country and a willingness to serve in a time of need. These are traits that I deeply respect, and I recognize daily in the men and women of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. So, while our functions may be distinct, our underlying purposes and even our goals are directly complementary. In fact, I believe the goals of the U.S. Merchant Marine and CBP actually align very well: facilitation of trade and the protection of the country. “So, when Admiral Buzby extended the invitation for me to speak about CBP’s efforts to promote national security and economic prosperity, in partnership with the U.S. maritime community, I was very grateful for the opportunity, but also struck by the fact that you also recognize the commonality between our communities and the value of our relationship,” he added. He then spoke of his relationship with Buzby, saying, “I got to know Buzz during our shared responses to the trio of hurricanes we faced – Harvey, Irma and Maria – last fall. I immediately recognized his professional competence but was also struck by the integrity with which he represented MARAD and, by extension, the U.S. maritime community. Fact-based operational reality is what you need in a crisis, and it was a privilege to partner with him. During a storm and its aftermath, there can be a tendency to respond to media narratives and political drivers. But Buzz and his team helped to inform us regarding the ready professionals of the U.S. Merchant Marine and the U.S. fleet, and how we can respond to those storms.” He continued, describing CBP’s efforts during and after the devastating hurricanes in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and then spoke on the response from the merchant fleet: “I can tell you, it was an enormous relief ... when we could rely on our partners in the U.S. fleet to begin the heavy relief effort, to get those adequate supplies to the islands. I imagine General McDew can attest, it’s a relief when you can get from the aircraft part of logistics to the big Continued on page 14 Wreath Tender duties were handled by Paul Hall Center Apprentice Carlos Gutierrez President Trump Issues Proclamation For National Maritime Day On National Maritime Day, we recognize the critical role the United States Merchant Marine plays in bolstering national security and facilitating economic growth. We honor our merchant mariners for their contributions to connecting the States, supporting our military, and cementing ties among our allies. Long known as the “Fourth Arm of Defense,” the United States Merchant Marine has served with valor and distinction in every American conflict. The important work of the Merchant Marine was never more evident than during World War II, when merchant mariners sailed dangerous seas and fought enemies as they connected our Armed Forces fighting abroad to vital supplies produced by hardworking Americans at home. In the course of their valiant efforts, they endured the loss of more than 730 large vessels, and more than 6,000 merchant mariners died at sea or as prisoners of war. Today, American mariners facilitate the shipment of hundreds of billions of dollars of goods along maritime trade routes for American businesses and consumers. Merchant mariners are ambassadors of good will, projecting a peaceful United States presence along the sea lanes of the world and into regions of core strategic importance to our Nation. Often risking their lives by sailing into war zones, our merchant mariners continue to support our troops overseas by providing them with needed cargo and logistical support. They also advance humanitarian missions worldwide, including last year’s effort to ship tens of thousands of containers of lifesaving supplies to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands after they had been devastated by hurricanes. The Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 20, 1933, has designated May 22 of each year as “National Maritime Day” to commemorate the first transoceanic voyage by a steamship in 1819 by the S.S. Savannah. By this resolution, the Congress has authorized and requested the President to issue annually a proclamation calling for its appropriate observance. NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 22, 2018, 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 eighteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-second. Among those present in the crowd was SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez (first row, center) July 2018 July 2018 Seafarers LOG 13 �Attendees pack the ceremony at U.S. Department of Transportation headquarters. 200-Plus Industry Leaders Attend Maritime Day Ceremony in D.C. Continued from Page 13 surface transportation. We tremendously appreciate the impact that your community had on those efforts. Companies like Crowley, TOTE, Foss Maritime – just to name a few – were instrumental in getting those critical supplies to the American people. And more specifically, there were many anecdotes of merchant mariners assisting CBP personnel situated in the way of that storm along the Texas and Louisiana coast, in Florida, and especially in Puerto Rico. On behalf of my agents, I thank you for all that you did.” Later he referenced how CBP is working to help make mariners’ lives easier through their national Jones Act Division of Enforcement, or JADE, saying, “Nearly two years ago, CBP’s Office of Field Operations created JADE to assist CBP and industry partners and protect the U.S. maritime industry. Located in our New Orleans field office and led by Port Director Mike Hebert – who’s been part of the Gulf Coast maritime community since his birth – and staffed by subject matter experts, JADE works with industry stakeholders on the enforcement of the Jones Act, as well as other coastwise trade laws. JADE provides uniformity throughout CBP on matters related to the Jones Act, providing advice to our external partners in order to facilitate legitimate trade.” After a video on the hurricane response in 2017 was screened for the audience, General McDew took to the stage. He began by talking about military sealift’s role in our nation’s ability to project power, saying, “There are, some would argue, only three great powers in the world. There’s only one superpower in the world. And it’s not because we have the greatest soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines and coast guardsmen – although we do. It’s not because we have the best fighter jets, and we arguably do, and it’s not because we have the most wonderful carriers in the world, and we do. It’s because we have the ability to have an effect on our adversaries near and abroad 14 Seafarers LOG at the time of our choosing. We can bring an overwhelming force anywhere on the planet, and there are adversaries out there who only wish they had that capability. That capability resides with the men and women in this audience and the people you represent that are around the world. And as a combatant commander, I recognize our superpower status as a nation, our ability to have the respect of everyone in the world, resides with you. “I appreciate every single day the ships that sail for USTRANSCOM,” he con- tinued. “They transit dangerous waters, they deliver critical cargo.... Our adversaries really don’t want them there, but our mariners go there anyway. Our warfighters don’t have to worry about having enough ammo for the fight, or fuel for their patrol, or food in chow halls – that’s a big deal, by the way – and it’s because of you.” McDew then urged that the U.S. “reinvest in our strategic sealift fleet, and our ability to surge and sustain our warfight.” Specifically, he underscored the importance of recapitalizing the sealift fleet, replacing older vessels with newer, more modern ships. “I am every day grateful and thankful for the shipyards, the shipping companies, the unions, the longshoremen, the stevedores, the engineers, the mariners, the pilots, the shipbuilder, all the people who make this unheralded, untold story happen every single day,” he concluded. The ceremony concluded with a singalong of “Heave Ho,” official song of the U.S. Maritime Service, enthusiastically led by Admiral Buzby. SIU VP Contracts George Tricker (right) and Piney Point Port Agent Pat Vandegrift (second from right) talk to apprentices from the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland who attended the Maritime Day observance. July 2018 �Notice NATIONAL MARITIME CENTER New CG-719 Series of Forms Implementation Editor’s note: The U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center (NMC) issued the following announcement June 1. PDF versions of the forms described in the announcement may be found on the NMC website and they’re also linked in a June 1 post in the News section of www.seafarers.org On March 31, 2018, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approved the new CG-719 series of forms which will replace all previous versions. These new forms may be obtained electronically in a PDF fillable format at the Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center (NMC) website https://www.uscg.mil/nmc. The Coast Guard will not stock the CG-719 series of forms in paper format. A transition period has been established which will provide mariners the flexibility to apply for a credential using both the old or new forms as they adapt to the new formats. The table below lists the form numbers impacted by OMB’s recent approval and their implementation policy are listed velow. After December 31, 2018, the NMC will no longer accept previous form versions. Form - Implementation Policy CG-719B - Applications dated after September 1, 2018, must be submitted on the new form. CG-719K - Physicals signed by physician after September 1, 2018, must be on the new form. CG-719KE - Physicals signed by physician after September 1, 2018, must be on the new form. CG-719P - Drug tests collected and submitted after September 1, 2018, should use the new optional form. CG-719S - Sea Service commenced after September 1, 2018, should use the new optional form CG-719C - (If applicable) Disclosure Statement for Narcotics, DWI/DUI, and/or other Convictions should use the new optional form for any application packages submitted after September 1, 2018. If you have any questions or concerns, visit the NMC website or contact the NMC Customer Service Center by e-mailing IASKNMC@uscg.mil, by using the NMC online chat system, or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662). July & August 2018 Membership Meetings Piney Point.........................................Monday: July 2, August 6 Algonac...............................................Friday: July 6, August 10 Baltimore..........................................Thursday: July 5, August 9 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: July10, August 14 Jersey City.........................................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 due to Independence Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m July 2018 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea May 11, 2018 - June 11, 2018 Total Registered Total Shipped All Groups A B Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 28 10 1 8 7 0 1 27 7 4 2 2 2 2 2 0 1 4 3 2 7 2 1 1 4 0 3 10 3 1 16 9 2 16 8 3 9 24 18 6 2 3 0 1 0 0 0 5 4 0 12 2 2 7 1 6 4 19 3 4 8 1 2 8 3 1 6 19 7 2 60 15 16 38 7 10 26 101 21 27 32 10 14 27 13 8 19 50 19 19 36 8 4 23 9 4 17 73 17 7 3 3 1 0 4 0 1 3 5 1 10 6 5 9 2 2 4 13 8 10 23 11 5 24 15 6 12 27 21 12 11 4 5 21 4 2 8 25 9 10 7 5 1 4 2 0 1 7 5 2 3 3 0 1 1 1 2 3 2 0 11 5 1 3 2 0 3 16 7 1 27 4 6 16 6 2 17 66 12 13 1 1 3 0 0 1 0 5 2 1 32 8 5 21 6 6 9 51 15 13 331 112 76 230 96 52 143 548 188 135 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 4 4 3 1 4 3 2 5 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 8 8 1 4 4 0 1 4 5 2 9 13 3 5 10 1 8 13 11 3 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 1 1 3 2 1 2 3 0 1 4 3 1 8 2 0 3 2 0 2 13 5 1 22 7 6 8 8 4 7 32 12 9 26 24 2 20 16 2 16 38 25 4 13 7 0 3 9 0 3 29 7 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 2 0 0 6 2 1 5 3 1 4 6 4 2 9 12 2 12 9 3 3 17 14 6 7 2 2 10 2 1 2 11 6 5 1 4 0 4 1 0 1 5 3 0 2 1 0 1 4 0 0 1 1 0 5 4 1 4 4 1 3 9 3 3 14 3 4 8 3 2 5 29 8 6 1 2 0 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 5 7 3 9 6 2 2 18 17 15 146 105 29 101 90 20 60 240 133 58 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 5 4 0 1 0 0 0 7 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 2 0 1 0 0 0 5 3 0 8 5 2 8 1 0 4 13 6 4 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 4 1 0 4 1 0 1 8 1 0 9 0 0 6 0 1 5 15 1 1 16 3 1 13 4 0 5 35 5 4 24 9 2 17 5 1 8 31 11 2 11 3 1 7 3 0 4 18 2 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 2 1 0 6 3 0 4 1 0 2 8 5 0 14 10 0 13 8 0 4 19 11 0 20 3 0 8 5 1 6 29 3 2 2 0 2 3 0 2 1 2 0 0 6 6 0 5 3 0 3 7 4 0 3 5 0 0 3 0 1 5 10 1 17 2 0 12 1 0 5 24 6 1 2 0 0 1 0 1 0 4 0 1 16 4 1 12 8 0 10 31 12 2 168 62 10 117 43 7 59 264 87 19 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 2 6 6 1 3 4 4 3 11 11 0 1 2 1 2 0 2 0 3 4 0 1 3 0 1 2 0 0 2 2 0 4 8 0 6 4 3 1 4 10 0 2 2 0 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 4 2 0 1 1 1 1 4 5 0 8 9 1 3 3 0 2 13 8 5 6 19 4 6 10 2 11 13 35 1 19 39 0 11 26 7 4 30 78 3 12 11 0 9 11 2 3 25 25 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 2 1 4 2 14 18 1 10 23 4 3 23 46 0 6 11 2 4 8 0 2 15 18 2 0 2 0 1 1 0 2 1 2 2 0 4 1 0 1 2 1 1 2 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 5 9 8 2 3 6 3 10 21 17 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 2 18 14 2 6 9 8 3 29 51 24 115 160 15 69 111 38 48 199 322 C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C A All Groups B C GRAND TOTAL: 669 394 275 463 298 190 300 1,100 607 534 Seafarers LOG 15 �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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by the newest class of recertified stewards from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Question: Why did you join the SIU and why have you remained with the union? Cesar Dela Cruz Recertified Steward I was blessed to join in 1980. My first job was with American Hawaii Cruises, taking care of all those VIPs. Today, the best part is just being a good SIU crew member and helping set a good example for the young kids who are just starting in the program. I’m thankful for the foundation I got from the SIU. Michael Ingram Recertified Steward I started with NCL as a member of SEATU (an SIU-affiliated union) and a waiter before joining the SIU. I’ve stuck with it because I enjoy cooking and working with different people, being exposed to different cultures. I enjoy sailing. Tyrell Thabit Recertified Steward I started in the Navy in 1981, looking for adventure at 19 years old. I spent 10.5 years there and then heard about an even better career in the merchant marine. I eventually came to Piney Point to upgrade, and took all the courses. I’ve been on over 50 ships. It’s been wonderful, and I’m still here because I haven’t gotten enough. I’ve been in the business 36 years and I’m proud of that. Stephen Martin Recertified Steward I grew up in the restaurant business. I saw an ad for American Hawaii Cruises in 1999 and went there as a waiter, on the Indy and the Patriot. Later, I was in Hawaii for a month and the patrolman said, why don’t you go to Piney Point and upgrade? That’s what I did. I was there for months, then got my first gig as a chief cook. I’m still here because the money is good, and it’s hard to leave that. I like the travel part, too. Breon Lucas Recertified Steward I was working as a security guard when a new company bought out the station, and then I was going from job to job to job. A cousin turned me on to the merchant marine. My first job was May 8, 1995 as an OS on the Anders, but I didn’t like the deck. The bosun pointed me to the galley and I never looked back. I’ve made a better life for myself. I enjoy cooking and I enjoy working with different people. Robinson Eromosele Recertified Steward I joined the SIU in search of a greener pasture and I am glad I made that decision, because I have been extremely blessed since then. This great union has allowed me to travel the world over while making a meaningful living as well. I have been so blessed that I am able to see all five of my children through the university. God bless the SIU. Pics From The Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 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 Stop 16 1/2 Santurce, PR 00907-4601 (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 originals are a bit blurry, but these snapshots from the scrapbook of longtime Seafarer Greg Jackson still carry clear and cherished memories for the recertified bosun. The vessel, the SS Jeff Davis, is shown in Bremerhaven, Germany, in 1981. Jackson is at far left in the other photo, with fellow members of Paul Hall Center Trainee Class 294-B in 1980. They had taken a bus for firefighting training – not near the Piney Point, Maryland, campus, but rather in Earle, New Jersey. (For younger readers, the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School opened in 1999.) 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 2018 �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 THOMAS ANDERS Brother Thomas Anders, 66, joined the union in 1969, initially sailing on the Fairport. A steward department member, he upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1973. Brother Anders last sailed on the Champion and makes his home in Baltimore. PETER BEAN Brother Peter Bean, 67, donned the SIU colors in 1970, first sailing aboard a Seatrain Lines vessel. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded on several occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Bean last sailed on the Overseas Martinez. He lives in the Philippines. WILLIAM BRAINARD Brother William Brainard, 69, joined the SIU in 1995. He first sailed on the Long Island and was a member of the steward department. Brother Brainard upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 2001. He most recently worked on the Flickertail State and calls Portsmouth, Virginia, home. EBERTO CASTRO Brother Eberto Castro, 66, signed on with the SIU in 1999 and first sailed on the Performance. He worked in the deck department and in 2001 upgraded his skills at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center. Brother Castro last sailed on the Maersk Pittsburgh before settling in Channelview, Texas. ROBERT GILLIAM Brother Robert Gilliam, 73, donned the SIU colors in 1969, initially sailing aboard the Eagle Traveler. A member of the steward department, he upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Gilliam last sailed on the Endurance. He lives in Prescott, Washington. JOHN JONES Brother John Jones, 66, became a member of the SIU in 2006, initially sailing on the Oakland. He was a deck department member and most recently sailed aboard the July 2018 USNS Dahl. Brother Jones resides in Tucson, Arizona. in 1979. Brother Evans last sailed aboard the Charles E. Wilson, and settled in Alpena, Michigan. THOMAS TANKERSLEY INLAND Brother Thomas Tankersley, 69, signed on with the SIU in 1968 and first sailed aboard the Alcoa Mariner. The deck department member upgraded at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in 1985. Brother Tankersley most recently sailed aboard the Bonny. He calls Burkittsville, Maryland, home. VLADIMIR TKACHEV Brother Vladimir Tkachev, 65, signed on with the SIU in 2004, initially working aboard the Cape Decision. The engine department member took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point school and upgraded in 2008. Brother Tkachev most recently sailed aboard the Decisive and lives in Vancouver, Washington. DAVID VAUGHN LOUIS CINCO Brother Louis Cinco, 62, joined the SIU in 1972 and first sailed on the Overseas Aleutian. A member of the deck department, he upgraded his skills in 1978 at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. Brother Cinco most recently worked for Mariner Towing and makes his home in Bayonne, New Jersey. MARK FAUST Brother Mark Faust, 68, signed on with the union in 2003. He began his career with Express Marine and was a member of the deck department. Brother Faust upgraded his skills on several occasions at the maritime training center located in Piney Point, Maryland. He remained with the same company for his entire career, and resides in Virginia Beach, Virginia. BENJIMAN HALLMARK Brother Benjiman Hallmark, 70, became a Seafarer in 1978. A member of the deck department, he worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation for his entire career. Brother Hallmark calls Silver Creek, Washington, home. LESLIE MAXWELL Brother Leslie Maxwell, 66, signed on with the union in 1979 when he worked for Hvide Marine. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Maxwell remained with the same company for his entire career. He resides in Nederland, Texas. KELLY STANFORD Brother Kelly Stanford, 64, joined the SIU in 1990, first sailing with Crescent Towing. A member of the deck department, he upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Stanford worked for the same company for the duration of his career. He makes his home in Savannah, Georgia. DAVID WALKER Brother David Walker, 66, signed on with the union in 1978 when he worked for Crescent Towing. He was a member of the engine department and remained with the same company for his entire career. Brother Walker settled in Abita Springs, Louisiana. PACIFIC MARINE ROGER MARTELL Brother Roger Martell, 65, became a member of the SIU in 2001. He initially sailed on the Cape Island and worked in the steward department. Brother Martell upgraded his skills in 2001 at the Piney Point school. He last sailed on the Manukai and resides in Long Beach, California. Talking Maritime with Senator Nelson Brother David Vaughn, 59, donned the SIU colors in 1977 and first sailed with Erie Navigation. He was a steward department member and upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Vaughn most recently sailed aboard the Alaskan Explorer. He resides in Arnold, Missouri. BRUCE WATSON Brother Bruce Watson, 66, joined the SIU in 2001. He first worked for Marine Personnel and Provisioning, and was a member of the deck department. Brother Watson upgraded his skills in 2002 at the maritime training facility located in Piney Point, Maryland. He most recently sailed on the USNS Fisher and calls Youngstown, Ohio, home. GREAT LAKES WILLIS EVANS Brother Willis Evans, 65, became a member of the union in 1970, initially working for Michigan Tankers. He was an engine department member and upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center SIU Assistant VPs Archie Ware (center) and Kris Hopkins (right) chat with U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson (DFlorida) June 9 in Orlando, site of the state AFL-CIO Committee on Political Education convention. They touched on the importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine to national, economic and homeland security. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan. JIMMIE COOMBS WINSTON MARCHMAN Pensioner Jimmie Coombs, 79, passed away May 13. He joined the union in 1967 and first sailed on the Neva West. Brother Coombs was a member of the engine department and last worked aboard the Overseas Juneau. He retired in 2002 and made his home in the Philippines. Pensioner Winston Marchman, 82, died May 5. He signed on with the union in 1991, initially working on the USNS Harkness. A steward department member, Brother Marchman last sailed on the Pride. He retired in 2005 and lived in Virginia Beach, Virginia. ROBERT EGRI Pensioner Robert Egri, 70, died May 9. He joined the SIU in 1992 and first sailed aboard the Regulus. An engine department member, he last worked aboard the Philadelphia Express. Brother Egri retired in 2013 and lived in Pinellas Park, Florida. ROBERT HAMILTON Pensioner Robert Hamilton, 81, passed away May 10. He became a union member in 1990, initially sailing on the Ranger. Brother Hamilton was a deck department member and last sailed aboard the Paul Buck. He became a pensioner in 2003 and resided in Brooksville, Maine. HELENE ISHIZAKI Pensioner Helene Ishizaki, 82, died April 19. She signed on with the SIU in 1992, initially sailing on the Independence. A member of the steward department, Sister Ishizaki last sailed on the Manukai. She became a pensioner in 2005 and was a resident of Lemon Grove, California. WILLIAM MACDONALD Pensioner William MacDonald, 93, passed away May 5. He joined the SIU in 1947 when he worked for Elis Towing and Transport. A deck department member, brother MacDonald most recently sailed aboard the Sea-Land Liberator. He went on pension in 1985 and settled 18 Seafarers LOG HENRY RICHARDSON Pensioner Henry Richardson, 71, passed away May 15. He joined the SIU in 1999 and first sailed aboard the ITB Philadelphia. The deck department member most recently sailed on the Maersk Michigan before retiring in 2013. Brother Richardson was a resident of Houston. 65, died May 31. He signed on with the SIU in 1989 when he worked for Bob-Lo Island. A member of the deck department, he most recently sailed on the Burns Harbor. Brother Bearman became a pensioner in 2017 and made his home in Rogers City, Michigan. JOHN SHASKI Pensioner John Shaski, 72, passed away May 14. He became a member of the SIU in 1967 and initially sailed on the Lemmerhirt. Brother Shaski went on pension in 2003 after concluding his career with Luedtke Engineering. He resided in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. INLAND WILFREDO WILLIAMS SYLVESTER DELISTOVICH Pensioner Wilfredo Williams, 76, died April 30. He donned the SIU colors in 2001, first sailing aboard the Green Mountain State. Native to the Philippines, he was a member of the deck department. Brother Williams most recently sailed on the Yorktown Express before retiring in 2013. He resided in Aloha, Oregon. Pensioner Sylvester Delistovich, 99, passed away May 29. He joined the union in 1963, initially working for Erie Lackawanna Railroad. Brother Delistovich remained with the same company for his entire career before going on pension in 1979. He called Columbus, New Jersey, home. GREAT LAKES CHARLES BEARMAN Pensioner Charles Bearman, PETER DUNTHORN Brother Peter Dunthorn, 62, died May 1. He signed on with the SIU in 2000, when he worked for the Association of Maryland Pilots. A deck department member, brother Dunthorn remained with the same company for his entire SIU career. He lived in Virginia Beach, Virginia. JAMES MUSICK Pensioner James Musick, 76, died May 16. He joined the union in 1996 and first worked for Crowley. A shore-side mechanic, he worked for the same company for the duration of his career. Brother Musick retired in 2007 and lived in Wenonah, New Jersey. WILLIAM PHILLIPS Pensioner William Phillips, 72, died April 1. He signed on with the union in 1973 and first worked for Stone Towing. The deck department member concluded his career with Cape Fear Towing and retired in 2008. Brother Phillips made his home in Bolivia, North Carolina. FRANKLIN REYES Brother Franklin Reyes, 51, passed away April 26. He donned the SIU colors in 1997 when he worked for G&H Towing. Brother Reyes worked in the deck department and remained with the same company for the duration of his career. The Iowa native resided in Hitchcock, Texas. PACIFIC MARINE DOROTHY REGRUT Pensioner Dorothy Regrut, 92, passed away May 11. Born in Cleveland, she became a member of the SIU in 1970. She initially worked for Michigan Tankers and sailed in the steward department. Sister Regrut last worked aboard the Kauai before becoming a pensioner in 1991. She made her home in Strongsville, Ohio. NMU RONALD BLOW Pensioner Ronald Blow, 78, died May 28. Brother Blow began collecting his pension in 2000. He lived in Old Orchard Beach, Maine. JAMES BRATTEN Pensioner James Bratten, 93, passed away April 30. Brother Bratten resided in his home state of South Carolina, in the city of Irmo. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. Name Age Cebollero, Frank 89 Davis, Arthur 94 Flowers, Rudy 80 Forde, Calvin 90 Leisure, Ora 93 Lopez, Juan 89 Maloney, Clyde 92 Mawry, Saleh 91 McLetchie, Leroy 82 Montemayor, Misael 89 Richardson, John 93 Thomas, Eugene 76 DOD 05/14/2018 03/13/2018 05/07/2018 05/12/2018 05/23/2018 05/14/2018 05/18/2018 05/25/2018 05/26/2018 05/21/2018 04/16/2018 05/17/2018 Seafarers Team Up in Support of Military Exercise Two Seafarers-crewed vessels – the USNS Carl Brashear (left) and USNS Bob Hope – conduct ship-to-ship transfer operations at Naval Base Everett, Washington, in mid-May. The transfer happened in support of an upcoming Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) military exercise. According to the U.S. Navy, 26 nations and 25,000 personnel were scheduled to participate in the biennial exercise slated for June 27 to Aug. 2, in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The Brashear is crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division, while the Bob Hope is operated by U.S. Marine Management for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. (Photo by Sarah Burford) July 2018 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings MAERSK MICHIGAN (U.S. Marine Management), April 14 – Chairman Kenneth Abrahamson, Secretary Teresito Reyes, Educational Director Walden Galacgac, Deck Delegate Osei Baffoe, Engine Delegate Theodore Gonzales. Crew mess hall received new microwave and new chairs. Members requested additional chairs for crew lounge. Copies of new contracts needed on ship. Members were thanked for good housekeeping and advised to stay on top of documents. Educational director suggested members check schedule of classes and upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested better internet on board and new washer and dryers, preferably heavy duty. Crew happy with food from steward department. ALASKAN NAVIGATOR (Alaskan Tanker Company), April 15 – Chairman Gregory Hamilton, Secretary Albert Sison, Educational Director Leland Peterson, Deck Delegate Manuel Enrico, Engine Delegate Aljohn Fernandez, Steward Delegate Steve Concepcion. Chairman to contact port agent for copies of new contracts and crew repair list forms. Members discussed cleaning and repair possibilities for existing recliners, while awaiting clarification for ordering new ones. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade and also be mindful of STCW requirements. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew noted issues on board with lounge computer, heat lamp in bathroom and latches in drawers. Steward department was thanked for a job well done, especially in light of extra people on board. New fishing gear on ship. Company 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. to provide jackets to those who qualify. Members looking into getting humidifiers for rooms. Next Port: Valdez, Alaska. GOLDEN STATE (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning), April 16 – Chairman Philip McGeoghegan, Secretary Michael Carello. Crew received new microwave, new mattresses and new dryer. Linens and pillows ordered. Chairman reiterated importance of Jones Act and urged members to stick together. Secretary reminded everyone about Crowley’s alcohol policy. Educational director advised crew to keep documents up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman asked each member present if new mattresses and/or cable boxes were needed. Crew requested additional vacation day. OREGON (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning), April 22 – Chairman Joseph Caruso, Secretary Tina Knox. Chairman welcomed all former Sea River employees to the SIU. He noted a smooth transition between the two companies and expressed gratitude for steward department. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman individually discussed SIU contracts and information with new members. Vote of thanks given to SIU Assistant Vice President Kris Hopkins for assisting with transition. Next Port: Port Everglades, Florida. Sea River mariners to the SIU and discussed dues structure and overall SIU culture. Secretary explained importance of registering once ashore and keeping up with documents. Educational director reminded crew of courses being offered at SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. Captain purchased pizza and wings for crew and allowed steward department an evening off. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Captain looking into purchasing game system for members on board. Next Port: Oakland, California. Aboard the Overseas Tampa Recertified Steward Bobby Darku said it “had been on my bucket list for a long time to do a New Orleans-style seafood boil.” He checked it off the list recently when the Overseas Ship Management vessel docked in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The menu included crawfish, shrimp, red potatoes, corn on the cob, creole sausage, mushrooms and more. Pictured from left in photo at the immediate right are Chief Cook Mauricio Castro, Darku and SA Reginald Jackson. CALIFORNIA (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning), April 27 – Chairman John Cedeno, Secretary Benjamin Ines, Educational Director Mark Canada, Steward Delegate Michael Gramer. Chairman welcomed all former 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 July 2018 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 19 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Gap Closing Courses Engineroom Resource Management October 6 Leadership & Manageral Skills October 13 October 12 October 19 Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion FOWT August 25 September 21 October 20 November 16 Junior Engineer August 11 October 5 October 27 December 21 Machinist September 1 September 21 October 20 November 9 Marine Electrician August 11 October 5 Marine Refer Tech October 6 November 16 Deck Department Upgrading Courses MEECE July 21 August 3 Able Seafarer Deck August 25 September 21 Pumpman July 7 July 13 October 20 November 16 September 22 September 28 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Welding August 18 September 7 Students will be advised of dates once accepted. Steward Department Courses ARPA October 20 October 26 Advanced Galley Ops Bosun Recertification July 21 August 6 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start July 9. Crane Familiarization July 14 July 20 Chief Steward July 7 August 24 100 Ton Master Galley Operations July 14 August 10 October 13 November 2 ECDIS October 20 October 26 Fast Rescue Boat July 7 July 13 August 11 August 17 September 8 September 14 GMDSS September 22 October 5 Lifeboat July 28 August 10 August 25 September 7 September 22 October 5 October 20 November 2 November 17 November 30 August 25 September 21 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 July 21 July 27 August 11 August 17 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 July 7 July 13 July 14 July 20 Serve Safe July 28 August 3 October 20 October 26 Safety Upgrading Courses Radar Observer October 6 October 19 Basic Training/Basic FF July 14 July 20 Basic Training Revalidation July 13 July 13 July 27 July 27 Radar Renewal (one day) Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation August 18 August 24 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting July 7 July 13 Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW July 28 August 24 September 22 October 19 November 17 December 14 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Government Vessels July 21 July 27 Medical Care Provider July 14 July 20 December 14 Tank Barge DL August 25 August 31 BAPO July 28 August 24 September 22 October 19 November 17 December 14 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL August 25 August 31 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG August 4 August 10 Advanced Refer Containers December 1 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 # and dates attended___________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG 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, or 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. 7/18 July 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #836 – Graduated April 20 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Joshua Nino Bonita, Daveyon Kymyondro Burton, Lane Canada, Nicholas Falzone, Joshua Gail, Marcel Gordon, Carlos Marcos Gutierrez, Deandre Henry, Dequan Jamez Markell Joe, James Langston, Theodore Lopez III, Nicholas Mason, Orion Milazzo, Kirk Otto Kulikana Puchert, Seth Schrader, Anias Stanford and Justin Turner. Instructor Bernabe Pelingon is at the far right. Notice to All 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. Water Survival Upgraders – Graduated April 20 (in alphabetical order): Samuel Ezell, Raymond Hoover, Anthony Jackson, Brian Peralta and Ivan Moises Vargas. Bernabe Pelingon, class instructor, is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Terrestrial & Coastal Navigation – Graduated March 9: Matthew Jenness (second from left), Bryan Page (center) and James Wunder (right). Instructor Brian Moore is at the far left. Marine Refrigeration Technician – Graduated April 27 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): John Brantly, Alvin Cabahit, Jared Cabasug, Derek Chestnut, Earl Dimmick, David Kelch, Todd Lander, Jean Paul Merino Lozada, Mana Hassan Muhsen and Charles Packer. Class instructor William Dodd is at the far right. Tank Ship Familiarization – Graduated March 16 (in alphabetical order): Enrique Tabamo Ampil, Secundino Abel Arzu, Khiry Bivins, Guillermo Blanco-Nunez, Virgilio Ilisan Demegillo, Jasper Hayward, Marcus Hugee, Jamila King, Joseph Loguidice, Michael Riley, David Seymore, Cortney Smith, Michael Smith, Richard Vega Villafane, Jimmie Willliams Jr. and Denard Williams. (Note: Not all are pictured.) July 2018 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes UA to AS-D – Graduated April 6 (in alphabetical order): Dalrick Fleming, Joseph Franta, Tyler Gardner, Raymond Green, William Asdrubal Mercado Ramos and Jose Javier Santos Montalvo. Instructor Tom Truitt is at the far right. ECDIS – Graduated April 13 (in alphabetical order): Martin Baker, Matthew Botterbusch, Joshua Jayson Gonzalez, Brian Luba, Bryan Page, George Steube III, James Wunder, and Slavi Zahariev. Instructor Patrick Schoenberger is at the far left. UA to FOWT – Graduated April 6 (in alphabetical order): Jeffrey Pacaldo Berame, Johnathan Brown Jr., David Bussey, Charles Collins III, David Cornelius, Mark Nover Miranda Lata, Bryant McGiffen Jr., Mason McGowan, Bryan Moreira, Karl Morrow Jr., Thomas Nelson Jr., Re’Sean Peters and Starling Priester. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Tank Ship Familiarization DL – Graduated April 13 (in alphabetical order): Monasser Mohamed Ali, Kingdom Chiadikaobi Alozie, George Arthur, Mark Joseph Romero Baclayon, Ashley Codrington, Jessica Crockett, David Dingman, Jackson Gourgue, Gary Hirsch, William Jackson, Manuel Javier Lata, James Lutrell Jr., Starling Priester, Cortney Smith, Aldo Thomas, Gary Toomer, Anatoli Vetsinov and Marvin Williams Jr. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Graduated April 20 (in alphabetical order): Ritche Asumbrado Acuman, Monassar Mohamed Ali, Kingdom Chiadikaobi Alozie, George Arthur, Mark Baclayon, Ashley Codrington, Jessica Crockett, Tom Dary, David Dingman, Timothy Dowd, Jackson Gourgue, Maurice Henry Jr., Terry Hester, Gary Hirsch, William Jackson, Manuel Javier Lata, James Luttrel Jr., Kyle Miller, Tamara Russ, Aldo Thomas, Annie Walker, Jeffrey Wheatley, Brian Wilder and James Wynegar III. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Medical Care Provider – Graduated April 27 (in alphabetical order): Tristan Brand, Dylan Mikaele Casuga, Tom Dary, Kenney Gaston and Alonzo Marbley. Instructor John Thomas is at the far left. Government Vessels – Graduated April 6 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): George Arthur, Hector Barnes, Xyla Jillain Toledo Bautista, Guillermo Blanco-Nunez, Joel Boyd, Jason Cason, Ashley Codrington, Marcil Ducre, Peter Babor Durangparang, Samuel Ezell, Dominick Glasper, Raymond Hoover, Anthony Jackson, Reynaldo Bermudez Lacayo, Fernando Fernandes Lopes, Erik Loret, Reina Mendez, Caezar Rivera Mercado, Randy Slue, Marcus Smith, Krystle Start, Sean Terry, Carlos Torres and James Wynegar III. Search & Rescue (Management Level) – Graduated April 27 (in alphabetical order): Martin Baker, Matthew Botterbusch, Joshua Gonzalez, Brian Luba, Christopher Mullin, Bryan Page, George Steube III, Dexter Madrona Turija, James Wunder and Slavi Zahariev. 22 Seafarers LOG Radar Observer – Graduated April 6 (in alphabetical order): Dylan Mikaele Casuga, John Consiglio, John Diaz-Hernandez Jr., Scott Gilleland, Charles Hosea Jr. and Harry Schrefer III. July 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting – Graduated April 20 (in alphabetical order): Dylan Mikaele Casuga, Mohammed Elazzouzi, Kenney Gaston, Karl Guenterberg, Corey Leonard, Alonzo Marbley, Casey Matheson, Jason Meyers and Ethan Sims. Class instructor John Thomas is at the far left. Advanced Galley Operations – Graduated April 20 (in alphabetical order): Abraham Abdul Allamoth, Masha Blas, Randall Campbell, Matthew Conyac, Stanford Drakes and Mario Miceleen Lacayo Martinez. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated April 13 (in alphabetical order): Timothy Dowd, Erik Loret, Nee Tran, Edvaldo Cantao Viana and Glen Williams. Certified Chief Cook (Module 6) – Graduated May 4: Madina Lawless. July 2018 ARPA – Graduated April 13 (in alphabetical order): Dylan Mikaele Casuga, John Consiglio, John Diaz-Hernandez Jr., Scott Gilleland and Harry Schrefer. MLC Cook – Graduated May 4: Keith Doublin Certified Chief Cook (Module 5) – Graduated April 20: Sheneisha Thompson (left) and Aurelio Dela Cruz Esperanza. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated April 20: Markese Haynes (left) and Sherre Wilson. Certified Chief Cook (Module 2) – Graduated March 9: Timothy Kelley (left) and Shafreda Short Thigpen. Galley Operations – Graduated March 9: Rogelio Dela Nunez (left) and Virnabeth Tomo Cano. SUA (Galley Operations) – Graduated March 9 (in alphabetical order): Lakeeba Bazemore, Evelyn Cruz, Axel Omar Lopez Ferrer, Luis Sony Perez-Menendez Jr., Manuel Alejandro Robles, Wilhelm Orson Rodrigues-Latorre and Maria Yahaira Soler Madera. Seafarers LOG 23 �F E B R2018 UARY 2014 JULY o V O LVOLUME U M E 7 6 80, NNO. O . 72 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 The Seafarers-crewed Endurance is part of the U.S. Maritime Security Program fleet. SIU Members Assist With Operation Atlantic Resolve Seafarers Continue Upholding Traditional Role as Fourth Arm of Defense M ariners have once again answered the nation’s call, as SIU members recently helped support an important military mobilization named Operation Atlantic Resolve. Seafarers sailed aboard three American Roll-on Roll-off Carrier (ARC) vessels – the M/V Honor, M/V Freedom, and M/V Endurance – in support of this long-term mission. Together, those ships were loaded with more than 414,000 square feet of military wheeled and tracked cargo, such as armored vehicles, and other important materiel. This equipment was then transported from Charleston, South Carolina, to Eastern Europe, where the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team of the 1st Cavalry Division is deploying. Operation Atlantic Resolve, launched in 2014, is funded through the European Reassurance Initiative, which was likewise created in response to Russia’s annexation of Crimea in Ukraine. The primary goal of the operation is to increase the U.S. military presence in Europe, and to help strengthen NATO’s defense and deterrence measures. The aforementioned SIU-crewed ships are part of the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP). Since its inception in 1996, the MSP has received strong bipartisan backing in Con- gress and the White House, while receiving praise from military officials. The program provides an annual stipend to ensure 60 militarily useful U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed ships are available in times of war or national emergencies. Companies that are contracted under the MSP or through the related Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement make their infrastructure available to the military as needed, too. MSP backers describe the program as one of the best public-private partnerships in government. The DOD has estimated that replicating the sealift capability provided by the MSP would cost the government billions of dollars. SIU-crewed ships (photos immediately above and at immediate right) load military cargo for Operation Atlantic Resolve. (All photos courtesy ARC) A tank (photo at left) is loaded onto the M/V Endurance. In the photo above, the Honor takes on cargo in Charleston, South Carolina. � 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 2018 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES U.S. DOT HOSTS MARITIME DAY CEREMONY SHBP TRUSTEES ANNOUNCES NEW BENEFITS FOR SEAFARERS, SPOUSES REP. WITTMAN LANDS ‘SALUTE TO CONGRESS’ AWARD SIU JOBS SECURE ABOARD WHEELER SEAFARERS FULLY BACK NEW MARITIME BILL TELLEZ: DON’T QUESTION U.S. MERCHANT MARINE’S WILLINGNESS TO ANSWER THE CALL PORT COUNCIL HONORS NOLAN, RICHMOND, WEINGARTEN SEAFARERS EXECUTIVE BOARD SALUTES MIKE SACCO’S VISIONARY LEADERSHIP AFL-CIO LAUNCHES AD BLITZ, URGES ORGANIZING WASHINGTON TIMES: ‘JONES ACT ASSURES FREEDOM OF SEAS’ ‘TIME TO SAVE OUR MERCHANT MARINE IS NOW’ LUMMUS MARINERS DONATE TO PHILLIPPINES-BASED CHARITY NTSB PUBLISHES EL FARO SUMMARY SIU OBSERVES MARITIME DAY ACROSS U.S. SEC. CHAO SAYS SIU IS ‘ONE OF THE STRONGEST UNIONS IN THE COUNTRY’ 200-PLUS INDUSTRY LEADERS ATTEND MARITIME DAY CEREMONY IN D.C. NATIONAL MARITIME CENTER NOTICE NEW CG-719 SERIES OF FORMS IMPLEMENTATION SIU MEMBERS ASSIST WITH OPERATION ATLANTIC RESOLVE SEAFARERS CONTINUE UPHOLDING TRADITIONAL ROLE AS FOURTH ARM OF DEFENSE 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 07/01/2018 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. 80, No. 7 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/cac000e4ce27fdfd378ab3a7e1805667.pdf def474a9735bd3eec8604c213b9542b8 PDF Text Text JUNE 2018 VOLUME 80, NO. 6 Crowley Acquires Three Tankers Move Means New Jobs for SIU Members Seafarers-contracted Crowley recently finalized its acquisition of three Jones Act vessels from SeaRiver Maritime Inc. Now carrying SIU crews, those ships are the Oregon (left), Washington (directly below) and California (bottom). Page 3. Anglers Dub Annual Waterfront Classic Enormous Success The sixth annual Seafarers Waterfront Classic, which took place April 24 at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center, was a little light on fish but heavy on what matters most, including fellowship and fundraising for the American Military Veterans Foundation. SIU President Michael Sacco (below, right) is pictured at the awards dinner in Piney Point, Maryland, with veteran Charles Greenholdt. SIU VP Contracts George Tricker, the event chairman, is third from right in photo at left. Pages 12-14. Congressman Backs Jones Act Page 3 Advisory Board Meets Page 4 Annual Funding Notices Pages 10-11 �President’s Report National Maritime Day Quick, how many of you had ever heard of National Maritime Day before you started working in the industry? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Just like the U.S. Merchant Marine is often an unintentionally well-kept secret other than in port towns and in maritime families, National Maritime Day doesn’t exactly pop out from the average calendar. Congress designated May 22 of each year as National Maritime Day in 1933. The original intent was to commemorate the first transoceanic voyage by a steamship, in 1819 by the SS Savannah. Through the decades, though, the day’s focus has understandably shifted. Given the U.S. Merchant Marine’s vital contributions in every conflict of the last and present centuries, it’s fitting that Maritime Day ceremonies often highlight those efforts. In particular, the commemorations in the nation’s capital and in other cities across the country duly Michael Sacco credit the absolutely indispensable, heroic sealift mission carried out by our World War II mariners. (For those who are unaware, more than 1,200 SIU members lost their lives during the war.) But Maritime Day isn’t just a history lesson or a memorial service. Prominent speakers from the military, government and industry usually also explain why America still needs a strong U.S.-flag industry with American crews. The White House annually issues a proclamation that also blends a tip of the cap to past service with an informal summary of why our country simply cannot afford to lose our fleet or our mariners. In fact, here’s a brief excerpt from last year’s statement by President Trump: “Today, the men and women who crew ships remain essential to our Nation’s prosperity and security. Those in the maritime industry, including merchant mariners, promote our economic growth, facilitating the export of more than $475 billion in goods just last year and sustaining our critical defense industrial base. Merchant mariners also actively protect our homeland, serving as our eyes and ears on the seas. They serve with distinction and courage, heading into war zones, and too often sacrificing their own lives for our protection.” Brothers and sisters, that’s anything but token acknowledgement, and it shows that despite the previously mentioned challenge of educating the public about the U.S. Merchant Marine, we don’t always lack for recognition. All in all, National Maritime Day is a very important occasion for the SIU and for our industry, even if you can’t find a greeting card for it. This year’s ceremony in D.C. was scheduled to happen right after the LOG’s deadline, so we’ll have full coverage next month. In the meantime, please check out our National Maritime Day posts on the SIU website and on our Facebook page. We usually have that coverage available the same day of the gathering. Meanwhile, I would be remiss in not briefly stating the case for why we need a strong U.S. Merchant Marine moving forward. Our domestic maritime industry alone supports nearly 500,000 American jobs and pumps billions of dollars into the economy every year. Our internationally trading deep-sea ships help ensure that we won’t be held as economic hostages by other nations, and our civilian-crewed military support ships guarantee that our brave men and women in uniform won’t have to cross their fingers and hope that foreign crews on foreign-flag ships decide to deliver the vital materiel they need in times of conflict. We can honor the past by working hard to ensure the ongoing vibrancy of this vital industry. Volume 80, Number 6 June 2018 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2018 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 Honored in ‘The Big Apple’ SIU officials turned out in support of two recent events in New York City that honored individuals for their backing of the U.S. maritime industry. The Marine Society of the City of New York on April 16 honored Ed Hanley, vice president of labor relations and marine standards at SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited. Hanley is pictured at far left in photo at right, with (from left) AMO National President Paul Doell, SIU President Michael Sacco and Paul Hall Center Trustee Tony Naccarato. On April 25, the Seafarers International House presented its Outstanding Friend of Seafarers awards to Phil Fisher (lower right) and Bill Van Loo (lower left). Fisher is the executive VP of SIUcontracted Keystone; Van Loo serves as secretary-treasurer of the MEBA. SIU attendees at the latter event included President Sacco, Executive VP Augie Tellez, VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Port Agents Joe Baselice and Mark von Siegel and Patrolmen Ray Henderson and Andre MacCray. Federation Releases Annual Report on State Of Safety, Health Protections for U.S. Workers According to a report released April 26 by the AFL-CIO, 5,190 American workers died on the job in 2016, an increase from 4,836 deaths the previous year. Another estimated 50,000 to 60,000 died from occupational diseases, meaning approximately 150 workers died on the job each day from preventable, hazardous workplace conditions. Overall, the national job fatality rate increased to 3.6 per 100,000 workers from 3.4 in 2015, the federation reported. “We deserve to walk out the front door in the morning knowing we’ll return home safe and healthy after a full day’s work,” said AFLCIO President Richard Trumka. “It’s a travesty that working people continue to lose their lives to corporate greed. The selfish and reckless decisions being made in boardrooms and in Washington are killing the very people who built this country. This is officially a national crisis, and it’s only getting worse.” The report, titled “Death on the Job: The Toll of Neglect,” marks the 27th year the AFL-CIO has produced its findings on the state of safety and health protections for workers within the United States. The report shows the highest workplace fatality rates are in Wyoming (12.3 per 100,000 workers), Alaska (10.6), Montana (7.9), South Dakota (7.5) and North Dakota (7.0). Startlingly, workplace violence is now the second-leading cause of death on the job, accounting for 866 workplace deaths. Other report highlights show that the construction, transportation and agriculture industries remain among the most dangerous. In 2016, some 991 construction workers were killed – the highest total of any sector. Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting was the most dangerous industry sector, with a fatality rate of 23.2 per 100,000 workers. Despite these alarming findings, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) continues to face a desperate dearth of resources. Responsible for regulating 9 million workplaces, the agency’s 764 federal inspectors would need 158 years to visit each site just once. The annual report features state and national information on workplace fatalities, injuries, illnesses, the number and frequency of workplace inspections, penalties, funding, staffing and public employee coverage under the Occupational Safety and Health Act. It also includes information on the state of mine safety and health. The Occupational Safety and Health Act was signed into law in 1970, signaling a promise to American workers for safe jobs. The federation estimates that more than 579,000 workers “now can say their lives have been saved since the passage of the act. “Since that time, workplace safety and health conditions have improved,” the AFL-CIO said when announcing the latest report. “But too many workers remain at serious risk of injury, illness or death as chemical plant explosions, major fires, construction collapses and other preventable workplace tragedies continue to occur. Workplace violence is a growing threat. Many other workplace hazards kill and disable thousands of workers each year.” Moreover, the federation asserted that chronic occupational diseases “receive less attention because most are not detected for years after workers are exposed to toxic chemicals, and occupational illnesses often are misdiagnosed and poorly tracked.” In 2016, nearly 3.7 million workers across all industries, including state and local government, had work-related injuries and illnesses that were reported by employers, with 2.9 million injuries and illnesses reported in private industry. Due to limitations in the current injury reporting system and widespread underreporting of workplace injuries, this number understates the problem, the AFLCIO reported. “The true toll is estimated to be two to three times greater – or 7.4 million to 11.1 million injuries and illnesses a year,” the federation said. “The cost of these injuries and illnesses is enormous – estimated at $250 billion to $360 billion a year.” The report also noted that President Trump ran on a pro-business, deregulatory agenda, promising to cut regulations by 70 percent. Since taking office at the end of January 2017, he has acted on that promise, issuing a number of executive orders to roll back or review existing regulations, including one order that requires that for any new regulatory item issued, an agency must remove two from the books. He signed more than a dozen bills overturning regulations issued by the Obama administration. In part, the report concluded, “These are challenging times for working people and their unions, and the future prospects for safety and health protections are uncertain. What is clear, however, is that the toll of workplace injury, disease and death remains too high. Workers in the United States need more safety and health protection, not less. More than four decades after the passage of the Occupational Safety and Health Act, there is much more work to be done.” June 2018 �SIU Members Secure New Jobs on 3 Tankers Seafarers-contracted Crowley in midApril announced that it completed the acquisition of three tankers from SeaRiver Maritime Inc., and is now chartering them back to SeaRiver under varying multi-year terms. “This development means new jobs for SIU members,” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “I’m fully confident our crews will do their typically outstanding work aboard all three vessels.” The tankers previously named Liberty Bay and Eagle Bay, now under Crowley ownership and operation, each have a capacity of 760,000 barrels and transport crude from Alaska to West Coast refineries. The tanker formerly named American Progress has a capacity of 342,000 barrels and transports refined petroleum between the U.S. Gulf and East Coast ports. Crowley has renamed the ships. The Liberty Bay is now the Washington; the Eagle Bay is the California; and the American Progress is the Oregon. “With the regulatory approvals in place and the sale officially complete, we are now focused on operating these tankers in the safest, most reliable manner possible,” said Tom Crowley, chairman and CEO of Crowley Maritime Corp. “Our knowledge, passion, talent, ingenuity and helpfulness drive business for the company and provide the basis for highly successful partnerships such as the one announced today.” An SIU-contracted company for decades, Crowley operates and manages the largest U.S.-flag petroleum and chemical tank vessel fleet in the country. With the acquisition of these three tankers, the company now operates 40 Jones Act-qualified large petroleum transportation vessels in the United States with a combined capacity of more than 12 million barrels. Among this tank vessel fleet is a tanker and an articulated tug-barge (ATB) already on charter to SeaRiver. Seafarers are pictured aboard the Oregon, with SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins (back row, second from left). “Throughout the transition, the officers and crews have proven to be a great fit and we are very happy that so many are now Crowley employees,” said Rudy Leming, Crowley vice president of labor relations. “They have embodied the highest levels of professionalism and commitment to the project and we are certain they’ll be a critical piece to our ongoing success.” “Safety is of paramount importance to us and our record reflects that,” said Rob Grune, Crowley senior vice president and general manager, Crowley Shipping. “Last year, for example, we transported more than 472 million barrels of product and made 5,196 product transfers with zero Thanking Senator for Support SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (left) is pictured with U.S. Sen. Kamala Harris (center) (D-California) and Charles Farruggia last month at a political gathering in San Francisco. Celona and Farruggia, a longtime friend of the SIU, both thanked Harris for her ardent support of the U.S. Merchant Marine. The senator is a consistently outspoken advocate for American-flag shipping and U.S. crews. She is signatory to a recent Senate letter backing the U.S. Maritime Security Program June 2018 spills – a credit to our professional, safetyminded crews and management systems.” Crowley has been operating in Alaska since 1953, six years before statehood, providing upstream energy support services, tanker assistance and escort services with tugboats, and petroleum transportation, distribution and sales throughout the state. In addition to the company’s own ATBs operating in Alaska, Crowley currently manages and crews tankers carrying petroleum between Alaska and U.S. West Coast refineries. Crowley owns and/or operates a diverse, sophisticated fleet of double-hull tank vessels, including 17 ATBs and now 23 tankers, all built since 2002. SeaRiver Maritime, Inc., headquartered in Spring, Texas, is a privately held subsidiary wholly owned by ExxonMobil that provides a wide range of technical and commercial marine services to ExxonMobil affiliates throughout the world. The Jones Act has helped protect U.S. national, economic and homeland security for nearly a century. The law mandates that cargoes moving between domestic ports are carried on vessels that are crewed, built, flagged and owned American. It helps sustain nearly 500,000 American jobs, and pumps billions of dollars into the U.S. economy each year. Congressman Rick Larsen Speaks Out for Jones Act U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen (D-Washington) recently spoke on the House floor in support of the Jones Act, a maritime law that is vital to protecting U.S. national, economic and homeland security. A longtime backer of the American maritime industry, Larsen delivered his brief remarks April 18. He stated, “Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my continued support of American maritime jobs through enforcement of the Jones Act. The Merchant Marine Act of 1920 is more commonly known as the Jones Act, named for the primary sponsor at the time Wesley Jones from my home state, Washington state. The Jones Act exists for good reason. It sustains and protects a strong domestic maritime and shipbuilding industry. “It creates job opportunities for U.S. mariners, many of whom are veterans,” the congressman continued. “It underpins U.S. maritime defense policy and is essential to preserving national security interests at home and abroad. The Jones Act requires the use of American owned and operated vessels to move all waterborne cargo between points in the U.S.” Larsen added, “I have long maintained that the Jones Act ensures domestic industries can remain vibrant contributors to the global shipping industry. At its core, the Jones Act is a critical labor standard that helps put U.S. seafarers to work and maintains important workplace rights…. In 2012, I called on the then-administration to protect American jobs by adhering to the Jones Act in response to rising gas prices and the proposed release of oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Last year I spoke up to support the Jones Act fleet in its heroic re- U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen sponse to the natural disaster that hit Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.” He concluded, “As a senior member of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, I am committed to working with my colleagues to uphold the longstanding tenets of the Jones Act to safeguard the important role maritime industries play in our economy. The Jones Act exists for good reason. We should use it to good effect.” A video of Larsen delivering the remarks is available on his website and also is linked in an April 19 post in the News section of www.seafarers.org. Seafarers LOG 3 �Tom Orzechowski PHC Acting VP The advisory board meeting convenes in Piney Point, Maryland. Advisory Board Examines Training Needs, Updates Attendees on Piney Point Progress George Tricker SIU VP Contracts The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) is constantly pushing to stay ahead of the ever-changing needs of the industry – and that’s an endeavor that works best with input from different stakeholders. With that in mind, the PHC on April 25 hosted a meeting of its advisory board, which features representatives from the school, the SIU and Seafarers-contracted companies. The information-packed gathering took place at the Piney Point, Maryland-based campus, with approximately 40 people in attendance. Topics covered by the board included engine department curriculums; storekeeper training; the revamp of the school’s steward Bart Rogers PHC VP/Manpower Director John Hetmanksi PHC Executive Chef Priscilla Labanowski PHC Director of Training Dr. Eric Schaub SIU Plans Medical Director 4 Seafarers LOG department classes; the global opioid epidemic and what’s being done to combat it; and apprentice training that focuses on social responsibilities, communication and more. The meeting blended formal presentations with substantial question-and-answer sessions. Attendees included officials and staff from the school, the union and the Seafarers Plans; executives from a half-dozen SIU-contracted companies; an inspector from the International Transport Workers’ Federation; and employees from Comprehensive Health Services. The formal presentations were given by (in order) Bill Dodd, a PHC engine department instructor; PHC Director of Training Priscilla Labanowski; PHC Vice President/Manpower Director Bart Rogers; PHC Executive Chef John Hetmanski; SIU Plans Medical Director Dr. Eric Schaub; and Dr. John Gallagher, director of the Seafarers Addictions Rehabilitation Center. Also addressing the meeting were PHC Acting Vice President Tom Orzechowski, SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker and Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen. Dodd comprehensively explained current and projected engine department courses, including a program that’s being developed to facilitate progress from apprentice to third assistant engineer. He said all of the classes are very true to what mariners will experience aboard ship. Dodd also said the school’s hands-on training is a valuable hit with students. “It’s not just show and tell” in the courses, he said. Orzechowski, Rogers and Labanowski then talked about the school’s new class for storekeepers (see related story on page 7). “It’s pretty intense,” Labanowski said. Rogers stated, “All in all, it’s a huge success.” Instructors and students in the first offering sometimes teamed up for 12 hours a day in order to properly review the curriculum. Next, Hetmanski and Labanowski reviewed Culinary 2.0, the school’s revamped coursework for steward department members. The updated classes are being offered to upgraders and to apprentices. “It has been going very well,” Hetmanski said. “The interest is there” from students. Extensively covered in past editions of the Seafarers LOG, Culinary 2.0 refers to the overall steward department curriculums and also to a pair of specific courses: Orientation/ Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 and Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0. Labanowski said the course critiques submitted by students have been “extremely wonderful.” Schaub briefly reviewed the U.S. Coast Guard’s history of drug testing, which started in the 1990s. He also described both how the opioid crisis developed and a relatively new concern about possible impairment on the job from legal drugs. Schaub talked about ways in which the medical department, the Seafarers Plans and the union are working together to help ensure personal and shipboard safety while also facilitating members’ ongoing eligibility to ship. Finally, Gallagher gave an energetic overview of various topics that are mandatory parts of training for the school’s apprentices. They include social responsibility, communication, problem solving and conflict resolution, diversity, health awareness and much more. Near the end of the meeting, a shipping company executive who first visited the school in the 1970s stated, “Everyone here should be complimented, from the top down, on everything from the quality of the training to the quality of the food to the quality of the facilities. It’s remarkable and you should all be proud of it. It’s very impressive.” Dr. John Gallagher ARC Director PHC Instructor Bill Dodd reviews the school’s engine department courses. June 2018 �Seafarers Help Deliver Jones Act Message Capitol Hill Outreach Thanks Legislators for Backing Cabotage Law Metal Trades Department President James Hart (at microphone) helps kick off the event. Rank-and-file Seafarers met with legislators and staff April 17 in the nation’s capital as part of a day-long outreach to express thanks for support of America’s freight cabotage law, the Jones Act. SIU Port Agent John Hoskins, Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman, and Senior Political Consultant Terry Turner joined SIU members Cesar Dela Cruz, Robinson Eromosele, Michael Ingram, Breon Lucas, Stephen Martin and Tyrell Thabit for the event, which was coordinated by the Maritime Trades Seafarer Tyrell Thabit (right), an Alabama resident, meets U.S. Sen. Doug Jones (D-Alabama). Department and the Metal Trades Department (each a constitutional department of the AFL-CIO). Members of other unions also participated. Led by Maritime Trades Department Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan and Executive Board Member Brett McCoy (from the United Association), nearly 75 people worked with Metal Trades Department President James Hart and Dredging Contractors of America Executive Director and CEO William Doyle for a rally outside the steps of the Capitol before heading to legislators’ offices. Duncan, Hart and Doyle spoke about the importance of the Jones Act for the nation’s economic and domestic security. They pointed out that the Jones Act directly and indirectly provides “approximately 500,000 decent, family-sustaining American jobs resulting in nearly $100 billion annually for the economy.” In addition, American mariners working on Jones Act vessels offer security on the nation’s inland waterways and harbors. Representatives from the Maritime Trades Department-affiliated Electrical Workers; Machinists; Seafarers; Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers; Transportation-Communications Union; and United Association donned red, white and blue “Jones Act All American” lapel stickers to show their appreciation. Each legislator or their aide received a booklet containing Jones Act facts and figures, including the six-month data revealing 114,000 containers have been delivered by American-crewed Jones Act vessels Pictured from left are SIU Senior Political Consultant Terry Turner, Seafarer Robinson Eromosele, U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen (D-Washington), Seafarer Cesar Dela Cruz, Seafarer Michael Ingram and Maritime Trades Dept. Exec. Board member Brett McCoy. June 2018 since Hurricane Maria struck Puerto Rico. Union members met with U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-Washington), Doug Jones (D-Alabama), Chuck Schumer (D-New York) and Richard Shelby (RAlabama) as well as U.S. Representatives Rick Larsen (DWashington) and Linda Sanchez (D-California). They also discussed the Jones Act with aides from other Senate and House offices representing both political parties, reflecting the continued strong bipartisan support of the measure, which has helped protect U.S. national, economic and homeland security for nearly a century. Three SIU members are pictured with U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby (R-Alabama). From left: Stephen Martin, Shelby, Breon Lucas and Tyrell Thabit. SIU personnel helped promote the Jones Act in Washington, D.C. Pictured from left are Tyrell Thabit, Michael Ingram, Robinson Eromosele, Stephen Martin, Cesar Dela Cruz, Port Agent John Hoskins and Breon Lucas. Seafarers LOG 5 �Recertified Steward Breon Lucas (left) is congratulated by SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel just prior to taking the podium to deliver his speech. SIU VP Contracts George Tricker is in the background. Recertified Stewards Michael Ingram (left) and Tyrell Thabit share a lighthearted moment while listening to the speech of one of their classmates. Six Ascend Ladder to Recertified Steward Status Continued from Page 24 made me a better person.” His advice to the trainees was simple. “My recommendation to those coming up: Have a dream, and work to achieve it,” he said. Michael Ingram Sailing out of the Port of Joliet, Illinois, Ingram joined the union in 2006. He began his speech with a quote from poet Maya Angelou: “If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” He then spoke on the impact that the union has had on his life, saying, “The union has allowed me to provide for my family, purchase my own home and has allowed me to travel to many different countries.” After mentioning the knowledge he gained about the political process from visiting Capitol Hill, he took the opportunity to thank the school’s instructors who helped him get where he is today. “I’d like to thank John Hetmanski, John Dobson, Paulie (Gelrud), Chef R.J. (Robert Johnson) and Jessie (Sunga), along with many others that have come and gone. I’d also like to thank Steward Danny Jackson, as well as the rest of my fellow Recertified Stewards.” He offered some personal advice to the apprentices, saying, “Study hard while you are here. Believe it or not, I was days away from being homeless, and look at me now!” Breon Lucas Lucas, who sails from Jacksonville, Florida, spoke about his 23-year career. “The union has been good to me. They’ve put a roof over my head and offered me a better way of life in general. Through working for the SIU, I have also been able to travel to various different places,” he said. After praising Instructor John Dobson, he thanked the union leadership for allowing the recertified stewards to attend the recent trip to Congress, saying, “I saw firsthand how you guys have to stand up for us. Thank you for protecting us and our jobs.” 6 Seafarers LOG Stephen Martin Martin joined the union in Wilmington, California in 1999 and now sails from the Port of Jersey City, New Jersey. He said he is proud to graduate from the recertification program. “The staff at this school have been great. It’s been like spending time with family,” he said. Turning his attention to the trainees, Martin continued, “Remember, when you are working in the galley, you are part of a team. Be proactive, and if you have any questions, come see the bosuns or the stewards. Out of all of your lessons, learn to work together, work hard and you’ll be just fine.” He closed by congratulating his fellow graduates and thanking the SIU for helping to provide the life he now leads. Tyrell Thabit Before joining the union in Mobile, Alabama, in 1992, Thabit explained that he served in the U.S. Navy for over 10 years. “In my career, I have sailed on over 50 different ships, and travelled to most of the places a merchant mariner could possibly sail,” said Thabit. “The union has been a very important part of my life, because it has given me opportunities to grow and develop my skills in my chosen profession. “I would like to thank the instructors and staff here at the school for all that they do,” he continued. “You are all very professional people, who work very hard to make sure that we, as trainees and upgraders, get the best education.” He also expressed his gratitude for the firsthand look at what it takes to defend the Jones Act on a daily basis, before saying, “The union leadership needs our help to protect our industry and our way of life. We need to always do our best, upgrade our skills, and donate to SPAD.” He concluded by offering the following advice to the future mariners in the room: “Study hard while you’re here. Learn from your instructors, and work together with your classmates. When you get to the ship, listen to your supervisor, ask questions, and never be afraid to stand up for yourself.” Near the end of their training, each of the recertified stewards was required to individually prepare, plate and serve a complete meal for lunch. Included in the menu were: Salad – shrimp pasta salad with Italian dressing; Entrée – Chicken Cacciatore; Starch – fried sweet potatoes; Vegatable – Steamed Broccoli; and Dessert – homemade apple pie. Proudly displaying their respective creations are Recertified Steward Cesar Cera Dela Cruz (photo above) Recertified Steward Robinson Eromosele (photo below, left) Recertified Steward Stephen Martin (below, center) and Recertified Steward Tyrell Thabit (below right). June 2018 �Paul Hall Center Offers New Storekeeper Course The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education recently witnessed a milestone achievement: a betatest class of students successfully completed the Military Sealift Command (MSC) Basic Storekeeping course along with Supply Configuration Management. Both were offered for the first time in the history of the Piney Point, Maryland-based facility. According to Paul Hall Center (PHC) officials, in the future, throughout seven consecutive weeks, students will attend two classes: a three-week Basic Storekeeper class, and a directly related, four-week Supply Configuration Management class. Both courses must be completed in order to be eligible to sail as a storekeeper on an MSC vessel. “This course was two years in the making,” said PHC Assistant Vice President and Manpower Director Bart Rogers. “We had many planning meetings between the school and MSC. It was a collaborative effort that created this course, and there were many people involved from both the SIU and MSC that made this a reality.” The course, Rogers said, was created out of a demand for highly qualified, MSC-trained storekeepers to sail on their civilian-crewed vessels. He explained, “At first, there was a little resistance from MSC, but we were able to con- vince them that there was a need on board the vessels for this particular rating and the training that’s associated with it. We were having more and more difficulty finding [storekeepers] in the military, so the best solution was to teach and train our own.” As with every course designed for mariners to sail on MSC-contracted vessels, the curriculum was taken directly from MSC training materials. For the first iteration of the class, MSC provided an instructor. A second instructor from the Paul Hall Center assisted and gained knowledge on how to properly teach the class in the future. The first class served as a trial run of sorts, but the mariners who completed the course were highly qualified, according to Paul Hall Center Acting Vice President Thomas Orzechowski: “This was an excellent class. Moving forward, we’re going to sit down with the instructors, we’re going to sit down with our development team, and we’re going to have to put together a list of prerequisites or a test to ensure that the members coming in have the skills they need to pass the course.” “The class itself was pretty intense,” said Paul Hall Center Director of Training Priscilla Labanowski. “It was kind of interesting to see the students huddled in the classroom together, and they always came out of the classroom with tons of books.... If you talk to anyone who has taken the class, they will tell you it is definitely one of the hardest courses they’ve ever taken at Piney Point.” Rogers offered some insight into the stateof-the-art class: “This course requires some computer skills, specifically in Microsoft Word and Excel. If you do not have the required computer skills, the course would be very difficult. It is also very helpful to have a background in engineering, but it is not required.” Beyond some slight technical issues, stu- dents praised the structured pace of the class, stating in anonymous reviews that “with the slow, slow learning curve, it was still somewhat overwhelming because of the amount of information and the rate at which we had to learn ... but the intense dedication, loyalty and hard work (of the instructors) to be sure we all succeeded – and still knew the material – brings tears to a man’s eyes. I thank them both very much!” The next classes are expected to take place in July 2018. EARN YOUR COLLEGE DEGREE THROUGH THE PAUL HALL CENTER ! The Paul Hall Center’s Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship (SHLSS) 5HVLGHQW�FRXUVHV�DW�3LQH\�3RLQW�EHJLQ� has partnered with the College of Southern -XO\��������� Maryland (CSM) to offer an Associate of Applied Science degree in Maritime Operations Technology with a concentration x Associate of Applied Science Degree in either x Nautical Science (Deck department) x UA courses apply toward the degree -orx Marine Engineering (Engine dept.) x Fully accredited Students must complete a combination of academic general education courses and technical education courses in order to earn x Some courses held at SHLSS the degree. Courses completed during the Unlicensed Apprentice program apply toward the x Online classes degree. Students can complete English, Math and x Scholarships available Physics courses at SHLSS. The remaining general education courses can be completed online. The following classes will convene at SHLSS: July 9, 2018 through July 27, 2018 English 1011 – Composition and Rhetoric Math 1011 – Math for Technologies Enrollment Information 7 Credit Hours Please contact Seafarers Harry Lundeberg Includes: tuition, textbooks, room and School Academic Coordinator Dale Rausch board plus one hour of tutoring following (301) 994-0010 Ext. 5411 -or- Mariners study intently during MSC Storekeeper class. From left to right: Joseph Evans, Joseph Garnett, William Mulcahy, Miles Partridge and Zarko Vrbljanac. each daily class session drausch@seafarers.org 6/18 Spotlight on Mariner Health Presenting the Real Scoop On Vaping and E-Cigarettes E-cigarettes and other vaporizers use a battery to heat a liquid – commonly referred to as “vape juice” – and produce a vapor for inhaling. The juice often contains varying levels of nicotine and is popular among teenagers and adults as an alternative to smoking traditional cigarettes. Most vape juice contains a mixture of glycerin, propylene glycol and water, along with various flavorings and specific amounts of nicotine. While some vape juice does not contain nicotine, most does, and as such can be as addictive as tobacco cigarettes. In recent years, the number of teenagers that have taken to vaping has soared. An annual survey by the Minnesota Department of Health recently revealed that one in five high school students use e-cigarettes. (The survey also showed youth tobacco use is rising for the first time in 17 years; it concluded that using e-cigarettes or vaping is a gateway to smoking.) The availability of vape juice and e-cigarettes has grown dramatically as well, with an increased focus on fruit-flavored juices and smaller, more discrete designs in vaporizers. This burgeoning market has also seen an increase in vape juice and vaporizers with poor quality control, so buyer beware when purchasing from less-reputable sources. For example, according to Dr. J. Taylor Hays, June 2018 director of the Mayo Clinic Nicotine Dependence Center, “There are probably 600 different kinds (of e-cigarettes) you can purchase on the internet. There are 7,000 to 8,000 different solutions you can purchase. Vaping as Smoking-Cessation Tool Some turn to vaping as a way to gradually quit smoking. With vape juices prominently displaying the nicotine content on the bottles, smokers are able to gradually wean themselves off of nicotine, as opposed to cutting themselves off “cold turkey.” While the full effects of vaping are currently unknown, it does not contain the harmful carcinogens that are found in traditional cigarettes. The possible side effects of vaping are very similar to cigarettes: coughing, lung irritation, dizziness and more. In addition, most vaporizers use lithium-ion batteries, which have the potential to ignite or explode if improperly charged, stored or overused. The bottom line is that, despite the lack of tobacco and carcinogens, vaping any level of nicotine can be highly addictive, and can damage your lungs and pulmonary system. “It’s safer, but it’s not safe,” Hays stated. “What we don’t know are what long-term effects will these lower-level toxicants have.” Healthful Recipe Grilled Chicken Breast Servings: 15 Ingredients 15 6 oz chicken breasts without skin, butterflied 1 tablespoon Mrs Dash seasoning 2 teaspoons paprika, ground 1 tablespoon oregano, dry, ground 3 tablespoons olive oil Preparation ❑✃ Season chicken with the Mrs Dash, paprika, oregano, and olive oil. ❑✃ Brown the chicken breasts in a frying pan over med-high heat. Cook both sides 2-3 min, cook to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Chicken can be finished in a 350 degree F oven to reach desired internal temperature. Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 175 Calories; 4g Fat (23.9% calories from fat); 31g Protein; trace Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 79mg Cholesterol; 89mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain (Starch); 4 ½ Lean Meat; ½ Fat. Provided by the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship Seafarers LOG 7 �ABOARD MAERSK HARTFORD – Labor and management get together for a photo aboard the Maersk Lines, Limited (MLL) vessel. That’s MLL President and CEO Bill Woodhour second from right, along with SIU VP Contracts George Tricker, second from left, plus Seafarers and the vessel master. WELCOMING NEW CONTRACT – Seafarers at New York New Jersey Rail recently ratified a new four-year contract featuring annual wage increases. Pictured from left are SIU Safety Director Osvaldo Ramos, Brakeman Rich Vaughan and Conductor James Lada Sr., who serves as shop steward. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU TALKING JONES ACT IN PUERTO RICO – SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo (right) meets with The Hon. Michael A. Quinones, a member of the Puerto Rico House of Representatives, in San Juan on April 24. They discussed the numerous, vital economic and social benefits of the Jones Act on Puerto Rico, including the job opportunities it offers to residents of the territory. B-BOOK IN OAKLAND – Congratulations to Chief Cook Ronald Williams (right) on receiving his full B-seniority book. He is pictured with SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone during the April membership meeting in Oakland, California. COMMITTED TO THE INDUSTRY – The Seafaring life agrees with FOWT Francisco Valle, who recently got a tattoo reflecting his enthusiasm for the industry. In photo above, he’s pictured at right with Port Agent Nick Marrone II . The photo below is a closeup of Valle’s new ink. ACTIVE IN LABOR MOVEMENT – Congratulations to SIU Port Agent Todd Brdak (left) on his election to the Metro Detroit AFL-CIO executive board. He’s pictured with Rick Blocker, president of the Metro Detroit AFL-CIO. ABOARD USNS BELLATRIX – Pictured from left aboard the TOTE Services-operated vessel during a recent breakout exercise are Chief Steward Samuel Sinclair, SA Melaethon Silas, SA Isreal Caldwell and Chief Cook Paulette Hilliard. NOT A ROUTINE STOP ASHORE – SA Italy Byers is pictured at the tiger park in Thailand. She visited the site during a recent voyage aboard the USNS Pililaau. No matter how calm she looks in the photos, Italy told the Seafarers LOG, “I was terrified, but I just figured, I’m traveling, it’s my first time in Thailand, and I might as well do everything.” Visit our Facebook page for additional photos from the park. 8 Seafarers LOG FULL BOOK FOR QMED – Congrats to QMED Daniel Grant (left) on getting his full book. Daniel is a shop steward at Harley Marine NY. He’s pictured with Patrolman Ray Henderson ABOARD ATB VISION – Pictured from left to right aboard the Crowley vessel are Chief Engineer John McCranie, Chief Mate David Nimmer, Tankerman Sidnei Barboza, Capt. Charlie Carlson and Port Agent Nick Marrone II. June 2018 �)UHH�&ROOHJH�%HQHȴ�W 7KH�8QLRQ�3OXV�)UHH�&ROOHJH�%HQHȴ�W�R΍�HUV�DQ�DFFHVVLEOH�� GHEW�IUHH�DQG�FRQYHQLHQW�KLJKHU�HGXFDWLRQ�RSSRUWXQLW\�� 0HPEHUV�DQG�WKHLU�VSRXVHV��FKLOGUHQ��ȴ�QDQFLDO�GHSHQGHQWV� DQG�JUDQGFKLOGUHQ�FDQ�HDUQ�DQ�$VVRFLDWH�'HJUHH�ȃ� FRPSOHWHO\�RQOLQH��IRU�)5((� 1 APPLY 3 68%0Ζ7 2 &203/(7( 4 ENROLL TO EASTERN GATEWAY THE FREE FAFSA <285�75$16&5Ζ376 Ζ1�&/$66(6 �������������� XQLRQSOXVIUHHFROOHJH�RUJ 6/18 7KH�+LJKHU�(GXFDWLRQ�%HQHȴ�W�FRYHUV�WKH�FRVW�RI�WXLWLRQ�IHHV�DQG�ERRNV�DIWHU�DQ\�3(//�RU�RWKHU�IHGHUDO�JUDQW�RU�HPSOR\HU�UHLPEXUVH� PHQW�LV�DSSOLHG��7KH�UHPDLQLQJ�DPRXQW�ZOO�EH�FOHDUHG�ZLWK�WKH�)UHH�&ROOHJH�VFKRODUVKLS��$V�ORQJ�DV�\RXU�ȴ�QDQFLDO�DLG�ȴ�OH�LV�FRP� SOHWH��WKHUH�LV�QR�FRVW�WR�WKH�VWXGHQW�DQG�VWXGHQWV�DUH�QHYHU�DVNHG�WR�WDNH�RXW�DQ\�ORDQV� June 2018 Seafarers LOG 9 �SHBP Offers COBRA Continuation Coverage to Union Members The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) is notifying 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 (800) 252-4674. Annual Funding Notice – Seafarers Pension Plan Introduction This notice includes important information about the funding status of your multiemployer pension plan (the “Plan”). It also includes 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 required by federal law. This notice is for the plan year beginning January 1, 2017 and ending December 31, 2017 (“Plan Year”). How Well Funded Is Your Plan The law requires the administrator of the Plan to tell you how well the Plan is funded, using a measure called the “funded percentage.” The Plan divides its assets by its liabilities on the Valuation Date for the plan year to get this percentage. In general, the higher the percentage, the better funded the plan. The Plan’s funded percentage for the Plan Year and each of the two preceding plan years is shown in the chart below. The chart also states 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 2017 2016 January 1, 2017 January 1, 2016 133.6% 136.9% $1,467,872,431 $1,424,697,469 $1,098,922,827 $1,041,022,333 2015 January 1, 2015 138.3% $1,441,263,299 $1,042,173,488 Year-End Fair Market Value of Assets The asset values in the chart above are measured as of the Valuation Date. They also are “actuarial values.” Actuarial values differ from market values in that they do not fluctuate daily based on changes in the stock or other markets. Actuarial values smooth out those fluctuations and can allow for more predictable levels of future contributions. Despite the fluctuations, market values tend to show a clearer picture of a plan’s funded status at a given point in time. The asset values in the chart below are market values and are measured on the last day of the Plan Year. The chart also includes the year-end market value of the Plan’s assets for each of the two preceding plan years. The December 31, 2017 fair value of assets disclosed below 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. December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 Fair Market Value of Assets $1,600,000,000 $1,467,872,431 $1,424,697,469 Endangered, Critical, or Critical and Declining Status Under federal pension law, a plan generally is in “endangered” status if its funded percentage is less than 80 percent. A plan is in “critical” status if the funded percentage is less than 65 percent (other factors may also apply). A plan is in “critical and declining” status if it is in critical status and is projected to become insolvent (run out of money to pay benefits) within 15 years (or within 20 years if a special rule applies). 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 or critical and declining status, the trustees of the plan are required to adopt a rehabilitation plan. Funding improvement and rehabilitation plans establish steps and benchmarks for pension plans to improve their funding status over a specified period of time. The plan sponsor of a plan in critical and declining status may apply for approval to amend the plan to reduce current and future payment obligations to participants and beneficiaries. The Plan was not in endangered, critical, or critical and declining status in the Plan Year. If the plan is in endangered, critical, or critical and declining status for the plan year ending December 31, 2018, separate notification of the status has or will be provided. Participant Information The total number of participants and beneficiaries covered by the plan on the valuation date was 19,487. Of this number, 6,865 were current employees, 7,360 were retired and receiving benefits, and 5,262 were retired or no longer working for the employer and have a right to future benefits. Funding & Investment Policies Every pension plan must have a procedure to establish a funding policy for plan objectives. A funding policy relates to how much money is needed to pay promised benefits. 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. 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, the Investment Manager is a bank (trust company), insurance company, or registered investment advisor under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. Full discretion, within certain guidelines, is granted to each Investment Manager with regard to the sector and security selection and the timing of any transactions. 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 and Cash Equivalents Real Estate Target 50% 40% 10% Range 40% - 60% 30% - 50% 0% - 20% 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 10 Seafarers LOG 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. 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): a. Preferred b. All other 4. Corporate stocks (other than employer securities): a. Preferred b. 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: a. Employer Securities b. Employer real property 16. Buildings and other property used in plan operation 17. Other Percentage 0 12 9 0 0 33 5 1 0 0 31 0 0 0 9 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 Pension plans must file annual reports with the U.S. Department of Labor. The report is called the “Form 5500.” These reports contain financial and other information. You may obtain an electronic copy of your Plan’s annual report by going to www.efast.dol.gov and using the search tool. Annual reports also 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, D.C. 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. Annual reports do not contain personal information, such as the amount of your accrued benefit. You may contact your plan administrator if you want information about your accrued benefits. Your plan administrator is identified below under “Where To Get More Information.” Summary of Rules Governing Insolvent Plans Federal law has a number of special rules that apply to financially troubled multiemployer plans that become insolvent, either as ongoing plans or plans terminated by mass withdrawal. The plan administrator is required by law to include a summary of these rules in the annual funding notice. 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. 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. There are separate insurance programs with different benefit guarantees and other provisions for single-employer plans and multiemployer plans. Your Plan is covered by PBGC’s multiemployer program. 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 $600, 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 ($600/10), which equals $60. The guaranteed amount for a $60 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 addition, the PBGC guarantees qualified preretirement survivor benefits (which are preretirement death benefits payable to the surviving spouse of a participant who dies before starting to receive benefit payments). In calculating a person’s monthly payment, the PBGC will disregard any benefit increases that were made under a 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 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. For additional information about the PBGC and the pension insurance program guarantees, go to the Multiemployer Page on PBGC’s website at www.pbgc.gov/multiemployer. Please contact your employer or plan administrator for specific information about your pension plan or pension benefit. PBGC does not have that information. See “Where to Get More Information About Your Plan,” below. Where to Get More Information For more information about this notice, you may contact the Plan Administrator at: Seafarers Pension Plan, Attn: Margaret Bowen, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; (301) 899-0675. For identification purposes, the official plan number is 001 and the plan sponsor’s employer identification number or “EIN” is 13-6100329. June 2018 �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, 2017. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Supplemental vacation pay 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 $839,931 as of July 31, 2017, compared to $486,181 as of August 1, 2016. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $353,750. 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 $13,625,376, including employer contributions of $13,607,753, earnings from investments of $16,103 and other income of $1,520. Plan expenses were $13,271,626. These expenses included $355,285 in administrative expenses and $12,916,341 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; and 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., the plan’s administrator at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, telephone number (415) 7644990. The charge to cover copying costs will be $6.25 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, California 94107 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C. or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, N-1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20210. 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, 2017. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Medical exam benefits paid 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 $(80,274) as of June 30, 2017, compared to $(73,411) as of July 1, 2016. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $6,863. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $702,791, including employer contributions of $701,113, earnings from investments of $103, and other income of $1,575. Plan expenses were $709,654. These expenses included $220,422 in administrative expenses, and $489,232 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; and 3. Assets held for investment. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Seafarers’ Medical Center Fund, the plan’s administrator, at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, California 94107, telephone (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, California 94107, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C. or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, N-1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. Annual Funding Notice – MCS Supplementary Pension Plan Introduction This notice includes important information about the funding status of your multiemployer pension plan (the “Plan”). It also includes 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 required by federal law. This notice is for the plan year beginning January 1, 2017 and ending December 31, 2017 (“Plan Year”). Funded Percentage The law requires the administrator of the Plan to tell you how well the Plan is funded, using a measure called the “funded percentage.” The Plan divides its assets by its liabilities on the Valuation Date for the plan year to get this percentage. In general, the higher the percentage, the better funded the plan. The Plan’s funded percentage for the Plan Year and each of the two preceding plan years is shown in the chart below. The chart also states the value of the Plan’s assets and liabilities for the same period. 2017 2016 2015 Valuation Date January 1, 2017 January 1, 2016 January 1, 2015 Funded Percentage 164.79% 164.72% 163.51% Value of Assets $6,678,855 $6,692,948 $6,748,469 Value of Liabilities $4,053,069 $4,063,143 $4,127,355 Fair Market Value of Assets The asset values in the chart above are measured as of the Valuation Date. They also are “actuarial values.” Actuarial values differ from market values in that they do not fluctuate daily based on changes in the stock or other markets. Actuarial values smooth out those fluctuations and can allow for more predictable levels of future contributions. Despite the fluctuations, market values tend to show a clearer picture of a plan’s funded status at a given point in time. The asset values in the chart below are market values and are measured on the last day of the Plan Year. The chart also includes the year-end market value of the Plan’s assets for each of the two preceding plan years. The December 31, 2017 fair value of assets disclosed below 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. December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 Fair Market Value of Assets $6,843,579 $6,685,248 $6,758,034 Participant Information The total number of participants and beneficiaries covered by the plan on the valuation date was 779. Of this number, 299 were current employees, 343 were retired and receiving benefits, and 137 were retired or no longer working for the employer and have a right to future benefits. Funding & Investment Policies Every pension plan must have a procedure to establish a funding policy for plan objectives. A funding policy relates to how much money is needed to pay promised benefits. 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. Pension plans also have investment policies. These generally are written guidelines or general instructions for making 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 Prudential Life Insurance Company that pays a guaranteed rate of interest each year. Approximately 30 percent of the remainder of the Plan’s assets is invested in equity securities with the balance invested in fixed income securities. 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): a. Preferred b. All other 4. Corporate stocks (other than employer securities): a. Preferred b. 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: a. Employer Securities b. Employer real property 16. Buildings and other property used in plan operation 17. Other June 2018 Percentage 0.7 3.2 10.9 0 0 24.2 0 0 0 0 8.6 0 0 0 5.9 46.3 0 0 0 0 For information about the plan’s investment in any of the following types of investments common/collective trusts, pooled separate accounts, or 103-12 investment entities – contact Margaret Bowen, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746-4275, (301) 899-0675. Endangered, Critical, or Critical and Declining Status Under federal pension law, a plan generally is in “endangered” status if its funded percentage is less than 80 percent. A plan is in “critical” status if the funded percentage is less than 65 percent (other factors may also apply). A plan is in “critical and declining” status if it is in critical status and is projected to become insolvent (run out of money to pay benefits) within 15 years (or within 20 years if a special rule applies). 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 or critical and declining status, the trustees of the plan are required to adopt a rehabilitation plan. Funding improvement and rehabilitation plans establish steps and benchmarks for pension plans to improve their funding status over a specified period of time. The plan sponsor of a plan in critical and declining status may apply for approval to amend the plan to reduce current and future payment obligations to participants and beneficiaries. The Plan was not in endangered, critical, or critical and declining status in the Plan Year. If the plan is in endangered, critical, or critical and declining status for the plan year ending December 31, 2018, separate notification of the status has or will be provided. Right to Request a Copy of the Annual Report Pension plans must file annual reports with the U.S. Department of Labor. The report is called the “Form 5500.” These reports contain financial and other information. You may obtain an electronic copy of your Plan’s annual report by going to www.efast.dol.gov and using the search tool. Annual reports also 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, D.C. 20210, or by calling (202) 6938673. Or you may obtain a copy of the Plan’s annual report by making a written request to the plan administrator. Annual reports do not contain personal information, such as the amount of your accrued benefit. You may contact your plan administrator if you want information about your accrued benefits. Your plan administrator is identified below under “Where To Get More Information.” Summary of Rules Governing Insolvent Plans Federal law has a number of special rules that apply to financially troubled multiemployer plans that become insolvent, either as ongoing plans or plans terminated by mass withdrawal. The plan administrator is required by law to include a summary of these rules in the annual funding notice. 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. 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. There are separate insurance programs with different benefit guarantees and other provisions for single-employer plans and multiemployer plans. Your Plan is covered by PBGC’s multiemployer program. 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 $600, 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 ($600/10), which equals $60. The guaranteed amount for a $60 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 addition, the PBGC guarantees qualified preretirement survivor benefits (which are preretirement death benefits payable to the surviving spouse of a participant who dies before starting to receive benefit payments). In calculating a person’s monthly payment, the PBGC will disregard any benefit increases that were made under a 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 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. For additional information about the PBGC and the pension insurance program guarantees, go to the Multiemployer Page on PBGC’s website at www.pbgc.gov/prac/multiemployer. Please contact your employer or plan administrator for specific information about your pension plan or pension benefit. PBGC does not have that information. See “Where to Get More Information About Your Plan,” below. Where to Get More Information For more information about this notice, you may contact the office of the Plan Administrator at: Margaret Bowen, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Maryland 20746, (301) 899-0675 For identification purposes, the official plan number is 001 and the plan sponsor’s employer identification number or “EIN” is 51-6097856. Seafarers LOG 11 �Personnel aboard the Miss Evelyn enjoy the day. It’s a tournament tradition: Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen (who’s also the dock master) wishes good luck to all the anglers. Nineteen boats were utilized for this year’s tournament. ‘We’re Treated as Family’ Seafarers Waterfront Classic Again Honors Veterans Mutual respect, camaraderie and laughter were displayed abundantly throughout the latest iteration of the Seafarers Waterfront Classic. The sixth annual event took place April 24 at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center (PHC) in Piney Point, Maryland. As usual, it brought together members of the American Military Veterans Foundation (AMMILVETS), rank-and-file Seafarers, SIU and PHC officials and staff, contracted operators, vendors and other guests. Altogether, nearly 150 individuals participated in the yearly affair, which generates funds primarily for the AMMILVETS (formerly named the Wounded Warrior Anglers). Fellowship on the 19 boats and at the dinner afterwards completely overshadowed a scarcity of fish for the second straight year. Some of the anglers reeled in catches, but there were no keepers of qualifying size. “Not catching fish was just a blip,” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker, founder and chairman of the Seafarers Waterfront Classic. “We’re grateful that we have an event that brings together so many friends in a comfortable setting to honor those who have served. The main point is really to salute our heroes and enjoy the seafood feast together. The AMMILVETS guests are the stars of the show.” AMMILVETS President David Souders emphasized how much he and the others from his group appreciated the warm welcome and the friendly treatment throughout their stay at the southern Maryland campus. “It was a great time – it’s always a great time,” he stated. “Each year, we bring different guys up, so it’s not always the same people. Most of the individuals attending this year are Vietnam veterans dealing with PTSD. They initially were a little leery of getting on boats with people they don’t know, but we got there a day early, and they got to know people and were treated as family. “It put a lot of them at ease,” Souders continued. “The key thing is the guys truly got the feeling we’re treated as family, and we feel the same about you.” SIU Assistant Vice President Kris Hopkins helped plan and conduct the event. Based at the SIU hall in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, he frequently interacted with AMMILVETS personnel leading up to the classic. (The AMMILVETS is headquartered in Cape Coral, Florida.) “I think it was another great event,” Hopkins said. “Any time that we can help out our veterans and contribute to their wellbeing it is worthwhile, and what better way than the Seafarers Waterfront Classic? As in past years, a great job was done by all in organizing the event and making it all happen. From Mike (SIU President Michael Sacco) and George to the school staff and the boat crews, everyone was great. Our industry came together to make this happen for a worthwhile cause. Kudos to the anglers, the leadership, everybody that’s involved – the school, the captains and the mates on the boats. In the end, what it does for the anglers and veterans is a great thing.” The dinner included an awards ceremony plus an auction featuring paintings and other artwork, along with hand-built fishing rods. The latter items are part of an AMMILVETS therapy course named the Warriors’ Handcrafted Rod Building Program. “Our focus is always on the veterans,” Tricker concluded. “It’s a pleasure and a privilege to host them, and I look forward to continuing this tradition for many years to come. I also extend a special thanks to (PHC Acting Vice President) Tom Orzechowski and the entire staff for working so hard and making it look easy. Their efforts definitely are not taken for granted.” This one didn’t get away, but Chris Mack threw it back since it was under the qualifying size. The crew of the Bay Quest gathers on the stern. Union Official Captures True Spirit Of Yearly Waterfront Outing for Vets For more photos from the Waterfront Classic, see Page 14. Fleet Capt. Butch Cornelius (right) chats with the event chairman, SIU VP Contracts George Tricker. 12 Seafarers LOG SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins helped organize the event. Those aboard the North Star show off this year’s banner. When SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez won an auction for a painting as part of the Seafarers Waterfront Classic, it seemed like a routine part of the evening. But the union official had additional steps in mind. Tellez later that week donated the artwork to the American Military Veterans Foundation (AMMILVETS), and shipped it with a heartfelt letter that reflects the tenor of the annual gathering. Here’s the full text of the note sent to AMMILVETS President David Souders: “It was a privilege and honor to once again participate in the AMMILVETS annual fishing tournament. It is obvious that the commitment and dedication exhibited by all involved to the care and wellbeing of our veterans is the key to mission success. I am proud to play a small part in the endeavor. “Enclosed is the painting I won at the auction at Tuesday night’s festivities. I would like to donate it to the Foundation. May it hang on your walls as a token of the everlasting bond forged by the simple idea of getting folks together to go fishing each year. Besides the monies raised, the obvious good will towards our veterans is profound. Of significance in the painting is that the ship’s telegraph indication is set on “Finished with Engines”. Let it serve as a gentle reminder that our mission will never be finished with engines until every veteran in this country receives the care and attention they so rightfully deserve. Those aboard the Kit 2 group up for a post-sailing photo. June 2018 June 2018 “Stay true to the course, hope to see you next year and as always I remain.” Respectfully yours, Augustin Tellez Executive Vice President SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez donated this painting to the AMMILVETS. Seafarers LOG 13 �More Photos From Annual Seafarers Waterfront Classic SIU Pensioner Nicholas Grassia (left) listens as SIU VP Contracts George Tricker addresses the dinner guests. Seafarers Waterfront Classic participants and guests pack the main dining room. Among those pictured at the table in front are SIU President Michael Sacco (lower right) and SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (center, wearing SIU jacket). Trophies and plaques are always part of the dinner event at the Seafarers Waterfront Classic. SIU President Michael Sacco (left) is surprised by the sight of a new painting featuring him by Charles Greenholdt (center). AMMILVETS President David Souders is at right. Veteran David Tucker, a Bronze Star recipient, is pictured with PHC Trustee Tony Naccarato. 14 Seafarers LOG It’s not that retired Recertified Steward Carl Poggioli (right) can’t bear to look. He’s just being fair during a drawing. SIU VP Contracts George Tricker is at left. USAF Technical Sergeant Joseph Charles Steele (left) constructed the fishing rod in the foreground, as part of a therapeutic program run by the AMMILVETS. With him are PHC Acting VP Tom Orzechowski (center) and PHC Trustee Tony Naccarato. June 2018 �Options for Paying Coast Guard User Fees Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea April 14, 2018 - May 13, 2018 Editor’s note: The following news item was posted May 8 on the U.S. Coast Guard’s Maritime Commons blog. For the convenience of our readers, this post provides updated information for mariners who need to submit payments for services and documents associated with merchant mariner credentialing, inspections, and vessel documentation. Online payments for Coast Guard user fees The Coast Guard encourages online payments by credit card or from a checking account. Forms for payments of fees for merchant mariner and vessel documentation services, as well as, forms for vessel inspection user fee payments are available at www.pay.gov. Once on the site, find Coast Guard forms for online payments by entering ‘USCG’ in the search field at the top of the page. The results will list Coast Guard forms for available online payments. New addresses for paying Coast Guard vessel inspection user fees by check The addresses for submitting payments by check to the Coast Guard, including for vessel inspection user fees, have changed. Payments sent to the old addresses will not be forwarded to the Coast Guard. Payments received after the due date will result in late fees and penalties. To ensure the Coast Guard receives payments sent by check through the U.S. Postal Service, use the following address: US Coast Guard Vessel Inspection P.O. Box 979118 St. Louis, MO 63197-9000 If using a delivery service that requires a street address, use the following address: U. S. Bank Government Lockbox Lockbox Number 979118 (COI) 1005 Convention Plaza ATTN: Gov’t Lockbox, SL-MOC1 GL St. Louis, MO 63101 Don’t forget to include the invoice number or the vessel name and identification number on the check. Additional information is available on the Coast Guard Finance Center’s website (https:// www.fincen.uscg.mil/VIF.htm). June & July 2018 Membership Meetings Piney Point.............................................Monday: June 4, July 2 Total Registered Port A All Groups B Total Shipped Registered on Beach C All Groups A B C Trip Reliefs A All Groups B C 0 0 2 4 0 6 0 6 6 1 0 2 8 0 0 0 1 3 0 2 41 4 2 1 9 0 7 1 18 19 20 0 6 12 2 0 0 3 18 0 9 131 17 5 4 25 3 20 19 98 63 68 1 15 42 40 4 2 9 64 4 45 548 7 2 5 18 1 3 10 18 30 17 6 6 32 11 7 2 8 15 2 16 216 3 1 1 10 0 12 2 27 22 10 1 10 12 9 2 1 1 11 0 16 151 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 1 2 1 0 2 3 1 0 0 0 2 0 2 17 0 0 1 7 0 0 3 7 11 7 1 1 4 0 0 0 1 4 1 9 57 4 1 3 14 1 3 10 21 37 23 2 10 24 19 7 4 11 24 4 25 247 6 0 3 8 2 4 6 9 23 7 0 6 16 7 1 4 5 8 0 23 138 0 0 1 4 1 0 1 9 3 2 0 2 9 3 0 0 3 4 0 9 51 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 14 3 6 15 1 7 7 43 42 41 1 8 22 30 2 3 3 36 2 31 317 8 1 1 13 2 1 5 10 19 13 6 5 14 5 1 0 4 7 2 9 126 1 0 2 8 0 8 1 17 10 6 1 6 5 6 1 1 2 6 0 4 85 Deck Department 7 7 3 1 8 2 12 5 0 1 8 0 3 5 34 9 32 11 27 8 2 4 9 3 14 7 7 4 2 2 2 1 3 2 19 6 1 1 19 6 212 85 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 4 1 4 8 0 1 10 12 24 15 2 5 17 11 9 4 3 14 1 13 158 5 0 5 6 2 1 5 4 12 8 0 6 12 5 2 6 1 5 1 11 97 0 0 2 3 0 0 2 6 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 2 2 0 4 24 Engine Department 0 0 0 0 1 3 10 2 0 0 1 0 4 2 14 1 14 10 11 9 3 0 2 3 8 11 4 2 3 1 2 3 2 0 12 1 2 1 6 7 99 56 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 6 0 3 9 0 4 7 21 16 10 2 3 14 12 3 3 2 14 0 17 146 1 0 1 2 0 0 1 6 11 4 0 1 10 2 0 3 5 4 0 10 61 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 4 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 1 11 Steward Department 1 0 0 0 1 0 10 5 1 1 3 0 6 1 23 3 12 5 6 3 0 1 3 2 14 7 9 4 1 0 0 2 1 0 8 1 1 1 14 3 114 39 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 1 2 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 9 0 0 0 3 0 0 3 11 8 4 0 3 11 5 0 1 0 5 0 10 64 6 0 3 18 1 11 22 30 34 17 4 5 19 26 4 9 2 23 3 29 266 1 0 1 3 0 1 1 7 11 3 0 3 14 7 0 3 9 3 0 18 85 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 3 2 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 1 2 2 17 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 5 2 1 0 1 3 2 0 1 0 6 0 2 25 6 4 3 2 0 2 4 10 16 14 0 1 17 10 0 0 0 12 0 15 116 8 2 5 7 0 4 2 14 35 15 0 2 29 10 1 3 1 8 0 24 170 Entry Department 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 6 0 1 0 0 0 2 4 6 0 9 2 5 0 0 0 0 1 10 1 6 0 1 0 0 0 0 4 3 0 0 2 9 14 60 4 2 3 1 1 2 3 8 10 3 0 0 17 6 0 1 0 5 0 10 76 2 0 0 3 0 2 0 5 1 2 0 0 3 2 0 0 0 2 0 3 25 2 1 0 1 0 1 2 6 4 2 0 2 4 3 0 1 0 9 0 8 46 12 4 2 7 1 2 11 15 27 28 0 1 29 20 0 1 1 20 0 25 206 14 3 2 11 0 5 5 30 82 30 1 3 59 24 1 5 2 26 1 56 360 GRAND TOTAL: 646 400 290 143 277 1,107 645 579 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 Mobile...........................................Wednesday: June 13, July 11 New Orleans.........................................Tuesday: June 12, July10 Jersey City.............................................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 due to Independence Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m ATTENTION SEAFARERS Contribute to the Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD Works For You! June 2018 439 240 Seafarers LOG 15 �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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by members in Tacoma, Washington. Question: What are some of the reasons you’ve made sailing your career, and why have you stuck with it? Justin Bowe AB I would say the flexibility of schedule is the number one reason I’ve stuck with it, but also the security of having a pension and health care that comes with being in the union. I usually work (as a) dayman, so it’s a new job every day, and I enjoy working a job that lets me stay physically active. Nasser Hafid Bosun/AB I started out sailing with my father, and when I was old enough I entered the “family business” and went to (the SIU-affiliated school in) Piney Point. It doesn’t hurt that the money is pretty great, and the flexible scheduling is hard to beat! Daniel Lovely Bosun/AB I’ve always been on the ocean, but I’ve stayed sailing – and stayed union – because of the job security. I’ve always been on the sea, and I can’t imagine doing anything else. I’ve been able to buy a house because of this job, and the economic freedom offered by sailing has opened new doors for me. Mark Billiot Recertified Bosun Just because I’ve enjoyed it so much, and I wanted to see the world, which this job has afforded me the opportunity to do. I’ve stuck with it because I really enjoyed being at sea and serving on the deck, and I figure why leave a job that you enjoy? I’m very happy with what I do for a living. Gerret Jarman Bosun/AB I would have to say the flexibility of the schedule. It’s a well-paying job, especially for a non-college graduate. I love the travel, seeing new places and getting new experiences. I’m a Piney Point graduate, and I’m very happy I made this my career. Jonas Robinson AB I started my career in the Navy, and I realized that I loved working on the sea, but I didn’t want to do it in the military. While I was still in the Navy, I met an SIU AB who told me all about the union and being a merchant marine, and I knew that was for me. I tell my kids, make sure to find a job you love, and I’m not sure what I’d do if I couldn’t sail anymore. If it ever came to that, I’d like to become an SIU patrolman or port agent. HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Pic From The Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 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 Stop 16 1/2 Santurce, PR 00907-4601 (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 first ran in a 1958 edition of the LOG. It was taken at one of the Andrew Furuseth Training Schools – a collection of facilities that were forerunners to the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. Cliff Taggart, mentioned in the original caption, was a charter member of the SIU. Here’s the full description from No. 14, Volume 20: “Congratulations are in order as Seafarer Cliff Taggart (left), instructor at the SIU Stewards Training School in Mobile, gives farewell handshake to graduates of monthlong course. The culinary cum laudes (l to r) are Dimitrio Franco, Robert Christian, John Young, Eddie Jackson, Cleo Jones and Milton Thibodeaux. Course includes shipboard culinary procedures and safety rules designed to maintain high standard of SIU feeding.” 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 2018 �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 Maersk Pittsburgh and lives in Moreno Valley, California. MUSA AHMED Brother Musa Ahmed, 66, joined the union in 1989, initially sailing on the Independence. A steward department member, he upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2002. Brother Ahmed last sailed on the Equality State and makes his home in Dearborn, Michigan. ERIBERTO BULALACAO Brother Eriberto Bulalacao, 68, donned the SIU colors in 1999, first sailing aboard the USNS Assertive. A steward department member, he last sailed on the USNS Mary Sears. Brother Bulalacao makes his home in Summerville, South Carolina. DENIS BURKE Brother Denis Burke, 58, donned the SIU colors in 1982, initially sailing aboard the Independence. A member of the steward department, he upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Burke last sailed on the APL Philippines and lives in Seabrook, Texas. RONALD DREW Brother Ronald Drew, 69, became a member of the SIU in 1991, initially sailing on the Anchorage. He upgraded his skills often at the Paul Hall Center and was a steward department member. Brother Drew most recently sailed aboard the Garden State and resides in Punta Gorda, Florida. LOUIS NICOUD Brother Louis Nicoud, 61, signed on with the SIU in 1980, when he sailed aboard the Oceanic Independence. The steward department member upgraded on several occasions at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center. Brother Nicoud most recently sailed aboard the Manoa and calls Stateline, Nevada, home. JETHRO POWERS Brother Jethro Powers, 66, donned the SIU colors in 2004, when he sailed on the Atlantic Forest. He was an engine department member and upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Powers most recently sailed aboard the Overseas Texas City and resides in Pensacola, Florida. FAISAL ZAIN Brother Ely Tayag, 71, signed on with the SIU in 2003 when he sailed aboard the Cape Henry. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the union-affiliated Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Tayag last sailed on the Garden State. He resides in Jacksonville, Florida. Brother Faisal Zain, 66, donned the SIU colors in 1991, initially shipping on the Overseas Vivian. The steward department member upgraded his skills at the unionaffiliated Piney Point school in 2003. Brother Zain last sailed on the Horizon Hawk. He calls Dearborn, Michigan, home. JOHN TAYLOR Brother Guillermo Quinones, 65, joined the SIU in 1969. He first shipped on the Steel Apprentice and was a member of the deck department. Brother Quinones upgraded at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point in 1977. He last sailed on the Value and calls Mercedita, Puerto Rico, home. Brother John Taylor, 65, joined the union in 1990, initially sailing aboard the Independence. He was a deck department member and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1997. Brother Taylor last sailed aboard the Maersk Texas and resides in Modesto, California. PATRICK RAY RICHARD TROVILLO Brother Patrick Ray, 58, joined the SIU in 1979 and first sailed aboard the Pacer. A member of the deck department, he upgraded often at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. Brother Ray last sailed on the Perla Del Caribe. He lives in St. Augustine, Florida. Brother Richard Trovillo, 69, signed on with the union in 2003. The deck department member’s first ship was the USNS Impeccable. Brother Trovillo upgraded his skills often at the Piney Point school. He last sailed on the USNS John Glenn and settled in Olympia, Washington. GUILLERMO QUINONES JOSE SIALANA Brother Jose Sialana, 65, signed on with the union in 1991, initially sailing aboard the Independence. He worked in the steward department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Sialana last sailed on the Freedom. He resides in Tacoma, Washington. JOHN STEWART Brother John Stewart, 66, became a union member in 2001. His first ship was the Grand Canyon State; his last, the Green Bay. An engine department member, Brother Stewart upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 2004 and settled in San Francisco. ROBERT PESULIMA DULIP SOOKHIRAM Brother Robert Pesulima, 70, signed on with the SIU in 1997, initially working aboard the Sam Houston. The deck department member took advantage of opportunities at the Piney Point school and upgraded on several occasions. Brother Pesulima most recently sailed aboard the Brother Dulip Sookhiram, 65, began his career with the Seafarers in 1999 when he sailed on the Shughart. He was a steward department member and upgraded on several occasions. Brother Sookhiram last sailed aboard the Maersk Idaho and calls Woodside, New York, home. June 2018 ELY TAYAG NATIVIDAD ZAPATA Brother Natividad Zapata, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1992. He first worked aboard the Independence and was a member of the steward department. He upgraded his skills often at the Piney Point school and last sailed aboard the Maersk Detroit. Brother Zapata resides in Atlanta. INLAND RONALD CHAVERS Brother Ronald Chavers, 62, signed on with the union in 1979. He first worked for Dixie Carriers and was a member of the deck department. Brother Chaves upgraded his skills on several occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point. He most recently sailed with Crowley Towing and Transportation, and resides in Abingdon, Maryland. STEVIE ELLIOTT RAPHAEL VARGAS Brother Raphael Vargas, 65, began his career with the SIU in 1977, when he sailed aboard the Overseas Joyce. He was a deck department member and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Vargas most recently sailed on the Alliance St. Louis. He makes his home in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. Brother Stevie Elliot, 62, joined the SIU in 1977, when he worked for Higman Barge Lines. A member of the deck department, he worked for the same company for the duration of his career. Brother Elliott makes his home in Wiergate, Texas. WILLIAM HUDNELL Brother William Hudnell, 67, joined the union in 1998, when he sailed for Express Marine. He was a deck department member and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Hudnell remained with the same company for his entire career and lives in Belhaven, North Carolina. FRANK MAHR Brother Frank Mahr, 65, signed on with the union in 2000. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Mahr remained with Penn Maritime for the duration of his career. He makes his home in New Port Richey, Florida. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION STEVE PIERSON Brother Steve Pierson, 65, joined the union in 1974, when he sailed on the Keva Ideal. Brother Pierson was an engine department member. He calls Plymouth, Massachusetts, home. Congratulations, Graduate! RAY WAITERS Brother Ray Waiters, 65, joined the SIU in 1973, first sailing aboard the Walter Rice. The deck department member upgraded on multiple occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point. Brother Waiters most recently shipped aboard the Sulfur Enterprise and settled in Mobile, Alabama. GUDE Bryan Velazquez (left) picks up his high school diploma at the May membership meeting in Piney Point, Maryland. Velazquez earned the degree through the certified program offered by the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Congratulating him on the achievement is SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures MORRIS CORNELL Pensioner Morris Cornell, 80, passed away April 19. He joined the union in 1991 and first sailed on the Cape Edmont. Brother Cornell was a member of the steward department and last worked aboard the Champion. He retired in 2009 and settled in Altemonte, Florida. SORIANO GRANDE Pensioner Soriano Grande, 67, died April 22. He joined the union in 1989 when he shipped aboard the Independence. A steward department member, he last worked aboard the Green Bay. Brother Grande retired in 2016 and lived in Waipahu, Hawaii. WILLIAM HUDSON Pensioner William Hudson, 77, passed away April 3. He signed on with the SIU in 1957, initially sailing on the Cathrine. A member of the engine department, Brother Hudson last sailed on the Blue Ridge. The Mississippi native became a pensioner in 2003 and was a resident of Malcolm, Alabama. WARNER JAMES Brother Warner James, 61, died November 7. He joined the SIU in 2005 when he shipped on the Noble Star. A deck department member, brother James most recently sailed aboard the Pacific Tracker. He resided in Oak Harbor, Washington. GREGORY JOHNS Pensioner Gregory Johns, 65, passed away April 14. He signed on with the union in 1970, initially working with Rye Marine. An engine department member, Brother Johns last sailed on the Maersk Montana. He retired in 2016 and lived in Sanford, Florida. GEORGE NOTTINGHAM Pensioner George Nottingham, 84, died May 1. He donned the SIU colors in 1991, first sailing aboard the Meteor. A member of the deck department, he most recently sailed on the Cornhusker State. Brother Nottingham retired in 2005 and resided in Pikesville, Maryland GLENN TAAN Brother Glenn Taan, 52, passed away January 15. He joined the union in 1989, initially sailing aboard the Independence. A member of the steward department, Brother Taan most recently worked aboard the Maersk Arkansas. He called Waipahu, Hawaii, home. ANTONIO TREVINO Pensioner Antonio Trevino, 83, died April 22. He signed on with the union in 1968 and first sailed on the Chatham. The deck department member last shipped on the Cove Sailor. Brother Trevino went on pension in 1999 and lived in Carrollton, Texas. THOMAS ONEYEAR Pensioner Thomas Oneyear, 73, passed away April 7. He became a member of the SIU in 1994, initially sailing on the USNS Persistent. A member of the deck department, Brother Oneyear last sailed on the Edward A. Carter Jr. He became a pensioner in 2009 and made his home in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. MARK WELSH Brother Mark Welsh, 53, passed away March 24. He signed on with the SIU in 2000, initially working aboard the USNS Bold. An engine department member, Brother Welsh last sailed aboard the Cape Intrepid. He resided in Edgewater, Maryland. JAMES SMITH Brother James Smith, 55, died December 9. He joined the union in 1982 and first sailed aboard the Charles E. Wilson. The deck department member most recently sailed aboard the Sam Laud. Brother Smith lived in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. PETER WOODWARD Pensioner Peter Woodward, 65, died April 27. He became an SIU member in 1976 and first sailed on the RD Conrad. Brother Woodward was a member of the deck department and most recently sailed aboard the Independence II. He became a pensioner in 2017 and settled in Whaleyville, Maryland. INLAND HASSAN AHMED Pensioner Hassan Ahmed, 87, passed away March 3. He started his career in the Great Lakes division in 1969 and first sailed aboard the American Seaocean. Brother Ahmed worked in the engine department and last sailed on the Bob Lo Island. He retired in 1996 and made his home in University Place, Washington. ALVIN STEVENSON Pensioner Alvin Stevenson, 70, died April 24. He joined the union in 1988 when he worked for Red Circle Transport. Brother Stevenson remained with the same company until his retirement in 2011. He lived in D’Iberville, Mississippi. ARMANDO VIDAL Pensioner Armando Vidal, 79, passed away April 14. He signed on with the union in 1969, first sailing on the Steel Seafarer in the deep-sea division. He sailed in both the engine and steward departments and later worked on the shore gang in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Brother Vidal retired in 1997 and resided in Bronx, New York. member of the SIU in 1991 when he worked for Sealand. Brother White was a member of the engine department and last worked with Cargotec Services. He went on pension in 2015 and settled in Norfolk, Virginia. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION LEONARD PADEN Brother Leonard Paden, 92, passed away March 12. He was born in Willisville, Arkansas and lived in made his home in Portland, Oregon. CHARLES PITT Pensioner Charles Pitt, 94, died April 20. Brother Pitt was born in Brooklyn, New York. He called Galveston, Texas, home. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. Bratten, James Cedeno, Mauro Colon, Marcos Fadl, Ibrahim Feliciano, Domingo Jones, Orio Richard, Joseph Saeed, Ali Simon, Mark Stover, Lyle Taylor, Arthur Villafane, Vicente 94 95 91 91 95 81 91 85 70 83 71 94 04/30/2018 04/16/2018 02/11/2018 04/06/2018 04/18/2018 10/29/2017 03/15/2018 04/20/2018 04/28/2018 04/11/2018 03/19/2018 04/30/2018 THOMAS WHITE Pensioner Thomas White, 68, died April 22. He became a UNREP In Pacific The Seafarers-crewed USNS Henry J. Kaiser (left) conducts a replenishment at sea with the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis in the Pacific Ocean on May 10. The Kaiser is a replenishment oiler whose crew includes members of the SIU Government Services Division. The Stennis is shown underway with the ships and squadrons of Carrier Strike Group 3, conducting a group-sail training in preparation for its next scheduled deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class David A. Brandenburg) 18 Seafarers LOG June 2018 �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. Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings OVERSEAS NEW YORK (Overseas Ship Management), February 13 – Chairman Robert Pagan, Secretary Judi Chester, Educational Director Justin Valencia Rodriguez, Steward Delegate Betty Cooper. Crew discussed room sanitary issue in relation to overtime hours. Secretary thanked deck department for job well done stripping and waxing decks. Crew was praised for working well together. Educational director reminded members to go to Piney Point to upgrade and gave thanks for steward department’s hard work. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members discussed concerns with cold temperatures aboard ship. New blankets due to arrive. Crew expressed frustration regarding high costs to get ashore. Next Port: Jacksonville, Florida. ALLIANCE FAIRFAX (Maersk Line, Limited), February 26 – Chairman Robert Arneel, Secretary Robin Ballard, Educational Director Paul Pagano. New contracts available in crew lounge. Secretary reiterated importance of being aware of document expiration dates. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade. Engine delegate reported overtime issue. Members were reminded to be respectful of shipmates. Special thanks given to steward department. Crew requested new fountain drink machine. GOLDEN STATE (Crowley), March 14 – Chairman Philip McGeoghegan, Secretary Michael Carello. Members reviewed mattress and linen orders. Chairman discussed President Michael Sacco’s report in Seafarers LOG and emphasized importance of Jones Act, which helps sustain almost 500,000 U.S. jobs. Secretary mentioned effects of new tax laws on merchant mariners. Educational director reminded members to keep documents up to date. Crew was directed to go to captain regarding purchases for vessel. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested new microwave and that dryer be repaired. KEYSTONE STATE (Pacific Gulf Marine), March 19 – Chairman Gheorghe Savencu, Secretary John Stephens, Educational Director David Quade, Steward Delegate Gregg Blevins. Buffet-style meals served to members. Crew thanked steward department for a job well done. Educational director reminded members of upgrading opportunities at Piney Point and stressed importance of keeping documents up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun instructed crew to collect dirty linen in bags and to turn in keys upon payoff. Crew acknowledged and thanked captain for assisting AB with blood-pressure check. Crew touched on 50th anniversary of SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, which took place last year. HORIZON PACIFIC (PASHA), March 24 – Chairman Daniel Ticer, Secretary Donald Irvine, Educational Director Mario Delacruz, Deck Delegate Antjuan Webb, Engine Delegate Noli Aguirre, Steward Delegate Mercurion Abuan. Crew revisited requests for fans in rooms and lounge. Captain thanked members for a job well done on Coast Guard drills. Crew went over materials given by union representative in Oakland, California. Secretary advised members to contribute to SPAD and thanked them for repairs and cooperation. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade at Piney Point and stay up to date on documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to SIU president and staff. Chairman asked members to keep noise down while off-watch crewmembers sleep. Steward department agreed with members’ requests for night lunch menu. Next Port: Oakland. OVERSEAS NEW YORK (Overseas Ship Management), March 25 – Chairman Robert Pagan, Secretary Judi Chester, Educational Director Justin Valencia Rodriguez, Deck Delegate Willie McCray, Engine Delegate Braulio Ente, Steward Delegate Deitre Jackson. Old business discussed among members. New blankets provided for crew. Chairman reiterated importance of keeping up with ship cleanliness. He noted good work in shipyard and job well done by steward department. Secretary told members where to find new contract and asked that it be returned promptly when borrowed. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at the Piney Point school before he announced his hope to see them in the future. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested to use ship’s fund for TVs and refrigerators. Members asked for Wi-Fi access. Next Port: Pasadena, Texas. PALMETTO STATE (Crowley), March 28 – Chairman Charles Hill, Secretary Danny Brown, Steward Delegate Francisco Zuniga Arzu. Chairman discussed wheel relief and related communications with chief mate. Deck delegate reported 10 hours of disputed OT. Engine delegate reminded everyone about protocols for resolving problems. Bosun thanked galley gang for good food and hard work. ALASKAN EXPLORER (Alaska Tanker Company), March 31 – Chairman Michael Moore, Secretary John Huyett, Educational Director Tristan Brand, Deck Delegate Domingo Cazon, Engine Delegate Kevin Kelly, Steward Delegate Deandre Speight. Crew awaits update on replacement computer chairs and recliners. Educational director urged members to upgrade and mentioned available help with application process. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department thanked for good food. Next Port: Valdez, Alaska. LIBERTY PASSION (Liberty Maritime), April 2 – Chairman David Crisp, Secretary Sulay Martinez, Steward Delegate Daniel Miller. Crew discussed benefits of upgrading at SIUaffiliated school in Piney Point. Treasurer reported $1,500 in ship fund. Deck delegate reported problem with OT. Mariners encouraged each other to read union newspaper. Crew suggested lowering sea-time requirements needed to qualify for pension. ALASKAN FRONTIER (Alaska Tanker Company), April 7 – Chairman Jose Loureiro, Secretary Lewis Johansen, Educational Director Marion Collins, Engine Delegate Corey Hann. Ship reactivated from lay-up in Portland, Oregon. Crew scheduled to make three voyages before heading to Malaysia for cold lay-up. Chairman wants membership meetings to be held more frequently and reminded members to keep union dues up to date. Chairman provided clarification on new penalty rates and gave instructions for filling in time sheets. Secretary advised members to keep up with all necessary endorsements and medical cards. Educational director recommended crew take as many courses possible at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. DVD players ordered for members. Steward department commended for great food. Good morale on ship. ALASKAN LEGEND (Alaska Tanker Company), April 8 – Chairman Alvin Martin, Secretary Just Self, Educational Director Jeremias Cepeda, Deck Delegate Lindsey Austin, Engine Delegate Mohamed Ghaleb, Steward Delegate Robert Resurreccion. Chairman discussed email from team leader of Alaska Tanker Company. Email pertained to weekly meetings and standard tanker agreement. Small food stores port order set for Valdez, Alaska. Secretary reported issues with produce walkin box and deck walk-in freezer. Repair needed for middle dryer on b-deck. Deck delegate requested clarification regarding travel arrangements. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew voted for new television satellite system. Members requested updated music systems and new recliners for state rooms. 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 June 2018 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 19 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 BAPO July 28 September 22 August 24 October 19 FOWT August 25 September 21 Title of Course Junior Engineer August 11 October 27 October 5 December 21 Machinist June 16 September 1 July 6 September 21 Marine Electrician August 11 October 5 Marine Refer Tech October 6 November 16 MEECE July 21 August 3 Pumpman July 7 July 13 Welding August 18 Start Date Gap Closing Courses Engineroom Resource Management October 6 Leadership & Manageral Skills October 13 Date of Completion October 12 October 19 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck August 25 October 20 September 21 November 16 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Students will be advised of dates once accepted. Advanced Shiphandling June 23 July 6 ARPA June 30 October 20 July 6 October 26 Bosun Recertification July 21 Crane Familiarization September 7 Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Ops August 25 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start June 11. August 6 Chief Steward July 7 August 24 July 14 July 20 Galley Operations July 14 August 10 100 Ton Master October 13 November 2 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 ECDIS October 20 October 26 June 23 July 21 June 29 July 27 Fast Rescue Boat June 16 July 7 August 11 June 22 July 13 August 17 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 June 16 July 7 June 22 July 13 GMDSS September 22 October 5 Serve Safe July 28 August 3 Lifeboat June 30 July 28 August 25 September 22 October 20 July 13 August 10 September 7 October 5 November 2 June 16 October 6 June 29 October 19 Radar Observer September 21 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training w/16hr FF June 16 July 14 June 22 July 20 Basic Training Revalidation July 13 July 27 July 13 July 27 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation August 18 August 24 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting July 7 July 13 RFPNW July 28 September 22 November 17 Government Vessels June 23 June 29 Medical Care Provider July 14 July 20 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL August 25 August 31 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG August 4 August 10 August 24 October 19 December 14 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers December 1 December 14 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 If yes, class # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? †Yes †�No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG 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, or 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. 6/18 June 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #834 – Graduated February 23 (in alphabetical order): Patrick Anderson Jr., Keilah Freeman, Matthew Jasper, Joshua Mann, Nelito Ronie Monterio, David Moore, Andrew Murphy, Luther Sarvis IV, Taj Scott, Harry Whitney IV, Kevin Willis and Seamus Woods. Apprentice Water Survival Class #835 – Graduated March 23 (in alphabetical order): Dominique Archibald, Reny Arzu, Badr Eddine Bouziane, Mark Dennison, James Douglas, Steven Ellis Jr., Adam Salim Elmenani, Marcus Lopez, Brady Martin, Ivan Gabriel Meza, David Franz Pelczmann, Quinton Sashington, Bertram Horatio Solomon Jr., Steven Thornton, Cole Vose and Demario Cortez Walter. Instructor Bernabe Pelingon is at the far right. Welding – Graduated March 16 (in alphabetical order): Steven Gedrich, Thomas Leroy and Matthew McClintock. Instructor Chris Raley is at the far right. Water Survival Upgraders – Graduated February 23: Antonio Duhaylungsod Zorrilla (left) and Mark Nover Miranda Lata Water Survival Upgraders – Graduated March 23 : Mark Loreto Mamangun Lagundi (left), Rahsean Sharp and Francois Emmanuel Doucet III. Instructor Bernabe Pelingon is at right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BAPO – Graduated March 9 (in alphabetical order): Enrique Tabamo Ampil, Peter Babor Durangparang, Merville Lariosa Gallema, Mohammed Alam Gir, Jared Johnson, Mark Loreto Mamangun Lagundi, Bryant McGiffen Jr. and Mason McGowan. BAPO – Graduating March 9 (in alphabetical order) were Phase III apprentices Alberto Luis Alvarez-Gonzalez, Caleb Donovan, Francois Emmanuel Doucet III, Tianna Evans, Cody Klekar, Michael Lane, Eli Lopez, Ethan Love, Montel MacKey, Tommy McGahe, Philip Pete, Camonte Terrell, Stephen Venditti and Shawn Yancey Jr. Each plans to work in the engine departments of American-flag vessels upon completion of their training. June 2018 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes RFPNW – Graduated March 9 (in alphabetical order): Phase III Apprentices Mason Cook, Benjamin Little Feet Curran, John Hodges, Alphonso Johnson Jr., and Rahsean Ameir Sharp. Once their training is completed, each plans to work in the deck departments of SIU-contracted vessels. Junior Engineer – Graduated March 16 (in alphabetical order): Ryan Brandle, Kem Burton, Vincente Dunbar, Gabriel Freeman, James Grant, Jing Hui Huang, Joseph Marino, Isaac Nugen, Daniel Joshua Ramos Resultan, Michael Antonio Ribeiro and Tad Van. Instructor Christopher Thomas is second from the left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Graduated March 23 (in alphabetical order): Andrew Barrows, Randall Campbell, Laurentis Colbert, Timothy Fogg, Jasper Hayward, Marva Paige and Jeffrey Wheatley. Marine Electrician – Graduated March 16 (in alphabetical order): Alvin Cabahit, Jared Cabasug, Derek Chestnut, Earl Dimmick, David Kelch, Todd Lander, Jean Paul Merino Lozada, Mana Hassan Muhsen and Charles Packer. Instructor Sterling Cox is at the far left. GMDSS – Graduated March 23 (in alphabetical order): Dylan Mikaele Casuga, Johnathon Gager, Scott Gilleland, Charles Hosea Jr., Shoal Nervo, Earnest Paulk III and Douglas Simmons. Instructor Patrick Schoenberger is at the far left. RFPNW – Graduated March 9: Daniel Afran Mensah (left) and William Asdrubal Mercado Ramos. Engineroom Resource Management – Graduated March 16 (in alphabetical order): Van Dixon, George Bernasco Pobee and Daniel Tapley. Instructor William Dodd is at the far right. Combined Basic & Advanced Firefighting – Graduated March 9 (in alphabetical order): Robert Boomer, Servando Jesus Canales Jr., Scott Gilleland, Charles Hosea Jr., Joseph Loguidice, Shoal Peter Nervo, Angel Alfredo Nunez, Michael Riley, Patrick Schoenberger, David Seymore, Richard Vega Villafane and Ameen Abdo Yahya. Instructor Joe Zienda is at the far left. Basic Training Revalidation – Graduated February 23 (both photos above, in alphabetical order): Hussein Hussein Ali, Richard Barnes, William Barrett, Romeo Barredo Bendico, Nathan Bryant, Cesar Cera Dela Cruz, Alexander Vasilyevich Glebov, Lucian Gravelle, Kaamil Ibn Salam Gray, Mohamad Mahmoud Kammoun, Michael Kanga, Mohammad Salim Khan, Ammar Saeed Mohamed, David Amer Mohamed, David Myrick, Abdulsalam Mohamed Omar, Eduardo Osorio, Stephen Roseberry, Mark Stahovic, Scott Thompson, Andrezej Tlalka, Wayne Webb and Marvin White. 22 Seafarers LOG June 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Basic Training (Advanced Firefighting Revalidation) – Graduated March 16 (in alphabetical order): Charles Mills, Christopher Morgan, Michael Morgan, Thomas Powell, Elmer Prestidge, William Racette, Brett Ruppert, Jason Stahl, Benjamin Stevens and Andrew Van Bourg. Instructor John Thomas is at the far left. Chief Steward – Graduated March 2 (in alphabetical order): Alonzo Belcher, James Cameron, Darryl Goggins, Jerome Jordan and Cayetano Terria Toledo. Chief Steward – Graduated March 16 (in alphabetical order): Alphonzo Berry, Danny Brown, Robert Greenwood and Gregory Melvin. MLC Cook – Graduated March 16: Brenda Taylor (left) and Miriam Merluzzo. Chief Steward – Graduated March 23 (from left): Arlene Yalo Thomas, Shanita Flachbart and Darrion Ingram. Galley Ops – Graduated February 9 (from left): Khiry Bivins*, Munassar Mohamed Ali and Luis Guardado Jr. June 2018 Basic Training Basic Firefighting (Upgraders) – Graduated March 30 (in alphabetical order): Crista Ali, Toriano Aderyll Brown, Jovita Guadalupe Carino, Ines Armando Castillo Flores, Lawrence Croft, Abdul Ali Hassan, Gerald Joseph, Fernando Fernandes Lopes, Erik Loret, David Seymore, Michael Sivells, Lowell Topham Jr., Ronaldo Salazar Torres and Robert Vazquez. Certified Chief Cook – Graduated from Module 1 February 12: Kevin Joel Valentin Rivera. Galley Ops – Phase III Apprentice Michael Musgrave graduated from this course March 9. Once he completes his training, Musgrave plans to work in the steward department aboard SIU-contracted vessels. Chief Steward – Graduated March 30 (in alphabetical order): Alan Bartley, Thomas Cyrus Jr., Caezar Rivera Mercado and Jonda Tanner. MSC Storekeeper (Basic) – Graduated March 16 (in alphabetical order): Tyesha Boyd, John Cedeno Jr., David Dunklin, Joseph Evans, Joseph Garnett, Christopher King, Sebastian Damian Krowicki, William Mulcahy, Eduardo Osorio, Miles Partridge, Zarko Vrbljanac and William Young. Instructor Matthew Rogers is at the far left. Seafarers LOG 23 �JUNE 2018 VOLUME 80, NO. 6 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 Recertified Steward Cesar Cera Dela Cruz Recertified Steward Robinson Eromosele Recertified Steward Michael Ingram Recertified Steward Breon Lucas Recertified Steward Stephen Martin Recertified Steward Tyrell Thabit Stewards Complete Highest Level of Training Six SIU members recently earned their respective ways to the top of the steward department upgrading ladder. During the May 7 membership meeting in Piney Point, Maryland, the following Seafarers graduated from the Paul Hall Center’s steward recertification program: Cesar Cera Dela Cruz, Robinson Eromosele, Michael Ingram, Breon Lucas, Stephen Martin and Tyrell Thabit. The three-week class blends practical instruction with classroom work, and covers a wide range of topics. Those subjects include collective bargaining, communications and problem solving, functions of various departments within the SIU and the AFLCIO’s Maritime Trades Department, and computer technology. The class also covers social responsibilities and leadership, baking skills, sanitation, nutrition and more. This particular class of upgraders also participated in a trip to Capitol Hill, where they joined other maritime industry allies in meeting with congressmen and senators who support the Jones Act and other crucial components of the U.S.-flag fleet. (See story, page 5.) As part of the graduation ceremony, each newly minted recertified steward offered some insight into their personal stories, as well as some words of wisdom for the apprentices in attendance. The following are excerpts from their graduation speeches, as well as comments submitted to the Seafarers LOG by the graduates in advance. Cesar Cera Dela Cruz Sailing out of Honolulu, Dela Cruz joined the SIU in 1983, and offered his thanks to the staff and instructors at the school. He then described his relationship with the union: “The SIU has been important in my life; it is my bread and butter. It has helped create the foundation of my life in Honolulu, and without the union I wouldn’t have any of that.” He also offered advice to the trainees assembled in the school’s auditorium, saying, “Study while you’re here and learn from your instructors. Learn to work with your classmates, and when you get out to sea, work hard and carry your load. Never be afraid to be ask questions of your department head.” After reminding the mariners assembled of the importance of upgrading their skills at the Paul Hall Center, he concluded, “The union’s leadership needs our help to protect our industry and our jobs. We need to donate to SPAD (the union’s voluntary political action fund) in order to give our leadership the resources they need to work for us.” Robinson Eromosele Eromosele, who emigrated from Nigeria to the United States in 2001, joined the SIU in 2003 and began sailing out of the Port of Houston. He admitted that, while his English skills were lacking at first, he quickly SIU officials joined the newly minted recertified stewards and one spouse for this photo immediately following their graduation. gained proficiency in the language. “I have been so blessed that I have been able to send my children to college without borrowing money,” he said, noting that two of his children are now medical doctors, with a third child working as a chemical engineer. “The union has been a blessing to me and my family in all aspects of life. I have been able to purchase my dream home in Nigeria, and another family home in Richmond, Texas.” He also spoke highly of his time spent upgrading at Piney Point: “The overall experience has been very awesome, as this recertification class has given me the opportunity to understand the full meaning of the Jones Act and the importance of SPAD. Everything I have come to know about shipping is all because of the tireless, gentle and very humble instructors I met or took their classes at one point or another. They Continued on Page 6 � 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 2018 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES CROWLEY ACQUIRES THREE TANKERS MOVE MEANS NEW JOBS FOR SIU MEMBERS ANGLERS DUB ANNUAL WATERFRONT CLASSIC ENORMOUS SUCCESS HONORED IN ‘THE BIG APPLE’ FEDERATION RELEASES ANNUAL REPORT ON STATE OF SAFETY, HEALTH PROTECTIONS FOR U.S. WORKERS SIU MEMBERS SECURE NEW JOBS ON 3 TANKERS CONGRESSMAN RICK LARSEN SPEAKS OUT FOR JONES ACT ADVISORY BOARD EXAMINES TRAINING NEEDS, UPDATES ATTENDEES ON PINEY POINT PROGRESS SEAFARERS HELP DELIVER JONES ACT MESSAGE PAUL HALL CENTER OFFERS NEW STOREKEEPER COURSE PRESENTING THE REAL SCOOP ON VAPING AND E-CIGARETTES ‘WERE TREATED AS FAMILY’ SEAFARERS WATERFRONT CLASSIC AGAIN HONORS VETERANS STEWARDS COMPLETE HIGHEST LEVEL OF TRAINING Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 06/01/2018 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. 80, No. 6 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/95068cb95d372d5a8f97670ad776160c.pdf 8f7f1a81fc42999600f149bdf769ce63 PDF Text Text MAY F E B2018 RUARY 2014 VOLUME VOLUME 7 6 o 80, N ONO. . 25 Production Begins On 2nd Matson Ship General Dynamics NASSCO recently conducted a ceremony marking the start of construction on Seafarerscontracted Matson Navigation’s Matsonia, a combination container and roll-on/roll-off ship. The snapshot at right shows shipyard employees and dignitaries in San Diego preparing to cut the first piece of steel for the new vessel. The image below is an artist’s rendering of the new Con-Ro ship. Page 3. (Images courtesy General Dynamics NASSCO). Piney Point-Based Paul Hall Center Emphasizes Hands-On Instruction Founded in 1967, the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education always has put a premium on practical instruction. Hands-on training is included in virtually every one of the school’s 70-plus U.S. Coast Guard-approved courses. These recent snapshots show students in various classes at the Piney Point, Maryland school. For more information and photos, turn to pages 12-13. For updates on the school’s college program and its new steward department curriculums, see the back page. Seafarers Support ‘Continuing Promise’ The SIU-crewed USNS Spearhead is playing a key role in Continuing Promise 2018, a multinational humanitarian mission. In photo at right, U.S. Navy medical personnel embark on the expeditionary fast transport vessel in Mayport, Florida, in early March. The ship is crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division. Page 8. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kayla Cosby) The photo below shows a patient waiting for a tooth removal in the oral surgery room of the medical unit at the Izabal Sports Complex during Continuing Promise 2018 in Puerto Barrios, Guatemala. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Brianna K. Green) Gen. McDew Backs U.S. Maritime Page 3 Members Ratify Contract Page 4 SIU Active at Sail-In Pages 6-7 �MSP, Other Maritime Programs Funded by Omnibus Spending Bill President’s Report More Support for Jones Act It’s always encouraging to hear about support for our nation’s freight cabotage law, so I was pleased to read several recent comments from maritime and national security leaders who attended a Navy League of the United States event in the nation’s capital. The gathering is an annual one known as the Sea-Air-Space Exposition. It’s run by one of our industry’s biggest backers, the Navy League, and it brings together key officials and executives from the U.S. defense industrial base, private-sector U.S. companies and the American military. During a panel on April 11, subject-matter experts got together to discuss the importance of the Jones Act in ensuring sealift capacity, supporting a strong defense industrial base, and for maintaining homeland and economic security. Participants included Anthony Fisher, Deputy Associate Administrator for Commercial Sealift of the Maritime Administration; Michael Herbert, Chief of the Customs and Border Protection Jones Act Division of Enforcement; Rear Admiral John P. Nadeau, Assistant Commandant for Prevention Policy for the United Michael Sacco States Coast Guard; and Matt Woodruff, Chairman of the American Maritime Partnership (AMP), a major coalition representing the domestic maritime industry. (You may have previously read Jones Act-related comments from Herbert and Fisher, respectively, in our coverage of Maritime Trades Department meetings.) Fisher asserted that the Jones Act was the essential component to ensuring that crucial supplies including food, water and medicine were quickly delivered to the Puerto Rico as soon as ports reopened after Hurricane Maria. As he put it, “The Jones Act did not hamper the response. The Jones Act made the response possible.” Herbert used a term that should hit home when it comes to securing the homeland: “We use the Jones Act as a virtual wall,” he said. “Without the Jones Act in place, our inland waterways would be inundated with foreign-flagged vessels.” Rear Adm. Nadeau, answering a question about the consequences of a hypothetical repeal of the law, said, “The Coast Guard is responsible for the safety and stability of the marine transportation system, and [if you repeal the Jones Act] you just made our jobs a whole lot harder.” Recognizing the stringent requirements met by U.S. Merchant Mariners, Woodruff noted, “Our mariners are U.S. Citizens and are credentialed by the U.S. Coast Guard. They undergo extensive background checks. Our mariners are the neighborhood watch of the waterways of America.” Those weren’t the only insightful comments from the Navy League event. During a different panel discussion earlier the same week, Rear Adm. (USN, Ret.) Mark Buzby, currently serving as Maritime Administrator, said, “Take away the Jones Act, you have taken away the majority of jobs for our U.S. mariners in peacetime, that we need in wartime. Getting rid of the Jones Act does not think through all of the ramifications it has on our war fighting ability – and to sustain the Navy and to sustain the Marine Corps. That is why our flag says in peace and war.” And on still another panel – one covering shipbuilding – Matt Paxton, President of the Shipbuilders Council of America, explained that the Jones Act’s U.S.-build requirement ultimately helps ensure that our troops can depend on reliable deliveries of materiel so they can achieve their missions. Some of you may wonder why we are involved in coalitions. Take another look at the list of people I just quoted. None of them are from a union, but they all understand the importance of the Jones Act and the work you do. I’m sure you’ve noticed, but efforts to maintain support for the Jones Act do not end. Similarly, as we report elsewhere in this edition, no sooner had the SIU and many other pro-maritime allies helped secure full funding for the U.S. Maritime Security Program than we shifted our focus toward getting proper monies for it for the next fiscal year. It’s the same thing with cargo preference – our work is constant, because that’s what it takes to keep these laws and programs in place, and thereby maintain SIU members’ jobs. Election Day isn’t all that far off, and as we get closer to November, it’s important to continue supporting candidates who back our industry. America’s national, economic and homeland security depend on the U.S. Merchant Marine and American-flag shipping. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 80 Number 5 o NO. 2 May 2018 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org As reported at last month’s SIU membership meetings, the recently approved federal spending bill includes several important pro-maritime provisions. The overall measure funds the federal government for the 2018 fiscal year, which began in October. Signed into law on March 23, the omnibus bill calls for $1.3 trillion in expenditures. The legislation is 2,232 pages long. A highlight of the package is full funding for the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP), something the SIU and its allies persistently pushed for. The president’s budget request for the fiscal year recommended funding the program at $214 million, a significant cut, but Congress rejected that recommendation. (Even though Congress approved a 10-year extension of the program through fiscal year 2025, legislators must approve its funding annually.) The spending bill also contains funding of $1.7 billion for the Food for Peace program, which allows U.S.-flag ships to take the lead in delivering this important cargo to the impoverished world. Food for Peace helps feed starving Third World nations while providing critical support to U.S. shipping and American farmers. Since its enactment in 1954, it has been considered one of America’s most successful foreign aid programs. Additionally, the bill includes an extra $341.4 million in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers budget which is designated for harbor dredging and other operation and maintenance activities. The Corps will develop a work plan to nationally distribute these funds, with specific amounts to be announced in the near future. Significantly, no Jones Act waivers or amendments were contained in the bill. Meanwhile, to help ensure that the MSP receives the funding necessary to support the Department of Defense in 2019, 90 members of the House have sent a letter to the chairman of the Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Re- lated Agencies Mario Diaz-Balart (R-Florida) and to Congressman David Price (D-North Lundeberg), ranking member on the subcommittee. “We are writing to request $300,000,000 for MSP when you develop your FY 2019 appropriations bill,” they wrote. “$300,000,000 is the amount authorized by Congress for FY 2019 for the program.... Unfortunately, the administration only requested $214,000,000 for FY 2019. This amount is well below the required amount to maintain a viable U.S.flag commercial merchant fleet.” The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has pointed out that MSP ship crews “are a major source for the DOD surge fleet.” The DOT also described the program as “a vital element of our military’s strategic sealift and global response capability. Without the MSP fleet, the United States would have assured access to very few U.S.-flag commercial vessels to support Department of Defense operations.” Financial Committee Approves 2017 Records A group of Seafarers has given a collective thumbs-up to the union’s financial records for 2017. Every year, in accordance with the union’s constitution, a group of rank-and-file SIU members (elected by fellow Seafarers) reviews the organization’s financial records for the previous calendar year. Most recently, this process happened in early April – first with the financial committee’s election in Piney Point, Maryland, and then in the ensuing days when they examined the paperwork at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Maryland. The committee found that the SIU’s financial records for 2017 are in good order. Their report, filed with the secretary-treasurer’s office, will be read in all ports and presented for approval at the union’s May membership meetings. Serving on the committee were Recertified Bosun Dan Marcus (chairman), Bosun Ali Alhamyari, QMED Riley Donahue, Electrician Michael Kelly, Electrician Archie Eldridge, Bosun Neftali Erausquin and Recertified Steward Exxl Ronquillo. They were elected April 2 at the monthly membership meeting at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. The members handled their tasks in accordance with Article X, Section 14-c of the SIU Constitution, which lists the duties of the annual financial committee along with rules and procedures for electing the group. In part, their report reads, “We, the committee, do hereby state that we have examined the procedure for controlling of the funds of the union and have found that the system of internal control is adequate to safeguard them properly…. We find that the headquarters of the union is taking all steps possible to safeguard union funds and to see that the disbursements of the union are in accordance with the authority delegated to them and that, at the same time, there is a striving effort to increase day-to-day efficiency of our operation.” The members reported that they met with representatives from the certified public accounting firm that periodically audits the union’s books and records. Those representatives explained their procedures for checking the secretary-treasurer’s financial report of the union’s records, and they also further discussed the SIU’s overall financial operation. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel also worked with the committee “and made himself and the records of his office available” to the group, according to the report. Committee members (photo above) finish their work. Pictured from left to right in the posed photo below are (seated) QMED Riley Donahue, Electrician Archie Eldridge, Electrician Michael Kelly, Bosun Neftali Erausquin, Recertified Steward Exxl Ronquillo, (standing) Recertified Bosun Dan Marcus, Port Agent Pat Vandegrift, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel and Bosun Ali Alhamyari. 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2018 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. 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 May 2018 �USTRANSCOM Leader Backs Merchant Marine General McDew Underscores Need for U.S. Crews, Pro-Maritime Laws The commanding officer of the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) once again has forcefully spoken out about the crucial need to maintain a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. Gen. Darren McDew testified April 10 during a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee. He was the lone panelist for the session titled, “Posture of the United States Transportation Command.” A consistently outspoken advocate of the American maritime industry, McDew told the committee that the nation depends on strong, reliable, U.S.-flag sealift capability and U.S. crews. He described the need to maintain a modern American-flag fleet and emphasized concerns about the gradual reduction that has taken place with the shipboard manpower pool. “When the United States goes to war, USTRANSCOM moves 90 percent of its cargo requirements with the strategic sealift fleet, which consists of governmentowned ships augmented by the commercial U.S.-flagged fleet,” McDew stated. “The ability to deploy a decisive force is foundational to the National Defense Strategy, as the size and lethality of the force is of little consequence if we are unable to project power in the pursuit of national objectives. Therefore, the readiness of the entire strategic sealift portfolio, both organic and commercial, remains the top priority for USTRANSCOM.” He continued, “USTRANSCOM’s Navy component, Military Sealift Command (MSC), controls the organic strategic sealift ships that deliver logistics and humanitarian relief, move military equip- ment, supply combat forces, and forwardposition combat cargo around the world. MSC also assumes operational command of the Maritime Administration’s (MARAD) Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ships during periods of activation. However, our organic sealift capabilities will degrade rapidly over the coming years if we fail to pursue a responsible recapitalization strategy.… USTRANSCOM is working with the Navy on a comprehensive recapitalization plan which includes acquiring used vessels, extending the service life of able vessels, and building new ships – all three of which are required to stabilize the fleet.” The general said that the aging fleet, coupled with a reduction in U.S.-flag vessels and a corresponding decrease of available mariners “threatens our ability to meet national security requirements.” He added that if those trends continue, the U.S. could eventually be forced to rely on foreign-flag vessels for sustainment in a mission on the scale of Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. McDew further pointed out that during Desert Storm, 13 foreign-flag ships that were hired to carry materiel to American troops “declined to enter the area of operations, while U.S.-flagged vessels provided steadfast support.” The general then spoke in support of the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP) and explained how the Jones Act and cargo preference laws “are intended to ensure a baseline of ongoing business to support our inter-coastal shipping capacity and maintain a market for U.S. industrial shipyard infrastructure to build, repair, and overhaul U.S. vessels.” He described the U.S.-flag commercial fleet as “vital to the Joint Force’s ability to accomplish its mission.” Moreover, the general pointed out that the MSP and its related Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA) “has proven a cost-effective means to assure access to sealift capability, capacity, and worldwide networks…. The MSP provides an intermodal and logistics capability outside of the [Defense Department] portfolio that would be cost prohibitive to replicate. MSP assures access to 60 militarily useful vessels, the mariners who crew those ships, and commercial carriers’ global networks and infrastructure. Without this program, DOD’s asymmetric advantage in logistics would be put at significant risk as many of the vessels currently in the program would reflag under foreign flags and no longer participate in VISA. In this scenario, DOD would be forced to augment organic capacity with foreign-flagged vessels to deploy and sustain the Joint Force.” Turning to the area of manpower, McDew said USTRANSCOM is “concerned” about a decline in numbers. Further reduction would “put at risk our ability to surge forces overseas and sustain a protracted conflict with U.S. Mariners. Although the qualified mariner labor pool industry-wide is adequate to support a surge requirement today, a protracted need for mariners would stress the labor pool beyond acceptable risk.” He said the Defense Department and Transportation Department “must seek Gen. Darren McDew Commander, USTRANSCOM innovative ways to recruit and retain sufficient mariners to sustain sealift operations across the full spectrum of conflict. A healthy and viable U.S.-flagged fleet remains the foundation for a suitable U.S. Merchant Mariner pool.” Construction Starts on Second Jacksonville Congressman Stands Up in Support for the Jones Act Matson Con-Ro at NASSCO Union shipyard workers in San Diego have started construction on a Jones Act vessel that eventually will feature SIU crew members. General Dynamics NASSCO in early April began production of the second ship in a two-vessel order for Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Company. Construction of the Matsonia began with a ceremonial first cut of steel at NASSCO’s San Diego shipyard, where the first ship in the series (Lurline) is 15 percent complete. Both ships will transport containers, automobiles and rolling stock between the West Coast of the United States and Hawaii. The vessels are combination container and rollon/roll-off ships, abbreviated as Con-Ro. They’re being built to allow for future conversion to LNG propulsion. They will be 870 feet long, with beams of 114 feet and sailing speeds up to 23 knots. Both will be able to carry approximately 3,500 containers and up to 800 vehicles each. “Matson’s customers in the Hawaii trade rely on us for dependable delivery of their goods, and these new Kanaloa-class vessels designed specifically for serving Hawaii will ensure we meet the highest standards of efficiency and reliability,” said Ron Forest, president of Matson. “Designing and building these vessels brings pride to every member of our team,” said Kevin Graney, president of General Dynamics NASSCO. “It’s an honor to add the Kanaloa-class vessels to NASSCO’s decades-long history in Jones Act ship production.” Construction of the Lurline is scheduled to be complete in the fourth quarter of 2019. The Matsonia is scheduled for delivery in the second quarter of 2020. In a news release announcing the recent ceremony, the shipyard noted, “NASSCO partnered with DSEC Co., Ltd., to provide Matson with state-of-the-art ship design and shipbuilding technologies. For more than a decade, this partnership has produced premium ships for five separate Jones Act owners.” In an earlier announcement, Matson noted the company “is calling these vessels the Kanaloa class in honor of the ocean deity revered in the native Hawaiian culture and will name each of the new vessels after predecessor ships from its 134-year history. The first vessel will be named Lurline, the sixth Matson vessel to carry that name, while the second vessel will be its fifth named Matsonia.” Matson further reported that the new vessels will have state-of-the-art green technology features, including a fuel-efficient hull design, environmentally safe double-hull fuel tanks, fresh water ballast systems and dual-fuel engines The two Kanaloa-class ships will replace three diesel-powered vessels in active service, which will be moved to reserve status. Eventually, Matson will operate nine ships in its Hawaii service. This artist’s rendering shows the look of the new Con-Ro ships being built for Matson and General Dynamics NASSCO. May 2018 First-term U.S. Rep. John Rutherford (R-Florida) stood up for the Jones Act during a March 15 hearing conducted by the House Homeland Security Committee. The hearing’s main topic was “Preparedness, Response, and Rebuilding: Lessons from the 2017 Disasters.” During his time to question Federal Emergency Management Administrator Brock Long, the Jacksonville congressman said the Jones Act – the nation’s freight cabotage law – did not stand in the way of relief coming to Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria. He recalled to the administrator news broadcasts containing false information “about the Jones Act and the cost of goods and services [in Puerto Rico]. And folks were actually improperly describing how the Jones Act even works, talking about – I heard an individual in Jacksonville on the news talking about the reason it costs so much is because foreign vessels have to sail into an American port, drop those goods off and then reload those goods onto an American-flagged ship and sail it down to San Juan. Wrong. “Those foreign ships can sail directly into San Juan, and they do all the time,” Rutherford added. Later in the hearing, Rutherford challenged a written statement offered by Jose Melendez-Ortiz, vice chairman for the Committee on Federal and International Relations, and Status for the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. In the document presented to the committee, Melendez-Ortiz called for adjustments his organization believed are needed for emergency preparedness and recovery in the wake of future natural disasters. U.S. Rep. John Rutherford (R-Florida) Rutherford noted that first on the proposed list was waiving the Jones Act, something President Trump did for a 10-day period after Hurricane Maria. “And fact of the matter is after waiving the Jones Act exactly one – one foreign vessel sailed from an American port into Puerto Rico,” he told Melendez-Ortiz. “I take great pride in the fact that the American maritime industry, particularly our Jones Act vessels under TOTE and Crowley in Jacksonville are really – I look at them as the first responders for Puerto Rico,” added the former three-term sheriff of Duval County, Florida. “They have that built-in efficiency and effectiveness. And they had actually prepositioned goods at our port so that they could get them to San Juan more quickly,” Rutherford remarked. Seafarers LOG 3 �Members Ink Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Contract SIU crews have ratified a new five-year contract with Great Lakes Dredge & Dock. The agreement includes wage increases, maintains all benefits and covers approximately 120 Seafarers. Negotiating on behalf of the union were SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Assistant Vice President Archie Ware, Chief Engineer Edward Mancke, AB/Dragtender Charles Troutwine and AB/ Dragtender Billy Born. Tricker stated, “Even though the company is experiencing some tough times and restructuring its corporate model, our relationship moving forward remains positive, with new faces in place. I commend the rankand-file members of our bargaining committee, whose professionalism and knowledge helped us secure the best possible contract at this time.” Ware noted that it took two bargaining sessions before the union and company reached a tentative pact. “It was a tough negotiation but all in all, I think it went well,” he said. The contract maintains medical coverage at the Core-Plus level, which is the top one available under the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. It also maintains Seafarers Pension Plan benefits and vacation pay. Mancke, a Seafarer since 1991, called the contract “a decent agreement. I wouldn’t have presented it (to other members) if I thought it wasn’t fair. You can’t please everybody all the time, but the majority of us understand the company needs a hand.” He said that maintaining all benefits and not losing any holidays were among the contract’s highlights. Mancke added that against the backdrop of financial difficulties faced by the company, securing annual wage increases in the last four years of the pact seems “very fair.” Members of the negotiating committees are pictured at the conclusion of the most recent bargaining session. From left: GLDD VP Paul LaMourie, SIU delegates Billy Born, Charles Troutwine and Edward Mancke, GLDD Labor Relations Director Tony Zezovski, SIU VP George Tricker, GLDD Dredge Operations Manager George Strawn and SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware. Similarly, Troutwine pointed out, “We didn’t lose anything in this contract, and that was the main thing. I think it’s a fair contract for everybody. The company has a restructure plan and a rebuilding plan.” Troutwine had previously served on one other negotiating committee. He has sailed with Great Lakes Dredge and Dock for 20plus years, and has been a Seafarer since 1988, when he completed the trainee pro- gram at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. He said that although the most recent sets of negotiations were more contentious than in years past, “I’m happy with the wages, plus we kept our medical benefits and we kept our pension.” A Seafarer since 2002 and a Great Lakes Dredge and Dock mariner since 2005, Born said, “I think it’s a fair contract on all sides. There were a lot of things brought to the table that were unsettling at first, but in the end, we kept everything we had in prior contracts.” Great Lakes Dredge and Dock is the self-described “largest provider of dredging services in the United States and the only U.S. dredging company with significant international operations.” Its areas of operation include New York; Miami; Jacksonville, Florida; Charleston, South Carolina; Savannah, Georgia, and more. Senior TOTE Executive Seafarer’s Quick Actions Announces Retirement Extinguish Shipboard Fire Anthony Chiarello, president and CEO of SIU-contracted TOTE Inc., has announced he will retire this summer. Chiarello has nearly 39 years of exemplary service in the maritime industry in a number of leadership roles. “As I look ahead to my sixty-third birthday later this year, it is time for me to spend more time with my family and loved ones. I am blessed with a large family and many beautiful grandchildren, and I look forward to adjusting the priorities in my life,” noted Chiarello. In a late-March news release, the company said that its “leadership team has a proven track record of success and will carry on the with the strong core values of safety, commitment and integrity that Chiarello instilled over the past eight years at the helm. The company’s parent, Saltchuk, will make an announcement regarding Chiarello’s Anthony Chiarello 4 Seafarers LOG successor in due course.” “We thank Anthony for his many years at the helm of TOTE,” said Mark Tabbutt, chairman of Saltchuk. “Anthony has had a distinguished maritime career and under his capable leadership, TOTE Maritime has grown to be one of the best shipping companies in the industry. Anthony leaves a team of highly talented leaders who are well equipped to contribute to TOTE’s continued success. We wish Anthony much happiness in his retirement.” Chiarello started his career in stevedoring at ITO, now part of Ports America, in the Port of New York and soon relocated to Baltimore where he later served as deputy administrator of the Maryland Port Administration. He then spent 16 years with the Maersk organization in varying roles including president of Maersk Logistics USA. Prior to joining TOTE, Chiarello was chief operating officer and executive vice president of NYK Logistics (Americas). He has always been very involved in education, having served on the board of visitors of the Business School at Northeastern University. He currently serves on the board of directors at the Center for Global Leadership at his alma mater, Villanova University. Chiarello is the recipient of many formal honors including the prestigious AOTOS award as well as being named a White House Champion of Change during the Obama presidency for his work involving liquefied natural gas (LNG) and the maritime industry. In an address last year to the executive board of the AFL-CIO’s Maritime Trades Department, Chiarello discussed the company’s newest ships, safety efforts and consistently cooperative endeavors with its crews and their respective unions. Chiarello described TOTE’s crews as “the best-trained mariners in the world,” and he also thanked all concerned for the unified effort in response to the El Faro tragedy. Quick thinking and safety training recently paid off for a first-on-the-scene SIU member and his shipmates. AB Leo Onofrio extinguished a small fire aboard the M/V Patriot on March 29 while the vessel was docked in Manzanillo, Panama. Other crew members quickly followed up to help ensure the fire indeed was out and the damage contained. The Patriot is operated by TOTE Services for vessel owner American Roll-On/RollOff Carrier (ARC). A communication from an ARC executive credited Onofrio’s “quick thinking and decisive action extinguishing the fire, (which) prevented a small fire from possibly spreading to other cargo.” That same message indicated the problem began with an electric short in a recently loaded new vehicle. Onofrio graduated from the apprentice program at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center in 2012. He said the safety training he received at the Piney Point, Maryland-based school “absolutely” helped him during the Patriot incident. “I followed the steps I learned from my training,” he said. Onofrio said he was walking on deck 13 “when I noticed a vehicle making a hissing sound, followed by a popping noise. The vehicle then began to smoke and ignited. “I immediately notified the mate on watch about the fire and proceeded to approach the flaming vehicle with a fire extinguisher,” he continued. “I utilized the extinguisher on the flames by spraying the hood of the vehicle and noticed fire coming from under the engine. I began to spray from below and through the wheel well to extinguish the fire. As soon as it was out, I began to back out of the space that had filled with smoke. The chief mate arrived followed by the fire team. I exited the space and got some much-needed fresh air.” Onofrio’s main takeaway from the experience is that “anything can happen at any moment. We always have to be prepared,” he noted. AB Leo Onofrio The Galloway, New Jersey, native also was quick to credit his fellow Seafarers and the AMO members aboard the Patriot. “My shipmates responded immediately and everyone worked together to assure the ship’s safety,” he concluded. Chief Mate Pieter Sheridan stated, “Leo responded in an unparalleled act of focus and clarity. He immediately notified the Officer on Watch and attacked the car fire with a local fire extinguisher. I entered the space within two minutes of Leo’s report and the cargo hold was already filling with smoke. I am confident without Leo’s quick decision making, this fire could have been much worse. I think I speak for all onboard the Patriot – we are grateful for Leo’s actions and training.” May 2018 �Clergy Backs Bakery Workers’ Crusade for New Pact Religious Leaders Urge Nabisco to Negotiate in Good Faith, Avoid Outsourcing Editor’s note: This article is provided by the Press Associates Union News Service. The SIU and the Bakery Workers are affiliated through the AFL-CIO and through the Maritime Trades Department. Faith leaders from around the country are joining the “Bakery 600,” the Bakery Workers’ long-running campaign against Nabisco for shutting the Oreo cookie line at its South Side Chicago plant and moving the 600 jobs to Mexico almost two years ago. In a recent letter, the leaders urged Dirk Van der Put, the new CEO of Mondelez International, Nabisco’s parent firm, to negotiate in good faith and reach a new and fair contract with the BCTGM, which represents the 2,000 remaining unionized Nabisco workers at six plants in the U.S. The letter came weeks after Mondelez held an unintentionally ironic “National Cookie Day” promotion in early March, and also after the firm’s chief financial officer was quoted, in a report on the Chicago-to-Mexico move, as forecasting even more production of their top snack and cookie lines in the new Mexican plant, in the desert a mile outside Monterrey. There, the Mexican workers toil behind a barbed wire fence, are bused to and from a residential compound and earn a dollar a day, Interfaith Worker Justice (IWJ) says in a recent report. Mondelez claims they’re unionized, but IWJ reports the contract is with the “President Adolfo Ruiz Cortines National Union.” That “sounds suspiciously like a company union,” IWJ says. The clergy’s letter is the latest marker in the BCTGM campaign, which began even before Mondelez shut the Oreo cookie production line in Chicago, dumping 600 workers, many of whom had been employed at the plant for years. “Based on the social teachings of our faith groups, we believe Mondelez has a moral responsibility to treat its workers with dignity and respect,” the clergy said in their public letter, asking for further clerical support nationwide. Instead, the clergy said, Mondelez demanded $46 million in concessions from the Chicago Oreo workers, even though their production line was profitable. It would have been a 60 percent cut in wages and benefits. When the workers rejected that, Mondelez closed the line and sent their jobs to Monterrey, at a time when its then-CEO was earning over $20 million annually in pay and benefits. “We call on Mondelez to negotiate a new contract with BCTGM that maintains health care benefits and a pension plan that would maintain retirement security for the workers. Furthermore, jobs should not be outsourced to Mexico as a way to evade the promises made by your company to workers in the U.S.,” the letter concludes. “The appeal for economic justice at Mondelez/Nabisco by faith leaders will send a powerful message … as it addresses the need for business practices that affirm workers, families, and their communities. We call upon the company to recognize the social and economic welfare of people with as much importance as it does its drive for greater profits,” the letter’s signers told their clergy colleagues in seeking more support. Ten faith leaders, including a rabbi, an imam and two who are also BCTGM members – Pastor Lamar Kennedy, a Local 364 member from Portland, Oregon, and Pastor Palmer Sweeney, a Local 358 retiree – signed the appeal to other clergy. Both pastors worked for Nabisco. BCTGM Secretary-Treasurer Steve Bertelli addresses the Maritime Trades Department earlier this year. SHBP Medical Department Finalizes Policy Governing Opioids, Other Meds Burial at Sea Aboard the Perla Del Caribe These photos were taken March 19 aboard the TOTE-operated Perla Del Caribe during a burial at sea for SIU pensioner Barry Carrano. During the solemn remembrance, vessel master Capt. Joseph Zayac read a short prayer, and one of Carrano’s prior shipmates, AB Jose Canales, said a few words. A recertified bosun, Carrano sailed with the SIU from 1982 to 2017. He passed away earlier this year at age 66. The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan’s (SHBP) medical department recently finalized a policy on prescription opioids and other medications that’s aimed at helping SIU members remain eligible to ship. As announced during the April membership meetings, the policy covers the use of prescription opioids, benzodiazepines, or sedative hypnotics aboard ship as they relate to a fitness-for-duty determination. During the April membership meeting in Piney Point, Maryland, Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen noted, “Essentially, the department’s policy is consistent with new Department of Transportation (DOT) drugtesting regulations and aims to provide Seafarers with an extra layer of protection so they are not caught off-guard by a positive test. These new DOT regulations have been covered in prior membership meetings, in the January edition of the Seafarers LOG, and in multiple posts on the SIU website. “Whereas the Coast Guard only would find out about such prescriptions either through a drug-test result or if a mariner presented a legally valid prescription to a medical review officer, the SHBP medical department also may learn about them through a review of prescription records,” she continued. “As you know, the Coast Guard’s medical certificate determines fitness for certification, which can be less than the standards for fitness for duty. However, because the agency does not permit a mariner to ship if he or she is taking opioids – except in very rare circumstances when a waiver is issued – the SHBP medical department policy attempts to help prevent anyone from being declared unfit.” She concluded, “Put simply, if you’ve got a valid prescription for an opioid, you’ll need to work with your doctor to identify a different drug that does not make you medically unqualified or unfit for duty. And again, the root of this change is the new DOT regulations that took effect at the start of this year.” The policy should not affect members of the SIU Government Services Division, because the Military Sealift Command medical department does not issue waivers for any opioids. SIU members may direct questions to the SHBP medical department at (301) 994-0010. Upgrades Resume on Puerto Rico Hall Following a months-long delay caused by Hurricane Maria, refurbishment operations have resumed at the SIU’s soon-to-be new hall in San Juan, Puerto Rico (above). The facility is located at 659 Hillside Street. It previously had been used as an office building. Significant progress was being made at press time; updates will be provided at membership meetings and in upcoming LOG issues. May 2018 Seafarers LOG 5 �SIU Helps Ensure Success of ‘Sail-In’ Annual Event Promotes U.S. Maritime Industry on Capitol Hill The SIU made another strong showing at a yearly event that has become a staple of the American maritime industry. On March 20, the ninth annual Maritime Congressional Sail-In saw a record 115 individuals – including officials and representatives from the SIU, other unions, U.S.-flag operators and other organizations – visit 169 Congressional members and their staffs in order to discuss the importance of the Maritime Security Program (MSP), the Jones Act and other programs that are critical to the U.S. Merchant Marine. Representing the SIU were Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Assistant Vice Presidents Nick Celona and Bryan Powell, Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman, Port Agents Joe Baselice, Todd Brdak, John Hoskins, Mark von Siegel, Pat Vandegrift and Chris Westbrook, and Patrolman Ray Henderson. The SIU contingent was joined by representatives from every major seafaring union, the Navy League of the United States, various Jones Act companies and organizations, state maritime academies and other allies of the U.S.-flag fleet. Together, these individuals sat down with members of both the House and the Senate – on both sides of the aisle – and explained how the MSP works in conjunction with programs such as Food for Peace and Food for Progress to help maintain the Ameri- From left to right: Legal Counsel Steve Wines; SIU Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez; Senator Ed Markey’s (D-Massachusetts) Legislative Assistant Daniel Greene; and TOTE Maritime’s Vice President of Marine Operations Jeff Dixon From left to right: SIU Port Agent Todd Brdak; AMO President Paul Doell; Congressman Tom Suozzi (D-New York); AMO Member Captain Kevin Stith; American Maritime Officers Service’s Legislative Consultant Brenda Otterson; and Liberty Global Logistics LLC President Robert Wellner From left to right: Maritime Lawyer R. Christian Johnsen; Intermarine President and CEO Will Terrill; Congressman Joaquin Castro’s (D-Texas) Legal Assistant Sid Ravishankar; SIU Patrolman Ray Henderson; and AMO member Steve Urwiller 6 Seafarers LOG can merchant fleet, the merchant mariner pool and national security. As was explained by the maritime industry representative’s during the Sail-In, the MSP and its 60-ship fleet of U.S.-flag vessels provides the Department of Defense with militarily useful tonnage, the global intermodal and logistics systems of trusted private shipping companies, and access to the invaluable U.S. civilian mariner pool. All of these benefits come at a fraction of the price it would take to fund them outright. Sail-In groups pointed out that the MSP has proven its military value since the program’s inception in 1996. For example, since 2009, U.S-flag commercial vessels and their civilian crews have carried more than 90 percent of the cargo needed to support U.S. military operations and rebuilding programs in Afghanistan and Iraq, and vessels enrolled in the MSP carried 99 percent of those cargoes. Thankfully, the MSP has been fully funded at the recommended $300 million level through Fiscal Year 2018, as part of the newly enacted federal budget. After the visits, U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) addressed participants at a nearby reception. The congressman reiterated his ongoing, unwavering support of the U.S. Merchant Marine and American-flag shipping. From left to right: American Maritime Officers Service’s Legislative Consultant Brenda Otterson; AMO President Paul Doell; Congressman Brian Mast (R-Florida); AMO Member Captain Kevin Stith; and SIU Port Agent Todd Brdak From left to right: IBU Regional Director Robert Estrada; MM&P Vice President, Pacific Ports Lars Turner; SUP President Gunnar Lundeberg; Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-District of Columbia); SIU Assistant Vice President Nick Celona; and Jeff Pavlek from the Transportation Trades Department From left to right: APL Senior Director, Government Trade Lars Magnusson; Congressman Ralph Abraham (R-Louisiana); Maersk Line, Limited General Manager, Communications and Marketing Amy Hauser; Maersk Line, Limited Vice President of U.S. Government Affairs Jay Bonitt; AMO National Vice President Mike Murphy; and SIU Port Agent Pat Vandergrift May 2018 �From left to right: SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker; Congressman Bradley Byrne’s Legislative Assistant Hannah Strub; Transportation Institute Vice President, Government Relations Andrew Strosahl; and Maine Maritime Academy President Dr. William Brennan From left to right: Liberty Maritime’s Vice President of Operations William Campbell; John Flynn of Squire Patton Boggs; Council of American Master Mariners’ National President Jeff Cowan; SIU Port Agent John Hoskins; Senator Maggie Hassan’s (D- New Hampshire) Legislative Assistant Jackson Cosko; and AMO’s National Assistant Vice President Christian Spain From left to right: SIU Assistant Vice President Bryan Powell; K&L Gates’ Government Affairs Counselor James Sartucci; Senator Christopher Murphy’s (D-Connecticut) Legislative Assistant Emily Smith; MM&P Vice President Tom Bell; and Lake Carriers’ Association Director of Environmental and Regulatory Affairs Tom Rayburn From left to right: AMO Member Captain Kristen Mangold; SIU Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman; Congressman Bob Gibbs (R-Ohio); APL’s Director of Humanitarian Aid Ladia Jakubec; and SIU Port Agent Joe Baselice From left to right: AMO National Vice President Mike Murphy; Maersk Line, Limited General Manager, Communications and Marketing Amy Hauser; Maersk Line, Limited Vice President of U.S. Government Affairs Jay Bonitt; Congressman Paul Cook (R-California); SIU Port Agent Pat Vandergrift; and APL Senior Director, Government Trade Lars Magnusson From left to right: Legal Consultant Sebastian O’Kelly; SIU Port Agent Mark von Siegel; Congressman Jason Smith’s (R-Missouri) Legislative Assistant Hilary Pinegar; APL Business Analysis and Marketing Manager Hyo Jin Lee; and SUNY Maritime Executive Director of External Affairs Mary Muecke From left to right: SIU Port Agent Chris Westbrook; Crowley Logistics Director of Transportation Operations Colfield Hilburn; Congressman Clay Higgins (R-Louisiana); Dredging Contractors of America President William Doyle; AMO Member Andrew Nelson; and K&L Gates’ Government Affairs Counselor Darrell Connor From left to right: AMO National Vice President Mike Murphy; Maersk Line, Limited General Manager, Communications and Marketing Amy Hauser; Congressman Adam Smith (D-Washington); Maersk Line, Limited Vice President of U.S. Government Affairs Jay Bonitt; SIU Port Agent Pat Vandergrift; and APL Senior Director, Government Trade Lars Magnusson May 2018 Seafarers LOG 7 �SIU Members Support Continuing Promise 2018 Once again, SIU Government Services members answered the call and are supporting one of the U.S. Navy’s annual humanitarian training missions: Continuing Promise 2018. Continuing Promise is a U.S. Southern Command training mission, first introduced in 2007. The purpose of Continuing Promise, according to the U.S. Navy, “... is to conduct civil-military operations including humanitarian civil assistance, medical, dental, veterinary, and disaster response with partner nations and to show U.S. support and commitment to Central America, South America and the Caribbean.” On April 5, the Military Sealift Command’s Seafarers-crewed expeditionary fast transport vessel USNS Spearhead arrived in Puerto Barrios, Guatemala, for the second stop in the mission. While the vessel is in Guatemala, the team of Army and Navy service members will provide medical, dental, environmental and veterinary care, which will include preventive treatments, optometry screenings, and women’s health services. Civil military operations, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, will also be a part of the mission. “This is the eighth time that Continuing Promise has visited Guatemala,” said Capt. Angel Cruz, the designated commander, Task Force 48 for the Continuing Promise mission. “We are here to show our commitment to a great ally and friend, the Guatemalan people. Together, working alongside government, military and non-governmental organizations, we hope to reach as many people as possible.” The first stop of Continuing Promise 2018, in Honduras, saw a record 7,000 patients treated, with more than 40 surgeries performed. Additionally, Citizens of Puerto Cortes, Honduras, wait to be seen by medical personnel at the Franklin D. Roosevelt School during Continuing Promise 2018. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kayla Cosby) multiple trainings occurred between the Honduran general surgeons, gynecologists and anesthesiologists and the Continuing Promise surgical team at the Dr. Mario Catarino Rivas North-Western National Hospital. The subject matter expert exchanges included observing surgical procedures in the operating rooms and the clinical pre-operative areas. “Many lives were changed during our time here in Honduras,” said Cruz. “The impact goes both ways, as my life and the lives of my Sailors and Soldiers have changed for the better. We hope these friendships will continue to grow and bear much fruit that will benefit both our countries.” Continuing Promise 2018 is scheduled to be completed in May, with the mission’s final stop in Columbia. Spotlight on Mariner Health Not Blowing Smoke: Quitting is Worthwhile Smoking is the biggest cause of preventable deaths in the United States. It accounts for more than 438,000 deaths each year, according to government data. One in two smokers will die from smokingrelated diseases. Secondhand smoke also is a serious health hazard for non-smokers, especially children. Smoking can cause numerous complications for your body. When you smoke, the poisonous chemicals released from the tar in cigarettes enters your bloodstream and makes your blood thicker, increases clot formation, increases your blood pressure and heart rate, narrows your arteries, and reduces the amount of circulating oxygen to your organs. Smoking increases the risk of coronary artery disease, heart attacks, strokes, peripheral vascular disease, and cerebrovascular disease. Carbon monoxide from the smoke and nicotine both put a strain on the heart by making it beat faster. Smoking doubles the risk of having a heart attack and doubles the risk of dying from coronary heart disease compared to a non­smoker. If you quit smoking for a year, your risk is reduced by half. After stopping for 15 years, your risk is the same as a non-smoker. Smoking can also increase the chances of getting stomach cancer or ulcers. Smoking weakens the muscles of the lower part of the esophagus and allows acid to run back up into that area. This is called reflux. Smoking is a significant risk factor for developing kidney cancer. The poisonous chemicals inhaled go through the entire body and especially the kidneys. Smoking reduces the amount of oxygen that gets to your skin. As a result, the skin can age more quickly and look grey and dull. Smoking prema- 8 Seafarers LOG turely ages the skin between 10 to 20 years and makes you more likely to get facial wrinkling. Smoking can cause your bones to become weak and brittle. Women need to be especially careful of this due to the potential development of osteoporosis. Moreover, smoking has many undesirable side effects on the brain. A smoker is 50 percent more likely to have a stroke than someone who does not smoke. Smoking can increase your risk of developing a brain aneurysm. This is a bulge in a blood vessel caused by a weakness in the blood vessel wall. This can rupture at any time and cause a condition called, subarachnoid hemorrhage. If you stop smoking, within two years your risk of stroke is reduced by half. Predictably, the lungs are adversely affected by smoke. Smoking can cause coughing, colds, wheezing, asthma and numerous other symptoms and conditions. It can cause fatal diseases such as pneumonias, emphysema, and lung cancer. Smoking causes 84 percent of deaths from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a progressive and debilitating condition. People with COPD have difficulties breathing, primarily due to the narrowing of their airways and the destruction of lung tissue. Smoking can cause bad breath, stained teeth, gum disease, mouth and oral cancers. More than 93 percent of oropharyngeal cancers are caused by smoking. Remember there are more than 5,000 chemical components found in cigarette smoke and many of them are harmful to the human body. Being aware of the side effects of smoking may help you quit and bring your body back to that of a non-smoker in time. Healthful Recipe Seafood Stir Fry Servings: 25 6 ¼ pounds shrimp, 30/36 count, drained 2 ½ pounds scallops, sea scallops med., drained 2 2/3 tablespoons olive oil 1 quart carrot, julienned 1-2” hotel pan full 1 quart onion, julienned 1-2” hotel pan full 1 quart celery, julienned 1-2” hotel pan full 2 2/3 cups cabbage, diced 1-2” ½ hotel pan full 1 1/3 tablespoons garlic pepper seasoning 2 2/3 tablespoons garlic, minced fine Sauce 2 ½ cups pineapple juice 3 2/3 tablespoons oyster sauce 3 2/3 tablespoons honey 1 1/3 tablespoons granulated garlic n Sauté and season the shrimp and scallops with the garlic pepper seasoning in small batches. Cook until just done and set aside. n Mix together all the sauce ingredients in a large stock pot or kettle. Bring to a boil then turn heat off and set aside. n Sauté the vegetables a few minutes but leave them crisp. Cook in batches and set aside. n Add the seafood to the vegetables. Mix together and add the sauce. Mix together well. n Pan the stir fry in 2” hotel pans. Make sure to cook the stir fry in batches to order as needed. Garnish with chopped green onions. Nutrition Information - Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 225 Calories; 4g Fat (15.7% calories from fat); 32g Protein; 14g Carbohydrates; 2g Dietary Fiber; 188mg Cholesterol; 419ms Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain (Starch); 4 ½ Lean Meat; 1 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 0 Other Carbs. Provided by the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship May 2018 �Photo Courtesy Walter P. Reuter Library, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan Demonstrators from St. Louis express solidarity with Memphis Local 1733 sanitation workers during the April 8, 1968 memorial march for Martin Luther King, SIU President Michael Sacco, who also serves as president of the MTD, reflects on the Memphis sanitation workers strike while studying a 1968 photo showing MTD solidarity in the fight. SIU, MTD Backed Historic Strike in 1968 Organizations Participate in 2018 Rally for Workers’ Rights Many Seafarers probably know that the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated April 4, 1968 while supporting striking sanitation workers in Memphis, Tennessee. What they perhaps don’t know, however, is that the AFL-CIO and a number of its affiliated unions and departments – including the SIU and the Maritime Trades Department – not only backed the sanitation workers’ walkout, they also supported their cause financially and joined them on the picket lines as well. According to Michael Honey, author of “Going Down Jericho Road” (published 2007) about the 1968 Memphis Sanitation Workers strike, the SIU was among the first unions to show solidarity by sending a weekly donation in support of the strikers. SIU President Michael Sacco, who also serves as president of the MTD, verified Honey’s account, noting: “Paul Hall (who headed the SIU and MTD in 1968) was a big supporter of the strikers. The MTD and the Seafarers (Union) committed a lot of resources to help those workers.” Some 50 years following King’s death and the strike’s culmination, the same spirit of solidarity and support for their respective goals continues. MTD Executive SecretaryTreasurer Daniel Duncan, who also is a dues-paying member of the SIU, on April 4, 2018 participated in the Memphis, Tennessee I AM Rally for Justice. This event was part of a weeklong commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the strike and the assassination of Dr. King. “The three days in Memphis were energizing,” said Duncan. “No matter where you were in Memphis, you saw buttons, shirts, billboards and even buses noting the 50th anniversary of the ‘I AM A MAN’ struggle. “It was a moment of reflection and remembrance, as well MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan, a dues-paying member of the SIU, poses while undergoing training to be a marshal at the I AM Rally for Justice In Memphis, Tennessee. May 2018 The crowd gathers in anticipation of the start of the April 4, 2018 I AM Rally for Justice in Memphis, Tennessee. as a time to look ahead to see what goals of Dr. King and the sanitation workers still must be addressed,” he continued. “The spirit surrounding the march on Wednesday was contagious. Folks were celebrating past achievements while calling out for stronger worker rights.” MTD affiliate AFSCME and the Church of God in Christ organized the week’s events. They received a wealth of assistance from hundreds of officers and rank-and-file members from other labor organizations. “Union members worked with support groups like the NAACP and religious organizations to make sure the 10,000 marchers on April 4 were safe as well as understanding why it was necessary for all of us to gather under the ‘I AM 2018’ banner,” Duncan said. “Having grown up in Tennessee, I was honored to represent the Seafarers and the Maritime Trades Department at this commemoration,” he concluded. The original strike, which began in February 1968, followed years of segregation, unfair working conditions, and a history of poor race and labor relations in the city. The spark that set off the strike was the deaths of two sanitation workers, Robert Walker and Echol Cole, who were crushed by a garbage compactor while seeking shelter from a rain storm. Striking workers carried signs with the iconic statement, “I AM A MAN,” which became a rallying cry for their plea for recognition of their human dignity. The city government would not recognize the union they created, AFSCME Local 1733. Picket lines and daily marches continued for several months, gaining national attention when King joined them. He was killed in Memphis during a trip to support the workers. Shortly after King’s assassination, the city of Memphis recognized AFSCME Local 1733 as the sanitation workers’ union representative. In reaction to Dr. King’s death, labor leaders from across the nation, including AFL-CIO President George Meany and SIU President Paul Hall, joined government officials and leading figures from all areas of American life in grief and shock. From Washington, Meany issued a statement that “the murder of Dr. Martin Luther King is an American tragedy. He was killed while aiding striking members of an AFL-CIO union in their struggle for human dignity. “That is how Dr. King spent his entire life at the side of the most oppressed in this nation,” the federation president declared. “He died in that struggle and all who cherish human dignity mourn tonight.” Hall, on behalf of the SIU, sent the following telegram to the Reverend Ralph D. Abernathy, Dr. King’s successor as head of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference: “Americans everywhere join you on this day in mourning the tragic loss in Memphis of a great leader in the struggle for human rights and dignity. The death of Dr. Martin Luther King symbolizes the urgency to continue his life’s work and we wish to assure you of our continued support and dedication in this vital struggle. Please convey to Mrs. King, to her family and to all of your associates our sympathy and sorrow on the loss and untimely passing of this great American.” Thomas Gleason, head of the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), said of the fallen civil rights icon, “He was a man of peace and dignity, completely dedicated to God and the brotherhood of man. It is fitting and proper, then, that we devote this time to pray that the principles that guided this great, great man continue to guide others in the movement for brotherhood to which he devoted his energies.” The night before his assassination, King gave his famous “I have been to the mountaintop” speech where he also said, “We’ve got to give ourselves to this struggle until the end. Nothing would be more tragic than to stop at this point in Memphis. We’ve got to see it through.” For two days following his death – April 5 and 6, 1968 – longshoremen and others at ports across the county shut down work in honor of King. This included passenger ships and boats carrying supplies to soldiers in Vietnam. Unions for the workers had been integrated for years, with up to 50 percent of their membership non-white, and the presidents for the National Maritime Union (which merged with the SIU in 2001) and the ILA issued statements calling for the shutdown. Seafarers LOG 9 �CONGRESSMAN VISITS OAKLAND HALL – Pro-maritime U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-California) (standing, eighth from right) stopped by the SIU hall in Oakland, California, in late March and spoke with Seafarers, officials and staff. He reiterated his support of the U.S. Merchant Marine. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU A-BOOK IN OAKLAND – Congratulations to ACU Edison Inuman (left) on receiving his A-seniority book. He’s pictured at the SIU hall in Oakland, California, with Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli. Brother Inuman most recently sailed aboard Matson’s Maui. ABOARD MAHIMAHI – Pictured aboard the Matson ship on the West Coast in late March are Chief Steward Michael Curtis (left) ACU Walter Harris. WELCOME ASHORE IN JERSEY – Congratulations and welcome ashore to Recertified Bosun Konstantinos Prokovas (right), pictured at the Jersey City hall with Patrolman Ray Henderson. Brother Prokovas first sailed with the SIU in 1992, aboard the Global Link. He is shown picking up his first pension check. 10 Seafarers LOG SURPRISE REUNION – A couple of Seafarers were happy to bump into each other outside the Houston hall before the March membership meeting. Some 18 years ago, Fr. Sinclair Oubre (right), through his work with both the Apostleship of the Sea and the Port Arthur (Texas) International Seafarers Center, actively promoted the maritime industry to youth in St. Mary’s Parish. Edmund Livings (left) took his words to heart and joined the SIU; he’s still a member, sailing as an AB. Livings also stopped at Fr. Oubre’s office to show him his documents and thank him for his mentorship. A-BOOK IN NORFOLK – AB Aretta Jones (left) is sworn in for her A-seniority book at the hall in Norfolk, Virginia. Pictured at right is Port Agent Georg Kenny. May 2018 �FULL BOOKS IN FLORIDA – Two Seafarers recently picked up their respective full membership books at the hall in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. They are AB Mark Bolin (left in photo at left) and AB Ryan Morton (left in photo at right). Both members are pictured with SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins. FULL BOOK IN PHILLY – Port Agent Joe Baselice (right) administers the oath to Seafarer David Hain-Mendez during the April membership meeting. Hain-Mendez got his full union book. ABOARD MATSONIA – Pictured from left aboard the Matson vessel are ACU Jose Ayon-Ayon, Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli, vessel master Capt. Michael Knull, Port Agent Nick Marrone II and Chief Cook Lito Acosta. The photo was taken April 4 on the West Coast. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU HONORING NMU CHARTER MEMBER – Charles A. Mills (second from right, with family members) recently was honored with a lifetime achievement award at the American Merchant Marine Veterans (AMMV) national convection in St. Louis. Mills was a charter member of the National Maritime Union (NMU, which merged into the SIU in 2001), signing on his first ship (SS Carlton) in 1937; he attended the first NMU convention in the same timeframe. Mills sailed throughout WWII, then embarked on a four-decade career as an NMU official. He retired in the late 1980s but continued to advocate for the U.S. Merchant Marine and especially his fellow WWII U.S. Merchant Marine veterans. Mills was part of an AMMV-based team that visited Congress in 2015 and 2017. At 97-years of age, Mills shows no signs of slowing down. (Thanks to AMMV National President Chris Edyvean for the photo and information.) SAINT PATRICK’S DAY SPIRIT – Chief Cook Sharray Turner (left) and Chief Steward Ingrid Ortiz embraced the holiday mood during a recent voyage aboard the TOTE-operated Integrity. Green pancakes, green (but safe) burgers and green cake were all on the menu. (For the fullcolor effect, look up this snapshot on the Seafarers LOG Facebook page.) DISCUSSING CABOTAGE IN FLORIDA – During the April membership meeting at the hall in Jacksonville, Florida, Safety Director Joseph Koncul (standing) explains the importance of the Jones Act and how SIU-crewed Jones Act ships led the way with hurricane relief cargoes for Puerto Rico. Partially visible at left is Port Agent Ashley Nelson. Patrolman Adam Bucalo is at right. HOSTING STUDENTS IN HOUSTON – The SIU in early April welcomed students and teachers from Hallettsville High School to the union hall during a multistop, labor-oriented field trip. SIU Safety Director Kevin Sykes (standing at right in photo at left) explains the apprentice program available at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center. Students and teachers are also pictured in photo at right. FORMER SEAFARER VISITS PINEY POINT – The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center hosted author David Madden for a multifaceted visit in early April. Madden (pictured at right in photo at left, with Paul Hall Center Acting VP Tom Orzechowski, and also pictured near the center in the photo at right, with apprentices) sailed with the SIU from 1951-53. He remains an avid reader of the Seafarers LOG and a supporter of both the U.S. Merchant Marine and the labor movement. An accomplished author, Madden, 84, signed copies of his new book and also read an excerpt to students in the auditorium. For more information about the book and Madden’s wide-ranging background, visit www.davidmadden.net (the book was reviewed in the March 2018 issue of the LOG). May 2018 Seafarers LOG 11 �Hands-On Training Remains Vital, Prevalent in Piney Point SIU-Affiliated Paul Hall Center Emphasizes Practical Coursework For experienced mariners and entry-level students alike, a state-of-the-art vocational school in southern Maryland serves as a gateway to rewarding careers. The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland, opened as a bare-bones facility in 1967. It has enjoyed more than a half-century of steady growth and has developed into a cutting-edge school with wide-ranging curriculums. One thing that hasn’t changed from the start is the center’s emphasis on practical training. Hands-on instruction is featured in virtually every one of the school’s 73 12 Seafarers LOG U.S. Coast Guard-approved courses. Many classes are department-specific (deck, engine, or steward), while numerous others provide comprehensive safety training for the entire crew. Similarly, the Paul Hall Center offers entry-level instruction for those just embarking on their respective maritime careers, plus upgrading coursework for experienced Seafarers. Some hands-on segments take place aboard the modern training vessel Freedom Star, one of the most visible parts of the campus’ waterfront. Many also happen at the nearby Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, located on a satellite campus just a few miles from the main base. While the Paul Hall Center mainly is known for vocational training – including its highly regarded apprentice program, which is registered with the U.S. Department of Labor – it also offers academic support along with separate programs for earning a high school degree and a twoyear college degree. The photos on these two pages show a small sample of practical coursework in Piney Point, plus the campus itself. Complete information about the school is available in the Paul Hall Center section of the SIU website: www. seafarers.org. May 2018 May 2018 Seafarers LOG 13 �Free College Benefit The Union Plus Free College Benefit offers an accessible, debt-free and convenient higher education opportunity. Members and their spouses, children, financial dependents and grandchildren can earn an Associate Degree — completely online, for FREE! 1 APPLY 32 SUBMIT 2 COMPLETE 42 ENROLL TO EASTERN GATEWAY THE FREE FAFSA YOUR TRANSCRIPTS IN CLASSES 1-888-590-9009 unionplusfreecollege.org The Higher Education Benefit covers the cost of tuition fees and books after any PELL or other federal grant or employer reimbursement is applied. The remaining amount wll be cleared with the Free College scholarship. As long as your financial aid file is complete, there is no cost to the student and students are never asked to take out any loans. 5/18 14 Seafarers LOG May 2018 �NMC Notice Homeport Course Completion Uploads The National Maritime Center issued the following news item on March 30. It’s also available on both the NMC and SIU websites. It has come to the attention of the National Maritime Center (NMC) that training provider course completion data uploaded using the Homeport application may not be processing properly. The cause is under investigation. While we await resolution, mariners and training providers are encouraged to do the following: n Training providers should provide all graduating students with a course completion certificate. n Training providers using the data upload feature are encouraged to contact the NMC Customer Service Center 48 to 72 hours after uploading data and request a spot check of the data submitted. Providers will need to supply the mariner reference numbers and last names of one or two graduates per class, and the call center agent will check the computer record to see if the data has populated. n Mariners are encouraged to provide copies of their training certificates with their applications. n Mariners who receive a request for documentation of course completion from the NMC should either fax their course completion certificate to the NMC using the number on the letter or, if they do not have a certificate, contact their training provider for assistance in obtaining documentation. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause mariners and training providers, and we will make every effort to remedy the situation as quickly as possible. The NMC will provide further updates as they become available. If you have any questions or concerns, visit the NMC website or contact the NMC Customer Service Center by emailing IASKNMC@uscg.mil, by using the NMC online chat system, or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662). May & June 2018 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: May17, June 14 Mobile...........................................Wednesday: May 16, June 13 New Orleans........................................Tuesday: May 15, June 12 Jersey City..............................................Tuesday: May 8, June 5 Norfolk................................................Thursday: May10, June 7 Oakland............................................Thursday: May 17, June 14 Philadelphia.....................................Wednesday: May 9, June 6 Port Everglades.................................Thursday: May 17, June 14 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea March 16, 2018 - April 15, 2018 Total Registered Port A All Groups B Total Shipped C C Trip Reliefs 2 1 0 4 0 1 1 9 5 1 0 0 5 0 0 1 0 0 2 5 37 8 2 2 8 0 1 2 22 14 18 0 1 6 6 3 1 2 9 0 13 118 19 5 8 27 4 21 18 77 63 68 2 21 41 30 5 3 11 49 4 44 520 14 2 6 14 1 4 11 22 26 17 7 6 32 11 7 3 10 17 1 16 227 3 1 1 10 0 12 1 31 19 8 1 12 14 4 1 0 1 9 1 14 143 Tacoma..................................................Friday: May 25, June 22 Wilmington............................................ Monday: May 21, June 18 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m ATTENTION SEAFARERS Contribute to the Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD Works For You! 2018 May 2018 A All Groups B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 8 1 2 15 3 12 11 45 38 36 2 10 26 19 4 2 7 29 4 17 291 5 2 6 7 1 2 8 9 14 13 5 2 17 10 3 2 3 10 2 10 131 2 1 0 4 0 4 1 12 8 5 0 3 8 3 1 1 1 6 2 8 70 Deck Department 27 8 0 2 4 2 14 5 2 2 6 1 3 2 40 11 24 12 29 7 6 1 5 1 15 9 8 3 2 3 2 3 4 0 17 3 2 1 25 5 235 81 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 0 0 0 7 1 3 3 10 24 12 2 5 12 5 0 0 4 12 0 9 109 2 0 4 3 0 2 6 6 11 6 1 2 10 6 0 4 3 2 0 13 81 2 0 0 2 1 1 0 3 3 1 0 4 6 3 0 0 0 1 1 5 33 Engine Department 4 4 2 0 1 1 6 2 1 0 2 1 2 3 5 7 11 7 7 4 2 2 3 2 9 8 1 2 0 1 1 2 0 0 9 1 0 1 8 7 74 55 1 0 0 1 0 2 0 1 2 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 14 1 0 1 2 0 1 4 8 4 5 0 1 4 1 0 0 0 3 2 5 42 0 0 3 18 1 4 14 27 30 21 4 9 22 13 1 0 9 31 5 16 228 2 0 3 4 0 3 6 11 22 13 2 3 19 8 1 4 4 6 0 23 134 1 0 1 4 1 0 0 5 5 3 0 4 10 4 0 1 1 4 0 3 47 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 0 1 9 0 10 10 11 23 9 1 6 9 17 2 6 2 14 4 19 154 0 0 0 2 1 1 0 4 6 2 0 4 6 4 0 2 5 1 0 6 44 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 2 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 2 2 0 1 13 Steward Department 1 0 0 0 1 1 13 5 1 0 2 0 9 0 10 2 9 6 8 3 0 0 2 1 10 5 9 0 1 0 3 0 1 3 10 1 1 0 12 3 103 30 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 7 0 0 1 5 0 0 1 3 5 5 0 2 6 2 1 0 0 7 0 5 43 3 0 1 22 2 9 20 41 34 17 1 6 22 25 2 8 3 23 4 41 284 2 0 0 3 1 1 2 9 13 4 1 3 11 8 0 3 8 2 1 9 81 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 4 3 1 0 1 2 2 1 0 2 3 0 2 23 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 3 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 13 6 0 2 5 1 0 5 8 16 14 0 0 18 10 1 1 0 8 0 6 101 7 3 0 4 0 3 4 14 30 12 0 1 27 14 0 2 1 8 1 15 146 Entry Department 0 7 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 0 0 1 2 1 11 4 8 3 5 0 0 0 0 0 4 1 6 0 1 0 0 1 0 3 4 0 0 1 8 15 59 6 1 2 3 1 2 5 6 13 0 1 0 6 3 0 1 0 6 0 15 71 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 2 0 1 0 1 13 3 1 0 0 0 0 1 7 4 4 0 2 3 2 0 0 1 7 0 11 46 13 0 1 10 1 0 12 14 33 24 0 1 22 20 2 1 1 21 0 25 201 23 7 0 7 0 5 6 41 77 27 1 2 61 27 0 4 2 21 1 40 352 GRAND TOTAL: 567 357 262 129 216 1,078 643 565 San Juan.............................................Thursday: May 10, June 7 St. Louis...............................................Friday: May 18, June 15 Registered on Beach All Groups A B 427 225 Seafarers LOG 15 �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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 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 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 Stop 16 1/2 Santurce, PR 00907-4601 (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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by SIU members at the union hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. Question: What would you want the general public to know about the U.S. Merchant Marine, and why do you think the American maritime industry is important? James Joyce Recertified Bosun I’d like the public to know that there still is a U.S.-flag merchant marine. When I tell people what I do for a living, they don’t even realize there is one. Secondly, I’d explain that 90 percent of all cargo worldwide is moved on ships. That’s always been a point of interest to people when I do engage them in a conversation about what the merchant marine does – the commercial end of it. The general public is extremely misinformed about the merchant marine. Roy Payne AB The merchant marine is really important to the safety and security of the United States – for example, supporting our troops or taking relief supplies to Puerto Rico. I try to spread the word wherever I go, and I try to get people involved in the industry. I’ve been in it all my life, and we need people to continue this U.S. Merchant Marine system. Eduardo Barlas AB We support the military and we deliver for the military. That’s very, very important. They can call us and we’ll answer. We cannot rely on foreign-flag ships; we really need our own availability and readiness. I also encourage people to get into the industry. It’s not for everybody, but it’s in my blood. Once you’re in, it’s hard to leave. ATM Reza AB I would tell them about the freedom in the industry. This job has flexibility, freedom and we travel all over the world and see a bunch of countries. The money is good. I chose this career in 1989 and started on a foreign-flag ship. I came to this country and joined the SIU in 2004. Financially, it’s a very good job. I enjoy it, especially the travelling. It means a lot to me. Alex Amarra QMED I don’t think a lot of people know about it. When someone asks you what you do for a living and you tell them, they say, “What’s that?” They think you’re in the military. I want them to know what we do and how important the job is to the nation. It helps the economy and helps with national security, too. We deliver the goods in times of peace and war. We help our military. Arkady Bichevsky QEE I do try to explain the industry to people, and the advantages of this kind of career. I started sailing a long time ago, 1977. I sailed on flag-of-convenience ships, and that work is not safe. There’s much more safety for American workers…. I try to bring people to our union. I’ve stuck around because the money is good, and I can decide how long I stay ashore. Most important, it’s my profession. Pic From The Past This photo originally ran in the May 1970 edition of the LOG, with a short article headlined “Last of the Sidewheelers.” Today, the boat is preserved at the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. The full text of the 1970 piece: “An epic 9,000-mile journey ended last month when a 56-year-old sidewheeler tugboat paddled under the Golden Gate to dock at her new home here. The restored tugboat, the Eppleton Hall, is thought to be the last of her kind. She completed a voyage from Newcastle, England, to a berth at the San Francisco Maritime Museum. During the six-month journey that took the 10-man crew to Africa, across the Atlantic and through the Panama Canal at a top speed of 5 knots, the 105foot tugboat was battered by three Atlantic storms. The vessel was discovered on a mudflat on the Tyne River by Scott Newhall, executive editor of the San Francisco Chronicle and founding director of the Maritime Museum. She was burned out and scheduled for destruction. Newhall bought the sidewheeler and restored her at a cost of $150,000, including conversion of the original coal-burning engines to diesel and replacement of woodwork.” 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 2018 �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 PRESCILLANO GAMBOA KONSTANTINOS PROKOVAS Brother Vladimir Babenko, 67, joined the SIU in 1996 and first sailed aboard the Lawrence Gianella. A member of the engine department, he upgraded on multiple occasions at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. Brother Babenko last sailed on the Horizon Tacoma. He lives in Wauna, Washington. Brother Prescillano Gamboa, 70, joined the SIU in 2001, first sailing aboard the Patriot. The steward department member upgraded often at the maritime training center in Piney Point. Brother Gamboa most recently shipped aboard the Green Bay and settled in Orlando, Florida. DAVID BODAH Brother Konstantinos Prokovas, 65, joined the SIU in 1992, initially working aboard the Global Link. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Prokovas last sailed on the Maersk Pittsburgh before settling in Brooklyn, New York. RAPHAEL JAMES VLADIMIR BABENKO Brother David Bodah, 65, signed on with the union in 1999, initially sailing aboard the Shahnaz Bay. He worked in the engine department and upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Bodah last sailed on the Alliance St. Louis. He resides in Sparks, Nevada. KIM BUCHMAN Brother Kim Buchman, 72, began his career with the Seafarers in 2012 when he sailed on the USNS Invincible. He was a deck department member and last sailed aboard the American Phoenix. Brother Buchman calls Oroville, Washington, home. JAIME CAYONTE Brother Raphael James, 72, donned the SIU colors in 2002, initially shipping on the CP Liberator. The deck department member upgraded his skills at the union-affiliated Piney Point school in 2007. Brother James last shipped on the Safmarine Ngami. He calls Brooklyn, New York, home. ROBERT JOHNSON Brother Robert Johnson, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1978. He first worked aboard the Delta Venezuela and was a member of the engine department. He upgraded his skills often at the Piney Point school and last sailed aboard the Achiever. Brother Johnson resides in Houston. JAMES KEITH Brother Jaime Cayonte, 71, joined the union in 1993, initially sailing aboard the Sea Wolf. He was a steward department member and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2002. Brother Cayonte last sailed aboard the Golden State and resides in Jacksonville, Florida. Brother James Keith, 65, joined the SIU in 1978 and first sailed aboard the Overseas Ohio. A deck department member, he upgraded on multiple occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point. Brother Keith most recently sailed on the USNS Bellatrix and makes his home in New Orleans. ANDREW DONALDSON ERNESTO LOMBOY Brother Andrew Donaldson, 71, signed on with the union in 2001. The deck department member’s first SIU ship was the Seabulk Challenge. Brother Donaldson upgraded his skills in 2001 at the Piney Point school. He last sailed on the Horizon Anchorage and settled in Federal Way, Washington. GERALD GADBOIS Brother Gerald Gadbois, 65, began his career with the SIU in 1974, when he sailed aboard a Hudson Waterways vessel. He was a deck department member and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1983. Brother Gadbois most recently sailed on the OMI Williamette. He makes his home in Fairplay, Colorado. May 2018 Brother Ernesto Lomboy, 69, joined the SIU in 2003, initially sailing aboard a Matson vessel. He worked in the deck department and in 2006 upgraded at the maritime training center in Piney Point. Brother Lomboy most recently sailed on the Pacific Collector. He lives in Pearl City, Hawaii. JASPER MCGIRT Brother Jasper McGirt, 67, donned the SIU colors in 1999 when he worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation. He was an engine department member and upgraded in 2000 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother McGirt most recently worked aboard the USNS VADM K.R. Wheeler. He lives in San Diego. ROBERT SCRIVENS Brother Robert Scrivens, 60, signed on with the union in 1976, when he worked aboard the Eagle Traveler. An engine department member, he upgraded often at the maritime training center in Piney Point. Brother Scrivens last sailed aboard the USNS Curtiss and lives in Mohave Valley, Arizona. DIMARKO SHOULDERS Brother Dimarko Shoulders, 56, became an SIU member in 1991, when he sailed aboard an AMSEA ship. A member of the engine department, he upgraded often at the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center. Brother Shoulders most recently sailed on the Charger. He resides in Mansfield, Ohio. MARUF SYARIFUDIN Brother Maruf Syarifudin, 70, signed on with the SIU in 2003. He first shipped on the Black Eagle and was a deck department member. Brother Syarifudin last sailed on the Maersk Pittsburgh. He calls Elmhurst, New York, home. WINSTON THOMPSON Brother Winston Thompson, 58, donned the SIU colors in 1993, initially working aboard the Long Lines. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Thompson most recently sailed on the Overseas Chinook and settled in Houston. GREAT LAKES DAVID ANDREWS Brother David Andrews, 53, started shipping with the SIU in 1994. He initially sailed on the J.A.W. Iglehart and worked as an engine department member. Brother Andrews upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions before last working aboard the John Boland. He makes his home in Lexington, Michigan. his career. Brother Rogers lives in Louisville, Kentucky. INLAND Brother Elizer Saintvil, 65, joined the SIU in 2000, when he shipped on the Eric G. Gibson. He upgraded on multiple occasions at the SIU-affiliated maritime training center in Maryland and was a member of the steward department. Brother Saintvil last sailed on the Liberty Island before settling in Port Charlotte, Florida. CRAIG BURMEISTER Brother Craig Burmeister, 62, signed on with the union in 1980. He first worked for Dixie Carriers and was a member of the deck department. Brother Burmeister upgraded his skills on several occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point. He most recently worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation, and resides in Dover, Florida. FELIX JOHNFINN Brother Felix Johnfinn, 65, joined the SIU in 2000, when he sailed aboard the USNS Prevail. The engine department member upgraded his skills at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in 2006. Brother Johnfinn last worked for G&H Towing and makes his home in Houston. JOSEPH MERAVY Brother Joseph Meravy, 62, donned the SIU colors in 1990, initially working for McAllister of Virginia. A member of the deck department, Brother Meravy upgraded often at the Piney Point school. He last sailed with Allied Towing and lives in Pasadena, Texas. COSMO MEZZINA Brother Cosmo Mezzina, 70, signed on with the union in 2002, when he sailed aboard the George Washington. The deck department member enhanced his skills in 2003 when he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Mezzina last worked for Port Imperial Ferry and resides in Hoboken, New Jersey. NICHOLAS PICCINICH Brother Nicholas Piccinich, 62, signed on with the union in 1989, initially working with Crowley. A member of the deck department, Brother Piccinich remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He makes his home in Mount Laurel, New Jersey. JAMES ROGERS Brother James Rogers, 70, started shipping with the SIU in 2007, when he worked for Harley Marine. He was a deck department member and worked for the same company for the duration of ELIZER SAINTVIL MARK SCHULTZ Brother Mark Schultz, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1989, initially working for Red Circle Transportation. The deck department member enhanced his skills on multiple occasions when he upgraded at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center. Brother Schultz most recently sailed with Allied Transportation. He resides in Chula Vista, California. TIMOTHY THOMAS Brother Timothy Thomas, 65, became an SIU member in 1971. Initially working in the deep-sea division, he first sailed aboard the Houston. Brother Thomas upgraded at the union-affiliated Piney Point school in 1985. A member of the deck department, he last worked for Hvide Marine before settling in East Nassau, New York. MARK TILLY Brother Mark Tilly, 57, joined the union in 1994, when he worked for Allied Towing. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded often at the maritime training center in Piney Point. Brother Tilly last worked aboard the Legacy and calls Dunedin, Florida, home. WILLIAM WHITE Brother William White, 65, joined the SIU in 2003 and first sailed with Allied Towing. After remaining with the same company for the duration of his career, he settled in Venice, Florida. RORY WIX Brother Rory Wix, 61, signed on with the union in 1979, when he worked for G&H Towing. A deck department member, he upgraded on multiple occasions in Piney Point. Brother Wix remained with the same company for the duration of his career and resides in Aransas Pass, Texas. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA JOACHIM BUETZER Pensioner Joachim Buetzer, 76, passed away January 15. He joined the union in 1995 and first sailed on the SS Independence. Brother Buetzer was a member of the steward department and last worked aboard the LNG Gemini. He retired in 2007 and settled in Lahaina, Hawaii. HAYWOOD BUTLER Pensioner Haywood Butler, 92, died April 6. He joined the union in 1965 when he shipped aboard the Eagle Voyager. An engine department member, he last worked aboard the Overseas Washington. Brother Butler retired in 1991 and lived in Orlando, Florida. JUAN CASTILLO Pensioner Juan Castillo, 68, passed away February 2. He signed on with the SIU in 1970, initially sailing on the Andrew Jackson. Working in the deck department, Brother Castillo last sailed on the Seabulk Arctic. He became a pensioner in 2009 and was a resident of Houston. ANTONIO COLON RIOS Pensioner Antonio Colon Rios, 61, died March 15. He signed on with the union in 1982 and first sailed on the Del Sol. Brother Colon Rios was a steward department member. He last sailed on the Prestige New York. He retired in 2007 and lived in Carolina, Puerto Rico. WILLIAM FARMER Pensioner William Farmer, 78, passed away March 31. He became a member of the SIU in 1997 and first sailed on the USNS Able. A member of the steward department, Brother Farmer last sailed on the Observation Island. He became a pensioner in 2006 and called Charleston, South Carolina, home. EDWARD HIEL Pensioner Edward Hiel, 79, died April 10. He signed on with the union in 1969, first sailing on the Reiss Brothers in the Great Lakes division. The steward department member later worked in the deep sea division, last sailing on the 18 Seafarers LOG USNS Sisler. Brother Hiel retired in 2000 and resided in Punta Gorda, Florida. JAMES KEEVAN Pensioner James Keevan, 69, passed away February 16. He joined the union in 1991 and first shipped aboard the USNS Chauvenet. Brother Keevan sailed in the deck department and last shipped aboard the Maersk Georgia. He became a pensioner in 2013 and called Grand Haven, Michigan, home. IBARRA MANGAYA Pensioner Ibarra Mangaya, 65, passed away February 26. He signed on with the SIU in 1996, first sailing aboard the USNS Altair. Brother Mangaya worked in the engine department and last sailed on the Jack Lummus. He retired in 2018 and settled in Virginia Beach, Virginia. ALEJANDRO MARTINEZ Pensioner Alejandro Martinez, 77, died March 2. He joined the SIU in 1968, initially sailing aboard the Trans Huron. A member of the engine department, Brother Martinez most recently sailed on the Overseas Harriet. He began collecting his pension in 2005 and made his home in Houston. JOHN MCNELLAGE Pensioner John McNellage, 91, passed away March 13. He joined the union in 1951 and first sailed aboard the Alcoa Polaris. The deck department member’s last vessel was the Overseas Alaska before his retirement in 1985. Brother McNellage lived in Mobile, Alabama. MOSLEH MOSLEH Brother Mosleh Mosleh, 63, died March 9. He signed on with the union in 1980, initially sailing on the Panama. He was a steward department member and last shipped on the Integrity. Brother Mosleh was a resident of Syracuse, New York. ANTONIO OCTAVIANO Pensioner Antonio Octaviano, 66, died February 24. He became an SIU member in 2003, initially sailing on the Paul Buck. Born in the Philippines, Brother Octaviano worked in the engine department. He most recently shipped aboard the Resolve, and retired in 2018. He made his home in Daly City, California. EARNEST OXENDINE Pensioner Earnest Oxendine, 81, died March 20. He joined the union in 1966 and first shipped on the Bienville. The deck department member last sailed on the Global Mariner. Brother Oxendine became a pensioner in 2001 and resided in Pembroke, North Carolina. STANLEY PARTYKA Pensioner Stanley Partyka, 88, passed away March 16. He joined the union in 1951. Brother Partyka sailed in the deck department. He retired in 1986 and resided in Chicago. BELTRAN PINO Pensioner Beltran Pino, 96, passed away March 15. He joined the SIU in 1943 and first sailed aboard the Pan Atlantic. Brother Pino was a deck department member. His last ship was the Robert E. Lee. He began collecting his pension in 1977 and made his home in Honolulu. JOHN SHANK Brother John Shank, 55, died March 7. He signed on with the union in 2003 and first sailed on the Overseas Joyce. A member of the deck department, Brother Shank last worked aboard the Liberty Promise. He called Fort Lauderdale, Florida, home. JAMES SOUCI Pensioner James Souci, 73, passed away March 18. He signed on with the union in 1990 and first sailed aboard the USNS Harkness. The deck department member’s last vessel was the Sea-Land Express. Brother Souci retired in 2016 and settled in Paradise, California. GREAT LAKES LEE HOWARD Pensioner Lee Howard, 77, passed away February 5. He joined the SIU in 1963 and first worked with Michigan Interstate Railway. Brother Howard was a deck department member and most recently sailed on the J.A.W. Iglehart. He began collecting his pension in 1996 and made his home in Benzonia, Michigan. INLAND GEORGE BUCHANAN Pensioner George Buchanan, 89, passed away March 6. He signed on with the SIU in 1959, working for Chesapeake & Ohio Railway. He continued to work for the same company until his retirement in 1990. Brother Buchanan lived in Smithfield, Virginia. MIRA GNOINSKA Pensioner Mira Gnoinska, 83, died March 2. She joined the union in 1981 and spent her entire career with Delta Queen Steamboat Co., primarily sailing in the steward department. Sister Gnoinska became a pensioner in 1997 and settled in Metairie, Louisiana. RUSSELL JEWETT Pensioner Russell Jewett, 74, died March 2. He became a member of the SIU in 1973, initially working for Michigan Interstate Railway. Brother Jewett was an engine department member and last worked aboard the Sugar Island. He began collecting his pension in 2008 and lived in Hart, Michigan. DOMENIC OTTOFARO Pensioner Domenic Ottofaro, 86, passed away March 7. He donned the SIU colors in 1963 when he worked for Chesapeake & Ohio Railway. Brother Ottofaro worked for the same company up until the last month of his career, when he sailed with McAllister Towing of Virginia. He retired in 1990 and resided in Hickory, North Carolina. IGNACIO FLORES Pensioner Ignacio Flores, 73, died February 18. He signed on with the union in 1971 as a crane maintenance electrician in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Brother Flores was an engine department member and last worked for NPR. He became a pensioner in 1998 and lived in Carolina, Puerto Rico. NMU SAMUEL COX Pensioner Samuel Cox, 82, passed away February 24. Born in Guyana, he worked as a member of the deck department. Brother Cox began collecting pension in 2007 and resided in Bronx, New York. SAEED FARAH Pensioner Saeed Farah, 90, died March 16. He was born in Somalia and was a deck department member. He sailed for 26 years, most recently aboard a tanker, and then retired in 1989. Brother Farah made his home in Killeen, Texas. FRANK JACKSON Pensioner Frank Jackson, 90, passed away February 28. Born in Louisiana, he retired in 1988 and resided in Los Angeles. JAMES LENNA Pensioner James Lenna, 89, died March 12. He was born in New York and became a pensioner in 1965. He called Weatherford, Texas, home. MELFORD MCRAE Pensioner Melford McRae, 86, died March 18. He began his career with Brooklyn Eastern District Terminal in 1970. Brother McRae briefly worked as a member of the SIUaffiliated United Industrial Workers before joining the NMU. He retired in 2000 and settled in East Orange, New Jersey. TIM THOMPSON Pensioner Tim Thompson, 65, passed away January 2. Born in Wauseon, Ohio, he was a member of the deck department. Brother Thompson last worked aboard the Maersk Maine and began collecting his pension in 2008. He made his home in New Orleans. Name Age Alexis, Eddie 92 Alves, Joseph 90 Barone, Angelo 91 Balow, William 89 Collins, Albert 86 Galvin, Charles 89 Girau, Mario 79 Grason, Patricia 77 Lopes, Quintino 98 Mendez, Santiago 98 Merren, Luis 90 Morales, Augusto 97 Pineda, Terencio 91 Purse, Arthur 92 Roque, Cyrilo 101 Scott, Ottley 93 Simon, George 95 Soares, Antonio 87 Straigis, Thomas 92 Trevino, Manuel 89 Wojs, Alexandra 95 DOD 04/01/2018 04/05/2018 02/15/2018 03/30/2018 03/28/2018 03/03/2018 04/06/2018 03/09/2018 02/14/2018 03/24/2018 03/21/2018 03/04/2018 12/16/2017 03/17/2018 03/05/2018 03/23/2018 03/31/2018 01/23/2018 03/28/2018 03/29/2018 03/23/2018 May 2018 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings MAERSK DENVER (Maersk Line, Limited), January 20 – Chairman James Walker, Secretary Caezar Mercado, Educational Director Herman Castro, Deck Delegate Saleh Mothana, Steward Delegate Medardo Thomas. Crew awaiting update on Wi-Fi router installation on each deck. Chairman discussed president’s report in Seafarers LOG and informed members of expected late arrival to the port of Newark, New Jersey. He gave special thanks to steward department for excellent meals, including during holiday. Secretary urged members to keep credentials up to date and reminded galley gang about new culinary course requirement for upcoming years. Educational director encouraged crew to secure a good future by upgrading. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested new movies, new mattresses and new computer monitor. New pillows and blankets have already been ordered. Next ports: Newark, New Jersey; Charleston, South Carolina. MAERSK COLUMBUS (Maersk Line, Limited), February 3 – Chairman Ion Irimia, Secretary Richard Hicks. Chairman thanked crew for safe trip and announced USCG will board in Norfolk, Virginia. New mattresses will arrive soon. Secretary informed crew of stores arriving in Houston. Educational director advised members to upgrade their skills at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members had several requests including, Wi-Fi in stateroom, new washer and dryer, new coffee maker, new vacuum cleaner and new 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. satellite phone. PHILADELPHIA (Crowley) February 11 – Chairman Jesse Natividad, Secretary Wilma Jackson, Educational Director Christopher Eason. Chairman advised crew to renew documents on time. Secretary thanked shipmates for a smooth voyage. Educational director encouraged members to take time to upgrade at the SIU-affiliated school in Maryland whenever possible. He reminded them to always have a valid Coast Guard physical prior to applying to upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department thanked crew for keeping up morale aboard ship as well as keeping common areas in good shape. Members were encouraged to attend union meetings. Crew requested TV in rooms and larger TV for the lounge. MAERSK SENTOSA (Maersk Line, Limited), February 12 – Chairman Videlio Roman, Secretary Charles Brooks, Educational Director Donald Christian. Chairman encouraged members to read the LOG. Steward department and engine department were thanked for their good work. Educational director reported good, safe trip and recommended members upgrade when possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed desired increase of vacation and retirement benefits. Members also requested TV in each room and Wi-Fi on ship. LIBERTY GLORY (Liberty Maritime), February 14 – Chairman Bernard Baker, Engine Delegate Abad Martinez, Steward Delegate Pete Hernandez. Educational director advised members, particularly engineers, to utilize Piney Point school by upgrading. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed hold-cleaning operations and procedures. Members requested rain gear be provided by company when washing holds. Steward department praised for outstanding job providing timely, nutritious meals. Members noted possible discrepancy with travel rates and expressed need for updates. Crew hopeful to regain internet access upon arrival to the States, after losing it January 4. MOHAWK (Pacific Gulf Marine), February 20 – Chairman Kevin Stehlik, Secretary Allen Bartley, Educational Director Kevin Chenault. Chairman announced arrival and payoff February 25, in Concoard, California. Repairs to boiler in engine room to be made in Richmond, California, approximately one week following arrival. Crew plans to return to Concord and load cargo for Korea and Japan. Secretary thanked crew for keeping mess hall clean. Steward reported low inventory and apologized for lack of menu choices. Educational director advised members to check documents for renewal dates. He urged crew to renew documents early and reminded them to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew continues to await installation of new coffee maker and cited need for plumbing parts on order to complete the job. Members discussed concerns regarding QMEDs apparently not receiving penalty pay for doing jobs outside of normal routine. Chairman gave vote of thanks to steward department for a job well done. USNS MENDOCA (Maersk Line, Limited), February 21 – Chairman Roberto Flores Monge, Educational Director Frank Sambula. Old business addressed with captain to be handled by company. Crew still waiting on answers regarding new mattresses and linens. Chairman reminded members to be safe and mindful of slippery ramps. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members expressed ongoing support of Jones Act after reading SIU President Michael Sacco’s column in Seafarers LOG. Crew requested designated computer for member use. SAFMARINE NGAMI (Maersk Line, Limited), March 2 – Chairman Mathew Bevak, Secretary Cleto Lindong, Educational Director Allan Bombita, Deck Delegate Andre Skevnick, Steward Delegate Noel Segovia. Crew discussed importance of safety. Chairman reminded members to look out for each other and thanked them for their hard work and professionalism. Steward department thanked for making visually appealing and tasty food. Secretary commended crew for keeping ship clean and being good shipmates. Educational director advised members to take every opportunity to upgrade their skills at the Piney Point school. Crew discussed ship fund and possibility of using money for new movies and router wires for each department. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested extra washing machine and dryer as well as bigger ice machine. New mattresses received. Next Port: Salalah. USNS BRUCE HEEZEN (Ocean Shipholdings), March 4 – Chairman Robert Natividad, Secretary Shirley Jenkins, Educational Director Latanya Jackson Johnson, Deck Delegate Brian Robison, Engine Delegate Randy Corey. Educational director reminded members to keep documents up to date. He urged crew to always be on the lookout for upgrading opportunities at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Unlicensed crew members in need of computer access. ALASKAN NAVIGATOR (Alaska Tanker Company), March 7 – Chairman Gregory Hamilton, Secretary Albert Sison, Educational Director Leland Peterson, Deck Delegate Bonifacio Fortes, Engine Delegate Anne Scott, Steward Delegate Yolanda Martinez. Members requested additional copies of current contract. Chairman suggested members read and get familiar with the collective bargaining agreement. Educational director urged members to go to SIU-affiliated school and take advantage of courses offered by upgrading. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew suggested change in eligibility requirements for filing for vacation benefits. Members request ATC hold next conference at Piney Point. If applicable, members needing to renew BST can do so during that time. Members requested new recliners for staterooms and to bring back Wi-Fi on the ship. 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 May 2018 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 19 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Machinist June 16 July 6 September 1 September 21 Gap Closing Courses Engineroom Resource Management October 6 Leadership & Manageral Skills October 13 FOWT August 25 September 21 Junior Engineer June 9 August 3 August 11 October 5 Marine Electrician August 11 October 5 October 12 October 19 Marine Refer Tech October 6 November 16 MEECE July 21 August 3 Pumpman May 19 May 25 Able Seafarer Deck August 25 September 21 October 20 November 16 Welding June 9 June 29 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Steward Department Courses Students will be advised of dates once accepted. Advanced Galley Ops June 9 July 6 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Meteorology June 9 June 15 Advanced Shiphandling June 23 July 6 Advanced Stability June 2 June 8 ARPA May 12 May 18 June 30 July 6 Bosun Recertification July 21 August 6 Crane Familiarization July 14 July 20 ECDIS October 20 October 26 Fast Rescue Boat June 16 June 22 August 11 August 17 GMDSS June 2 June 15 September 22 October 5 Lifeboat June 2 June 15 June 30 July 13 Radar Observer June 16 June 29 October 6 October 19 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW June 2 June 29 July 28 August 24 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers June 2 June 15 BAPO June 2 June 29 July 28 August 24 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 # and dates attended___________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will startMay 14. Chief Steward July 7 August 24 Galley Operations July 14 August 10 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 May 12 May 18 June 2 June 8 June 23 June 29 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 May 19 May 25 June 9 June 15 June 16 June 22 Serve Safe July 14 July 20 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training w/16hr FF May 19 May 25 June 16 June 22 Basic Training Revalidation May 18 May 18 June 8 June 8 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation June 9 June 15 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting May 26 June 1 Government Vessels May 12 May 18 May 26 June 1 Medical Care Provider May 19 May 25 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL June 9 June 15 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG June 2 June 8 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, or 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. 5/18 May 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class # 833 – Graduated January 26 (in alphabetical order): Jamel Akia Anders, Timothy Behnke, Vincent Hall, Rahsean Lillard, Robert Murphy, Draven Nolan, Brandon Reed, Pedro Antonio Rivera-Hernandez, Nicholas Simoneaux, Lucas Tiderman, Assael Valencia and John Wattam. Instructor Bernabe Pelingon is at the far right. Vessel Security Officer – Graduated January 31: Bryan Page. Class instructor Brian Moore is at right. Welding – Graduated February 16 (in alphabetical order): Omar Naji Ahmed Al Asaadi, Daniel Bynum, Jeffrey Eckhart, Bradley Hanson and Mathew McClintock. Instructor Chris Raley is at the far right. Small Arms – Graduated January 19 (in alphabetical order): Volodymyr Olexandrovych Bendus, Orin King and Joshua Lopez. Class instructor John Thomas is at the far right. Advanced Self Unloading – Graduated February 23 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Omar Naji Ahmed Al Asaadi, Zakarya Almalhani, Daniel Bynum, Marc Gerrie, Bradley Hanson, Mathew McClintock, Scott Norlander and Dean Parks. Instructor Don Jaegle is at the far left. UA to AS-D – Graduated February 2 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Timothy Chestnut, Kevin Coughlin, Neil Donegan, Morgan Hayes, Will Jordan, June Kirk Bondoc Margaja, Christian Joel Pagan-Villanueva, Victor Manuel Rios Rodriguez and Randy Shaw Jr. Instructor Welton Grooms is fourth from left. Notice to All 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. May 2018 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Magnetic & Gyro Compasses – Graduated February 16: James Wunder (left) and Bryan Page. Medical Care Provider – Graduated March 2 (in alphabetical order): Servando Jesus Canales Jr., Scott Gilleland, Charles Hosea Jr., Shoal Nervo and Richard Vega Villafane. Instructor Mike Roberts is at the far left. Basic Self Unloading – Graduated February 16 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Zakarya Almalhani, Hameed A. Almathil, Lee Javier Eludo Jr., Nasser Saleh Mohsen Muthana, Scott Norlander and Tyrone Simmons. Instructor Don Jaegle is at the far left. Government Vessels – Graduated March 3 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Nassr Hassan Ahmed, Jarvis Atkins, Jeffrey Beasley Jr., Tyesha Boyd, Gerard Costello, David Dunklin, Adam Soliman Moh Elemam, Tyrone Ellis, Ibrahim Abdelrauf Elsayed, Joseph Evans, Marcus Hugee, Mohamad Mahmoud Kammoun, Tina Knox, William Mulcahy, Angel Alfredo Nunez, Eduardo Osorio, Miles Partridge, Scott Thompson, Andrezej Tlalka, Andrew Paul Van Bourg, Jayson Velez-Cruz and Lee Weygandt. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Graduated February 9 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Gerardo Evangelio Arroyo, Ragab Mossad Ayed, Clinton Crowden, Cesar Cera Dela Cruz, Johnny Dozier III, Brad Alan Fester, Larry Manuel Genetiano, Antonio Hamilton, Maurice Henry Jr., Quentin Hood, Jared Johnson, Antrell Dominique Jordan, James Luttrell Jr., Jerald Quitugua Martinez, Dionesio Bacsibio Monteclaro Jr., Orlando Vallangca Pajarillo Jr., Cortney Smith, Troy Smith, Michael Wees and Fernandez Lacpta Wilcox Jr. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 22 Seafarers LOG May 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Basic Training Revalidation – Graduated January 5 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Abdullah Mohsen Munassar Alamri, Amin Hussein Ali Q., Santiago Amaya, Damien Bautista, Volodymyr Olexandrovych Bendus, Brian Cushing, Buzz Tyler Sean Engelke, Dennis Faron, Thomas Johnson, Mohamed Sam Kassem, Richard Lawson, Kenneth Ledeoux, Fayez Mohamed Mussa, Arsenio Icoy Obenza, Steven Ramos, Virgilio Enrique Rosales, Jose Luis Sanchez-Lopez, Marcos Tulio Santos Gamboa, Adrian Schubert, Terrance Shinn, Ken Mirador Tan and Jeffery Thomas. Basic Training Basic Firefighting (Upgraders) – Graduated January 26 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Roderick Austin, Jose Luis Burgos, Larry Manuel Genetiano, Joseph Gibbens, Kevin Jenkins, Edmund Livings, Thomas MacGregor, Sterling McCosh, Priscilla McKnight, Mamie Porter, Kevin Quinlan, Norman Robinson, Jeff Rowe, Curtis Spencer, Joseph Spencer and Richard Vega Villafane. Basic Training/Advanced Firefighting Revalidation – Graduated January 12 (in alphabetical order): Benigno G. Gonzales Jr., Alexandre Racine, James Vincent Romeo, Kevin Samuels and Liberato Zacarias Viray. Advanced Galley Ops – Graduated February 2 (in alphabetical order): Melany Gonzalez, Joseph Michael Hernandez, Quentin Hood and Paula Minton. (Note: Not all are pictured.) May 2018 Galley Ops (SUA) – Graduated January 12 (in alphabetical order): Gilma David, Victoria James, Young Moo Kim and Travis Lunsford. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduating February 16 (in alphabetical order): Martin Buck, Cesar Cera Dela Cruz, Gerald Lovell Hyman, Grady Ingram III and Tina Knox. Instructor Robert Johnson is second from the right. Seafarers LOG 23 �MAY F E B R2018 UARY 2014 o VVOLUME O L U M E 80 7 6 NO N. 5 O. 2 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 Recertified Steward James Cameron (photo at left) prepares a dish as part of Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0. while Chief Steward Cayetano Terria Toledo (above) pauses for a photo during the same course. New Steward Department Classes a Hit in Piney Point Culinary 2.0 Gets Strong Start at Union-Affiliated Paul Hall Center As part of its mission to provide the most modern and upto-date classes, the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education has redesigned the courses and curriculums offered for steward department mariners. The SIU-affiliated school has created two classes to introduce the new methodology: Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 and Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0. During these one week, 35-hour courses, instructors at the Piney Point, Maryland-based school teach and test current chief cooks and chief stewards on the most modern galley training ever offered by the school. The new curriculum was developed in partnership with union-contracted vessel operators, in order to provide the closest analogue to real-life conditions aboard a vessel. Every aspect of the new training has been redesigned with quality and efficiency in mind, while also using the latest methods for inventory management and galley safety. “Being a former certified chief steward and now as an instructor, I think this course is a good thing for our industry,” said Chef Robert Johnson. “These 2.0 students are the present and future stewards of a better shipboard culinary experience for SIU members. I am happy to see that so many recertified chief stewards are coming to take this course. This class and its students should serve as an inspiration to the rest of the fleet. An educated mariner is a better and more qualified one.” Johnson continued, “This course is the brainchild of many people. It took a lot of time and effort from many individuals to make it happen. It started with the school’s leadership, but went all the way down to myself, as the course instructor. I’m glad that we took the time, and the students are as well.” For those already sailing, all steward department personnel (unless they recieved training after January 1, 2017) must attend one of the revalidation courses within 24 months of implementation in order to exercise preference and priority in accordance with Shipping Rule 5.A.(6). That rule, which will go into effect January 1, 2020, states, “Within each class of seniority in the Steward Department, priority shall be given to those seamen who possess an advanced Culinary 2.0 certificate from the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, in the event such program is being offered and that the seaman is registered in Group I, Steward Department.” (The Lundeberg School is part of the Paul Hall Center.) Members who have taken the new classes have praised both courses, through anonymous comments left on their evaluation forms. “This steward course 2.0 has really helped me a lot in all aspects of the galley, including how to become a better listener and better manager,” said one student, while another remarked, “It helped me to realize that our industry is changing, and me being an old-timer, I need to change with the times.” As class size is limited for both Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 and Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0, mariners are encouraged to enroll as soon as possible. Classes are expected to fill up quickly as the January 1, 2020 deadline approaches for Shipping Rule 5.A.(6), so chief cooks and chief stewards should plan accordingly. “It seems to be a new day here in Piney Point for education,” Johnson concluded. “We are moving forward with the times. Our classes and curriculum, in my opinion, have never been better. I am proud to be here for this exciting time.” EARN YOUR COLLEGE DEGREE THROUGH THE PAUL HALL CENTER ! The Paul Hall Center’s Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship (SHLSS) has partnered with the College of Southern Resident courses at Piney Point begin July 9, 2018 Maryland (CSM) to offer an Associate of Applied Science degree in Maritime Operations Technology with a concentration in either • Nautical Science (Deck department) -or- • Marine Engineering (Engine dept.) Students must complete a combination of academic general education courses and technical education courses in order to earn February 26, 2018 • Associate of Applied Science Degree • UA courses apply toward the degree • Fully accredited • Some courses held at SHLSS the degree. Courses completed during the Unlicensed Apprentice program apply toward the • Online classes degree. Students can complete English, Math and • Scholarships available Physics courses at SHLSS. The remaining general education courses can be completed online. The following classes will convene at SHLSS: July 9, 2018 through July 27, 2018 English 1011 – Composition and Rhetoric Math 1011 – Math for Technologies Enrollment Information Please contact Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School Academic Coordinator Dale Rausch (301) 994-0010 Ext. 5411 -or- Chef Robert “RJ” Johnson conducts a classroom lecture for 2.0 Orientation Assessment upgraders. drausch@seafarers.org 7 Credit Hours Includes: tuition, textbooks, room and board plus one hour of tutoring following each daily class session � 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 2018 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES MSP, OTHER MARITIME PROGRAMS FUNDED BY OMNIBUS SPENDING BILL FINANCIAL COMMITTEE APPROVES 2017 RECORDS USTRANSCOM LEADER BACKS MERCHANT MARINE GENERAL MCDEW UNDERSCORES NEED FOR U.S. CREWS, PRO-MARITIME LAWS CONSTRUCTION STARTS ON SECOND MATSON CON-RO AT NASSCO JACKSONVILLE CONGRESSMAN STANDS UP IN SUPPORT FOR THE JONES ACT MEMBERS INK GREAT LAKES DREDGE AND DOCK CONTRACT SENIOR TOTE EXECUTIVE ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT SEAFARER’S QUICK ACTIONS EXTINGUISH SHIPBOARD FIRE CLERGY BACKS BAKERY WORKERS’ CRUSADE FOR NEW PACT RELIGIOUS LEADERS URGE NABISCO TO NEGOTIATE IN GOOD FAITH, AVOID OUTSOURCING SHBP MEDICAL DEPARTMENT FINALIZES POLICY GOVERNING OPIOIDS, OTHER MEDS BURIAL AT SEA ABOARD THE PERLA DEL CARIBE SIU HELPS ENSURE SUCCESS OF ‘SAIL-IN’ ANNUAL EVENT PROMOTES U.S. MARITIME INDUSTRY ON CAPITOL HILL SIU MEMBERS SUPPORT CONTINUING PROMISE 2018 SIU, MTD BACKED HISTORIC STRIKE IN 1968 ORGANIZATIONS PARTICIPATE IN 2018 RALLY FOR WORKERS’ RIGHTS HANDS-ON TRAINING REMAINS VITAL, PREVALENT IN PINEY POINT SIU-AFFILIATED PAUL HALL CENTER EMPHASIZES PRACTICAL COURSEWORK NEW STEWARD DEPARTMENT CLASSES A HIT IN PINEY POINT 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 05/01/2018 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. 80, No. 5 2018 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/d637af8e053172dbb6dcaa9472cd3f57.pdf 9b2177508b3acf5c3eedd5b00afa743d PDF Text Text APRIL F E B R2018 UARY 2014 VOLUME VOLUME 7 6 o 80, N ONO. . 24 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Underscores Jones Act’s Critical Value Executive Board: Cabotage Law Essential to U.S. Security During its winter meeting, the executive board of the Maritime Trades Department (MTD), AFL-CIO, focused on the Jones Act along with other nations’ respective maritime cabotage laws. MTD officials (including President Michael Sacco, photo at right, who is also SIU president), board members and guest speakers spelled out in great detail how America benefits from the Jones Act. Some of the deliberations in Orlando, Florida, examined the massive, ongoing response by Jones Act carriers who have provided relief cargos and other support to Puerto Rico for the past six months. Our MTD coverage begins on Page 4 and continues on Pages 10-13. Other Jones Act-related articles appear on Pages 2, 3 and 6. Seafarers Deliver in ‘Deep Freeze 2018’ Two SIU-crewed ships recently completed annual resupply missions to McMurdo Station in Antarctica as part of the U.S. Navy’s Operation Deep Freeze 2018. The Maersk Peary (directly above) and Ocean Giant (partly visible in photo at left, above) carried fuel, food, vehicles, electronic equipment and much more to the research center. A few Peary crew members are in the foreground of that photo, while Navy personnel are seen offloading some of the nearly seven million pounds of supplies from the Ocean Giant. The remaining photo (lower left) shows McMurdo crews preparing to discharge fuel from the Peary. Page 24. (Ocean Giant and Peary discharge photos by Sarah Burford) NY Waterway Crew Honored Page 2 Navy Christens USNS Burlington Page 4 SIU Photos Galore Pages 8-9 �SIU Crews Support Pacific Partnership President’s Report Maritime Cabotage is Sound Policy While there are many aspects of Maritime Trades Department meetings that make them worthwhile, we don’t normally hear breaking news during our gatherings. Last month was quite an exception, as an official from the respected, London-based organization Seafarers’ Rights International (SRI) shared results of a years-long survey which concluded that at least 91 nations around the world maintain some form of maritime cabotage law. The findings of this study are significant in several ways. First, they provide a much-needed update to a similar survey that was conducted by the U.S. Maritime Administration back in the 1990s. At that time, the results showed that about 50 countries had cabotage on the books. Knowing that the current figure is almost twice that number shows that we in the United States are far from alone in recognizing the value of maintaining policies that support flag-state Michael Sacco shipping. The results also stand out because of how thoroughly Seafarers’ Rights International conducted the study. As explained by SRI Executive Director Deirdre Fitzpatrick, the survey involved more than 1,300 emails, hundreds of phone calls, reviewing around 300 World Trade Organization reports, plus scouring through books and more articles than they could probably count. Finally, SRI concluded that the goals and benefits of maritime cabotage are exactly what we in the SIU have said all along. Those goals and benefits include fair competition; retaining a skilled, reliable pool of mariners; promoting local jobs; boosting local and national transportation companies; shipboard and environmental safety; and national and economic security. We also were reminded that the Jones Act (America’s freight cabotage law) isn’t the only one under attack. Other countries face similar challenges with what I describe as the storm of lies and misinformation about the Jones Act. The MTD and the SIU will do everything possible to help those nations push back with facts, working with the SRI, the International Transport Workers’ Federation and other allies. If you look back at the last year’s worth of Seafarers LOG editions, you’d probably find that we wrote more information about the Jones Act than any other single subject. And there are good reasons for giving it so much attention, starting with your jobs. Without the Jones Act, there wouldn’t be a U.S. Merchant Marine. Without the U.S.-build provision of the Jones Act, our shipyards would be devastated. Without the Jones Act, so-called flag-of-convenience operators would have free reign up and down our rivers and coasts, using crews that could come from anywhere, with nowhere near the security vetting that American mariners go through. I encourage you to read all of our MTD coverage in this issue, including the article about Ms. Fitzpatrick’s presentation. All of it matters to the SIU and to our industry. There’s one other thing from the meetings that I want to mention, and that’s the outstanding work being done by SIU of Canada President Jim Given and his team. Jim also addressed the board, and while I personally was familiar with many of the cabotage fights he has led in recent years, there was something about hearing them recapped all at once that renewed my admiration for how hard Jim and his entire organization have worked to protect their members’ jobs. Both the SIU and the MTD have been with them all the way, lending whatever support we can, but Jim in particular deserves a tip of the cap for his tireless, effective leadership. He’s a good example of what it takes to get the job done and that hard work does pay off. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 80 Number 4 o Members of the SIU Government Services Division are participating in a major multinational humanitarian mission named Pacific Partnership 2018. The Seafarers-crewed expeditionary fast transport USNS Brunswick sailed from Guam on March 19, bound for the mission’s first stop in Yap, Federated States of Micronesia. The SIU-crewed hospital ship USNS Mercy also has mobilized for the operation. According to the U.S. Navy, Pacific Partnership, now in its 13th iteration, is “the largest annual multilateral humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Asia-Pacific. Pacific Partnership 2018’s objective is to enhance regional coordination in areas such as medical readiness and preparedness for man-made and natural disasters.” Capt. Peter Olive, Pacific Partnership 2018 deputy mission commander, stated, “Pacific Partnership provides opportunities to better prepare and respond to a disaster and improve relationships in com- The USNS Mercy arrives at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, in early March to support Pacific Partnership 2018. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communications Specialist 2nd Class Katarzyna Kobiljak) munities. I am confident we will make a positive difference in the lives of thousands of people across Micronesia and Southeast Asia. Now more than ever, it is critical to foster these partnerships to be better prepared to work together in the future.” The Navy further reported that as the Brunswick and Mercy visit different Asia-Pacific nations, the participants and host nation counterparts “will conduct technical expertise exchanges in medical, engineering, humani- tarian assistance and disaster relief. Additionally, key leader and community engagement events will allow for direct engagement with local citizens and enhanced relationships with partner nation military and government leadership.” Pacific Partnership 2018 consists of more than 800 U.S. and allied military personnel along with non-government organizations, working sideby-side with host nation counterparts. The Seafarers-crewed USNS Brunswick moors in Guam on March 16 as part of this year’s mission. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Byron C. Linder) U.S. Coast Guard Lauds NY Waterway Crew NO. 2 April 2018 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2018 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. The U.S. Coast Guard recently recognized three SIU members with the agency’s Good Samaritan award. As reported in the January LOG, the SIU-crewed NY Waterway ferry Thomas H. Kean on Nov. 3 rescued an individual who jumped off the Battery Park City Ferry Terminal seawall as the boat was approaching for mooring. Bringing him to safety were Capt. David Dort and Deckhands Gregorio Pages and Pietro Romano. Pictured from left are Pages, Dort and Coast Guard Capt. Jason Tama, who presented the award March 1 during Passenger Vessel Industry Day in Brooklyn, New York. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Hunter Medley) Reversed to White Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG April 2018 �McDew, Buzby Support Jones Act in House Hearing USTRANSCOM Commander, Maritime Administrator also Back MSP, Cargo Preference Two key supporters of the Jones Act recently spoke in defense of the law, as well as offered Congress some perspective on the challenges facing the American maritime industry, during a joint hearing between the House Armed Services Committee, the Readiness Subcommittee and the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee. Maritime Administrator Rear Adm. Mark Buzby (USN, Ret.) and U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) Commander Gen. Darren McDew both provided testimony during the hearing, which took place on March 8. While both officials spoke on various aspects of Transportation Command posture – the subject of the hearing – they shared a common theme: The Jones Act, the U.S.flag fleet and the merchant mariner pool are critical components of our national defense. In his testimony, McDew summarized the history and current issues facing the maritime industry: “The U.S.-flagged commercial fleet is vital to the Joint Force’s ability to accomplish its mission. USTRANSCOM’s relationships with U.S.-flagged sealift partners are formalized through the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA) and the Maritime Security Program (MSP). Since their establishment in 1996, participation in these programs by privately owned U.S.flagged commercial shipping has proven a cost-effective means to assure access to sealift capability, capacity, and worldwide networks. The Merchant Marine Act of 1920, or the Jones Act, and the Cargo Preference Act are intended to ensure a baseline of ongoing business to support our inter-coastal shipping capacity and maintain a market for U.S. industrial shipyard infrastructure to build, repair, and overhaul U.S. vessels. However, the dwindling size of the domestic U.S. inter-coastal shipping fleet demands that we reassess our approach to ensure that the U.S. retains critical national security surge sealift capabilities.” Buzby said, “As maritime administrator, I take seriously my charge to ensure that we have enough U.S.-flagged ships and mariners to serve our nation’s commercial and military sealift requirements. I am working closely with USTRANSCOM, the Military Sealift Command and the U.S. Coast Guard and the commercial maritime industry to address these issues.” He continued, emphasizing the importance of cargo preference to the maintenance of the U.S.-flag fleet: “Access to cargo is critical for shipowners to compete globally while operating under the U.S. flag and employing U.S. mariners. Cargo preference laws keep U.S.-flagged operators competitive by requiring U.S.flagged vessels to transport significant portions of cargoes purchased with federal funds. In addition, the Jones Act U.S.-build, ownership and crew requirements support mariner jobs and give us access to domestic maritime assets needed in times of war or national emergency. It also serves national security priorities by supporting U.S. shipyards and repair facilities that produce and repair Americanbuilt ships. U.S. mariners on Jones Act vessels serve as another layer of national defense.” When asked what could be done to maintain and grow the merchant mariner pool, as well as the U.S.-flag fleet, Buzby responded, “It comes down to cargo. We’ve heard it said many times, cargo is king. Without cargo, there’s no need to have the ships, and without the ships, there’s not the mariners. So, to have cargo available for U.S.-flagged vessels to carry, that’s the root of the problem. And whether we do that through cargo preference or through bilateral trade agreements or freeing up cargo that’s available, that’s the root of the problem.” McDew talked about the military readiness the Jones Act helps provide, saying, “For me, the Jones Act, from a warfighting perspective, is all about the mariners, and the ability to keep mariners trained and ready to go to war. The ships that are in the Jones Act are also useful, but the primary thing we get from the Jones Act are the mariners. And those mariners have been with us in every conflict that I can imagine, and suffered great loss, and still stay with us.” Buzby continued that thought, adding, “The Jones Act really is the linchpin. It’s foundational to our merchant marine as it is today. It’s not just the ships, it’s the mariners, which are critical, and it’s the infrastructure that supports the shipbuilding and ship repair part of the industry, and all of the supply chain that impacts that. Because that all has impact on our government shipbuilding programs, as well. The costs of all of those, and the availability of shipbuilders are greatly Port Authority Board of Directors Elects SIU AVP Powell to Post SIU Assistant Vice President Bryan Powell has been unanimously elected to serve as sec- SIU Asst. VP Bryan Powell April 2018 retary-treasurer of the Detroit/ Wayne County Port Authority. The port authority’s board of directors voted for Powell on March 16. Board members serve fouryear terms, without compensation. Powell has been on the board since March 2017. For more information about the port authority, visit http://www. portdetroit.com/dwcpa/ Powell launched his career with the SIU at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center, attending the apprenticeship program in 1993. Since then, he has worked in several capacities and in various locations for the organization. Powell has served as assistant vice president of the SIU since March 2007. He has also served as assistant vice president for the SIU-affiliated Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union (SEATU) since 2012. Gen. Darren McDew (right) and Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby (left) are pictured at the Maritime Trades Department convention last October in St. Louis. Both of them recently testified in the U.S. House of Representatives, where they spoke powerfully in support of the U.S. Merchant Marine. impacted by that, as well. So, it has far-ranging impact.” But not all crises are military in nature, as Buzby spoke about in his testimony: “In addition to providing the RRF ships, MARAD manages National Defense Reserve Fleet (NDRF) vessels used to train merchant mariners and respond to national disasters. Most recently, the Ready Reserve Fleet and NDRF ships were activated to support relief activities of other government agencies following Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria, as was done for Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Sandy, and the earthquake relief efforts in Haiti. During these deployments, MARAD vessels supplied citizens and first responders with housing, meals, logistical support, and relief supplies, including critical Federal Aviation Administration replacement air navigation equipment that was delivered by one of the activated vessel to the Virgin Islands.” McDew also touched on this, stating, “When hurricanes ravaged Texas, Florida, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, our joint enabling and strategic mobility assets deployed to provide critical capabilities including planning support, aeromedical evacuation, and life-saving supplies. Our efforts demonstrated the nation’s resolve and strengthened partnerships worldwide.” Buzby concluded, “Our military’s surge sealift capabilities rely on our nation’s commercial fleet and the mariners who crew these ships – in both peace and war. The decline of the U.S.-flag fleet and the availability of qualified U.S. mariners are of great concern to MARAD and we are exploring a range of options to increase the size of the U.S.-flag fleet with our stakeholders and the administration. MARAD will continue to leverage, as appropriate, the current mainstays of the merchant marine to support strategic sealift: the Jones Act, MSP, and cargo preference.... You have my commitment that we will consider any and all options intended to foster, promote, and develop the U.S. maritime industry.” Writer: Jones Act ‘Convenient Scapegoat for Puerto Rico’s Woes’ Another writer has spoken out in favor of America’s freight cabotage law. Julio Rivera, a popular multimedia personality and political consultant, wrote an editorial in early February that was posted on The Washington Times website. The headline: “A convenient scapegoat for Puerto Rico’s woes.” Rivera pointed out that the Jones Act had been unfairly blamed for hindering the recovery in Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria. He also noted that the attacks against the longstanding maritime law that followed were regrettable. “To unnecessarily hinder a vital cornerstone of not only our economy but our military in the name of shortsighted political opportunism could only be an example of the worst kind of crisis politicization,” Rivera wrote. “The fact that the Jones Act provides benefits, both direct and indirect, to homeland security, immigration enforcement, and the protection of American jobs exposes its opponents as ‘break it to fix it’ opportunists, oblivious to the potential negative ramifications of its repeal.” After expounding on the various secu- rity benefits of the Jones Act, Rivera continued. “As long as the suffering in Puerto Rico continues, we will continue to hear these debates rage on. Some opponents of the Jones Act incorrectly argue cargo shipped in or out of Puerto Rico is required to be transported on Jones Act compliant vessels. Puerto Rico allows for cargo from around the world to be imported into the island. Over 60 percent of cargo-carrying ships docking in La Isla del Encanto are foreign vessels.” He concluded, “The ugly side of politics and attempts to distract from the systematic corruption in Puerto Rico has found a convenient scapegoat in the Jones Act. Truth be told, a repeal of the Jones Act would only weaken the economic prospects of some of the struggling island’s most fervent allies.” As reported in last month’s LOG, several other articles (new pieces as well as op-eds) have been posted and published this year backing the Jones Act. The law requires that cargo moving between domestic ports be carried on vessels that are crewed, built, flagged and owned American. Seafarers LOG 3 �Attendees stand for the Pledge of Allegiance. MTD Exec. Board Strongly Backs Jones Act Speakers Stand Up for America’s Freight Cabotage Law With cabotage in the crosshairs of the uninformed, the executive board of the AFL-CIO’s Maritime Trades Department (MTD) recently gathered to bolster not only the Jones Act but similar maritime laws across the globe. The board met March 8-9 in Orlando, Florida. The MTD is composed of 22 international unions and 21 port maritime councils in the United States and Canada representing nearly 5 million working men and women. SIU President Michael Sacco also serves as MTD president. Guest speakers addressing the board were American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten; National Shipping of America President Torey Presti; TOTE Maritime Puerto Rico President Tim Nolan; Crowley Maritime Senior Vice President and General Manager, Puerto Rico Services John Hourihan; and Seafarers’ Rights International (SRI) Executive Director Deirdre Fitzpatrick. U.S. Sen. Kamala Harris (D-California) and U.S. Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-Louisiana) sent video greetings that were shown during the meeting. The board also heard from SIU of Canada President Jim Given; Steve Bertelli, international secretary-treasurer of the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union; and, from the International Association of Machinists, Juan Negron, chief of staff for the eastern territory, and Gil Simmons, assistant general chair of District 141. Noting that it’s unusual for the board to devote most of an entire meeting to one subject, Sacco described ongoing attacks against the Jones Act that are threatening American jobs along with national, economic and homeland security. On the books for nearly a century, the Jones Act requires that cargo moving between domestic ports is carried on vessels that are crewed, built, flagged and owned American. The law helps maintain nearly 500,000 U.S. jobs and contributes billions of dollars annually to the economy. “Lies are still being told about the Jones Act,” Sacco stated in his opening remarks. “This goes back to Hurricane Maria and Puerto Rico. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen anything quite like the storm of misinformation that followed…. Our industry has done a good job of pushing back and promoting the truth, and that includes great work by Crowley and TOTE and National Shipping of America and others, but this fight is a long way from over. There are similar fights happening in other countries, including Canada and Australia.” One of the more noteworthy statistics cited during the meeting came from Fitzpatrick, who reported that a new study shows at least 91 nations maintain some form of maritime cabotage law. Meanwhile, the board adopted numerous statements backing the Jones Act and other nations’ respective cabotage laws, along with ones supporting American shipbuilding, the U.S. Export-Import Bank, the citizens of Puerto Rico, an LNG terminal in the Pacific Northwest, America’s troops and veterans, public employees’ rights, cargo preference, infrastructure investment, protecting middleclass jobs, and more. The Jones Act statement read in part, “Critics wrongly claimed (going back to September 2017) that the Jones Act hampered relief efforts in Puerto Rico in the wake of Hurricane Maria. Even though nothing could have been further from the truth, Jones Act opponents used their flawed accusations as a foundation to call for weakening or eliminating the law. It was of little consequence to them that the backdrop for their claims showed stacks and stacks of containers delivered to the San Juan docks by U.S.-flag vessels. They neglected the fact that Jones Act ships were on the scene in Puerto Rico within hours after the first port reopened and that these vessels continue to deliver vital cargoes even today. They completely overlooked the fact that because of damaged roads and numerous other infra- Alabama Shipyard Christens, Launches USNS Burlington More jobs for members of the SIU Government Services Division are on the way following the recent christening of the USNS Burlington. The Seafarers-crewed USNS City of Bismarck moors at Naval Air Station Key West’s Mole Pier on Feb. 13. The newest ship in the class, the USNS Burlington, will be identical to the USNS City of Bismarck. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Cody R. Babin) 4 Seafarers LOG MTD President Michael Sacco (left) poses with AFL-CIO Metal Trades Department President James Hart. structure problems, significant portions of the waterborne cargo initially stayed in the ports. They coasted right past the fact that none of these circumstances had anything to do with any maritime law.” Additionally, the statement supporting Puerto Rico residents included the following: “The MTD takes this opportunity to convey a very important message to all of our brothers and sisters in Puerto Rico. Namely, we are with you. We were there from the start of the recovery, and we will be there right through to the end. “AFL-CIO unions – including MTD affiliates – represent 100,000 Puerto Rican resi- The vessel, the latest of the U.S. Navy’s Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport (EPF) ships, was christened on Feb. 24 at Austal’s shipyard in Mobile, Ala. When delivered, it will be vessel 10 of a 12-vessel order awarded to Austal by the U.S. Navy. “Austal is excited to get Burlington one step closer to joining the fleet,” said Austal USA President Craig Perciavalle. “The efficiency at which this complex ship has come together is truly remarkable and a testament to the incredible talent of our shipbuilding professionals here at Austal USA.” U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vermont) and his wife, Marcelle Pomerleau Leahy, served as primary sponsors of the ship, with the senator giving the keynote address at the event. In a time-honored Navy tradition, Marcelle Leahy christened the ship by breaking a bottle of champagne across the bow. “This ship honors Burlington, Vermont, a city that embodies American values and its patriotic, hardworking citizens for their support and contributions to our Navy,” said Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer. “Burlington, like the other ships in the EPF program, will provide our commanders high-speed sealift mobility and agility. I am thankful for this ship and her crew who will serve our nation for decades to come and I am thankful for our industrial force teammates whose service makes this great ship possible.” On March 1, the vessel was launched successfully, and at press time the USNS Burlington was undergoing sea trials. dents, and union members have been involved in every phase of the recovery and rebuilding effort,” the statement continued. “We have contributed not only money, but also manpower. For instance, shortly after the hurricane, more than 300 skilled union volunteers – including doctors, nurses, electricians and heavy equipment operators – traveled from the mainland to Puerto Rico to provide assistance. And, Jones Act ships were at the piers as soon as they reopened, bringing the first wave of relief cargoes.” See pages 10-13 for full coverage of the MTD meeting. “Ship launches are milestone events in any shipbuilding program, but today’s launch is particularly significant as it is the tenth EPF launch in less than seven years,” said Capt. Scot Searles, Strategic and Theater Sealift program manager for the Military Sealift Command (MSC). “This noteworthy milestone for the EPF program is a testament to the hard work of the Navy and Austal’s shipbuilding team.” The previous nine Spearhead-class EPFs have been delivered to MSC and are crewed by SIU Government Services Division members. The latest, the USNS City of Bismarck, was delivered to the Navy in late 2017, and two more EPFs are under construction at Austal. According to the Navy, “With an all-aluminum shallow-draft hull, the EPF is a commercial-based catamaran capable of intra-theater personnel and cargo lift providing combatant commanders high-speed sealift mobility with inherent cargo handling capability and agility to achieve positional advantage over operational distances. EPF class ships are designed to transport 600 short tons of military cargo, 1,200 nautical miles, at an average speed of 35 knots. The EPF includes a flight deck for helicopter operations and an off-load ramp that will allow vehicles to quickly drive off the ship. EPF’s shallow draft (under 15 feet) further enhances littoral operations and port access. This makes the EPF an extremely flexible asset for support of a wide range of operations including maneuver and sustainment, relief operations in small or damaged ports, flexible logistics support or as the key enabler for rapid transport.” April 2018 �SHBP Updates Puerto Rico Residents Editor’s note: The following letter from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) was mailed in early March, and the information was reported at the monthly membership meetings. The letter was sent to Plan participants who live in Puerto Rico. The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (Plan) would like to notify you that if you live in Puerto Rico, in certain cases you and your family may be able to use your Humana card in the mainland U.S. to receive benefits. The following are the situations in which you may use your Humana benefits, provided that you meet the Plan’s eligibility requirements: n You or a Family Member Require a Medical Service that is Not Available in Puerto Rico – Your health care provider in Puerto Rico must send Humana information to document that the service is not available in Puerto Rico. Humana will verify this information, and will advise you and your provider whether they will cover the service in the mainland U.S. n Your Child is Attending High School or College in the Mainland U.S. – You must send proof of your child’s enrollment in the high school or college to Humana’s Enrollment department. The fax number is 1-888-899-9730, and the email address is feo_ group@humana.com. If you receive approval from Humana, your child will be eligible to receive in-network coverage at any provider in the U.S that is in-network with Humana. If your child goes to a provider in the mainland that is not in the Humana network, the claim will be processed at the out-of-network rate for Puerto Rico, which will result in a larger outof-pocket cost to you. n You (the Seafarer) are in the Mainland U.S. to Register for Employment or Because You are Working for an SIU-contracted Employer – The local Union official must fill out a form to verify that you are in the mainland to get a job at an SIU hiring hall, or because you are working for an SIU-contracted employer. This form must be sent to Humana’s Enrollment department at the fax or email address listed above. You will be eligible for coverage in the mainland U.S. for a limited time at any provider that is in-network with Humana. If you go to a provider that is not in the Humana network, the claim will be processed at the out-of-network rate for Puerto Rico, which will result in a larger out-of-pocket cost to you. n In an Emergency – If you or a covered member of your family are in the mainland U.S. and experience a serious medical emergency in which your life or health is in jeopardy, you are eligible for coverage for emergency treatment at the in-network rate. If you have any questions about this coverage, please contact the Humana customer service department at 1-800-314-3121. Sincerely, Margaret Bowen Administrator EARN YOUR COLLEGE DEGREE THROUGH THE PAUL HALL CENTER ! The Paul Hall Center’s Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship (SHLSS) has partnered with the College of Southern Resident courses at Piney Point begin May 7, 2018 Maryland (CSM) to offer an Associate of Applied Science degree in Maritime Operations Technology with a concentration in either • Nautical Science (Deck department) -or- • Marine Engineering (Engine dept.) Students must complete a combination of academic general education courses and technical education courses in order to earn • Associate of Applied Science Degree February 26, 2018 • UA courses apply toward the degree • Fully accredited • Some courses held at SHLSS the degree. Courses completed during the Unlicensed Apprentice program apply toward the • Online classes degree. Students can complete English, Math and • Scholarships available Physics courses at SHLSS. The remaining general education courses can be completed online. The following classes will convene at SHLSS: May 7, 2018 through May 25, 2018 English 1011 – Composition and Rhetoric Math 1011 – Math for Technologies Enrollment Information Please contact Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School Academic Coordinator Dale Rausch (301) 994-0010 Ext. 5411 -ordrausch@seafarers.org 7 Credit Hours Includes: tuition, textbooks, room and board plus one hour of tutoring following each daily class session 4/18 Spotlight on Mariner Health Rheumatoid Arthritis Could Cause Damage to More Than Just Joints Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects more than just joints. In some instances, this condition can also damage a wide variety of the body’s systems, including the eyes, skin, lungs, heart and blood vessels. RA is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when an individual’s immune system starts to mistakenly attack its own body’s tissue, specifically the synovium (the lining of the membrane that surrounds one’s joints.) The inflammation from RA can solidify the synovium, which may damage cartilage and bone within joints, cause joint deformities (especially in the hands and feet), and harm other parts of the body. Doctors don’t know what starts the process of RA, but genetic components appear to be the likely culprits. While genes do not cause RA, they can make the person more susceptible to infections with certain viruses and bacteria that may trigger it. Women are more likely than men to develop RA. Individuals who have family members with RA could have increased probabilities of developing the disease. The disorder can occur at any age; however, it is seen most frequently between the ages of 40 to 60. In the risk arena, cigarette smoking increases the odds of developing RA, particularly for those who have genetic markers for the disease. Environmental factors can also increase the possibilities of developing the condition. Working with asbestos is especially harmful and obesity can also be a contributing factor for RA development. There are many types of medications for RA. While new meds have improved treatment options, severe RA can still cause many physical disabilities. Signs and symptoms of RA may include sore, warm, and swollen joints; stiffness in joints that is usually more severe in the morning and following periods of inactivity; and lots of fatigue, fever and weight loss. Early in the RA continuum, arthritis tends to affect an individual’s smaller joints – particularly those which attach the fingers to the hand and toes April 2018 to the feet. As the disease progresses, symptoms can often spread to the wrists, knees, ankles, elbows, hips, and shoulders. In many cases, RA symptoms can occur in the same joints on both sides of the body. Rheumatoid Arthritis also can affect many non-joint structures including: the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, kidneys, nerve tissue, bone marrow, and blood vessels. RA signs and symptoms can vary with each person. In addition, periods of increased disease activity (called flares) can alternate during periods of remission where swelling and pain subsides. Many types of medications are used to help with the treatment of RA. These may include: analgesics (non­opioid) such as Tylenol and Ultram; and opioids such as Tylenol with codeine, Percocet, Percodan, Vicodin, Dilaudid, Demerol and Morphine. Anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin, Celebrex, Motrin, Naproxen and Indocin are also available as are newer biologic agents such as Orencia, Humira, Enbrel, and Remicade. Most patients will need to see a pain specialist at some time during their treatment process to decide what pain meds work best for them. Diseasemodifying anti-rheumatics (DMARDs) such as methotrexate, Imuran, Arava, and Plaquenil have been used with good results. Steroid injections are also used to decrease the pain and inflammation associated with RA. The development of new medications is ongoing. An individual’s rheumatologist will decide what works best for them. Lab work should be done frequently to be sure that the medications being used do not harm a patient’s health. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic and painful disease that can cause many problems. With treatment by a specialist, symptoms and damages to the joints can be decreased and many people can lead productive and less painful lives. One final word of advice regarding RA: always follow your doctor’s instructions and take all medications as previously prescribed. Healthy Recipe BBQ Chili Glazed Chicken Servings: 15 Ingredients 6 pounds chicken breast halves without skin, trimmed – fresh ½ tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon Mrs. Dash 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce 1 ½ cups barbeque sauce 2 tablespoons honey 1 teaspoon granulated garlic ¼ cup apple juice Preparation n Butterfly cut the chicken into 4 oz fillets, season with Mrs. Dash evenly on both sides. n Sauté the seasoned chicken 1-2 minutes on each side; just to brown them. Place in well-oiled 2-inch pans. n Mix together the bbq sauce, honey, apple juice, sriracha, and granulated garlic in a container big enough to hold it. n Glaze the chicken with the sauce evenly. n Bake in a 325-degree F oven for 10 minutes until the inside is 165 degrees F. n Garnish with lemon and chopped green onion or parsley. Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 194 Calories; 3g Fat (13.1% calories from fat); 34g Protein; 6g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 84mg Cholesterol; 298mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain (Starch); 4 ½ Lean meat; 0 Fruit; 0 Fat; ½ Other Carbohydrates. (Provided by the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland) Seafarers LOG 5 �Crowley Vessels Bring Bridge Sections to Puerto Rico SIU-crewed Crowley Maritime Jones Act vessels have been transporting multiple bridges in sections to Puerto Rico to support the roadway reconstruction efforts in the Utuado region. This project is essential to restoring access to Rio Abajo, a remote community in the mountains, following damage to the bridge caused last September by Hurricane Maria. According to Crowley, each bridge comes in sections which are shipped in 16 to 18 containers and on several flatbeds. The company also carried an oversized drill – a 119,000-pound piece of equipment essential to setting the foundation for the bridges. “This breakbulk shipment and accompanying containers and flatbeds marks the latest in a multitude of response shipments carried out by Crowley since the storm hit,” the company announced in a news release. “The company has provided a constant transportation and logistics pipeline of both commercial and government relief cargo that has included 7,900 Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and 32,000 commercial loads since the storm.” “The people of Puerto Rico are steadily re- building their infrastructure, including work to repair or replace temporary roads and bridges,” said Frank Larkin, senior vice president and general manager, logistics and commercial services. “As a full supply chain services provider, we can flex our offerings to accommodate their changing needs from containerized relief cargo to oversized, breakbulk shipments utilizing multiple transportation modes and meeting all permit requirements.” “We continue to work with our customers in Puerto Rico and on the mainland including FEMA, and in this case the Department of Transportation, to provide them with reliable services to meet the recovery needs of Puerto Rico’s businesses and residents,” said John Hourihan, senior vice president and general manager, Puerto Rico services. “We’ve increased vessel capacity by 67 percent, onboarded additional containers and equipment and have a staff that remains dedicated to the needs of the island.” (Editor’s note: See page 12 for coverage of Hourihan’s recent address to the Maritime Trades Department executive board.) SIU-crewed Jones Act ships are delivering bridge sections to Puerto Rico, including these components. TOTE Maritime Alaska’s SIU-contracted North Star is pictured after being outfitted with two LNG tanks. TOTE Completes First Phase of LNG Conversion SIU-contracted TOTE Maritime Alaska has demonstrated its continued confidence in the Jones Act trade with the recent completion of the first liquefied natural gas (LNG) conversion period of the company’s Orca class vessels. TOTE Maritime, believed to be the first maritime shipping company to announce its intention to convert its fleet to LNG power, has scheduled three more conversion periods for the two vessels in its Alaskan fleet: the North Star and the Midnight Sun. The first conversion period saw the North Star outfitted with LNG fuel tanks, along with the necessary engine upgrades required for the vessel to use LNG as fuel. Once completed, the conversions will drastically reduce air emissions, virtually eliminate sulfur oxides (SOx) and particulate matter while also significantly reducing nitrogen oxides (NOx) and carbon dioxide. Each of these conversion periods will take place in the winter, with the conversion of both ships scheduled to be completed in the first quarter of 2021. “We are excited to be the first shipping company in the United States to undertake this important environmental effort,” noted Mike Noone, President of TOTE Maritime Alaska. “And we are appreciative of our customers and partners who support our ongoing effort to innovate in ways that reflect our commitment to the environment and communities we serve.” The North Star and the Midnight Sun are roll-on/roll-off ships that usually carry cargo between Tacoma, Washington, and Anchorage, Alaska. Union-built at General Dynamics NASSCO, each ship is 840 feet long. With Seafarers Aboard Maersk Michigan Thanks to vessel master Capt. Thua Pham for these recent snapshots. Participating in a boat drill at sea are (from left) AB Jerry Aquino, AB Joseph Parr, AB Kareem Baxter and Bosun Kenneth Abrahamson. QMED Walden Galacgac takes a morning reading. QMED Lateef Sanusi performs routine maintenance. 6 Seafarers LOG Pictured from left are Chief Cook Gerard Cox, Capt. Thua Pham, GVA Ronnie Rankin and Chief Steward Teresito Reyes. Teaming up for a fire drill are (foreground, from left) AB Jerry Aquino and AB Gregory Baker, along with (background, from left) AB Jonas Robinson and AB Joseph Parr. April 2018 �4/18 April 2018 Seafarers LOG 7 �SUPPORTING PRO-MARITIME CANDIDATE – The SIU is backing Texas State Sen. Sylvia Garcia in her bid for U.S. Congress. A longtime friend of the union, she is running to replace retiring Rep. Gene Green in the state’s 29th District. Pictured from left in photo at left, which was taken at the SIU hall, are SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Garcia, SIU Asst. VP Mike Russo and Green. The photo above includes Seafarers and Patrolman J.B. Niday (left) getting ready for a block walk. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU PROMOTING SIU AND PINEY POINT – SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo (left) and Recertified Steward Ismael Garayua (right) chat with Brig. Gen. Dustin Anne Shultz in late February during a career fair at Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico. The SIU personnel were on hand to promote the union and its affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, to military veterans and other interested individuals. Brig. Gen. Shultz is the commanding general of the U.S. Army Reserve’s 1st Mission Support Command. AB OFFERS FAMILY NEWS & MEMORIES – Seafarer Jose Argueta (center) wanted to share the following: “Gianni Santiago Argueta (right) was born July 14, 2005 in Norfolk, Virginia. He was the son of Able Seaman Jose David Argueta and aspired to walk in his father’s footsteps. Gianni loved the outdoors which included activities such as hiking, fishing and cycling. He was not only an adventurous young man but also a thoughtful person, as he always tried to give a helping hand. He tragically passed away in a car accident February 24 in Newport News, Virginia. May his soul rest in peace. Please keep my son in your prayers and if you wish to make a contribution you can donate here: gofundme.com/funeral-of-gianni-s-argueta. All donations will be used for funeral arrangements.” ABOARD USNS BUTTON – Recertified Bosun Greg Jackson commended the steward department on the Crowleyoperated ship for a great cookout in Diego Garcia. That’s him at left in photo left, with Chief Steward Edwin Bonefont. The other snapshot shows crew members and contractors enjoying the meal. 8 Seafarers LOG April 2018 �ABOARD MOHAWK – Pictured from left aboard the vessel (formerly named the Seattle) in Concord, California, are Port Agent Nick Marrone II, AB Anthony Thompson, Recertified Steward Alan Bartley, Bosun Kevin Stehlik, QMED Ashley Carmichael, SA Pierce-Anthony Mitchell and AB Beris Robinson. The vessel is operated by JM Ship LLC. ABOARD TUG HMS LIBERTY – Engineer Daniel Grant (left) and Barge Captain Frank Middleton are pictured aboard the Harley Marine tug in New York. Thanks to Patrolman Ray Henderson for the photo. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD FLORIDA – Seafarers from the Crowley-operated tanker were destined to appear in this month’s LOG; we gratefully received photos from multiple sources. The snapshot at right is from vessel master Capt. Christopher Menezes. He obtained “Order of the Ditch” certificates for crew members who had just transited the Panama Canal for the first time. Pictured from left are AB Keith Reeder, OMU Jermaine Love, ABs Randy Powell, Marvyn Chester and Brian Fountain, Bosun Samuel Duah, AB Sunnil Motley, Pumpman Troy Banks, QMED Benjamin Mathews, Recertified Steward Hazel Johnson, Cook/Baker Rocel Alvarez and Menezes. The photo above was taken during a servicing in Martinez, California. Pictured from left are Johnson, Duah, Banks, Powell, Port Agent Nick Marrone II and AB Lawrence Richardson. ABOARD NORFOLK – Pictured from left are AB Eduardo Ramos, QEE Igor Yakunkov, QMED Azad Ardeshirdavani and QMED Dwight Hunt. Operated by Argent Marine, the ship was docked in Jacksonville, Florida. Thanks to Port Agent Ashley Nelson for the photo. FULL BOOKS ABOARD FERRIES – NY Waterway Shop Steward George Schumpp presents full union books to Deckhands Vicente Lizardo (left in photo at left) and Osman Berete (right in remaining photo). Thanks to Patrolman Ray Henderson for the photos. April 2018 ABOARD INTEGRITY – Pictured from left to right in photo at left are Chief Cook Sharray Turner and Chief Steward Ingrid Ortiz. The pic directly above shows homemade pastries called beignets. The ship is operated by TOTE Services. ABOARD PATRIOT – Recertified Steward Lauren Oram (center) submitted this photo from the TOTEoperated Patriot, which was sailing to northern Europe. She described it as a “really good ship” and added that the others in her department comprise “a great galley gang.” That’s SA Fernando Castillo at left and Chief Cook Mark Brooks at right. IMPECCABLE CREW HANDLES MEDEVAC – A successful emergency medical evaluation involving the USNS Impeccable took place earlier this year in the South China Sea. One of the ship’s officers was transferred by small boat to the USS Michael Murphy and then transported by helicopter to the USS Carl Vinson for further medical evaluation, according to a report from the Crowley-operated Impeccable. “The crew of the Impeccable did an outstanding job, with safety and efficiency as the main concerns,” noted MDR Donald Dabbs. Other SIU crew members supporting the operation included Bosun Robert Taylor, ABs Ali Al Hadad, William Monroe, and Justin Pierce, STOSs Hector Garibaldi and Macey Horne, and Oiler Devin Gordon. The AMO members who were involved included Capt. Jennifer Brokaw, Chief Mate Eric Moum and Third Mate Padraig Loughlin. Seafarers LOG 9 �2018 Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO Executive Board Meeting, March 8-9, Orlando, Florida AFT President: ‘We Fight for Values’ Weingarten Says West Virginia Strike Underscores Power of Solidarity The head of one of America’s largest unions says the labor movement faces significant obstacles in its ongoing mission as the catalyst for working families, but unions are up to the task. Randi Weingarten, president of the 1.7-million-member American Federation of Teachers (AFT), addressed the Maritime Trades Department (MTD) executive board March 9 in Orlando, Florida. She gave a rousing speech that mainly focused on two topics: the impending Supreme Court ruling in the Janus case, and the successful teachers’ strike in West Virginia. Weingarten also touched on Operation Agua, a joint project (the SIU is a partner) that has resulted in tens of thousands of water purifiers being delivered to residents of Puerto Rico. Gesturing toward MTD President Michael Sacco, who also serves as SIU president, Weingarten described him as a mentor and someone she counts on. She also thanked the SIU for its longtime support of the New York-based United Federation of Teachers (UFT), where Weingarten was the president for 12 years. The UFT “will never, ever forget that we got our start and our help – every time there was a big issue – from the mighty Seafarers in New York,” she stated. Weingarten said that just as the SIU and others showed support for Teachers in years past, the AFT, UFT and others now are carrying a pro-Jones Act message at every opportunity. When the Jones Act came under attack after Hurricane Maria, she learned about the law and equated it in part with prevailingwage statutes, which help ensure fair compensation for workers. “Forget about the national security issues (for a minute),” Weingarten said. “So, the moment we have an emergency, what you want to do is take the prevailing wage away from workers?” Next, she spoke about Janus, a case that figures to harm America’s working families. In February, the Supreme Court heard arguments in what is officially named Janus vs. AFSCME Council 31. Pushed by the so-called National Right to Work Committee – with major backing from the Koch brothers – it aims to ban unions from collecting dues or agency fees from all state and local workers, claiming it would violate the employees’ First Amendment rights. The so-called right-to-work group recruited Mark Janus, a dissenter in an AFSCME-represented workplace, to say that by the very act of collecting the money, the union – through state action – forces him to support political stands he disagrees with. The court’s ruling is expected in June and almost certainly will go against organized labor and workers’ rights. “The right wing is just trying to eliminate public-sector unions,” Weingarten said. “We used to say this is the case where they were trying to eliminate fair-share dues. But after hearing the argument, it’s clear. They just want to eliminate public-sector unions, and weaponize the First Amendment to do it.” Still discussing the Janus case and the need for union representation, she added, “Most individuals are not born with silver spoons in their mouth. Most of us only have power collectively, through all of us – through the union. Through our contracts, through our Welcoming AFT President Randi Weingarten to the meeting are SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (right) and SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo. MTD President Michael Sacco (right) congratulates AFT President Randi Weingarten on her energizing speech and the win in West Virginia. willingness to strike. But it’s through the union that we have that power. The Court doesn’t want working people to have that power. That’s the fight we’re in.” She used a basic illustration to underscore her point: picture an individual asking his or her boss for a raise, versus negotiating wages through collective bargaining. Weingarten said the labor movement, in addition to battling in court, also is reeducating rank-and-file members and fighting in the court of public opinion. As part of that outreach, the AFT cited a recent, unofficial report from West Virginia. As she explained, the head of the state senate “broke down and cried in his caucus [one] night, so much so that his colleagues thought he was having a heart attack. He had made a deal with the Koch brothers and Americans for Prosperity to provide money for his campaign, in return for a promise to break the union. He was told that if he could break us here, they could do it anywhere. When he realized that he could not, and he was losing, he literally broke down in tears and caved to the five percent (wage increase). That’s what they’re doing.” She asked why President Obama’s pick for the Supreme Court never got so much as a hearing, then answered: “Because this group of people – Americans for Prosperity – told every Republican senator that if you even have a meeting with this man, they will primary you. That’s the level of what’s going on against us. And as soon as the (Janus) case [is decided], there’s going to be these flyers going to our members that say … you want a raise? Give up your union dues. We know – we’ve seen them already.” Nevertheless, the nine-day strike proved that solidarity, grassroots mobilization and sharing the union message all work. While much of the press coverage in West Virginia focused on wages, the teachers also defeated an expansion of charter schools, killed a proposal to eliminate seniority, and scuttled a so-called paycheck-protection bill (aimed at weakening unions by taking away their right to deduct dues through payroll collection). “What’s happening in my union is cathartic, and that’s part of why you saw what happened in West Virginia,” Weingarten said. “Probably for the first time in a very long time, our leadership gets it, and the members get it, and people are talking to and with one another like they haven’t since when we were started – about our aspirations, about our dreams, about how we get their collectively. Whether it is fighting for health care so you’re not one illness away from bankruptcy; whether it’s fighting for good schools; whether it’s fighting for a voice at work; whether it’s fighting for a raise of secure retirement….” When the strike was won, at a rally at the state capitol, “you saw people who probably never stood up before,” she added. “Most of them weren’t teaching the last time there was a school strike, in 1990. They felt what union means: the respect, the dignity that you get when people stay together in a cause that is righteous and a cause that the county and the country respected – for the dignity of work, getting fair pay. That’s the lesson we taught the world with the West Virginia strike – a lesson you’ve been teaching people forever.” Turning to Puerto Rico, she commended maritime labor and Jones Act operators for all of their relief efforts. Concerning Operation Agua, she pointed out, “We realized this was a problem and we had to solve it. By Christmas, every single child in every single public school had safe, reliable drinking water because of the work we did together. That’s union, too.” Weingarten concluded, “What unions do for our country is we fight for aspirations. Yes, we fight the things that are wrong – and we annoy people because of it. But we fight for aspiration. We fight for values. We fight for working families to be able to have a better life, and I will never, ever apologize for that.” Machinists Provide Puerto Rico Update Two officials from the International Association of Machinists (IAM) briefed the MTD executive board on the union’s ongoing efforts to provide hurricane relief in Puerto Rico. Juan Negron (left), chief of staff for the eastern territory, and Gil Simmons (right), assistant general chair of District 141, detailed the exhaustive outreach made by IAM members. They also thanked the SIU, the MTD and other labor organizations for their support and concurrent efforts. Negron was part of a plane load of 300 volunteers who deployed to the territory shortly after Hurricane Maria devastated the island. “I’ve never seen so many workers so motivated and ready to work on day one,” he said. “What I saw from my union brothers was humbling, and it was an honor to have worked with them.” Simmons said his union local in Illinois served as a staging area for the initial relief operations. “Together, we were able to collect more than 60,000 pounds of relief supplies for Puerto Rico,” he said. 10 Seafarers LOG April 2018 �2018 Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO Executive Board Meeting, March 8-9, Orlando, Florida SRI: At Least 91 Nations Have Cabotage Laws Study Reinforces Benefits, Including Jobs, National Security, Safety While most of the recent Maritime Trades Department winter meeting focused on the Jones Act, one guest speaker provided some global perspective to an otherwise domestically oriented gathering. Seafarers’ Rights International (SRI) Executive Director Deirdre Fitzpatrick shared results of a long-term study conducted by her organization. Among the findings are that at least 91 countries maintain some form of maritime cabotage law. The SRI also found that such laws promote shipboard and environmental safety, national security, and good jobs. “The Jones Act is often referred to as a model cabotage law: protecting jobs, the workforce, and the country,” Fitzpatrick stated. “But to protect the Jones Act, and to protect other cabotage laws around the world, it can only be helpful to know which countries have cabotage protections so that, in fact, the situation might be that the protection of cabotage laws is the norm, and it’s not the exception.” She continued, “Looking at the international scene, I don’t think it will be any surprise to you to know that there are many countries around the world who are fighting to defend their cabotage laws. They’re fighting against the politicians, the press and the free trade advocates who appear in various guises.” She then referred to some of those fights, including the long-fought battle for Canadian cabotage spearheaded by SIU of Canada President Jim Given, as well as the ongoing struggles for domestic maritime rights in Australia, Southeast Asia and Europe. To combat these attempts to dismantle cabotage, she continued, the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) (which founded the SRI) assembled a special taskforce. “In response to these threats, the Seafarers’ Section of the ITF, led by (SIU SecretaryTreasurer) Dave Heindel, set up an ITF Seafarers’ Rights International Executive Director Deirdre Fitzpatrick Cabotage Taskforce which is chaired by Jim Given.... Dave and Jim, together, have put the protection, the preservation and the expansion of maritime cabotage at the front of the agenda of the ITF. The first meeting of the ITF Cabotage Taskforce took place in October 2015, and was hosted by the MTD in Washington, and the meeting was addressed by (SIU) Presi- dent Michael Sacco.” That taskforce, she explained, charged the SRI to conduct a new, more comprehensive survey on worldwide maritime cabotage laws, which surveyed a larger number of countries than the previous study on cabotage conducted by the United States Maritime Administration (MARAD) in 1991. The study, which surveyed 136 different countries on their cabotage restrictions, found that two-thirds (67 percent) of those nations utilized some form of cabotage laws. But determining what constitutes cabotage was far from easy, she said: “I think sometimes it’s easy to talk about cabotage as if it is a concept that, first, everyone understands – which is not always the case – and secondly that it’s understood the same across different countries.” She continued, explaining that there is no single definition of cabotage. She summarized the SRI’s findings, saying, “The results of our survey are clear. The regulation of maritime cabotage is widespread. The regulation of maritime cabotage is very diverse. But there are at least 91 countries today which have restrictions in their maritime cabotage laws to protect their maritime cabotage trades. Just like MARAD’s research in 1991, our research today shows that the Jones Act does not stand alone.” Fitzpatrick said there are also “many countries where these laws are under severe attack. The ITF Cabotage Taskforce is continuing its work to assist unions, develop strategies and practices to defend their cabotage laws, and even to expand cabotage protections around the world.” According to their website, “The SRI is a unique and independent center established (in 2010) to promote, implement, enforce and advance all seafarers’ and fishers’ rights and remedies, including human rights and the rights of other persons on board vessels, through research, education and training throughout the international maritime industry, and advocacy in international, regional and national forums, and to provide a database of materials for the benefit of the international community.” Canadian Cabotage Battles Continue Union Leads Successful Maritime Efforts North of Border The top official from the SIU of Canada gave an information-packed report to the Maritime Trades Department (MTD) executive board March 9. President Jim Given detailed his union’s exhaustive efforts to protect Canada’s maritime cabotage laws and said significant victories have been achieved. There are also plenty of ongoing challenges, Given told the board and guests. “Every single day, there is something new – there’s another attack on cabotage,” Given stated. “And a lot of it is hidden; it’s hidden in different legislation like immigration, or it will come down in our budget like it did four years ago on page 310 where they said [foreign] ships could come in without permits.” Given said some of the Canadian cabotage battles stemmed from the Canadian-European Union (EU) Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA). That pact called for certain trade routes in Canada to open to EUfirst registered vessels between Montreal and Halifax. CETA also included a provision that would allow EU second-registry ships to take cargo away from Canadian-flag ships and opened certain dredging projects to foreigners. Given reported, “We have recently had change where even if those vessels come into Canada and are able to run, they will now have to run with Canadian seafarers on board; they will not be able to use their foreign crews. So, we look at that as a great victory.” He thanked the MTD for its vital backing in those fights and others, including a more recent one in which the SIU of Canada helped remove viciously anti-maritime statutes from a bill that was before the Canadian government at press time. Its original form, the proposed legislation would have pushed a Canadian sec- April 2018 ond registry and totally eliminated the nation’s cabotage laws within seven years. Similarly, the union helped exclude maritime from the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), a free-trade agreement involving 11 countries including New Zealand, Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Peru, Singapore, and Vietnam. “Also of note,” Given added, “there is a temporary entry clause within the [CPTPP] and maritime also has been excluded from it. Foreign workers cannot come in under the [CPTPP]; they still have to follow our immigration laws. So, we are quite pleased with that…. There are absolutely no maritime giveaways.” He said he remains hopeful that maritime will continue to be excluded from the North American Free Trade Agreement, which is being renegotiated. In what he described as “a very big development” from last year, Given explained that under Canadian law, if no Canadian ship is available for a domestic run, foreign-flag ships can apply to carry the cargo via a waiver. “Last year, we had some (foreign) tankers come in,” he said. “The SIU organized these ships with their foreign workers on board. We took that before the Canadian Industrial Relations Board and they gave us the certification to represent those foreign seafarers not only on those two ships, they gave us the certifications fleet-wide. What that means is that if any of those ships come in to run in Canada, they are covered by SIU Canadian collective bargaining agreements and are covered by the [related] rules. That was a huge, huge win for us.” Indeed, Given said that in 2017, 364 for- eign-flag vessels operated in Canada through waivers, which equaled around 2,200 crew members. “So, if you look at the changes and progressions we’ve made, looking at this year, that’s about 2,200 jobs that will go to Canadian seafarers, regardless of the flag of that ship,” he said. Given also pointed out that none of the wins came easily. For example, the SIU of Canada initiated 42 lawsuits to protect maritime workers’ rights in the year 2015 alone. The union and the MTD also engaged in many grassroots actions to stand up for Canadian mariners and their families. Among other achievements, those activities helped recoup nearly $1 million in unpaid wages last year for crew members who were sailing under a waiver but weren’t getting full pay. Given reiterated that the fights don’t stop, and at times it seems as if enemies of cabotage will stop at nothing to get around the rules. “To get the ship in, they’d say Canada has a red ship and we need a blue ship. For the workers, they’ll say well they are specialized because you guys have blue coveralls and they need guys with red coveralls,” he said. “Excuses, excuses, excuses.” Finally, he said his union and its allies have had success in carrying a pro-maritime message to government officials and staff members who “are smart enough to know that they don’t know it all. They have sat down with us and listened to us; they’ve taken our advice. We don’t always agree, but we have been able to come to an understanding. What we have learned over the last few years is that when it comes to cabotage, they don’t want to hear our problem, they want to hear our solution. More doors have been opened to us since we started taking the real solution to them as opposed to Jim Given President, SIU of Canada the problem. And that’s how we got to where we are…. We have closed every single loophole that they used to use. That has been an amazing journey, and we could not have done it without the support of the MTD, without the support of the unions in Canada and without the support of the SIU in North America. And it’s heartening to me after the last four years to look at our membership and say, your job is finally safe … until the next time, and there is always a next time.” Seafarers LOG 11 �2018 Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO Executive Board Meeting, March 8-9, Orlando, Florida John Hourihan, Crowley Senior VP/GM, Puerto Rico Services Tim Nolan President, TOTE Maritime Puerto Rico Torey Presti President, National Shipping of America Company Execs Stand Up for Jones Act Armed with Facts, Speakers Describe Industry’s Puerto Rico Efforts Effectively blending powerful personal anecdotes with compelling data, executives from three Seafarers-contracted Jones Act companies recently described how the American maritime industry has been vital to the recovery in Puerto Rico. Addressing the Maritime Trades Department’s executive board during its winter meeting in Orlando, Florida, were National Shipping of America President Torey Presti; TOTE Maritime Puerto Rico President Tim Nolan; and Crowley Maritime Senior Vice President and General Manager, Puerto Rico Services John Hourihan. Presti and Nolan spoke on March 8, while Hourihan delivered his remarks March 9. Consistent with the meeting’s theme, all of the speakers talked about how Jones Act carriers have led the way in helping Puerto Rico recover from Hurricane Maria, which devastated the territory last September. Presti credited maritime labor for its united support of America’s freight cabotage law, which he noted “promotes and protects the American Merchant Marine, and furthermore the law defines seamen’s rights.” He said his company worked with the SIU, the Steelworkers and the AFL-CIO to gather and ship relief cargoes to Puerto Rico, many of which were donated by union members. That operation along with the larger response “was tremendous, and it couldn’t have happened without the Jones Act carriers,” Presti said. Citing unfair media criticism of the Jones Act’s effects on Puerto Rico, he continued, “The pundits that supposedly know about the Jones Act really were off base. The problem was that once the cargo got to Puerto Rico, we had a heck of a time getting it off…. We couldn’t get [containers] out of the gate (due to damaged infrastructure). The problem wasn’t getting the cargo to Puerto Rico; that was done very efficiently.” Presti also suggested taking an expanded view of the law, which supports around 500,000 American jobs and which has consistently been described by military leaders and politicians as vital to national, economic and homeland security. “We need to look at the Jones Act as a utility,” he explained. “The islands depend on it – not only Puerto Rico, but Hawaii, Alaska and Guam as well.” He said the Jones Act “has encouraged huge investments” benefiting Puerto Rico, including new LNG-powered vessels, port 12 Seafarers LOG facilities and more, and asserted that ocean transportation costs do not harm the island’s economy. “Here again, the uninformed pundits don’t understand,” he said. “If you price [cargo] dollar for dollar, best value, Jones Act carriers (win). I think that can stand up to anything.” Presti also briefly touched on short-sea shipping (also called the marine highway system) and expressed confidence in its future. “What we’re trying to do is move the freight off of the beleaguered infrastructure, from truck to ocean. We have the longest navigable coastlines in the world. We’re just not using them,” he said. Nolan said that in all of his 25 years in the maritime industry, the period after the hurricane made him most proud. “That time really exemplified what the maritime industry is all about,” he stated. “It wasn’t about TOTE, it wasn’t about other competitors. It was about all of us as one maritime industry. We as the American maritime industry were the first industry to stand up after the hurricane. We were worried about the island and what we could do to get the island back up on its feet.” He reminded the board and guests that when Maria touched down on Sept. 20, it was the tenth-most powerful hurricane ever to hit in the Atlantic. And, it struck just a week after Hurricane Irma already had left 80,000 Puerto Rico residents without power. Nolan then described a crushing but motivating moment that happened shortly after he arrived in Puerto Rico, soon after Maria. A doctor told him that her hospital had lost all the babies in the neonatal intensive care unit. “That’s when it really hit home to me, what the impact of this hurricane meant to Puerto Rico,” Nolan stated. “We can say they were without power. We can say they were without water and cell coverage. But when it came down to those babies, it truly put it into perspective what this hurricane meant to the island.” He credited SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo for working exhaustively with the company to help as many people as possible and added, “We worked hand in hand on a daily basis. It took a collective effort by all of us to get through this, and to stand back up the industry at one time.” Companies stayed in touch and worked together without regard for competition, Nolan pointed out. “This comes back again to, it wasn’t one organization. It was one collective American maritime industry that stood up first and got the island back on its feet first,” he said, adding that when the first terminal opened three days after the hurricane, TOTE had 11 Jones Act vessels ready to dock, carrying thousands of containers. He commended the steward departments from the SIU-crewed Isla Bella and the Perla del Caribe. When in port, they fed an additional 50 shore-side staff along with the crew. The ships also were used for lodging. Nolan mentioned that TOTE has helped feed more than 20,000 families through working with charitable organizations, and also has sent 19 containers as part of Operation Agua, with 11 more scheduled. “This was essential and again, who was it that stood up? The American maritime industry. We’re proud to be able to support this great cause,” he said. (For more information about Operation Agua, visit aft. org or operationagua.com. Both the SIU and TOTE are among the partners in the AFTled outreach.) Turning to the attacks against the Jones Act, he said, “During a challenge, you have opportunists out there who try to take advantage of it, and the hurricane was no different. Folks came out and tried poking at the Jones Act. There was a 10-day waiver that was issued … more politically driven than anything else. There were 14 (foreign) ships that requested to call. One had relief cargo. If you step back and reflect, this validates the importance of the American maritime industry. In this 10-day window, folks outside the American maritime industry did not step up. We were the ones that delivered close to 100,000 containers. We’re the ones that flowed the goods down to the island…. It’s not that we’re here just today. We’re here for the long term.” Hourihan noted that Crowley is headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. The state itself has 52,000 jobs directly related to the Jones Act, he said, adding that more than half of the cargo that goes through Jacksonville is bound for Puerto Rico. The territory gets 85 percent of its cargo from there. In his 30-plus years in the industry, “one thing I’ve come to believe is that defending the Jones Act will never stop,” Hourihan said. “There will always be those that are against it, and so it’s just part of our every- day work. It’s not a mountain we’re going to climb and be done.” Focusing on Puerto Rico, he noted tax changes that began in 2006 and which phased out incentives for production on the island. This led to a recession which became a depression. Even though it had nothing to do with maritime laws, “that adds ammunition where there are challenges on the island,” he said. “It can be easy to point fingers as to, somebody’s got to be responsible for this. And oftentimes it’s the Jones Act carriers that (unfairly) get that hit.” He used an example of the cost of a can of soup in Puerto Rico. Only two percent of the cost is attributable to transportation. Ongoing education is critical, Hourihan said, both with the general public and with politicians and military leaders. He then described the company’s response to Maria, from pre-storm preparations to having ships arrive less than two hours after the first port reopened. Crowley’s Puerto Rico-based employees worked hard despite storm-related challenges at home, he said. Additionally, mainlandbased employees put together more than 1,000 care packages for their counterparts in the territory. He reiterated the fact that Jones Act carriers brought more than enough relief supplies to the ports, but cargo stacked up because of problems with roads and other infrastructure. Before that was understood, however, the waiver was issued. “It really didn’t accomplish much of anything,” Hourihan said. “Crowley as a company, and I believe I speak on behalf of the American Maritime Partnership also – we are not opposed to waivers if there’s a need that can’t be met by a Jones Act company.” He pointed out that between Crowley and TOTE, they have invested more than $1 billion in Puerto Rico. Moreover, he said the Deepwater Horizon disaster in 2010 (another time when the Jones Act was unfairly blamed for hindering cleanup efforts) created “a wakeup call and a refresh.” Puerto Rico is “yet another wakeup call” to promote the facts about the Jones Act. “The events in Puerto Rico pointed out that we can be going along fine, and we can have support,” he concluded. “But when you have events like what happened with Maria, all bets can be off. We’ve got to be able to close that gap.” April 2018 �2018 Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO Executive Board Meeting, March 8-9, Orlando, Florida Robert Scardelletti President, TCU Paul Doell President, AMO Mark Spano President Novelty Workers Jim Given President SIU of Canada James Callahan President Operating Engineers Jack Hayn Painters Brett McCoy UA Director of Metal Trades Bernie Hostein Steelworkers Scott Reeves Philadelphia PMC Jeannette Bradshaw Michigan PMC Donna Watkins Mine Workers Tanya James Mine Workers Hazel Galbiso Hawaii PMC David Heindel Secretary-Treasurer SIU Nick Marrone VP West Coast SIU Dean Corgey VP Gulf Coast SIU April 2018 Anthony Poplawski President, MFOW Eric Dean President Iron Workers Joseph Condo TCU Steve Bertelli Secretary-Treasurer Bakery Workers Tim Bruxton Cleveland PMC Jerry Abell VP MTD Daniel Duncan Secretary-Treasurer MTD Sito Pantoja General VP Machnists James Henry Chairman USA Maritime Patrice Caron Executive VP SIU of Canada Catina Sicoli Secretary-Treasurer SIU of Canada Augie Tellez Executive VP SIU Tommy Orzechowski VP Great Lakes SIU Joesph Soresi VP Atlantic Coast SIU Kermett Mangram VP Government Services SIU Geoge Tricker VP Contracts SIU MTD President Michael Sacco opens the meeting. Gunnar Lundeberg President, SUP Seafarers LOG 13 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings OVERSEAS LONG BEACH (OSG), December 3 – Chairman Samuel Porchea, Secretary Marlon Battad, Educational Director Craig Croft, Engine Delegate Francisco Martinez. Chairman advised crew to be prepared with cold weather gear. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman read president’s report and advised fellow members to read Seafarers LOG to keep current with union and industry matters. WALTER J. MCCARTHY (American Steamship), December 8 – Chairman William Mulcahy, Secretary Khaled Alasaadi, Educational Director Dean Parks, Deck Delegate Jerrold Foke, Engine Delegate Ronald Garber, Steward Delegate Nasr Almusab. Chairman reminded crew to dress appropriately for cold weather and to be aware of ice and snow on deck. He instructed members to report problems as soon as they arise. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade often and keep papers up to date. Deck delegate mentioned available ice cleats in rec room. Engine delegate advised members to clean up oil spills when seen and to report anything that needs to be fixed. Steward delegate reminded everyone to be sure to return any used dishes and to clean up after themselves. Members suggested cold weather gear be provided. They requested 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. discussions about them with company personnel. television be made available in each bunk as well as better internet. MAERSK PITTSBURGH (Maersk Line, Limited), December 16 – Chairman Konstantinos Prokovas, Secretary Darryl Goggins, Educational Director Jan Morawski. Chairman thanked crew for safe voyage. Crew requested commercial carpet cleaning machine. Secretary reported vote of thanks for all departments. Members were reminded to make sure rooms are clean and have fresh linen. Educational director encouraged crew to upgrade their skills at the Piney Point school. He provided information regarding sea time requests and accessing the SIU website. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew in need of wiper onboard. They suggested increasing pension and vacation benefits. FLORIDA (Crowley) December 23 – Chairman Calvin Miles, Secretary Michael Henry, Educational Director Demarco Holt. Chairman addressed questions regarding shipyard and stated no new business as of yet. Educational director reminded members to continue to upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members discussed standard clearance for physicals and noted seven-10 business days. If faster response needed, members have option to expedite results. Crew requested better Wi-Fi and treadmill for gym. Members discussed job-order submissions and had separate OVERSEAS LONG BEACH (OSG), December 28 – Chairman Samuel Porchea, Secretary Marlon Battad, Educational Director Craig Croft, Engine Delegate Francisco Martinez. Chairman anticipated longer wait for new contract and instructed members to go by old contract in the meantime. He mentioned ship being on the spot market, getting cargo when the company finds charter. Chairman announced new cargo at work from Louisiana to Canaveral. Educational director urged everyone to upgrade their skills at the Paul Hall Center and to stay on top of documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Secretary read the president’s report and encouraged everyone to read the LOG. Members requested a new refrigerator. MAERSK HARTFORD (Maersk Line, Limited), January 7 – Chairman Anecito Limboy, Secretary Johnnie McGill. Members requested information pertaining to allotment of funds. Chairman reported pickup plans for pilot. Educational director recommended members enhance their skills by upgrading at the SIU-affiliated school in southern Maryland. Crew discussed shipping rules and were encouraged to update their beneficiary information in timely fashion. They requested better internet be made available on ship. MAERSK KENSINGTON (Maersk Line, Limited), Janu- ary 14 – Chairman Mariano Lino, Educational Director Reinaldo Roman. Secretary advised members to upgrade their skills at Piney Point and to update merchant mariner documents six months prior to expiration. Engine delegate sought clarification on electric shut-off plans. Members were reminded that the LOG can be viewed on the SIU website. Crew requested new vacuums and mattresses. JEAN ANNE (TOTE), January 28 – Chairman Noel Camacho, Secretary Ingra Maddox, Educational Director David Watkins, Deck Delegate Dennis Bracamonte, Engine Delegate Rosalio Cordova, Steward Delegate Mary Maddox. Members continued to request change of periodical requirements for physicals. Chairman reminded crew that exams may be requested through the member’s portal. Members received instruction for new timesheet method and were given crewing company’s contact information. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade their skills at the Paul Hall Center. Crew discussed scholarship program and cited benefits for members and their children. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew advised to carry valid prescription to USCG drug test if taking medications recently added to the DOT screening list. Members were reminded how to find the LOG on the ship’s computer and instructed to submit most recent drug screening results when renewing documents. Crew pleased with gym equipment and food offered by the steward department. HONOR (TOTE), February 18 – Chairman Nathaniel Leary, Secretary Harlan Alonzo. Chairman reported new order of mattresses and pillows. Members encouraged to continue upgrading at Piney Point and reminded to keep documents up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Oiler Mark Richardson described recent trip to Whistler, Canada, where he enjoyed his time biking in the mountains. OVERSEAS CHINOOK (OSG), February 11 – Chairman Donald Clotter, Secretary Jack Hart, Educational Director Ricky Yancey, Deck Delegate John Mbelwa, Engine Delegate Julian Dragon, Steward Delegate Craig Lundberg. Chairman thanked crew for a job well done and encouraged them to continue being safe. He urged members to keep up to date on documentation. Secretary commended crew for good housekeeping and reminded them to leave rooms clean for oncoming members. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members praised headquarters and expressed gratitude for continued jobs. Crew discussed issues with gate procedures at Nederland, Texas. 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 14 Seafarers LOG 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 2018 �Mariners Now May Request Harmonized Expiration Dates Of MMCs, Medical Certificates Editor’s note: The National Maritime Center recently issued the following notice: In accordance with Section 304 of the 2015 Coast Guard Authorization Act, Public Law No. 114-120; mariners will be allowed to request harmonized expiration dates of their Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) and Medical Certificate. CG-MMC Policy Letter 01-18 provides detailed guidelines for those mariners who wish to harmonize the expiration dates of their original or renewed MMC and Medical Certificate. For further information, contact the NMC call center via e-mail to IASKNMC@uscg.mil, via online chat, or via phone at 1-888-IASKNMC (4275662). Personal Derrick Crummy wants Suzanne Van Schoor to contact him as soon as possible. Crummy’s email is Lepuffer@yahoo.com. He also may be reached at (206) 679-6208. April & May 2018 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, May17 Mobile............................................Wednesday: April 11, May 16 New Orleans......................................Tuesday: April 10, May 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea February 16, 2018 - March 15, 2018 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 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! 2018 April 2018 Total Shipped Shipped All Groups Groups A A B B Port Port Algonac Algonac Anchorage Anchorage Baltimore Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Lauderdale Guam Guam Harvey Harvey Honolulu Honolulu Houston Houston Jacksonville Jacksonville Jersey City City Joliet Joliet Mobile Mobile Norfolk Norfolk Oakland Oakland Philadelphia Philadelphia Piney Point Point Puerto Rico Rico Tacoma Tacoma St. Louis Louis Wilmington Wilmington TOTALS TOTALS Deck Department 17 5 0 27 12 0 1 40 20 4 17 5 0 27 12 0 1 40 20 4 2 2 1 0 1 1 0 4 2 3 2 2 1 0 1 1 0 4 2 3 3 3 2 2 0 0 1 9 3 1 3 3 2 2 0 0 1 9 3 1 16 6 5 11 6 5 5 32 12 12 16 6 5 11 6 5 5 32 12 12 3 0 0 4 1 0 1 3 1 0 3 0 0 4 1 0 1 3 1 0 10 2 7 9 1 2 1 15 3 12 10 2 7 9 1 2 1 15 3 12 9 4 2 6 3 2 3 12 9 2 9 4 2 6 3 2 3 12 9 2 36 10 13 41 3 4 13 78 28 34 36 10 13 41 3 4 13 78 28 34 28 15 8 19 5 0 10 66 28 23 28 15 8 19 5 0 10 66 28 23 45 9 4 22 7 2 9 74 16 6 45 9 4 22 7 2 9 74 16 6 5 2 1 4 3 0 0 6 5 1 5 2 1 4 3 0 0 6 5 1 9 4 4 9 0 4 5 20 7 10 9 4 4 9 0 4 5 20 7 10 18 15 5 16 7 7 8 32 24 14 18 15 5 16 7 7 8 32 24 14 9 4 2 4 2 3 2 21 9 3 9 4 2 4 2 3 2 21 9 3 1 7 0 3 6 0 0 3 6 0 1 7 0 3 6 0 0 3 6 0 2 2 0 1 0 0 0 3 4 0 2 2 0 1 0 0 0 3 4 0 4 4 0 3 3 0 2 10 9 0 4 4 0 3 3 0 2 10 9 0 22 6 3 22 3 2 9 42 12 4 22 6 3 22 3 2 9 42 12 4 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 3 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 3 1 17 6 9 22 4 1 4 56 15 12 17 6 9 22 4 1 4 56 15 12 256 106 66 225 68 33 74 529 216 142 256 106 66 225 68 33 74 529 216 142 Algonac Algonac Anchorage Anchorage Baltimore Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Lauderdale Fort Guam Guam Harvey Harvey Honolulu Honolulu Houston Houston Jacksonville Jacksonville Jersey City City Jersey Joliet Joliet Mobile Mobile Norfolk Norfolk Oakland Oakland Philadelphia Philadelphia Piney Point Point Piney Puerto Rico Rico Puerto Tacoma Tacoma St. Louis Louis St. Wilmington Wilmington TOTALS TOTALS Engine Department Department Engine 3 2 1 7 1 1 0 4 5 0 3 2 1 7 1 1 0 4 5 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 4 1 0 2 1 2 0 4 3 1 4 1 0 2 1 2 0 4 3 1 5 4 1 6 2 2 3 18 3 4 5 4 1 6 2 2 3 18 3 4 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 2 0 0 0 4 3 1 1 1 0 2 0 0 0 4 3 1 2 2 0 5 1 0 1 20 2 0 2 2 0 5 1 0 1 20 2 0 10 7 3 9 2 1 4 26 13 6 10 7 3 9 2 1 4 26 13 6 13 14 3 11 9 1 9 28 22 4 13 14 3 11 9 1 9 28 22 4 13 9 3 11 4 0 5 22 12 3 13 9 3 11 4 0 5 22 12 3 1 0 0 4 2 0 1 6 3 1 1 0 0 4 2 0 1 6 3 1 3 4 0 1 3 0 1 9 6 1 3 4 0 1 3 0 1 9 6 1 12 5 8 11 6 5 5 19 15 6 12 5 8 11 6 5 5 19 15 6 10 2 4 6 2 1 2 9 5 2 10 2 4 6 2 1 2 9 5 2 2 2 0 1 2 0 1 1 2 0 2 2 0 1 2 0 1 1 2 0 0 1 1 0 0 2 4 1 3 1 3 1 0 1 1 0 0 2 4 1 5 2 1 1 2 0 1 5 1 1 5 2 1 1 2 0 1 5 1 1 13 7 3 14 1 2 4 29 5 4 13 7 3 14 1 2 4 29 5 4 5 0 1 1 1 1 0 5 2 0 5 0 1 1 1 1 0 5 2 0 11 13 2 8 7 0 2 23 20 3 11 13 2 8 7 0 2 23 20 3 118 77 30 101 48 16 39 237 126 38 118 77 30 101 48 16 39 237 126 38 Algonac Algonac Anchorage Anchorage Baltimore Baltimore FortLauderdale Lauderdale Fort Guam Guam Harvey Harvey Honolulu Honolulu Houston Houston Jacksonville Jacksonville JerseyCity City Jersey Joliet Joliet Mobile Mobile Norfolk Norfolk Oakland Oakland Philadelphia Philadelphia PineyPoint Point Piney PuertoRico Rico Puerto Tacoma Tacoma St.Louis Louis St. Wilmington Wilmington TOTALS TOTALS Steward Department Department Steward 3 4 0 8 5 0 0 4 3 0 3 4 0 8 5 0 0 4 3 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 16 5 0 10 2 0 6 27 7 1 16 5 0 10 2 0 6 27 7 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 1 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 1 0 3 0 1 3 2 0 1 4 0 2 3 0 1 3 2 0 1 4 0 2 7 2 0 5 1 0 0 26 2 0 7 2 0 5 1 0 0 26 2 0 15 5 0 15 3 1 9 40 8 5 15 5 0 15 3 1 9 40 8 5 11 5 1 13 5 0 6 22 16 1 11 5 1 13 5 0 6 22 16 1 8 1 1 2 0 0 1 20 6 1 8 1 1 2 0 0 1 20 6 1 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 2 1 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 2 1 1 1 1 2 1 0 1 5 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 0 1 5 1 1 8 3 0 2 24 12 6 17 5 0 17 5 0 8 3 0 2 24 12 6 11 5 1 7 1 1 4 19 3 2 11 5 1 7 1 1 4 19 3 2 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 5 2 0 0 1 0 0 7 3 0 5 2 0 0 1 0 0 7 3 0 1 4 1 4 2 0 1 0 8 1 1 4 1 4 2 0 1 0 8 1 6 1 0 5 1 1 1 16 5 2 6 1 0 5 1 1 1 16 5 2 1 1 0 3 0 0 0 4 1 0 1 1 0 3 0 0 0 4 1 0 17 5 1 17 5 1 8 35 11 2 17 5 1 17 5 1 8 35 11 2 128 49 8 106 34 4 41 259 90 26 128 49 8 106 34 4 41 259 90 26 Algonac Algonac Anchorage Anchorage Baltimore Baltimore FortLauderdale Lauderdale Fort Guam Guam Harvey Harvey Honolulu Honolulu Houston Houston Jacksonville Jacksonville JerseyCity City Jersey Joliet Joliet Mobile Mobile Norfolk Norfolk Oakland Oakland Philadelphia Philadelphia PineyPoint Point Piney PuertoRico Rico Puerto Tacoma Tacoma St.Louis Louis St. Wilmington Wilmington TOTALS TOTALS EntryDepartment Department Entry 0 9 9 0 10 1 4 2 21 26 0 9 9 0 10 1 4 2 21 26 0 2 4 0 1 2 1 0 1 5 0 2 4 0 1 2 1 0 1 5 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 6 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 6 0 4 8 0 2 4 0 0 7 10 0 4 8 0 2 4 0 0 7 10 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 2 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 4 0 1 1 0 0 0 5 0 0 4 0 1 1 0 0 0 5 0 7 8 0 6 6 1 1 8 6 0 7 8 0 6 6 1 1 8 6 6 9 17 2 8 3 2 9 22 33 6 9 17 2 8 3 2 9 22 33 1 8 26 0 7 18 2 5 29 83 1 8 26 0 7 18 2 5 29 83 3 2 6 21 17 3 10 13 0 5 3 10 13 0 5 3 2 6 21 17 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 1 6 20 0 11 11 3 2 11 63 1 6 20 0 11 11 3 2 11 63 3 8 8 1 5 2 1 3 22 19 3 8 8 1 5 2 1 3 22 19 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 4 0 0 2 0 0 1 3 0 0 4 0 0 2 0 0 1 3 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 3 1 1 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 3 1 1 6 4 8 3 7 1 2 8 18 25 6 4 8 3 7 1 2 8 18 25 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 11 19 2 11 17 0 7 41 57 4 11 19 2 11 17 0 7 41 57 25 81 154 8 76 73 18 47 208 364 25 81 154 8 76 73 18 47 208 364 C Trip Reliefs Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups Groups A A B B C C Jersey City.................................................Tuesday: April 3, May 8 Norfolk............................................Thursday: April 5, May10 Total Registered Registered A A All Groups B B C GRANDTOTAL: TOTAL: 527 313 258 440 226 126 172 1,072 640 570 640 570 GRAND 527 313 258 440 226 126 172 1,072 Seafarers LOG 15 �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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by Seafarers aboard the Cape Washington and Cape Wrath in Baltimore. Question: The maritime industry is sometimes thought of as an unintentionally well-kept secret. What would you want the general to public to know about the industry and/or about your job? Robert Brown Recertified Steward If you’re going to join this industry, you have to understand you’ll be away from home for long stretches – but when you’re home, you’re home full-time. You’ll spend time away from family, but then have months off. It can be the best and worst job all in one. James Roy GUDE We really don’t have any problems, and if I do, I go to the union. I joined in 1994, and these are the best ships. Of course, a lot depends on the officers and a lot depends on the ship, but my job is easy to me. David Sexton Electrician It’s seen a lot of changes over the years. Some are good changes, some are bad. Overall, it’s been very rewarding. The biggest change is probably the living conditions aboard ship; they’ve improved dramatically. The biggest benefit is you can travel and see the world. Rick James Recertified Bosun I tell people, when you look out on the water, that’s the U.S. Merchant Marine. And you wouldn’t have cars or pineapples or other things without us. I also explain how important our industry is to trade and national security. Mohamed Khodeiri GVA It’s good to get into it when you’re young, and you have more time to upgrade. I think if you start early, it’s better for your career. I started sailing in the United States in 2002, and I definitely like it. Tim Chestnut Sr. Electrician I retired from the military, and the travel and pay in this industry are for me. It is a secret – I knew nothing about it. But the travel and camaraderie are great. You can support your family really well, and the union takes care of us. HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Pic From The Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 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 Stop 16 1/2 Santurce, PR 00907-4601 (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 is from the 1957 christening of the SS Harry Lundeberg, a bulk-ore carrier named in memory of the first president of the Seafarers International Union of North America. Addressing the crowd in Redwood City, California, is Edgar Kaiser, president of vessel operator Kaiser Industries. 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 2018 �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 ADEDEJI ADEGUNWA Brother Adedeji Adegunwa, 67, began his career with the SIU in 1999, when he worked aboard the Independence. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Adegunwa last sailed on the Navigator and lives in Lawrenceville, Georgia. COSTAS ANASTASIOU Brother Costas Anastasiou, 76, began his career with the SIU in 2005, when he worked aboard the Seabrook. He sailed in the engine department, last aboard the Cape Kennedy. Brother Anastasiou lives in Metairie, Louisiana. TERRY ARBUAH Brother Terry Arbuah, 61, signed on with the SIU in 1991 and first sailed aboard the Sea Wolf. He worked as a member of the deck department and last sailed on the Maersk Kinloss. Brother Arbuah is a resident of West Orange, New Jersey. EFREN BACOMO Brother Efren Bacomo, 67, first donned the SIU colors in 2006, when he worked aboard the Tacoma. He was an engine department member and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2009. Brother Bacomo most recently sailed on the Horizon Tacoma. He makes his home in Vancouver, Washington. GLENN BAMMAN Brother Glenn Bamman, 65, joined the SIU in 1974 when he sailed on a Hudson Waterways boat. He worked in the steward department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Bamman last sailed aboard the Maersk Missouri. He lives in Kings Park, New York. GEORGE BORROMEO Brother George Borromeo, 60, began his SIU career in 1981, working aboard the Express. He April 2018 was a steward department member and upgraded his skills often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Borromeo last sailed on the Liberty Glory, before settling in the Northern Mariana Islands. ALLAN BRIGHT Brother Allan Bright, 62, joined the SIU in 1977, working aboard the Consumers Powers. He was a steward department member and upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Bright last worked on the Cape Ducato, and settled in Carlyle, Illinois. RAFAEL COMESANA Brother Rafael Comesana, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1994, when he sailed on the USNS Kane. A member of the engine department, he upgraded on several occasions at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. Brother Comesana last sailed on the Mykos, and calls North Bay Village, Florida, home. JAMES CROSBY Brother James Crosby, 59, began his SIU career in 1990, working aboard the Pride of Texas. He was an engine department member and upgraded his skills often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Crosby last sailed on the Pride of America, before settling in Virginia Beach, Virginia. MARK DUMAS Brother Mark Dumas, 54, donned the SIU colors in 1988, when he worked on the Rover. He was an engine department member and upgraded on several occasions at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. Brother Dumas last sailed aboard the Ocean Globe and calls Vacherie, Louisiana, home. CHRISTOPHER EARHART Brother Christopher Earhart, 65, became a member of the SIU in 1989, when he sailed aboard the Enterprise. A member of the engine department, he upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Earhart last sailed aboard the Horizon Kodiak, before settling in Gold Beach, Oregon. ROMEO FERRER Brother Romeo Ferrer, 66, signed on with the union in 2004, initially sailing on the Overseas Washington. He was a member of the engine department and upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Ferrer most recently worked aboard the St. Clair, and makes his home in San Diego. IBARRA MANGAYA Brother Ibarra Mangaya, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1996, when he worked on the USNS Altair. He was an engine department member and upgraded on several occasions at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. Brother Mangaya last sailed aboard the Jack Lummus. He calls Virginia Beach, Virginia, home. NATIVIDAD MARTINEZ Brother Natividad Martinez, 65, became a Seafarer in 1991. A member of the deck department, his first ship was the USNS Algol. After upgrading on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center, Brother Martinez last sailed on the Pennsylvania. He resides in Houston. ANIBAL PENA Brother Anibal Pena, 70, began his seafaring career in 1991. Initially sailing in the inland division, he worked for Crowley Puerto Rico. Brother Pena last sailed aboard the Global Link and is a resident of Clermont, Florida. CORBIN PIPER Brother Corbin Piper, 58, became an SIU member in 1978. He first sailed aboard the Westward Venture, and worked as an engine department member. After upgrading his skills on several occasions at the Piney Point school, he last shipped on the Tacoma. Brother Piper now calls Olympia, Washington, home. MICHAEL PROVEAUX Brother Michael Proveaux, 70, signed on with the SIU in 1978, initially sailing aboard the Cove Navigator. A member of the deck department, he upgraded his skills often at the maritime training center in Piney Point. Brother Proveaux last sailed on the Cape Inscription and resides in Glenrock, Pennsylvania. ALBERTO QUIBA Brother Alberto Quiba, 67, donned the SIU colors in 1994, when he shipped on the Independence. He was a steward department member and sailed on the same ship for the duration of his career. Brother Quiba calls North Las Vegas, Nevada, home. MOHAMED QURAISH Brother Mohamed Quraish, 65, became a member of the SIU in 1980, initially sailing on the Santa Mercedes. He worked as a member of the steward department and upgraded his skills at the union-affiliated Piney Point School in 1999. Brother Quraish most recently sailed on the USNS Waters. He makes his home in Melvindale, Michigan. CAROLYN REDOUTE Sister Carolyn Redoute, 75, joined the SIU in 1991. She originally sailed with American Overseas Marine as a member of the steward department. Sister Redoute upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1992 and most recently sailed on the John Paul Bobo. She subsequently became a member of the Seafarersaffiliated UIW and now lives in Dunnellon, Florida. DONALD REZENDES Brother Donald Rezendes, 65, became a member of the SIU in 1978, when he shipped on the Newark. A member of the deck department, he upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Rezendes last sailed on the North Star. He makes his home in Garden City, Idaho. ROBERT RUSH Brother Robert Rush, 58, became a union member in 1975. One of his first ships was the USNS Potomac. Brother Rush sailed in the engine department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point. He concluded his career aboard the USNS Pililaau and lives in San Pedro, California. MACK RUSSELL Brother Mack Russell, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1996, first working aboard the USNS Indomitable. He was a steward department member and last sailed on the USNS Invincible. He calls Oviedo, Florida, home. CHARLES SMITH Brother Charles Smith, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1989 and first sailed aboard the Independence. He worked as a member of the steward department and upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Smith last sailed on the Long Lines. He is a resident of Bradenton, Florida. WINSTON THOMPSON Brother Winston Thompson, 58, joined the union in 1993. He first shipped aboard the Long Lines and was a deck department member. Brother Thompson upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point. He last sailed on the Overseas Chinook and makes his home in Houston. DANNIE TRUSS Brother Dannie Truss, 67, became a member of the SIU in 1978. He initially sailed on the Economy and worked as a deck department member. Brother Truss took advantage of the opportunities at the Paul Hall Center and upgraded on multiple occasions. He last sailed on the William R. Button before settling in Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand. INLAND ALMARCA ARRIOLA MARTINEZ Sister Almarca Arriola Martinez, 68, joined the SIU in 2001, working aboard the USNS Chesapeake. She was a steward department member and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Sister Arriola Martinez last worked on the Commitment, and settled in Seattle. DAVID AUD Brother David Aud, 66, became an SIU member in 1971, initially Continued on next page 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 working with Steuart Transportation Company. He was a deck department member and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Aud last sailed with Piney Point Transportation. He resides in Mechanicsville, Maryland. JOSEPH BERLANDO Brother Joseph Berlando, 64, donned the SIU colors in 1964, when he worked for Maritrans. He was a member of the deck department and enhanced his skills in 1979 by upgrading at the Piney Point school. Brother Berlando last sailed with the same company. He calls Washington, North Carolina, home. JAMES CAMPBELL Brother James Campbell, 62, signed on with the SIU in 1975. He was a member of the deck department and spent the duration of his career working for Higman Barge Lines. Brother Campbell makes his home in Hemphill, Texas. CRAIG CONKLIN Brother Craig Conklin, 62, joined the SIU in 1972, working aboard the Steel Maker. He was an engine department member and enhanced his skills by upgrading at the Piney Point school in 1975. Brother Conklin last worked for Mariner Towing before settling in Jacksonville, Florida. PAUL CORNWELL Brother Paul Cornwell, 62, signed on with the union in 1980, when he worked for G&H Towing. He was a deck department member and upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 1984. Brother Cornwell also concluded his career with G&H Towing before settling in Dickinson, Texas. RONNIE ELMS Brother Ronnie Elms, 62, signed on with the SIU in 1974, initially working for Moran Towing of Texas. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Elms last 18 Seafarers LOG sailed with Crowley Towing and Transportation. He calls Galveston, Texas, home. JAMES FLEMING Brother James Fleming, 62, joined the SIU in 1994, when he worked for Moran Towing of Texas. He was an engine department member and upgraded at the unionaffiliated Piney Point school in 1999. Brother Fleming most recently worked for Penn Maritime. He resides in Carriere, Mississippi. HAL HARRINGTON Brother Hal Harrington, 62, became an SIU member in 1983. He initially worked for Shawn’s Launch Services. Brother Harrington was a member of the deck department and last sailed with Virginia Pilots. He settled in Virginia Beach, Virginia. MICHAEL HENSON Great Lakes Dredge and Dock. Sailing in the deck department, he remained with the same company for the duration of his career. Brother Johnston is a resident of Delaware City, Delaware. GARY KOSHLAND Brother Gary Koshland, 65, became an SIU member in 1990 and initially sailed with McAllister of Philadelphia. He upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. A member of the deck department, he concluded his career working for Moran Towing of Philadelphia. Brother Koshland resides in Cold Brook, New York. ROBERT PALMER Brother Robert Palmer, 65, joined the union in 1998, when he worked for G&H Towing. He was a deck department member and remained with the same company for the entirety of his SIU career. He resides in Rockport, Texas. ARTHUR STEWART Brother Arthur Stewart, 56, joined the SIU in 1990, working for OSG Ship Management. He was a deck department member and upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Stewart last sailed with Harley Marine New York, and settled in Sevierville, Tennessee. JAMES WALLACE Brother James Wallace, 65, joined the SIU in 1974, working for the Association of Maryland Pilots. He remained with the same company for his entire career. He calls Fayetteville, North Carolina, home. Connect and Save with AT&T Wireless Brother Michael Henson, 62, started shipping with the SIU in 1974, when he worked for Crescent Towing and Salvage. A member of the deck department, he sailed with the same company for the entirety of his career. He lives in Bossier City, Louisiana. THOMAS HULSART Brother Thomas Hulsart, 62, signed on with the union in 1974. He initially worked for Western Towing and was a member of the deck department. Brother Hulsart took advantage of the training opportunities at the Paul Hall Center and upgraded on multiple occasions. He most recently sailed with American Marine Corporation, and settled in Trinity, Texas. 15% Savings on the Monthly Service Charge of Qualified Plans* Receive a 20% Discount on Select Accessories** Exclusive Wireless Savings, Just for Union Members ELTON JEANSONNE Brother Elton Jeansonne, 62, joined the SIU in 1990, when he worked for Higman Barge Lines. He was a deck department member and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Jeansonne last sailed with Seabulk, and settled in Oakdale, Louisiana. DENNIS JOHNSTON Brother Dennis Johnston, 60, started shipping with the SIU in 1998, when he worked for *15% ON THE MONTHLY SERVICE CHARGE of QUALIFIED WIRELESS PLANS: Available only to current members of qualified AFL-CIO member unions, other authorized individuals associated with eligible unions and other sponsoring organizations with a qualifying agreement. Must provide acceptable proof of union membership such as a membership card from your local union, a pay stub showing dues deduction or the Union Plus Member Discount Card and subscribe to service under an individual account for which the member is personally liable. Offer contingent upon in-store verification of union member status. Discount subject to agreement between Union Privilege and AT&T and may be interrupted, changed or discontinued without notice. Discount applies only to recurring monthly service charge of qualified voice and data plans, not overages. Not available with unlimited voice or unlimited data plans. For Family Talk, applies only to primary line. For all Mobile Share plans, applies only to monthly plan charge of plans with 1GB or more, not to additional monthly device access charges. Additional restrictions apply. May take up to 2 bill cycles after eligibility confirmed and will not apply to prior charges. Applied after application of any available credit. May not be combined with other service discounts. Visit unionplus.org/att or contact AT&T at 866-499-8008 for details. 4/18 Learn more at unionplus.org/att April 2018 �Final Departures DEEP SEA BERT ABELLA Pensioner Bert Abella, 78, passed away February 24. Signing on with the union in 1979, he first shipped on the Portland. Brother Abella was a member of the deck department and last worked aboard the Tacoma. He retired in 2004 and settled in Seattle. HOWARD BROWN Pensioner Howard Brown, 86, died March 14. He joined the SIU in 1961, initially sailing aboard the MT Evans. A member of the deck department, Brother Brown most recently sailed on the Richard J. Reiss. He began collecting his pension in 1999 and made his home in Saginaw, Michigan. BARRY CARRANO Pensioner Barry Carrano, 66, passed away February 26. Born in Chicago, he started shipping in 1982, when he sailed aboard the Constitution. The deck department member’s last vessel was the Alliance Norfolk before his retirement in 2017. Brother Carrano lived in Ocala, Florida. GEORGE DAVIS Pensioner George Davis, 87, died March 2. He became a member of the SIU in 1959, initially sailing on the Alcoa Pilgrim. A member of the steward department, Brother Davis most recently worked aboard the Robert E. Lee. He retired in 1994 and settled in New Orleans. OLWEN KING Pensioner Olwen King, 93, passed away December 9. He joined the SIU in 1963 and first sailed aboard the Bienville. Brother King was a deck department member and most recently sailed on the Robert E. Lee. He began collecting his pension in 1990 and made his home in Chalmette, Louisiana. ALFRED LEWAKOWSKI Pensioner Alfred Lewakowski, 88, died January 4. He started sailing with the SIU in 1955, initially working for Ore Navigation. Brother Lewakowski was a member of the deck department and most recently sailed aboard the Charleston. He became a pensioner in 1994 and was a resident of Kingman, Arizona. JAMISON MILLER Pensioner Jamison Miller, 60, passed away March 5. He joined the SIU in 1980 and he first shipped aboard the Panama. The deck department member most recently sailed in the Great Lakes Division when he worked on the Sam Laud. He retired in 2009 and called Adelphi, Maryland, home. EDDIE SIPLIN Brother Eddie Siplin, 59, died January 26. He became a member of the SIU in 1981, initially sailing on the Great Land. Brother Siplin was a steward department member and last worked aboard the Sagamore. He resided in Jacksonville, Florida. LORENZO TIFRE Pensioner Lorenzo Tifre, 71, passed away March 1. He signed on with the SIU in 1993 when he worked on the Jacksonville. Brother Tifre was member of the deck department and most recently shipped on the Maersk Georgia. He became a pensioner in 2012 and was a resident of Brooklyn, New York. MICHAEL WARREN Pensioner Michael Warren, 68, died February 24. He joined the union in 1973 and initially sailed with Hudson Waterways. Brother Warren was a deck department member and last sailed aboard the Cape Knox. He began collecting his pension in 2015 and lived in Virginia Beach, Virginia. INLAND RICHARD DIXON Pensioner Richard Dixon, 71, passed away December 11. He signed on with the SIU in 1965, working for Crescent Towing and Salvage. The deck department member continued to work for the same company until his retirement in 2013. Brother Dixon lived in Algiers, Louisiana ROBERT FOLTZ Pensioner Robert Foltz, 85, died February 18. He became a member of the SIU in 1961, initially sailing with Taylor Marine Towing. Brother Foltz was a deck department member and last worked for McAllister Towing of Philadelphia. He began collecting his pension in 1997 and settled in Clarksboro, New Jersey. THOMAS MCGREAL Pensioner Thomas McGreal, 91, passed away February 20. He first donned the SIU colors in 1960 when he worked for New York Central Railroad Company. A member of the deck department, Brother McGreal last worked for New York Cross Harbor Railroad. He became a pensioner in 1989 and lived in St. Petersburg, Florida. AUGUST MURPHY Pensioner August Murphy, 84, died February 8. He became a member of the SIU in 1960, first sailing on the San Marino. Brother Murphy was a deck department member and last worked for G&H Towing. He was a resident of Midway, Texas. GREAT LAKES CHARLES HOLTREY Pensioner Charles Holtrey, 73, passed away January 20. He became an SIU member in 1964 when he worked for Michigan Interstate Railway. A member of the deck department, Brother Holtrey last sailed on the Indiana Harbor. He retired in 2000 and made his home in Benzonia, Michigan. PACIFIC MARINE JOSEPH DEBLANC Pensioner Joseph Deblanc, 89, died February 23. He joined the union in 1979 and initially sailed on the Santa Magdelena. Brother Deblanc sailed in both the deck and steward departments. His last ship was the Manulani. He began collecting his pension in 1992 and lived in New Orleans. DOUGLAS SWETS Pensioner Douglas Swets, 70, passed away February 25. He signed on with the SIU in 1989, first sailing aboard the Independence. Brother Swets worked in the steward department, last shipping on the Singapore. He retired in 2013 and settled in Virginia Beach, Virginia. NMU Name Age Arceneaux, Anthony 95 Azmitia, Harry 94 Boone, Edward 90 Campbell, John 85 Decoud, Gary 76 Ford, Cuthbert 79 Gomes, Bartolomeu 85 Hart, Herbert 96 Hubbard, William 94 Leonard, Warren 89 Lucas, Eddie 87 McCord, John 89 Nesich, Severio 100 Netherland, Martin 90 Rasca, Mary 87 Rogers, Duke 83 Salas, Geronimo 86 Sanchez, Arando 95 Santiago, Modesto 84 Viser, Harold 79 Welk, Francis 90 DOD 03/03/2018 02/07/2018 01/20/2018 02/20/2018 02/20/2018 02/22/2018 02/19/2018 02/01/2018 03/02/2018 02/18/2018 12/24/2017 01/22/2018 02/09/2018 01/30/2018 01/05/2018 12/19/2017 03/01/2018 02/14/2018 01/01/2018 02/14/2018 10/29/2017 Officials Report All Hands Safe Aboard SIU-Crewed Maersk Kensington No injuries and no pollution were reported following a container fire in a cargo hold aboard the Seafarers-crewed Maersk Kensington. The incident happened March 16 while the vessel was sailing from Salalah. According to a communication from Maersk Line, Limited (which owns and operates the ship), safety measures were taken immediately, and the crew reacted swiftly in containing the fire. At press time, the ship was anchored outside the port of Salalah and was receiving assistance from shore. The fire’s cause wasn’t immediately known. April 2018 This file photo shows the Maersk Kensington, which has been part of the SIU-crewed fleet since 2015. Seafarers LOG 19 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Ops June 9 July 6 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start April 16. Chief Steward April 21 June 8 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Galley Operations April 21 May 18 Able Seafarer Deck May 5 June 1 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Students will be advised of dates once accepted. ARPA May 12 May 18 Bosun Recertification July 21 August 6 Fast Rescue Boat June 16 June 22 GMDSS June 2 June 15 Lifeboat April 7 April 20 May 5 May 18 June 2 June 15 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 April 14 April 20 May 12 May 18 June 2 June 8 June 23 June 29 July 21 July 27 August 11 August 17 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 April 7 April 13 April 28 May 4 May 5 May 11 May 19 May 25 June 9 June 15 June 16 June 22 July 7 July 13 Steward Recertification April 14 May 7 Radar Observer April 28 May 11 June 16 June 29 Serve Safe July 14 July 20 Safety Upgrading Courses Radar Renewal (one day) Basic Training w/16hr FF May 19 May 25 June 16 June 22 Basic Training Revalidation April 13 April 13 May 4 May 4 May 18 May 18 June 8 June 8 July 13 July 13 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation June 9 June 15 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting April 14 April 20 May 26 June 1 Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW April 7 May 4 June 2 June 29 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers June 2 June 15 BAPO April 7 May 4 June 2 June 29 FOWT May 5 June 1 FOWT May 5 June 1 Junior Engineer June 9 August 3 Machinist April 28 May 18 June 16 July 6 Pumpman May 19 May 25 July 7 July 13 Welding May 5 May 25 June 9 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 # and dates attended___________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG Government Vessels April 28 May 4 May 12 May 18 May 26 June 1 Medical Care Provider April 21 April 27 May 9 May 25 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL April 7 April 13 June 9 June 15 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG April 14 April 20 June 2 June 8 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, or 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. 4/18 April 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Water Survival Class 832 – The following Phase I apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Dec. 29: Lavontat Anderson, Thomas Burch, Joseph Crane, Owen Delehanty, Luis Felipe Flores-Ramos, Rannie Fore II, Brian Kluth Jr., Daniel Leon-Bruges, David Lewelling, Wayne Linnette IV, Christian Miguel Mercado Nunez, Gus Papas, Andrew Porpora, Billy Sawyer III, Hyuk-Joong Kim Seeman and Lebrena Simmons. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Water Survival – Seafarer Rizaldy Manalopilar Ano Jr. (above) recently finished his requirements in this course. A member of the deck department, the Philippine-born mariner graduated Dec. 29. Welding – Two upgraders completed their requirements in this course Dec. 15. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Chris Badouin and George Mardones. Chris Raley, their instructor, is at the far left. Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Twenty-two upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills in this course Dec. 12. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Sotero Sumalinog Berame Jr., Fritz Bernier, Larry Byrd, Hector Ismael Caballero, Juan Amilcar Colon, Henry Jimenez Crespo, Luddy Duffey, Jonamie Antonio Encarnacion, Sherrod Frazier, Victor Frazier, Brian Guiry, Sanjay Gupta, Frank Harris III, Brice Jackson, Bonnie Kropolinsky-Hinkle, William Moran IV, Lamont Robinson, Kaled Minasar Saleh, Nabil Mohamed Ali Sharif, Darryl Smith, Jeffery Toliver Jr., and Rhonda Williams. Government Vessels – The following Seafarers (photo at left, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Dec. 15: Mohamed Mossad Abdelwahab GAD, Talib Aekins, Reynaldo Daga Agapay, Joseph Benitez Arigo, John Cedeno Jr., Luddy Duffey, Jose Roberto Encarnacion, Wilfredo Sabido Espinosa, Janice Gabbert, Arnell George, Richard Hindson, Orin King, Bonnie Kropolinsky-Hinkle, William Moran IV, Randolph Patterson, Luis Guillermo Ramos Rosa, Paublito Nmi Ramos-Ortiz, Nabil Mohamed Ali Sharif, Christopher Shivalier, Leodiane Maayon Torrenueva, Nee Tran, Cortney Williams and Travis Williams. Pumpman – Ten individuals completed their requirements in this course Dec. 8. Graduating (photo at right, in alphabetical order) were: Davon Brown, Kenneth Cabrera, Alexander Capellan, Clinton Lopez Cephas, Elliot Duncan, Anthony Kwami Kpodovia, Richard Lawson, Afework Mengstu, Gregory Saddler and Christopher Shivalier. Class instructor Keith Adamson is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Notice to All 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. April 2018 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes ARPA – Two upgraders improved their skills Dec. 15 when they finished their requirements in this course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Roy Cuenza Enriquez and Mukhtar Mohamed Yahia. Patrick Schoenberger, their instructor is at the far right. Radar Observer – The following individuals (photo above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Dec. 8: Roy Cuenza Enriquez, Derrick Hurt, Enchantress Johnson and Mukhtar Mohamed Yahia. Class instructor Patrick Schoenberger is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Leadership & Management Skills – Five upgraders completed their requirements in this course Dec. 8. Graduating (right, in alphabetical order) were: Talib Aekins, Justin Buchart, Lionel Rivera, Frank Sambula and Mark Stabler. Class instructor Christopher Morgan is at the far left. Medical Care Provider – Six mariners finished this course Dec. 8. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Saad Mohammed Al Aqel, Annie Bivens, Kelly Doyle, Domingo Leon Jr., Luis Guillermo Ramos Rosa and Ahmed Omar Sharif. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Upgrader Adam Magann (above) enhanced his skills by completing his requirements in this course late last year. 22 Seafarers LOG Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Dec. 8: Albert Ugali Dulig, Randolph Patterson and Wayne Yeargain. Basic Training (SUA Basic Firefighting) – Twelve individuals finished their requisites in this course Dec. 8. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Italy Bozhane Laquanta Byers, Lady Joanna Cano-Orozco, Gilma David, Amar Ahmed Mohamed Gaber, Victoria James, Young Moo Kim, Travis Lunsford, Brittany McKay, Phuoc Chau-Hue Nguyen, Nicoll Quinones-Rodriguez, Sherley Loraine Rivera-Aguila and Cesar Andres Rosado-Rodriguez. Class instructor Matt Rogers is in the back row wearing black fire suit. (Note: Not all are pictured.) April 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Government Vessels – The following mariners (photo at left, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Jan. 12: Abdul Ghaffar Abu-Bakr, Volodymyr Olexandrovych Bendus, James Cronk III, Brian Cushing, Destany Howard, Eric Jackson, Robert Johnson, David Kendrick, Kenneth Ledeoux, Clint Young Tom Omisong, Kurtis Solberg, Travis Sumpter, Eugene Tuggle, Kareem Walters and Deralle Watson Sr. Basic Steam Plant Operations – Two upgraders finished their requirements in this course Feb. 2. Graduating (photo above, from left) were Olivier Luc Especa and Dionesio Bacsibio Monteclaro Jr. Their instructor, Christopher Morgan, is at the far right. UA to FOWT – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Feb. 2: Daniel Bynum, Micah Gabriel Ferreira, Mathew McClintock, Jason Upshaw, Arlen Vernimo Jr., Hayden Vogt and Kyle Williamson. Christopher Morgan, their instructor, is at the far right. GAP Galley Evaluation – Nine individuals completed this course Dec. 1. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Gregg Blevins, Charlene Briggs, Graeme Simbajo Dy, Brice Avery Jackson, Engracio Lagda Moratin Jr., Hussein Nasser, Craig Sorrell, Scott Steger and Alvin Watson. GAP Galley Evaluation – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Nov. 3: George Burton Jr., James Cherico, Reynard Gibbs, Brittany Harris, Joseph Huls, Milan Marshall-Hampton, Anthony McAfee, Pedro Rodriguez, Insook Smith and Nakeya White. Advanced Galley Ops - Four steward department upgraders completed their requirements in this course Dec. 15. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: David Dingman, Helida Samula Lorenzo, Jesus Manuel Pacheco and Delia Peters. April 2018 Certified Chief Cook – The following steward department members improved their skills by completing their requirements in this course Dec. 12. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Christian Borroto Lopez, Rene Junel Bravo Harrington, Nilsa Manaiza, Mohames Ali Noman and Todd Pryor. Seafarers LOG 23 �APRIL 2018 FEBRU ARY 2014 V OVOLUME L U M E 780, 6 o NO. N O4. 2 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 Seafarers Deliver in ‘Deep Freeze 2018’ Carrying on a long SIU tradition, the Maersk Peary docks at McMurdo Station on Feb. 2. (Photo by Sarah Burford, MSC Pacific) W ith predictable efficiency, SIU crews from two vessels have wrapped up another annual resupply mission to McMurdo Station in Antarctica. In early February, the SIU-crewed Maersk Peary offloaded nearly 6 million gallons of diesel and jet fuel in support of Operation Deep Freeze 2018. Another Seafarers-crewed vessel, the Ocean Giant, spent a week at the station’s ice pier in late January, discharging 409 pieces of cargo. Unloaded were nearly 7 million pounds of supplies such as frozen and dry food stores, building materials, vehicles, and electronic equipment and parts. The aforementioned cargo accounts for all of the fuels needed for an entire year at the station plus around 80 percent of the other supplies and materials required for sustainment and operations. The U.S. Military Sealift Command reported that the vessels passed each other as they entered and exited Winters Quarters Bay. Seafarers have supported Operation Deep Freeze for decades. The mission provides crucial supplies to personnel from the U.S. Air Force, Navy, Army, and Coast Guard as well as Department of Defense civilians and other individuals who are stationed at the largest scientific research community in Antarctica. The Ocean Giant is operated by Waterman Steamship while the Peary is operated by Maersk Line, Limited. Seafarers aboard the Peary during the mission included Bosun Ron Paradise, ABs Fortunato Ranario, Alex Bermudez, David Kennedy, Marie Acosta and Gideon Decker, Pumpman Jason Young, QMED Alex Amarra, Wiper Lionel Felix-Lugo, Recertified Steward Tony Spain, Chief Cook Lamont Faulks and SA Assiel Roedan Santana. The SIU crew of the Ocean Giant included Bosun Gregorio Cinense Cudal, ABs Marvin Williams, Jose Roman Velasquez, Shaddrious McGruder and Nassor James, Electrician Vladimir Loutaev, QE4s Abdulaziz Alsinai, Heather Bushey and Alonzo Marbley, Steward/Baker Lonnie Myers Jr., ACU Rosalie Long and Apprentice Kevin Campfield Jr. The Ocean Giant arrives at the station on Jan. 26. (Photo by Sarah Burford, MSC Pacific) Keeping their Peary shipmates well-fed are (from left) SA Assiel Roedan Santana, Recertified Steward Tony Spain and Chief Cook Lamont Faulks. SIU and AMO members from the Maersk Peary gather for a traditional group photo. Another view of the Maersk Peary arriving at the base Local wildlife is part of the scenery near the base. � 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 2018 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU CREWS SUPPORT PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP U.S. COAST GUARD LAUDS NY WATERWAY CREW MCDEW, BUZBY SUPPORT JONES ACT IN HOUSE HEARING USTRANSCOM COMMANDER, MARITIME ADMINISTRATOR ALSO BACK MSP, CARGO PREFERENCE WRITER: JONES ACT ‘CONVENIENT SCAPEGOAT FOR PUERTO RICO’S WOES’ PORT AUTHORITY BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTS SIU AVP POWELL TO POST MTD EXEC. BOARD STRONGLY BACKS JONES ACT SPEAKERS STAND UP FOR AMERICA’S FREIGHT CABOTAGE LAW ALABAMA SHIPYARD CHRISTENS, LAUNCHES USNS BURLINGTON SHBP UPDATES PUERTO RICO RESIDENTS CROWLEY VESSELS BRING BRIDGE SECTIONS TO PUERTO RICO TOTE COMPLETES FIRST PHASE OF LONG CONVERSION AFT PRESIDENT: ‘WE FIGHT FOR VALUES’ WEINGARTEN SAYS WEST VIRGINIA STRIKE UNDERSCORES POWER OF SOLIDARITY MACHINISTS PROVIDE PUERTO RICO UPDATE SRI: AT LEAST 91 NATIONS HAVE CABOTAGE LAWS STUDY REINFORCES BENEFITS, INCLUDING JOBS, NATIONAL SECURITY, SAFETY CANADIAN CABOTAGE BATTLES CONTINUE UNION LEADS SUCCESSFUL MARITIME EFFORTS NORTH OF BORDER COMPANY EXCECS STAND UP FOR JONES ACT ARMED WITH FACTS, SPEAKERS DESCRIBE INDUSTRY’S PUERTO RICO EFFORTS OFFICIALS REPORT ALL HANDS SAFE ABOARD SIU-CREWED MAERSK KENSINGTON SEAFARERS DELIVER IN ‘DEEP FREEZE 2018’ 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 04/01/2018 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. 80, No. 4 2018 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/5eaf009837280f10aaf47b0ee54b211a.pdf 1666770edf1093f0e516f2e18bd38693 PDF Text Text MARCH F E B R 2018 UARY 2014 V O L U M EVOLUME 7 6 o 80, N ONO. . 23 Jones Act Remains Vital to America’s National, Economic, Homeland Security Facts Overtake Erroneous Attacks on U.S. Cabotage Law Pages 2, 3 SIU Helps Deliver In Operation Agua Six months after Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico, SIU members are still assisting in relief operations – including via Operation Agua, a project led by the American Federation of Teachers. Operation Agua – also backed by Seafarers-contracted Tote Maritime – has delivered tens of thousands of water purification systems to residents of the territory. In photo at right, SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo (third from left facing camera), and other volunteers pass out filters in Caguas, Puerto Rico. In photo below, volunteers, including SIU members, finish loading a truck with filters for distribution in the western and southern parts of the territory. To learn more on the relief effort, see Page 11. Seafarers Reliably Crew RRF Vessels America’s Ready Reserve Force (RRF) is a critical part of the nation’s sealift capability. Pictured aboard the RRF vessel Cape Washington in Baltimore are (from left) Patrolman DeCarlo Harris, GVA Mohamed Khodeiri, Electrician Dave Sexton, GUDE James Roy and Recertified Bosun Rick James. Learn more about the program by turning to Pages 12-13. Senator Tours School Page 2 SIU Philanthropy Continues Page 4 PHC College Program Page 19 �President’s Report Jones Act an Indispensable Asset Facts have a way of prevailing, and with that in mind I’m encouraged to see a recent shift in media coverage and chatter about the Jones Act. As many Seafarers know, this vital law took an unfair beating last year after Hurricane Maria. But, as has been said many times, the truth has a way of coming out. And people seem to be finally catching on to the truth about America’s freight cabotage law. That’s not to say we won’t still see a baseless editorial attack or a flat-out erroneous quote, but from the printed page to TV news, and from social media to Capitol Hill, I have seen and been informed about fairer coverage and increased accuracy. If you somehow missed it, critics have wrongly claimed (going back to September) that the Jones Act hampered relief efforts in Puerto Rico, even though nothing could be further from the truth. They used their own flawed accusations as a basis to call for weakening or eliminating a law that has protected the United States Michael Sacco and its territories for nearly a century. It did not matter that the backdrop for their stories showed stacks and stacks of containers delivered to the San Juan docks by U.S.-flag vessels. Jones Act ships were on the scene in Puerto Rico within hours after the first port reopened, and Jones Act vessels have continued delivering vital cargoes ever since. Because of damaged roads and numerous other infrastructure problems, much of the waterborne cargo initially stayed in the ports, but that had nothing to do with any maritime law. The bottom line is that almost every statement that was put forth as justification to weaken or kill the Jones Act was wrong. Foreign-flag ships already carry around two-thirds of the cargo that arrives on the island. Groceries in Puerto Rico are substantially cheaper than in the U.S. Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands, both non-Jones Act territories. Shipping rates from the mainland to Puerto Rico compare favorably with rates to other islands where the Jones Act doesn’t apply (and which are served by foreign-flag ships). Easily verifiable information on the web also shows that, on average, consumer prices in Puerto Rico are lower than in Miami, Jacksonville and Orlando. Some people still insist on blaming the Jones Act for all of Puerto Rico’s problems, but whether that’s a gigantic stretch or a red herring or genuine misunderstanding, it’s still completely false. Check out our Jones Act coverage elsewhere in this issue, and be sure to read about Operation Agua, too. That’s a great project, led by our sisters and brothers from the American Federation of Teachers. The SIU is proud to be on board with the outreach. Headed to the Hill This month, we are participating in the annual Maritime Congressional Sail-In. The all-day mission on Capitol Hill has become a staple for representatives from every segment of the American maritime industry, and I think its importance grows with each passing year. I’m grateful that the maritime industry in general and the SIU in particular can count many friends on both sides of the aisle, but between the regular turnover in Congress and the ongoing attacks on our industry, we can never let up when it comes to promoting the U.S. Merchant Marine. You all know we work in a heavily regulated industry, and that’s precisely why we never stop speaking up for Seafarers and for the laws and programs that keep Old Glory flying on the rivers, coasts and high seas. We’ll be going to bat for mariners, for the Jones Act and cargo preference, for the Maritime Security Program and the Ex-Im Bank and more. America’s national, economic and homeland security depend on us, and that’s a message we’re proud to deliver here in Washington, just as you do back in your hometowns. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 80 Number 3 o NO. 2 March 2018 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2018 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. 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 U.S. Sen. Ben Cardin (standing second from left) speaks with students at the school. SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez is at far left. Senator Cardin Tours Piney Point-Based PHC The senator tries his hand on a simulator. Observing are SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (left) and Rachel Jones, field representative for Sen. Cardin. The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) on Feb. 2 welcomed U.S. Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Maryland) for a tour. In addition to checking out the main campus (where he took a spin on the fullmission bridge simulator), the senator also visited the nearby Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, which is part of the PHC. Before shoving off, he dropped in on a class of apprentices and chatted with them. The PHC opened in 1967 and is located in Piney Point, Maryland. Pictured from left are PHC Director of Training Priscilla Labanowski, PHC Acting VP Tom Orzechowski, Sen. Cardin, SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez and PHC Hotel/Conference Manager Howard Thompson. IMB Piracy Report Reflects Lower Incident Totals in 2017 The International Chamber of Commerce’s (ICC) International Maritime Bureau (IMB) has released its 2017 Piracy Report, which shows that a total of 180 incidents of maritime piracy and armed robbery were reported in that year. That is the lowest annual number since 1995, according to the IMB. The report states that 136 vessels were boarded; there were 22 attempted attacks; 16 vessels were fired upon; and six vessels were hijacked. Additionally, 91 crew members were taken hostage, while 75 were kidnapped and taken from their vessels. Three crewmembers were killed in 2017 and six injured. Despite those lower overall numbers, there are a few areas that saw an increase in pirate activity last year. In the Gulf of Guinea, 36 incidents were reported to the IMB, with 10 kidnapping incidents involving 65 mariners in or around Nigerian waters. Of the 16 vessels world-wide that reported being fired upon, seven of them were in this region. “Although the number of attacks is down this year in comparison with last year, the Gulf of Guinea and the waters around Nigeria remain a threat to seafarers. The Nigerian authorities have intervened in a number of incidents helping to prevent incidents from escalating,” said Pottengal Mukundan, Director of IMB. Somalia also saw an increase of reported incidents in 2017 with nine, up from just two in 2016. One specific incident saw armed pirates east of Mogadishu fire rocketpropelled grenades at a containership after their boarding attempts were evaded. The grenades missed, and six of the pirates involved were later captured by the European Union Naval Force. They were then transferred to the Seychelles, charged with “committing an act of piracy,” and could face up to 30 years in prison if convicted. “This dramatic incident, alongside our 2017 figures, demonstrates that Somali pirates retain the capability and intent to launch attacks against merchant vessels hundreds of miles from their coastline,” said Mukundan. Piracy numbers were down slightly from 2016 in Indonesia, and the report noted that Indonesian Marine Police patrols continue to be effective in the country’s 10 designated safe anchorages. The document explained that elsewhere in Southeast Asia, reported incidents are up sharply, especially in the Philippines. The majority of incidents in the Philippines (22 were reported in 2017) were low-level attacks on anchored vessels, mainly at the ports of Manila and Batangas. In the first quarter of 2017, vessels sailing off the Southern Philippines were boarded and their crews were kidnapped, but alerts broadcast by the IMB’s Piracy Reporting Center (PRC), on behalf of the Philippine authorities, have since helped to avoid further successful attacks. Launched in 1991, the IMB PRC is a 24-hour manned center that provides the maritime industry, governments and response agencies with timely and transparent data on armed robbery incidents received directly from the master or owner of vessels. All attacks reported last year can be viewed online on the 2017 IMB Live Piracy Map. March 2018 �Media Reports Underscore Jones Act’s Benefits Maritime Law Vital in Many Ways, Including Recovery in Puerto Rico Despite ongoing efforts to unfairly discredit a key United States maritime law, a recent wave of media coverage is helping to set the record straight. Articles about the Jones Act (both online and in print) have reinforced what the domestic maritime industry has known all along – namely, that the longstanding law is vital to America’s national, economic and homeland security. Some of the recent coverage also reinforced the Jones Act’s critical role in helping facilitate delivery of relief cargoes to Puerto Rico. The Jones Act requires that cargo moving between U.S. domestic ports is carried on vessels that are crewed, built, owned and flagged American. On the books since 1920, it has always enjoyed strong bipartisan political support and military backing. Nevertheless, the law also regularly comes under fire from those who either truly don’t understand it or whose agendas don’t include preserving the U.S. Merchant Marine. Among those recently speaking out for the nation’s freight cabotage law were U.S. Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby; Matson Navigation President and CEO Matt Cox; Crowley Maritime Puerto Rico Vice President Jose Ayala; and, from the law firm K&L Gates, Mark Ruge, Darrell L. Conner and Sarah M. Beason. Speaking to port and inland waterway officials and security industry representatives Feb. 8 in Newport News, Virginia, Buzby spotlighted the direct connection between the Jones Act and America’s military capabilities. Many of the civilian mariners who sail in the Jones Act trades would also be available to crew up military support ships in times of need. “The stakes surrounding our nation’s homeland security and national defense have never been higher,” Buzby said, according to an article in The Virginian-Pilot. A few weeks earlier, during a midJanuary hearing in the U.S. House of Representatives, Buzby cited “the critical role that the Jones Act plays. A lot of people, I think, focus on strictly an economic view of the impact of the Jones Act and fail to recognize the significance to national security.” And, at an industry event late last year, he criticized the media for scapegoating the Jones Act in its coverage of Puerto Rico relief operations. “The vital [relief] contribution of U.S.flagged Jones Act shipping was obliterated by a barrage of false narratives and uninformed reporting,” Buzby said. Cox honed in on the Puerto Rico situation during remarks at a Propeller Club event Feb. 6 in southern California. According to an article in the Journal of Commerce, Cox asserted that shipping rates between Puerto Rico and the U.S. mainland are the lowest in the Caribbean and as much as 20 to 50 percent lower than those of foreign-flag services to other islands in the region. “Dedicated service to Puerto Rico provides price efficiencies,” he said. Cox also pointed out that two-thirds of the cargo arriving in Puerto Rico is carried aboard foreign-flag ships. The headline on the K&L Gates Piece succinctly captured much of the media coverage of the maritime law and the territory. It read: “The Eerie Similarities Between The Gulf Spill In 2010 And Hurricane Maria In Puerto Rico 7 Years Later: How the Facts About the Jones USNS Miguel Keith Signals Additional SIU Government Services Division Jobs New tonnage means more jobs – in this case for SIU Government Services Division members – as construction recently began on the latest addition to the Military Sealift Command (MSC) fleet. Work started on the future USNS Miguel Keith, an expeditionary sea base (ESB) vessel, on Jan. 30 at the General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard in San Diego. The ceremony served as a formal recognition of the start of the ship’s construction, with the vessel expected to be delivered in 2019. NASSCO is a union shipyard. Capt. Scot Searles, program manager of MSC’s Strategic Sealift and Theater Sealift, weighed in on the ceremony for the Keith, saying, “A keel laying is the first major milestone in the construction of a new ship. The keel is the symbolic backbone of the ship. Over the next several months, ESB-5 will begin to take shape and I look forward to seeing its progress as we continue constructing this versatile ship.” The ship is named for a Vietnam-era Marine machine gunner who, while severely wounded and outnumbered by the enemy, charged the approaching attackers in order to save the lives of his fellow Marines. Keith posthumously received the Medal of Honor for his heroism. His mother, Delores Keith, serves as the sponsor of the vessel that bears her son’s name, and though she was too infirm to attend the keel-laying, a family friend welded Delores’ initials onto the keel block in her stead. The 784-foot-long Miguel Keith will serve as a floating base, with a 52,000-square-foot flight deck, fuel and March 2018 equipment storage, repair spaces, magazines, and mission-planning spaces. The vessel will carry up to 250 personnel, along with support helicopters and other aircraft for mine countermeasures, counter-piracy operations, maritime security operations, humanitarian aid and disaster-relief missions. The Miguel Keith will be the third ESB produced by NASSCO in the Montford Point class, and the fifth overall in its class. The Montford Point class is comprised of two variants, all crewed by SIU members and working to support the U.S. Maritime Prepositioning Force. The Mark Buzby U.S. Maritime Administrator Matt Cox Matson Navigation President/CEO Act Got Thrown Overboard.” In part, the article pointed out, “The massive public attention focused on the Jones Act in Puerto Rico immediately after Hurricane Maria was eerily analogous to the public spotlight on the law during the Deepwater Horizon oil spill (the “Gulf Spill”) in the spring of 2010. In both cases, the Jones Act was almost immediately singled out for public criticism as an impediment to the recovery efforts. In both cases, many of the criticisms reflected a material misunderstanding of the mechanics of the Jones Act and the operational rhythms of the domestic maritime industry. In both cases, opponents used the Jones Act as a political tool to attack the sitting president, criticizing him for not waiving the Jones Act to assist with the relief effort. And, in both cases, at the end of the day, it was clear that the Jones Act had been falsely accused – that is, that the law had in no way impeded the recovery efforts. One lesson is abundantly clear: In the middle of a national emergency, political crisis, humanitarian disaster, and media circus, the facts sometimes get left by the wayside.” The writers described the Jones Act as “a foundational law of the American maritime and industry” and added that USNS Montford Point and USNS John Glenn, which have been dubbed Expeditionary Transfer Docks (ESD), have been delivered and are currently in service. The first of the ESB variant, USS Lewis B. Puller, was delivered to the Navy in 2015, while the USNS Hershel “Woody” Williams was christened in October 2017 and is expected to be delivered to MSC at the end of February. The primary difference between an ESB and an ESD vessel is that an ESB is outfitted with a flight deck and hangar that can support helicopters and tilt-rotor aircraft, while an ESD is not so equipped. This additional flight deck affects the stability of the vessel, which helps dictate the types of missions each ship can undertake. According to the Navy, “The Expedi- Continued on Page 5 tionary Transfer Dock (ESD) / Expeditionary Sea Base (ESB), formerly known as the Mobile Landing Platform (MLP) /Afloat Forward Staging Base (AFSB), is a highly flexible ship that provides logistics movement from sea to shore supporting a broad range of military operations. ESD/ESB class ships leverage an existing commercial design of the Alaska class crude oil carrier built by General Dynamics National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO), to ensure design stability and low developmental costs. These ships operate within Maritime Prepositioning Ship squadrons as mobile sea bases or as the component commander requires providing the U.S. Navy fleet with a critical access infrastructure that supports the flexible deployment of forces and supplies.” A rendering of the future USNS Miguel Keith, courtesy NASSCO Seafarers LOG 3 �Pictured at the presentation are (front, from left) Bosun’s Mate Larry Dizon, Steward/Baker Dante Cruz, shelter personnel Lauri Ogumoro, Sr. Stella Mangona and Junnie Masga, Recertified Bosun Ken Steiner, AB Dylan Casuga and (rear) Third Mate Nguyen SIU Deep Sea Crews Donate to Saipan Shelter SIU members from two vessels sailing overseas rang in the New Year by showing heartfelt generosity to others. Seafarers from the USNS Montford Point and the MV Capt. David Lyon chipped in along with the respective ships’ officers to donate $3,100 for the children served by the Guma Esperansa Women’s Shelter in Saipan. The mariners also helped wrap gifts for the kids. Recertified Bosun Ken Steiner from the Montford Point noted, “It is always gratifying to be able to help others and to be part of something that’s bigger than yourself.” He pointed out the donation continued a Christmastime tradition that began a dozen years ago, and although this one was slightly delayed because of scheduling issues, “it’s never too late to do this and to show love for our children.” The donation happened Jan. 6 at Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 3457. (Saipan, the most populated of the Northern Mariana Islands, is a United States commonwealth.) For the bosun, the philanthropy was a family affair of sorts. Capt. David Steiner, his brother, is the Lyon’s vessel master. “This is our ship’s first donation,” David Steiner said, “but we stand on the foundation built before which has been a tradition that started in 2006. It feels good to share love with the people of Saipan, especially with the children.” Sr. Stella Mangona of the shelter said she deeply appreciated the mariners’ generosity. “It’s not the first time, and these gifts are for the children of Guma Esperansa, Karidat and the Division of Youth Services, so all of them will receive special gifts, and that’s why my feeling right now is a feeling of thanksgiving,” she told newspaper Marianas Variety. “[The mariners] are giving so much from their hearts; the generosity is overflowing and I am really touched by their gesture.” Lauri Ogumoro, the shelter’s director, told the publication, “We are really blessed every year by the generosity of these men. Their love for their families translates to the love for the children here on Saipan.” During the same gathering at the VFW, Ambyth Shipping and Trading Inc. and its sister company Seafix Inc. donated $500 each to Guma Esperansa, according to the newspaper. The Montford Point is operated by Ocean Shipholdings, while the Lyon is Operated by Sealift, Inc. In addition to Ken Steiner, Seafarers aboard the Montford Point when the donation took place included Bosun’s Mate Larry Dizon, ABs Jason Bentz, John Garrett, Dylan Casuga, Edmar Guanzon, William McIntyre and Dhindo Faulve, Ordinary Seamen John Diaz, Leighanne Deano and Alan Boiser, QMEDs Thomas Jones, Richard Digman, Michael Gray and Ryan Palmer, GUDE Clark Castrodes, Storekeeper Rodello Ayaton, Steward/Baker Dante Cruz, Chief Cook Joseph Arigo and SAs Hezam Alshabaei and George Lavender. The Lyon crew included Bosun James Heincy, ABs Jonmala Floresca, Daniel Harris, Pablo Laboriel, John Wahl and Marvin Williams, OMUs Mahdi Fedhel Ali, Mil Jonas Rivera Castro and Douglas Pentecost, Steward/Baker Edna Torres, Chief Cook Engracio Moratin and SA Richard Palacios. Seafarers-Crewed USNS Grumman Completes Overseas Deployment Members of the SIU Government Services Division recently helped a Military Sealift Command (MSC) vessel wrap up a lengthy, successful mission. The Seafarers-crewed replenishment oiler USNS Leroy Grumman returned to Naval Station Norfolk (Virginia) on Feb. 4, thus completing an overseas deployment in support of U.S. Navy and allied forces operating in the U.S. Sixth Fleet’s The NATO Maritime Group Two flagship, HMS Duncan (left), takes on fuel during an underway replenishment Jan. 18 in the Mediterranean Sea with the Seafarers-crewed USNS Leroy Grumman. (NATO photo by GBRN LPhot Paul Hall) 4 Seafarers LOG area of responsibility. “The Leroy Grumman left for our deployment to the Mediterranean Sea in September of 2017,” said vessel master Capt. Kevin Tapp. “While we were deployed, the crew conducted over 30 underway replenishments at sea, providing 3.7 million gallons of fuel, 1,019 pallets of materials and provisions to U.S. Navy and NATO units from Canada, Italy, Turkey, Germany and the United Kingdom.” As noted by the U.S. Navy, the Grumman is crewed by civil service mariners “who perform all required tasks and provide all needed support aboard the ship.” Tapp added, “As the ship’s master, one of my responsibilities includes sailing the vessel alongside customer ships during underway replenishment operations. Our rig captains supervise at-sea fueling and cargo transfer operations alongside customer ships. The able-bodied seamen man the underway replenishment stations during at-sea fueling operations while the engineers keep the ship’s engines maintained and running at optimum performance. Our operations chief coordinates rendezvous and cargo requirements with customer ships at sea while the ship’s master and navigators safely navigate the vessel between ports and underway replenishment evolutions.” Fleet replenishment oilers provide resupply services to U.S. Navy and allied ships while at sea so the combatant vessels are able remain on station longer. The Grumman has five underway replenishment stations. While on its most recent deployment, the Grumman visited Rota, Spain; Naples, Italy; Souda Bay, Island of Crete (Greece); Augusta Bay, Sicily; and Malaga, Spain. “The crew’s performance on this deployment was superior,” added Tapp. “The USNS Leroy Grumman’s civil service mariners were outstanding ambassadors of goodwill for our country during all of our port visits, and all of our missions were conducted successfully and safely.” The ship’s namesake, Leroy Grumman, was an American aeronautical engineer, test pilot, and industrialist who founded the company now known as Northrop Grumman. March 2018 �Promoting Maritime in Virginia Media Brings Jones Act Facts to Fore Continued from Page 3 Pictured Jan. 28 during the Virginia AFL-CIO Legislative Conference in Richmond are (from left) Virginia Governor Ralph Northam, SIU Port Agent Georg Kenny, Virginia Delegate Jeion Ward, U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott (D-Virginia), and Maritime Trades Department Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan. Kenny and Duncan reminded many in attendance about the importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine. USA Maritime Sets Record Straight On Vital Food for Peace Program The coalition USA Maritime recently posted a rebuttal to com- capacity is approximately $13 billion in vessel capital costs and over ments that were made during a Senate hearing about the PL 480 $1 billion annually in operating costs. The statement also ignores the leadership role that the U.S.-flag community takes in advocating Food for Peace Program. USA Maritime’s members include the SIU, other maritime for and supporting the Food for Peace budget before Congress and unions and American-flag carriers. The organization is dedicated the additional funds available to USAID, a result which more than compensates for any cargo preference premium needed to support to promoting and protecting the U.S. maritime industry. In its detailed response to testimony given to the Senate Foreign our national defense sealift fleet.” Another statement by the office representative indicated that Relations Committee, USA Maritime addressed several assertions by a representative of the Office of Food for Peace. One such dec- cargo preference laws are meant to address the “desire to have a laration by that individual claimed that the program’s budget is hurt U.S.-flag commercial fleet with enough vessels and qualified mariners to meet our military sealift requirements.” by the cost of shipping aid cargoes on U.S.-flag vessels. USA Maritime responded, “The statement is only partially acBut the coalition pointed out, “The requirement to ship U.S.flag only applies when such vessels are ‘offered at fair and reason- curate. Cargo preference is not just a policy, but a collection of federal laws applicable to able rates.’ Therefore, all federal government if the rates are not cargo shipments. The fair and reasonable, a “Shipping on U.S.-flag vessels instead of foreign competpurpose of the Merresort may be to use chant Marine Act and foreign-flag carriers, itors costs Food for Peace less than one percent of the prorelated statutes is to which USAID (the gram budget. In fact, all of Food for Peace’s expenditures provide national secuUnited States Agency on ocean freight – foreign and U.S.-flag shipping combined rity, firstly by supportfor International Deing U.S. commerce, velopment) does often. – consume only 8.2 percent of the Food for Peace program and secondly by proShipping on U.S.-flag budget….” – USA Maritime viding sealift capacvessels instead of fority for use in wars or eign competitors costs emergencies such as Food for Peace less than one percent of the program budget. In fact, all of Food for the recent wars and hurricane relief efforts. The need for a national Peace’s expenditures on ocean freight – foreign and U.S.-flag ship- merchant marine goes beyond just carrying military supplies to ping combined – consume only 8.2 percent of the Food for Peace the battlefront. It contemplates that American commerce, which is program budget, compared with the 60.2 percent of the program deeply dependent upon imported goods and exports overseas, must that USAID spends on overhead items other than commodities, never be held hostage to foreign interests or global politics (as hapocean freight, and inland transportation. Owners have repeatedly pened, for example, during World War I).” The entire USA Maritime statement is available on the coaliapproached USAID’s Division Chief of Transportation with great concern to discuss the additional unnecessary clauses now being tion’s website: usamaritime.org Cargo preference requires shippers to use U.S.-flag vessels to placed in freight tenders, which significantly increase the cost per ton to the U.S. Government. These clauses place an open-ended fi- transport certain government-impelled, ocean-borne cargoes. Refnancial liability onto the Owner for situations which are completely erences to cargo preference often pertain to the 1954 Food for Peace outside of their control and they must include this risk in the form initiative, specifically governing the shipment of domestically grown agricultural goods and government aid programs. However, of an increased freight rate to cover their liability. “If these restrictions were removed, USAID would realize sig- it also includes the Cargo Preference Act of 1904, which dictates nificant savings on ocean transportation for both U.S.- and foreign- that 100 percent of military cargoes be shipped under the Stars and flag vessels,” USA Maritime continued. “The statement completely Stripes. And, it includes Public Resolution 17 (enacted in 1934), ignores the much larger savings to the U.S. taxpayer because the which requires all cargo generated by the U.S. Export-Import Bank Department of Defense can rely upon the commercial fleet sup- be moved via U.S.-flag vessels unless granted a waiver by the U.S. ported by cargo preference requirements. The cost to replicate this Maritime Administration. March 2018 dozens of other countries maintain similar laws. Turning back to Puerto Rico, they continued, “Similar to the Deepwater Horizon crisis, critics argued that the Jones Act was impeding the delivery of relief cargoes to Puerto Rico. However, it was soon proven that getting the goods to the island was not the problem. Instead, the goods were piling up at Puerto Rico’s ports because the inland infrastructure necessary to deliver the goods from the ports to the people was completely destroyed. The U.S. Coast Guard recognized this problem when they noted in a Marine Safety Information Bulletin that “the sheer number and size of vessels [from around the nation] entering the [Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands] have led to congestion and logistical issues which may result in the delay of recovery activities.” Similarly, congressional leaders who studied the issue recognized that a short-term waiver had no effect on the provision of goods in Puerto Rico, since “supplies have been getting to the island and have been backlogged at the ports, due to the devastation of logistics on the land.” They concluded, “During two of the largest disasters of the last decade, the Jones Act has been unfairly blamed for preventing the quick provision of necessary support. Yet in both situations, as the facts now show, the American domestic maritime industry was an integral part of the recovery effort.” Finally, Ayala submitted an op-ed to the Jacksonville Business Journal in which he detailed the robust efforts by Crowley and other Jones Act carriers to assist the people of Puerto Rico. He described sacrifices made by Crowley employees who put off trying to take care of their own respective properties in order to take part in the relief mission. “The dedicated response by [individual employees], Crowley and other U.S. maritime companies resulted truly because our U.S.-flag carriers operate the world’s most dependable and efficient cargo shipping supply chain between the U.S. mainland – particularly Jacksonville – and Puerto Rico,” Ayala wrote. “The longstanding U.S. cabotage law called the Jones Act is the foundation for this unparalleled supply chain service…. It has allowed our company and other U.S. carriers to make major investments in American jobs, vessels and infrastructure to modernize this fast, direct and modern cargo pipeline.” He continued, “Despite the myths, these economies of scale and efficiencies allow Jones Act carriers to offer less expensive shipping rates to and from Puerto Rico than foreign-flag ships operating between the U.S. and the nearby Caribbean islands…. While recovery will take time, U.S. maritime workers are committed to Puerto Rico’s recovery for the long haul.” Seafarers LOG 5 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU CARRYING RELIEF TO PUERTO RICO – The Horizon Spirit is one of many Seafarers-crewed vessels that have carried relief cargoes to Puerto Rico. Thanks to vessel master Capt. Mike Smith for these snapshots of the crew and ship, and thanks also to Recertified Steward Alan Hollinger for assisting with a follow-up request from the LOG. CATCHING UP IN TACOMA – SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel (left) and Recertified Bosun LBJ Tanoa are pictured at the recent Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan conference at the union hall in Tacoma, Washington. ROCK AND ROLL CONNECTION – SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (right) made a recent maritime connection with rock and roll artist Alejandro Escovedo (left). The acclaimed Texas recording talent and prolific songwriter met with Corgey after a concert in Houston on February 9; Corgey presented him with a painting of a tugboat as a salute to the musician’s song of the same name. The song “Tugboat” was written in honor of fellow musician, friend and former SIU member the late Sterling Morrison, a founding member of the legendary rock group The Velvet Underground. Escovedo recognized the SIU when performing the song. Morrison captained the G&H Towing vessel shown in the painting, the W. Douglas Masterson, and sailed with the SIU for 20 years. The print itself was created by Capt. Roger Horton, an SIU pensioner who sailed with the union for decades. 6 Seafarers LOG SOLIDARITY IN MARYLAND – Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO President Donna Edwards (center) is flanked by (left) Maritime Trades Department Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan and SIU Port Agent John Hoskins. The photo was taken in Pikesville, Maryland, where the labor organization conducted its convention. Hoskins was sworn in as a vice president of the Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO. WELCOME ASHORE IN LAUDERDALE – AB Kevin White (left) is pictured at the SIU hall in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, receiving his first pension check (that’s SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins at right). Kevin started sailing with the SIU in 1976. ABOARD MANOA – Pictured from left to right on the Matson vessel are SIU Port Agent Nick Marrone II, ACU Hilario David and Chief Cook Tammy Bingisser March 2018 �ABOARD ATB RESOLVE – Pictured on the Crowley vessel early last month are (from left) Capt. Andrew Hook, Chief Engineer Chris Carlson, Asst. Engineer John Nordberg and Patrolman J.B. Niday. ABOARD ATB CORPUS CHRISTI – Port Agent Pat Vandegrift snapped this photo during an evening servicing of the USS Transport vessel in Piney Point, Maryland. Pictured from left are AB Romel Saweress, AB Jenica Fotache, Recertified Steward Richard Jones, Capt. Robert Corbett (an SIU hawsepiper) and AB Henry Bermudez. ABOARD ATB SEA POWER – Pictured from left on the Seabulk vessel are AB/Tankerman Oscar Lopez, Chief Cook Julie Major and AB/Tankerman Kenneth Cooper. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU AT THE PIER IN TACOMA – AB Chris Linsley submitted this photo of the Seafarers-crewed Matson Anchorage docked in Tacoma, Washington. ABOARD MAGNOLIA STATE – Bosun John Cedeno (left in group photo) submitted these photos from the Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning ship. The group photo was taken during a union meeting, and it includes (from left) Cedeno, Chief Cook Mohsen Aladani and Steward/Baker Luis Santiago. The other photo shows SA Farook Essa. BOOKS ACQUIRED IN PHILLY – STOS Wadhah Mukbel (left in photo at left) with Safety Director Andre MacCray) recently secured his A-seniority book at the Philadelphia hall, while SA Natasha Staton (right in photo above, also with MacCray) picked up her Bbook. ABOARD USNS LOYAL – Pictured aboard the Crowley-operated ship are Engine Utility Deondre Gardner, First Assistant Engineer James McLeod, Chief Engineer John Hewitt, Third A.E. Richard Brooks and Engine Utility Hussain Hafid. The officers are members of the Seafarers-affiliated AMO. Thanks to Chief Engineer Hewitt for the pic. NEW ATB IN HOUSTON – The union recently welcomed new tonnage into the Seafarerscrewed fleet in the form of Key Marine’s ATB Millville (above). Pictured from left in the group photo are Patrolman J.B. Niday, Asst. Engineer Tyler Durant, Barge Engineer Dylan Flanagan, Chief Engineer Kevin Hale, AB/Cook Sue Riedlinger, Capt. Joey Mesyna, Chief Mate Chris Gross, Capt. Buddy Davis and SIU Asst. VP Mike Russo. ABOARD ATB VISION – Crew members discussed contract suggestions aboard the Crowley vessel during a meeting earlier this year on the West Coast. Pictured from left are Third Mate Brett Ruppert, Port Agent Nick Marrone II, Chief Cook Laura Deebach, Chief Mate Kenric Henry, Capt. Robert Albe, AB/Tankerman Casey Matheson, Asst. Engineer Edison Lalin and Chief Engineer John McCranie III. March 2018 STOPPING BY THE JACKSONVILLE HALL – The Greatest Generation includes many SIU members – among them, retired Chief Steward Bill Nihem (left), who’s pictured at the Jacksonville, Florida, hall with Patrolman Adam Bucalo. Brother Nihem, 90, started sailing near the end of World War II. His last ship was the Sea-Land Adventurer in 1982. Seafarers LOG 7 �Former NMU Member Races Through Retirement Tom Reay has chosen to spend his retirement in an unusual way: hurtling down drag strips on motorcycles he builds and maintains himself. The 68-year old former seafarer, who was a member of the National Maritime Union (NMU) before the 2001 merger with the SIU, has been racing union-made American motorcycles since he came ashore. “I got into racing after retirement to keep busy,” Reay said in an interview with the Seafarers LOG. “I always wanted to race at Bonneville [Salt Flats in Utah], but could never get anyone to go with me. Now there are more land speed venues, closer and less costly. Every time I go racing, I get another record, so I keep going. I also go to bike shows, and every time I enter I get a trophy or plaque, so I keep going.” Reay lives in Lovington, Virginia, where he uses his union pension check to help fund his hobby. A lifelong fan of racing, he found his preferred style of motorcycle competition, which is called standing mile land speed racing. He holds several current records in the Production Pushrod 1,000cc division, at both the one-mile and oneand-a-half-mile distances. He talked about his first (legal) motorcycle race: “I came across the standing mile land speed racing on the internet and thought to myself, ‘I can do that.’ I drove down to Wilmington, Ohio, to an East Coast Timing Association (ECTA) event to check it out, and talked to the guys racing. The next event, I signed up to race myself. I broke the record the first time out on my bike, with very minor modifications.” After that first race, he was hooked. “It’s a great feeling to be the fastest in your class,” he said. A Navy veteran, he fondly remembers his time at sea, and said that during his 25-year career as a merchant mariner, his favorite moments were, “On the Brazilian run on the old stick freighters.” He also reflected on the shrinking sizes of unlicensed engine crews, comparing his first job as a wiper on the Texaco Georgia in 1973 – which carried an unlicensed engine crew of 12 – to his last job as a QMED on the Keystone Georgia in 1997, which featured a five-man engine crew. Reay had the following advice for newcomers entering the maritime trade: “Keep your ears open and your mouth closed. If they are in an entry-level job, ask if you can hang out on watch with deck or engine personnel on your time off. You can learn a lot that way. When I was a wiper, I’d go down and help out the oiler and firemen at night and learned all kinds of stuff. When I was an ordinary seaman, I’d be up in the wheelhouse asking if I could steer. That took a while to get them to … switch it to manual, but I just kept going up until the mate finally let the quartermaster teach me to steer. Instead of hanging around watching TV, I would read manuals. I got all my ratings (except for electrician) just by studying and learning by watching.” That spirit of constantly gathering information has continued into retirement, as Reay continues to find new ways to push the limits in his second career. Despite starting with no practical experience building or maintaining motorcycle engines, he has continued to win trophy after trophy, with the goal of breaking 150 mph this year. “As far as I can find, I am the fastest 1,000cc production pushrod in standing mile land speed racing.” Reay said. “If you can find anyone faster, I’ll have to figure a way to beat them.” Tom Reay poses next to his award-winning motorcycle. An undated photo of Tom Reay aboard the SS American Reservist Trophies and other awards line the walls of Tom Reay’s home. Seafarer’s Latest Literary Effort Features Four Short Stories David Madden 8 Seafarers LOG David Madden’s days as a Seafarer comprise a relatively small segment of his life, but that time continues to influence his writing. A frequently published author, Madden recently launched “Marble Goddesses and Mortal Flesh” – his fifteenth work of fiction. The 229-page book contains four novellas or short stories, the first of which is set on a ship to Chile. That piece is based on a trip Madden made as a wiper in 1952. His first novel (“The Beautiful Greed”), published in 1961, drew on that same voyage. “I am proud of the SIU and to have been a part of it,” said Madden, who sailed with the union from 1951-53. “I’m also proud of what merchant seamen are doing these days.” The new book may be ordered on Amazon; through the publisher, the University of Tennessee Press (http://utpress.org/); or signed, directly from the author, at david@ davidmadden.net. An online book review described “Marble Goddesses and Mortal Flesh” as “a trip down memory lane. The tales collected here … sketch scenes from the life of Lucius Hutchfield, the Knoxville native’s alter ego. They trace the arc of an artist’s journey and testify to the power of a writer who contin- ues to find innovative ways to entertain and instruct readers…. Readers new to Madden’s fiction will find in ‘Marble Goddesses and Mortal Flesh’ a fair introduction to the author’s recurring themes and stylistic panache. For longtime fans, this book, like Madden’s 2014 collection, ‘The Last Bizarre Tale,’ will provide ample evidence that David Madden remains a remarkable archaeologist of the mind.” Madden, 84, didn’t exactly have trouble finding other interests after he finished sailing. He served in the U.S. Army, earned degrees from the University of Tennessee and San Francisco State, respectively, and attended the Yale School of Drama on a fellowship. Among other endeavors, he served as a writer-in-residence at LSU from 1968 to 1992, director of the university’s creative writing program from 1992-1994, and founding director of the United States Civil War Center (1992-1999). He and his wife moved to Black Mountain, North Carolina, in 2009; Madden remains very active with several service organizations. Editor’s note: For more information about the author’s wide-ranging background, visit www.davidmadden.net/ The new book is available on Amazon, from the publisher, and from the author. March 2018 �With Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Crews These snapshots were taken in Savannah, Georgia, in late January. AB/Dragtender Charles Troutwine Dodge Island Third Mate Robert Ruiz Padre Island AB Duane Evans Padre Island Patrolman Joseph Koncul (standing at far left) is pictured with Seafarers aboard the Padre Island. Chief Mate Sean Murphy Dodge Island AB William Born, Patrolman Joseph Koncul Liberty Island Capt. Wade Poor Dodge Island Spotlight on Mariner Health Understanding Kidney Disease Kidney disease can affect your body’s ability to clean your blood, filter out excess water, regulate electrolyte balances, and help to control blood pressure. The kidneys also help with hormonal functions and the production of red blood cells. Most people are born with two kidneys. They sit on either side of the lower back, just above the waist. When the kidneys are damaged, waste products will build up in the blood/body that can cause swelling of the ankles, lethargy, confusion, vomiting, weakness, poor sleep patterns, a decrease in appetite, irregular heartbeats, and shortness of breath. The kidneys keep a balance of water and minerals in your bloodstream (sodium, potassium, and phosphorus.) These minerals are needed to keep a chemical balance inside the body at all times. The kidneys remove waste products from the blood after digestion, muscle activity, and exposure to chemicals or medications. They also make renin, which helps to control blood pressure. And, they make erythropoietin, which prompts the body to make red blood cells. Additionally, they make a form of Vitamin D that’s needed for bone health. If your kidneys stop working, this is called renal failure. This can be acute or chronic. There are many causes of kidney failure; treatments of the underlying disease may be the first step in correcting the problem. Some causes can be treated quickly to return kidney function back to normal. Unfortunately, kidney failure may be progressive for many individuals. One of the main causes of kidney failure is a lack of blood flow to that organ from such things as direct damage/traumatic injury, where muscle tissue breaks down and March 2018 sends a lot of protein into the blood stream that interferes with kidney functions. Others are sepsis, dehydration, and urine backing up in the kidney/ureters from stones, or a renal mass. Acute renal failure can happen suddenly from anything that affects blood flow to the kidney. This can be treated with medications, fluids, short periods of dialysis, and finding the cause that started the kidney failure. When the kidneys do not work for greater than three months, the doctor calls it chronic kidney disease. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) means that your kidneys are damaged and cannot filter the blood and remove waste products from the body like they once did. You start to see a decrease in urinary output until there is none at all. CKD happens slowly, over a long period of time. The sooner you learn that you have kidney disease, the sooner you can make changes to your lifestyle to help protect the kidneys’ remaining functions. Once the kidneys fail completely, your options are very limited. Diabetes and high blood pressure are major culprits for kidney disease. Your chances of having kidney disease increase with age. The longer you have had diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, the more likely you may get kidney disease. Remember that even if one kidney fails, the other kidney can take over. You can remove the diseased kidney and still function properly with the other. If both fail, then dialysis or transplant will be the only options available. Take all medications as prescribed by your doctor and eat a healthy diet prescribed by a dietician. Keep regular doctor’s appointments and keep your glucose and blood pressure under control. Healthy Recipe Tandoori Chicken Servings: 25 Ingredients 2 2/3 cups nonfat yogurt 1 cup ginger, fresh, minced 2 teaspoons kosher salt 2 tablespoons cumin, ground 2 tablespoons cardamom, ground 2 tablespoons coriander, ground 2 teaspoons paprika 1 1/2 teaspoons cayenne, ground 10 each garlic cloves, minces 10 pounds chicken breast without skin, 2” diced 1/3 cup parsley, fresh chopped Preparation n Mix the yogurt, water, and seasonings together. n Place the chicken breast in the yo- gurt mixture and marinate under refrigeration for 12 hours. n Remove the chicken from the mari- nade and allow any excess to drain away. n Place the chicken presentation side down on the grill. n Grill over medium-high heat for 3 minutes undisturbed. (Optional: Give each breast a quarter turn during grilling to achieve grill marks.) n Turn the chicken over and complete cooking until done, about 3 to 4 minutes more, or until an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. n Serve immediately. Garnish with the fresh parsley. Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 246 Calories; 5g Fat (19.5% calories from fat); 42g Protein; 5g Carbohydrate; 1g Dietary Fiber; 111mg Cholesterol; 268mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain (Starch); 5 ½ Lean meat; 0 Vegetable; 0 Non-Fat Milk; 0 Fat. Provided by the Paul Hall Center’s Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship . Seafarers LOG 9 �NMC Notice Editor’s note: The U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center (NMC) issued the following notice on Jan. 25. It’s also reprinted and linked on the SIU website, in the News section. Approval to Test and Grandfathering The National Maritime Center (NMC) has received questions from mariners regarding how to determine, from their Approved to Test letter, whether they will be testing under the previous or current regulations. In January 2014, the Coast Guard issued Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular (NVIC) 02-14 to provide guidance regarding the transition from previous to current mariner credentialing regulations, which went into effect on March 24, 2014. Enclosure (1) of the NVIC provides information regarding whether an applicant will examine under the previous or current regulation. If the examination code on the Approved to Test Letter is preceded by a Q, the examination module is based on the current regulation. If the examination code is not preceded by a Q, the examination module is based on the previous regulation. All Rules of the Road examination modules will be preceded by a Q, regardless of which regulation the applicant was evaluated under. The module codes are found in the Deck and Engineering Guide for the Administration of Merchant Marine Examinations on the NMC website. Current Regulation: Module Module Name Q100 Rules of The Road: Inland and International Q160 Deck General Q161 Deck Safety Passing Score 90 70 70 Previous Regulation: Module Module Name 072X1 Rules of The Road: Inland and International 073 Chart Navigation 221 Deck General + Deck Safety & Environmental Protection Passing Score 70 90 70 The NMC is working to update various pages on our website to more clearly reflect this information. Questions should be addressed to the NMC Call center via e-mail at IASKNMC@uscg.mil, by Chat from the NMC Website, or by phone at 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662). Notice/Reminders About SIU Text Message Alerts The union occasionally sends text messages to Seafarers (and others) who have signed up for such alerts. Those texts contain information relevant to members’ careers, including important news about the SIU, its contracted companies and the industry as a whole. The messages may include alerts about open jobs, information about grassroots campaigns, and other time-sensitive bulletins. The SIU does not charge for this service, but there may be costs associated with receiving messages, depending on an individual’s phone-service plan that they have with their provider. People can unsubscribe from SIU text alerts at any time, simply by texting the word STOP to 97779. To sign up for the alerts, text the word JOIN to 97779. Terms and Conditions By signing up for this service, you acknowledge that you understand there may be costs associated with the receipt by you of such text messages depending on the cell phone service plan that you have with your provider. You are providing your cell phone number and your consent to use it for these purposes with the understanding that your cell phone number will not be distributed to anyone else without your express consent and that this service will not at any time be used for the purpose of distributing campaign materials for official elections for union office. Union Member Rights, Officer Responsibilities Under The Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act 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: n Equal rights to participate in union activities. n Freedom of speech and assembly. n Voice in setting rates of dues, fees and assessments. n Protection of the right to sue. n 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: n Nominate candidates for office n Run for office. n Cast a secret ballot. n 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 Certain Discipline: A union or any of its officials may not fine, expel or otherwise discipline a member for exercising any LMRDA right. 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: n File an initial information report (Form LM- 1) and annual financial reports (Forms LM-2/3/4) with OLMS. n 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: n Hold elections of officers of local unions by secret ballot at least every three years. n Conduct regular elections in accordance with their constitution and bylaws and preserve all records for one year. n Mail a notice of election to every member at least 15 days prior to the election. n Comply with a candidate’s request to distribute campaign material. n Not use union funds or resources to promote any candidate (nor may employer funds or resources be used). n Permit candidates to have election observers. n 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 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. The annual financial committee will be elected during the April 2 headquarters membership meeting to review the 2017 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 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 10 Seafarers LOG notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. March 2018 �Puerto Rico Representative Michael Quinones (center) discussed the importance of the Jones Act and other maritime matters during a meeting at the filter warehouse. He’s pictured with (from left) Luis Gomez of Operation Blessing, Diego Traverso of Operation Agua, SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo and SIU Bosun Carlos Negron. AB Luis Ramos Rosa (left) delivers filters in his hometown, Fajardo. He’s pictured with local U.S. Army scouts. Seafarers Still ‘Delivering Goods’ in Puerto Rico Operation Agua Continues as Territory Recovers from Hurricane Six months after Puerto Rico sustained unprecedented damage from Hurricane Maria, the SIU remains active in assisting with recovery efforts. One such endeavor is Operation Agua – a project led by the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). As reported in detail in prior issues of the LOG, Operation Agua’s goal is to purchase and distribute 100,000 individual water filtration systems for classrooms and households, plus 50 large-capacity clean-water devices for a network of non-profit organizations, union offices, schools and other community groups. SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo and numerous rank-and-file volunteers have helped distribute the individual filter systems. As of early February, around 50,000 units had been passed out to schools, homes and others. Fundraising had reached approximately $1.7 million and is ongoing. (Visit op- erationagua.com for additional information and a chance to contribute.) “Our members have really stepped up to help their fellow citizens,” Crespo stated. “We’ve been all over the territory and we’re not slowing down. We’re also taking this opportunity to explain to people that the filters – and most of the other relief cargoes – are being sent on Jones Act ships. The Jones Act benefits Puerto Rico, and we’re helping spread the word.” This snapshot was taken near the Operation Agua warehouse, and features police officers and SIU personnel including Recertified Bosun Rafael Franco (far left) and Port Agent Amancio Crespo (second from right). Seafarer John Telles (right) distributes filters in his hometown of Guayanes, Puerto Rico. March 2018 Joining the AFT in Operation Agua are the SIU, Seafarers-contracted Tote Maritime, AFSCME, Operation Blessing International, and the Hispanic Federation. (The AFT’s affiliate in Puerto Rico represents 40,000 active and retired educators.) “We are proud to stand with all of them,” Crespo added. “There is still a great need for stable, reliable sources of safe water, and Operation Agua is addressing that need.” SIU personnel prepare to unload cargo from Jacksonville, Florida, destined for a hospital in Humacao, Puerto Rico. SIU personnel finish loading filters onto trucks for delivery. Pictured from left are Paul Hall Center Apprentice Eric Cardona Jr., Recertified Bosun Noel Otero, Diego Traverso (warehouse manager), and SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo. Seafarers LOG 11 �Pictured from left aboard the Cape Mohican are Port Agent Nick Marrone II, GUDE Garland Scott, Bosun Anthony Pace, QEE Kashmir Dhillon, Chief Steward Salah Omar, GVA Mohamed Omar and Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli. Recertified Steward McKinley Jones, Port Agent Nick Marrone II Algol Crew members from both the Capella and Algol gather for a photo on the West Coast. Pictured from left are GUDE Damar Shaw, GUDE Emmanuel Bayani, Bosun Charles Frisella, Recertified Bosun Ritche Acuman, SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona, QEE Rolando Gumanas, QEE Salah Saleh, GUDE Mousa Sailan and GUDE Mohsin Mohamed. Seafarers-Crewed RRF Ships Remain ‘Key Element’ of DOD Strategic Sealift For decades, SIU crews have done their parts to help maintain, activate and mobilize America’s Ready Reserve Force (RRF) vessels. The RRF program was launched in 1976 to support the rapid, global deployment of United States military forces. Today, it remains “a key element of Department of Defense strategic sealift,” notes the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD), which oversees the program. The RRF fleet currently includes 46 government-owned, privately operated vessels (most of them roll-on/roll-off ships) that mainly support “transport of Army and Marine Corps unit equipment, combat support equipment, and initial resupply during the critical surge period before commercial ships can be marshaled,” according to MARAD. “The RRF provides nearly one-half of the government-owned surge sealift capability.” RRF ships also are used for humanitarian missions. When awaiting activation, the ships carry reduced operating status (ROS) crews that are vital to ensuring readiness. The vessels typically become fully crewed and operational ahead of their assigned five- or 10-day schedules. Reliability has been an RRF hallmark. For example, according to MARAD, “From 2002 to June of 2008, 118 ship activations were called for in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. In that period, there were 13,575 ship operating days with a reliability rate of 99 percent. Almost 25 percent of the initial equipment needed to support the U.S. Armed Forces operations in Iraq was moved by the RRF.” On its web page detailing the program, the agency declares, “The RRF has rightfully been called ‘America’s Sea Power Reliant Partner.’” Editor’s note: The photos accompanying this story were taken aboard RRF ships in Baltimore (Cape Washington and Cape Wrath) and in California (Capella, Algol, Cape Mohican). All but the two at lower left were taken this year. Patrolman DeCarlo Harris, Recertified Bosun Rick James Cape Washington GUDE James Roy Cape Washington The Cape Wrath is part of program that is vital to America’s sealift capability. Chief Engineer (SIU hawsepiper) Jack Andrews Electrician Tim Chestnut Sr. Cape Wrath The fast sealift ships SS Capella (left) and SS Algol dock in Alameda, California. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Billy Ho) U.S. Navy Sailors on a lighterage system back away from the SS Cape Mohican during an exercise in San Diego. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Eric Chan) 12 Seafarers LOG GUDE William Howell (foreground), Recertified Bosun Billy Dowzicky Cape Wrath GVA Roy Turrentine Cape Wrath GVA Mohamed Khodeiri Cape Washington March 2018 March 2018 Recertified Steward Robert Brown Cape Washington Electrician Dave Sexton Cape Washington Seafarers LOG 13 �3/18 14 Seafarers LOG March 2018 �Mariners May Submit Medical Certificate Forms Directly to USCG NMC Editor’s note: The U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center issued the following notice in early February. It is linked on the SIU website in the News section, in a post that’s dated Feb. 14. The NMC website is www.uscg.mil/nmc To continuously improve our services to mariners, the Coast Guard has established a new option for submission of medical certificate applications (CG-719K and CG-719KE forms). Beginning February 1, 2018, mariners may submit medical certificate only applications directly to the National Maritime Center (NMC). Regional Examination Centers (RECs) will continue to accept medical certificate application submissions as well. The requirements for submission have not changed with the exception that, beginning on February 1, 2018, submissions to the NMC can be made via e-mail at D05-SMB-MEDAIP- TEAM@uscg.mil. Electronic submission requirements can be found on the NMC website. At this time, direct submission to the NMC is only for the medical certificate application. Applications for a Merchant Mariner Credential (CG-719B/MMC) cannot be submitted directly to the NMC. Any e-mailed application for an MMC, with or without a medical certificate application, made directly to the NMC will be deleted and the applicant will get an e-mail response with directions on how to resubmit their application(s) to an REC. If you have any questions, please contact the NMC Customer Service Center by e-mailing IASKNMC@USCG.mil, by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662), via our online chat system, or by visiting our website. March & April 2018 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 Jersey City........................................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 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea January 16, 2018 - February 15, 2018 Total Registered Port A All Groups B Total Shipped C C Trip Reliefs SPAD Works For You. Contribute to the Seafarers Political Activities Donation! SPAD March 2018 A All Groups B C 1 0 1 5 0 3 1 7 7 3 0 1 5 2 0 1 0 5 0 5 47 47 2 0 3 9 1 1 3 19 17 9 0 4 9 3 2 0 2 17 0 10 111 111 59 2 9 26 4 16 13 87 69 67 10 29 36 19 6 2 9 52 4 62 581 581 30 2 0 16 2 4 9 23 23 17 7 4 24 9 5 2 9 16 4 15 221 221 4 3 0 10 0 8 1 33 15 5 0 15 15 4 1 0 1 5 1 8 129 129 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS TOTALS 36 2 9 24 5 10 5 49 38 35 5 17 27 17 4 2 7 31 3 40 366 366 21 2 0 11 1 5 7 13 16 11 4 5 16 4 1 4 6 10 0 11 148 148 3 0 1 10 0 6 0 22 10 4 0 10 10 3 0 0 0 4 1 6 90 90 Deck Department 3 1 2 1 5 5 26 8 2 0 6 2 5 3 51 10 26 13 31 5 0 0 9 4 14 8 14 4 3 0 1 2 5 5 26 5 2 0 22 7 253 83 253 83 Algonac Algonac Anchorage Anchorage Baltimore Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Lauderdale Fort Guam Guam Harvey Harvey Honolulu Honolulu Houston Houston Jacksonville Jacksonville Jersey City City Jersey Joliet Joliet Mobile Mobile Norfolk Norfolk Oakland Oakland Philadelphia Philadelphia Piney Point Point Piney Puerto Rico Rico Puerto Tacoma Tacoma St. Louis Louis St. Wilmington Wilmington TOTALS TOTALS 88 00 66 13 13 00 44 11 11 19 19 19 19 16 16 66 44 16 16 33 00 00 11 20 20 11 10 10 157 157 33 00 33 33 00 11 11 99 12 12 99 44 22 17 17 44 33 33 00 11 33 12 12 90 90 00 00 44 33 00 11 00 44 11 00 11 22 11 00 00 11 00 22 00 33 23 23 Engine Department Department Engine 00 00 00 00 44 22 66 55 00 00 11 11 77 33 16 16 99 17 17 99 99 22 11 00 55 11 10 10 99 55 33 22 22 00 33 11 11 15 15 11 00 11 11 11 55 110 57 110 57 00 00 11 33 00 11 00 11 00 00 00 11 22 11 00 00 00 33 00 11 14 14 00 00 22 44 00 00 11 10 10 88 55 00 11 55 00 22 11 00 99 00 55 53 53 99 11 66 19 19 00 55 19 19 32 32 33 33 23 23 99 77 27 27 13 13 22 11 11 34 34 22 25 25 268 268 44 00 55 66 00 33 33 13 13 26 26 13 13 55 77 20 20 88 22 66 22 55 33 14 14 145 145 00 11 22 55 00 33 22 88 33 00 11 11 33 00 00 22 00 44 00 11 36 36 Algonac Algonac Anchorage Anchorage Baltimore Baltimore FortLauderdale Lauderdale Fort Guam Guam Harvey Harvey Honolulu Honolulu Houston Houston Jacksonville Jacksonville JerseyCity City Jersey Joliet Joliet Mobile Mobile Norfolk Norfolk Oakland Oakland Philadelphia Philadelphia PineyPoint Point Piney PuertoRico Rico Puerto Tacoma Tacoma St.Louis Louis St. Wilmington Wilmington TOTALS TOTALS 99 00 33 19 19 00 11 10 10 37 37 14 14 16 16 00 11 20 20 19 19 44 33 33 13 13 11 25 25 198 198 44 00 00 22 00 22 11 44 13 13 44 00 00 11 11 22 00 11 55 22 00 44 55 55 00 00 00 33 00 22 00 33 00 00 00 11 33 11 11 00 00 22 00 11 17 17 Steward Department Department Steward 11 11 00 00 22 00 10 10 22 00 11 66 00 10 10 11 13 13 66 13 13 99 10 10 22 00 00 22 22 12 12 66 18 18 22 66 11 00 11 33 22 12 12 22 11 00 16 16 33 135 41 135 41 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 33 33 00 00 11 00 11 00 00 00 11 11 00 10 10 00 00 00 55 00 22 22 33 66 22 00 22 44 88 33 00 22 22 00 10 10 51 51 10 10 11 22 23 23 33 88 15 15 45 45 30 30 14 14 11 66 24 24 20 20 11 33 33 18 18 66 31 31 264 264 55 00 00 55 11 33 11 88 17 17 55 33 22 10 10 44 00 22 66 33 00 13 13 88 88 00 00 00 33 00 22 00 55 00 00 11 22 66 44 11 00 00 33 00 33 30 30 Algonac Algonac Anchorage Anchorage Baltimore Baltimore FortLauderdale Lauderdale Fort Guam Guam Harvey Harvey Honolulu Honolulu Houston Houston Jacksonville Jacksonville JerseyCity City Jersey Joliet Joliet Mobile Mobile Norfolk Norfolk Oakland Oakland Philadelphia Philadelphia PineyPoint Point Piney PuertoRico Rico Puerto Tacoma Tacoma St.Louis Louis St. Wilmington Wilmington TOTALS TOTALS 11 00 00 00 00 00 11 44 22 22 00 00 33 00 11 00 11 33 00 22 20 20 16 16 00 00 44 11 11 66 12 12 20 20 11 11 00 11 99 13 13 33 00 33 99 00 17 17 126 126 18 18 33 55 55 00 00 44 14 14 42 42 99 00 11 35 35 15 15 00 22 00 88 11 28 28 190 190 EntryDepartment Department Entry 00 22 00 00 00 00 00 22 00 00 00 11 22 44 11 22 11 12 22 12 00 99 00 11 00 00 16 22 16 11 88 11 22 00 00 00 00 00 88 00 00 14 11 14 11 90 11 90 11 33 33 22 00 00 22 88 15 15 10 10 00 00 14 14 99 00 11 00 22 00 21 21 91 91 00 00 00 11 00 00 22 33 22 33 00 00 44 22 11 00 00 33 00 55 26 26 22 00 00 00 00 00 11 88 44 55 00 00 11 11 00 00 22 77 00 66 37 37 24 24 00 00 88 33 11 88 26 26 35 35 22 22 00 11 22 22 16 16 11 11 22 22 22 00 36 36 228 228 25 25 22 77 10 10 00 44 55 17 17 87 87 15 15 00 33 70 70 15 15 00 11 00 22 22 11 62 62 346 346 GRANDTOTAL: TOTAL: GRAND 741 741 419 419 320 320 162 162 241 241 1,150 1,150 682 682 541 541 Wilmington........................................Monday: March 19, April 16 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m Registered on Beach All Groups A B 509 509 271 271 Seafarers LOG 15 �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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by SIU members at the hall in Honolulu. Question: What do you like the most about working in the shipping industry? Gabriel Bello SA I started shipping in August 1999. I make really good money, and I enjoy traveling to different places. My job working on a ship is unique, very different from other jobs. Ramon Lirag QEE Started shipping in January 1989, and I’ve stayed SIU because I have a permanent job that pays well. The ship I work on is located in Honolulu, where I live, and I have good benefits.. Sonny Austria ACU I started shipping in June 1992. We make really good money with the SIU. Beyond that, I get to travel to different places around the world, I have more vacation time than I would with other jobs, and I get to work four to five months and then take off couple months. Wilshire Cortez QMED I’ve been working in the shipping industry since March 2007. It’s a stable job that helps pay my mortgage and bills. I enjoy my job. I love the vacation time off, I get to work on different ships and I get to meet new people all the time. Joseph Evans AB I’ve been sailing with the SIU since November 2012. This industry is very structured, but because of my military experience I appreciate that structure on military (support) ships. The SIU is also a very elite union. I was able to advance very fast in such a short time, due to the dedication and loyalty of the port agent (Honolulu’s Hazel Galbiso) and her staff. Noel Bocaya SA I started shipping with the SIU in January 1989. I enjoy working on ships because I get to travel all over the world, I get to meet different kinds of people, and the work accommodates my meals, room, and travel. It’s like a home away from home. Pic From The Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 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 Stop 16 1/2 Santurce, PR 00907-4601 (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 Waterman LASH ship Button Gwinnett joined the Seafarers-contracted fleet in late 1980, when this photo was taken. Named after the head of the Georgia delegation to the Second Continental Congress (Gwinnett signed the Declaration of Independence), the 893-foot vessel set off on its maiden run to the Far East in October 1980. This wasn’t the first SIU-crewed ship by the same name, as Seafarers also sailed aboard the Liberty ship Button Gwinnett during World War II. 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 March 2018 �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 BRIAN CORBETT Brother Brian Corbett, 56, first sailed with the NMU and later became an SIU member when the unions merged in 2001. His first SIU ship was the Maersk Maine. A member of the deck department, he upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Corbett last sailed aboard the Maersk Missouri before settling in Parrish, Florida. TERRY COWANS Brother Terry Cowans, 63, became a member of the SIU in 1975, first working on the Overseas Arctic. He upgraded at the union-affiliated Piney Point school on several occasions. Working as a deck department member, Brother Cowans last sailed aboard the Overseas Cascade. He makes his home in Eight Mile, Alabama. HARRY GEARHART Brother Harry Gearhart, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1973 when he sailed aboard the Overseas Alaska. A member of the engine department, he upgraded often at the maritime training center in Piney Point. Brother Gearhart most recently sailed in the inland division, when he worked aboard the Sugar Island. He resides in Florence, Montana. TERRY HARMON Brother Terry Harmon, 66, joined the SIU in 1990. The engine department member initially worked aboard the USNS Regulus. He upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center and most recently worked aboard the Honor. He calls Jacksonville, Florida, home. ROMALIES JONES Brother Romalies Jones, 62, became an SIU member in 1986 when he worked aboard the USNS Regulus. A member of the steward department, he upgraded on several occasions at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. Brother Jones last worked aboard the National Glory before settling in Westwego, Louisiana. March 2018 STEVEN KUES Brother Steven Kues, 65, joined the union in 1975, first sailing with Hudson Waterways. He was an engine department member and upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school on several occasions. Brother Kues last sailed on the Innovator and calls Hedgesville, West Virginia, home. FREDDIE MALBAS Brother Freddie Malbas, 66, signed on with the SIU in 2000, initially sailing on the Bernard F. Fisher. He was an engine department member and upgraded often at the maritime training center in Piney Point. Brother Malbas last sailed aboard the Jack Lummus and now resides in Daly City, California. WILLIE MASSALINE Brother Willie Massaline, 65, first donned the SIU colors in 1993, initially sailing on the Cape Decision. He was a steward department member and upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point. Brother Massaline last sailed on the Maersk Detroit. He resides in Jacksonville, Florida. THOMAS MILLER Brother Thomas Miller, 66, began his career with the SIU in 2005, when he shipped on the Moku Pahu. He was a deck department member and enhanced his skills by upgrading at the Paull Hall Center in 2011. Brother Miller last shipped on the Cape Mohican and resides in San Bruno, California. CARLOS RODRIGUEZ Brother Carlos Rodriguez, 65, joined the SIU in 1973, initially sailing aboard the Transerie. He worked as a member of the engine department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Rodriguez last sailed aboard the Mobile. He resides in Jamesburg, New Jersey. INOCENCIO ROXAS Brother Inocencio Roxas, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1997, when he sailed on the Innovator. The deck department member upgraded his skills in 2004 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Roxas last sailed aboard the Horizon Reliance and calls Anaheim, California, home. CLIFFORD TAYLOR Brother Clifford Taylor, 65, signed on with the SIU in 2001, working aboard the Harry Martin. A member of the engine department, he took advantage of the training opportunities at the Piney Point school and upgraded on multiple occasions. Brother Taylor most recently sailed on the USNS Seay. He resides in Reno, Nevada. RICHARD WARD Brother Richard Ward, 55, joined the SIU in 1982, working aboard the Champion. He was a member of the steward department and upgraded on several occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point. Brother Ward most recently sailed on the Maersk Wisconsin. He is a resident of Jacksonville, Florida. KEVIN WHITE Brother Kevin White, 63, began his career with the union in 1976 when he worked on the Thomas Jefferson. A deck department member, he upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother White most recently sailed aboard the Maersk Memphis and calls Margate, Florida, home. WILLIAM WHITE Brother William White, 70, signed on with the SIU in 2001, initially sailing on the USNS Charlton. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother White last sailed on the USNS Dahl before settling in Port Townsend, Washington. JOHN WILLIAMSON Brother John Williamson, 63, became a union member in 1971 and first sailed with Hudson Waterways. He took advantage of the educational opportunities at the Piney Point school and upgraded on multiple occasions. Brother Williamson was a member of the deck department, last sailing aboard the Pearl. He resides in Passadumkeag, Maine. CHARLES WRIGHT Brother Charles Wright, 65, joined the union in 1979 when he worked on a Waterman Steamship vessel. A member of the deck department, he upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 2001. Brother Wright’s final vessel was the Liberty. He makes his home in Philadelphia. INLAND WALTER BOOT Brother Walter Boot, 59, began shipping with the SIU in 2003. He was a member of the deck department, initially working aboard the tug Michigan. He enhanced his skills by upgrading on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Boot last worked aboard the Legend before settling in Jacksonville, Florida. The deck department member initially worked aboard the Baltimore. He took advantage of the upgrading opportunities at the Piney Point school and upgraded on multiple occasions. Brother Karls last worked for Penn Maritime and settled in Lake Worth, Florida. MARTIN MALLEK Brother Martin Mallek, 65, began his career with the SIU in 2002, initially working aboard the Colgate. A member of the deck department, he trained at the Piney Point school in 2002. Brother Mallek most recently worked for Port Imperial and resides in Hobe Sound, Florida. DANIEL NOLAN Brother Daniel Nolan, 62, joined the union in 1977. A member of the deck department, he worked for Marine Contracting & Towing for the duration of his career. Brother Nolan resides in Johns Island, South Carolina. BARRY CHEEKS MICHAEL PARKS Brother Barry Cheeks, 62, joined the SIU in 1994. He was a member of the steward department and worked with Orgulf Transportation for the duration of his career. Brother Cheeks makes his home in St Louis. Brother Michael Parks, 63, began his career with the SIU working for Piney Point Transportation in 1992. He upgraded at the maritime training center in Piney Point on several occasions. Brother Parks sailed in the deck department and most recently worked for Penn Maritime. He is a resident of Tangier, Virginia. TIMOTHY FEENEY Brother Timothy Feeney, 62, first sailed as a member of the SIU in 1978, when he worked for National Marine Service. He was a deck department member and upgraded his skills in 1978 at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. Brother Feeney most recently worked for Maritrans and resides in Philadelphia. LAWRENCE HANCOCK Brother Lawrence Hancock, 63, joined the union in 1976, initially working for Steuart Transportation. The deck department member trained at the Paul Hall Center in 1976. Brother Hancock last worked for OSG. He resides in Clayton, North Carolina. RICKEY KARLS Brother Rickey Karls, 57, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1977. GLENN RISHTON Brother Glenn Rishton, 67, signed on with the SIU in 1989, working for Red Circle Transport. He was a member of the deck department and last worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation. Brother Rishton resides in Gulfport, Mississippi. MICHAEL RODGERS Brother Michael Rodgers, 62, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1976, when he worked for Higman Barge Lines. He was a deck department member, and remained with the same company for his entire career. Brother Rodgers makes his home in Orange, Texas. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DONALD ALT Pensioner Donald Alt, 94, died January 10. He started sailing in 1951, aboard a Terminal Steamship vessel. The deck department member’s last vessel was the Patriot. He retired in 1986 and was a resident of San Francisco. WILLIAM BAKER Pensioner William Baker, 68, passed away January 8. He joined the union in 1973 and initially sailed with Interocean American Shipping. Brother Baker was a deck department member and last sailed aboard the Maersk Wisconsin. He began collecting his pension in 2014 and lived in Phuket, Thailand. LONNIE BETTIS Pensioner Lonnie Bettis, 81, died February 3. He became a member of the SIU in 1962, initially sailing with Destiny Carrier. Brother Bettis was a steward department member and last worked on the Liberty Sun. He began collecting his pension in 2002 and settled in Mobile, Alabama. SILVESTRE BONGOLAN Pensioner Silvestre Bongolan, 80, passed away December 18. He became an SIU member in 1981 when he sailed aboard the Independence. A member of the steward department, Brother Bongolan last sailed on the Loyal. He made his home in Waipahu, Hawaii. WILLIAM CAMERON Pensioner William Cameron, 93, died January 15. He signed on with the SIU in 1951, first sailing aboard the Del Sol. Brother Cameron worked in the steward department, last shipping on the Oakland. He retired in 1984 and settled in Richmond, California. RUBEN DEJESUS Pensioner Ruben Dejesus, 84, passed away December 20. He first donned the SIU colors in 1968 when he sailed on the Overseas Ulla. A member of the engine department, Brother Dejesus last sailed on the Global Link. He became a pensioner in 1998 and lived in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. 18 Seafarers LOG PAUL DUQUETTE Brother Paul Duquette, 57, died September 21. Initially sailing aboard the OMI Columbia, he became an SIU member in 1986. Brother Duquette was a member of the engine department and last sailed on the Ocean Freedom. He was a resident of Tonawanda, New York. HAROLD EADY Pensioner Harold Eady, 87, passed away December 6. He became an SIU member in 1965. One of his first trips to sea was as a deck department member aboard an Overseas Carriers vessel. Brother Eady last sailed on the Sealift Atlantic and began collecting his pension in 1995. He made his home in Silsbee, Texas. ROBERTO FELICIANO Pensioner Roberto Feliciano, 72, died January 16. He joined the union in 1963, when he worked on the Mayflower. Brother Feliciano was a deck department member and last sailed on the Horizon Discovery. Going on pension in 2003, he settled in Bayamon, Puerto Rico. THOMAS GALKA Pensioner Thomas Galka, 68, passed away December 28. He became a member of the SIU in 1971, initially sailing on the Brooklyn. An engine department member, Brother Galka last sailed on the Ambassador. The Philadelphia native went on pension in 2014 and continued to reside in his hometown. JOHN GRAHAM Pensioner John Graham, 79, died December 16. He became an SIU member in 1965, initially sailing on the Spitfire. Brother Graham worked in the deck department and last sailed aboard the LNG Taurus. He began collecting his pension in 2005 and was a resident of Philadelphia. WILLIE HOLMES Brother Willie Holmes, 95, passed away October 25. Born in New Orleans, he signed on with the SIU in 1979. His first vessel was the President Mason. A steward department member, Brother Holmes last worked aboard the Overseas Alaska and continued to reside in his hometown. Brother Wojcikowski called Walkersville, West Virginia, home. GEORGE KEBLIS Pensioner George Keblis, 73, died November 21. He first donned the SIU colors in 1991 when he sailed on the LNG Gemini. A member of the deck department, he last sailed on the Liberator. Brother Keblis retired in 2008 and made his home in Anaheim, California. ABDO YAHYA Pensioner Abdo Yahya, 80, passed away January 27. Native to Yemen, he began shipping with the SIU in 1966. His first vessel was the American Sea Ocean; his last, the Walter J. McCarthy. Brother Yahya sailed in the engine department and resided in Dearborn, Michigan. LORENZO NUNEZ CACHO Pensioner Lorenzo Nunez Cacho, 74, passed away December 2. He became an SIU member in 1994 when he shipped on the Independence. He worked in the steward department and concluded his career on the Liberty Sea. Brother Nunez Cacho began collecting his pension in 2015 and resided in Bronx, New York. DESMOND SEALY Pensioner Desmond Sealy, 79, died December 21. He signed on with the SIU in 2003, initially sailing aboard the Cape Victory. He worked in the engine department and remained on the same vessel until his retirement in 2010. Brother Sealy was a resident of Baytown, Texas. KREG STIEBBEN Brother Kreg Stiebben, 54, passed away January 9. He joined the union in 2002 and first sailed on the Little Hales. Brother Stiebben was a deck department member and last worked aboard the VADM K.R. Wheeler. He lived in Pratt, Kansas. CECILIO SUAREZ Pensioner Cecilio Suarez, 66, died December 13. He signed on with the union in 1976, initially sailing on the Monticello. Brother Suarez worked in the steward department and last sailed on the Elizabeth. He began collecting his pension in 2014 and settled in Belcamp, Maryland. PETER WOJCIKOWSKI Brother Peter Wojcikowski, 58, passed away December 8. He began his career with the SIU in 2000, first shipping on the LNG Virgo. He was a member of the deck department and last worked aboard the Maersk Pittsburgh. GREAT LAKES INLAND ELEANOR DOWNEN Pensioner Eleanor Downen, 84, passed away last year. She joined the SIU in 1985 and first sailed with Delta Queen Steamboat. A member of the steward department, Sister Downen remained with the same company until her retirement in 2005. She lived in St. Louis. FARRELL FRAZEE Pensioner Farrell Frazee, 65, passed away February 18. He joined the union in 1973 when he worked for HVIDE Marine. The engine department member last sailed with Seabulk Tankers before becoming a pensioner in 2011. He called Lumberton, Texas, home. RAYMOND GORDON Brother Raymond Gordon, 67, died October 14. He joined the union in 1989 and first sailed on the Delta Queen. Brother Gordon worked in the deck department and most recently shipped aboard the Mississippi Queen. He was a resident of New Orleans. CHRISTOPHER KESSLER Pensioner Christopher Kessler, 69, passed away January 18. He became a union member in 1973, when he worked for Moran Towing of Philadelphia. Brother Kessler was a member of the deck department. He last sailed with McAllister Towing of Philadelphia and went on pension in 2017. He lived in Westmont, New Jersey. MICHAEL O’KANE Pensioner Michael O’Kane, 80, died January 22. Initially working for Mariner Towing, he joined the union in 1974. Brother O’Kane was a deck department member. He last sailed with Interstate Oil. Brother O’Kane began receiving his pension in 2002. He lived in Abington, Pennsylvania. RUFUS PITTMAN Pensioner Rufus Pittman, 95, passed away January 19. He became an SIU member in 1963, when he sailed with Graham Transportation. Brother Pittman last worked for McAllister of Virginia before retiring in 1985. He made his home in Chesapeake, Virginia. GUY PULLIAM Brother Guy Pulliam, 60, died December 27. He was born in Homestead, Florida, and joined the SIU in 1992. Working as a deck department member, he sailed with G&H Towing for the duration of his career. Brother Pulliam was a resident of Sealy, Texas. JOHN TANNER Pensioner John Tanner, 62, passed away January 22. He first donned the SIU colors in 1978, initially working with Steuart Transportation. Brother Tanner was an engine department member and most recently sailed with Piney Point Transportation. He retired in 2017 and resided in Portsmouth, Virginia. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION ANTHONY ARACRI Pensioner Anthony Aracri, 84, died December 17. A native of Brooklyn, New York, he served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict and then joined the NMU. Brother Aracri, a member of the deck department, last sailed aboard the Cape Rise in 2004. He lived in Coconut Creek, Florida. Name Baco, Jorge Bruner, Jack Burch, Robert Caputo, Rosalia Crook, Paul Dennis, Damon Ellis, Charles Enman, Dana Ernst, Andre Falu, Jesus Gialouris, Spyros Hampton, Elwood Kawasaki, Frank Marshall, Louis Melendez, Pedro Morales, Rudolph Ramirez, Francisco Solis, Jose Swain, Rubin Webster, Timothy Williams, Burnell Age 79 90 87 90 88 94 90 90 91 88 97 93 95 91 93 96 84 83 86 99 89 DOD 01/19/2018 01/07/2018 01/11/2018 12/31/2017 12/18/2017 01/22/2018 01/16/2018 01/10/2018 12/20/2017 01/13/2018 01/06/2018 01/16/2018 03/08/2017 02/05/2018 02/02/2018 12/29/2017 02/06/2018 01/10/2018 01/13/2018 01/19/2018 12/26/2017 March 2018 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings HORIZON ANCHORAGE (Matson), December 8 – Chairman Daniel Seagle, Secretary Dennis Skretta, Educational Director Vladimir Babenko. Chairman announced docking schedule and upcoming payoff. Educational Director encouraged members to upgrade at union-affiliated school in Maryland, donate to SPAD (the SIU’s voluntary political action fund) and make sure papers are up to date. Members were advised to make sure they are using the right washer and dryer when washing clothes. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New mattresses needed for some crew quarters. Mariners expressed interest in increasing dental coverage. Next Port: Tacoma, Washington. GREEN COVE (Seabulk), December 10 – Chairman Michael Brown, Secretary Velicia Williams. Educational Director encouraged members to upgrade in Piney Point and stay current on all paperwork. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Deck delegate reiterated importance of safety awareness. Engine delegate reminded crew to regularly clean dryer lint filter. Crew requested DVD-equipped televisions in rooms. Report of leaks in a couple of rooms. MAERSK SELETAR (Maersk Line, Limited), December 23 – Chairman Cleofe Bernardez Castro, Secretary Christopher King, Educational Director Ann Mensch, Deck Delegate Ronmel Lopez, Engine Delegate Reynaldo Lacayo, Steward Delegate Abdou Jobe. Crew discussed previous requests for new refrigerators, new television for lounge, and satellite phone availability. Also discussed health care. Chairman informed members of payoff schedule and discussed new pharmacy information. Secretary recommended that members renew documents well in advance and keep them up to date. Educational director advised members to upgrade as often as possible. She encouraged them to enroll in Seafarers 401K plan and to donate to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested vacation days be increased and qualifying sea days for full pension be decreased. Members described need for safe transportation from ship to gate and back when taking shore leave. Crew reminded to clean quarters thoroughly for arriving members. Steward department thanked for excellent meals and service. Next Port: Newark, New Jersey. MAERSK ATLANTA (Maersk Line, Limited), December 24 – Chairman Arsenio Obenza, Secretary Oscar Gomez, Educational Director Enrique Velez. Chairman thanked crew for a safe trip and job well done. Members reminded to have room clean and ready for oncoming crew. Chairman advised members to keep on top of credentials and keep medical requirements updated. Secretary reported a job well done by deck and engine departments. Educational director encouraged crew to upgrade at SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. He reiterated importance of safety. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested more information regarding retirement qualifications. MAERSK KENTUCKY (Maersk Line, Limited), December 31 – Chairman Albert Williams, Secretary Wayne Wilson, Educational Direc- With Seafarers Aboard Terrapin Island SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware submitted this recent snapshot of Seafarers aboard the Terrapin Island in Charleston, South Carolina. The vessel is operated by Great Lakes Dredge & Dock. March 2018 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. EARN YOUR COLLEGE DEGREE THROUGH THE PAUL HALL CENTER ! The Paul Hall Center’s Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship (SHLSS) has partnered with the College of Southern Resident courses at Piney Point begin May 7, 2018 Maryland (CSM) to offer an Associate of Applied Science degree in Maritime Operations Technology with a concentration in either • Nautical Science (Deck department) -or- • Marine Engineering (Engine dept.) Students must complete a combination of academic general education courses and technical education courses in order to earn • Associate of Applied Science Degree February 26, 2018 • UA courses apply toward the degree • Fully accredited • Some courses held at SHLSS the degree. Courses completed during the Unlicensed Apprentice program apply toward the • Online classes degree. Students can complete English, Math and • Scholarships available Physics courses at SHLSS. The remaining general education courses can be completed online. The following classes will convene at SHLSS: May 7, 2018 through May 25, 2018 English 1011 – Composition and Rhetoric Math 1011 – Math for Technologies Enrollment Information Please contact Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School Academic Coordinator Dale Rausch (301) 994-0010 Ext. 5411 -ordrausch@seafarers.org tor Patrick Milton. Crew still waiting for chairs in mess hall. Chairman thanked members for working safely and accidentfree. Educational director advised crew to upgrade at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. He reminded members to avoid letting documents expire. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested medical benefits be returned to eligibility period of 125 days in prior year plus one day in previous six months. They also expressed interest in Wi-Fi, noting problems with current internet connection. Members indicated difficulty with ordering food. LIBERTY EAGLE (Liberty Maritime), January 7 – Chairman Albert Konning, Secretary Willie Frink, Educational Director Adolf Floresca. Chairman noted a short and safe trip. Educational director advised members to upgrade as soon as possible at SIU-affiliated school in southern Maryland. He also reminded crew to make sure all shipping credentials are up to date and otherwise in order. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew made suggestions about contract and expressed inter- 7 Credit Hours Includes: tuition, textbooks, room and board plus one hour of tutoring following each daily class session est in addressing penalty rates. They requested up-to-date union standard contract book and Wi-Fi to be set up on ship. LOUISIANA (Crowley), January 14 – Chairman Raymond Johnson, Secretary Timothy Dowd, Educational Director Kevin Hall. Chairman remined members to keep documents current. Secretary noted job well done for vessel inspection, and encouraged fellow mariners to continue the good work. Educational director stated vacation pay not yet updated to new pay scale. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members discussed vacation earning policy, expressing interest in raising vacation days and reducing amount of days needed to collect. New refrigerator and freezer on order. Crew reminded to secure cold-weather gear. OVERSEAS ANACORTES (OSG), January 20 – Chairman Felsher Beasley, Secretary Reachell Armstrong, Educational Director Cary Pratts. Chairman explained new U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center information and new ways to search for information including reference number and ID number on credentials. He also reminded crew to avoid frostbite by using winter gear in Philadelphia, noting plenty such gear is on board. Educational director reminded crew to update documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members discussed interest in pay increases for cost of living. Coffee bean grinder and mats for galley coming soon. MAGNOLIA STATE (Crowley), January 26 – Chairman John Cedeno, Secretary Luis Santiago, Educational Director Rodolfo Opinaldo. Chairman reminded members to have proper personal protective equipment for assigned job. Crew encouraged to donate to relief funds and to Maritime Defense League (MDL). Mariners also encouraged to attend monthly membership meetings when ashore. Secretary reminded crew to gather clean linen for oncoming members. Educational director advised members to attend Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland, for upgrading purposes. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested internet access in lounge. Next Port: Beaumont, Texas. Seafarers LOG 19 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 FOWT May 5 June 1 Junior Engineer June 9 August 3 Machinist April 28 June 16 May 18 July 6 Marine Refer Tech March 17 April 27 Pumpman May 19 July 7 May 25 July 13 Welding March 24 May 5 June 9 April 13 May 25 June 29 Gap Closing Courses Engine Room Resource Management March 10 March 16 Leadership and Managerial Skills March 17 March 23 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck March 10 May 5 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Students will be advised of dates once accepted. ARPA April 6 June 1 Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Ops March 24 June 9 April 20 July 6 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start February 5. April 7 May 12 April 13 May 18 Chief Steward April 21 June 8 Bosun Recertification July 21 August 6 Galley Operations April 21 May 18 ECDIS April 7 April 13 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 April 14 April 20 Fast Rescue Boat June 16 June 22 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 GMDSS March 10 June 2 March 23 June 15 March 10 March 24 April 7 March 16 March 30 April 13 Steward Recertification April 14 May 7 March 10 April 7 May 5 June 2 March 23 April 20 May 18 June 15 Serve Safe July 14 July 20 Lifeboat Radar Observer March 24 April 28 June 16 April 6 May 11 June 29 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW April 7 June 2 May 4 June 29 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers June 2 June 15 BAPO April 7 June 2 May 4 June 29 FOWT March 10 April 6 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 # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training w/16hr FF March 24 May 19 March 30 May 25 Basic Training Revalidation April 6 April 6 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation March 10 March 16 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting April 14 May 26 April 20 June 1 Government Vessels March 31 April 6 Medical Care Provider April 21 April 27 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL April 7 June 9 April 13 June 15 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG March 10 April 14 March 16 April 20 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, or 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. 3/18 March 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #831 – The following Phase I apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Nov. 20: Tomas Gabriel Bernardez-Martinez, Phillip Manning Borja, Robert Clark, Trevor Johnson, Timothy Jones and Mitchell Laskowsky. BAPO – Twelve Phase III apprentices completed their requirements in this course Nov. 6. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Samuel Fagerness, Christian Fredrick, Paul Hudgins, James London, Dave Paler, Dontrell Riddick, DeRoyce Roquemore, Marcelino Jose Santos Bermeo, Lorenza Session, Isaiah Thomas, Derrick Walker II and Renita Walker. Class instructor John Wiegman III is at the far left. BAPO – Three upgraders enhanced their skills by finishing this course Nov. 6. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Rashawn Arrington, Victor Deasis Duriman and Brandon Webb. Meteorology – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Nov. 3: Martin Baker, Matthew Botterbusch, Joshua Gonzalez, Brian Luba, George Steube III and Dexter Madrona Turija. Brian Moore, their instructor, is at the far left. Machinist – Ten upgraders enhanced their skills by completing this course Dec. 1. Graduating (photo at left, in alphabetical order) were: Davon Brown, Kenneth Cabrera, Alexander Capellan, Elliot Duncan, Anthony Kwami Kpodovia, Richard Lawson, Afework Mengstu, Gregory Saddler, Christopher Shivalier and James Sieger. Class instructor Keith Adamson is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Junior Engineer – The following individuals (photo at right, in alphabetical order) finished their requirements and graduated from this course Nov. 3: Hector Ismael Caballero, Domingos Dos Anjos Ferreira, Michael Gessford, Antonio Ramond Griffin, Eric Hondel, Stephen Jenkins, Antrell Jordan, Wilfredo Delgado Lopez, Melody Mitchell, Gajatri Normatova, James Pascocello, Osamah Saleh Saleh and Kennard Young. Their instructor, Christopher Morgan, is at the far left. March 2018 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Pumpman – SIU QMED James Sieger (above, right) completed his requirements in this course and graduated Nov. 10. Joining Sieger to celebrate his achievement is his instructor, Keith Adamson. Two other individuals (not pictured) also graduated from the course with Sieger: Jommel Hipolito and Romeo Palmares. Medical Care Provider – Nine upgraders finished this course Nov. 3. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Glenn Valera Agustin, Bobbie Gibbs, Derrick Hurt, James Kayser, James Kelly Jr., Grayson Ross, Frank Sambula, Anthony Sanchez Villarrubia and Christopher Sykes. John Thomas, their instructor, is at the far right. Government Vessels – The following upgraders (photo at right, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Nov. 17: Gregg Blevins, Charlene Briggs, Dillian Cannady, Graeme Simbajo Dy, Steven Eberspacher, George Nier Egbert, Brice Jackson, Engracio Lagda Moratin Jr., Hussein Nasser, Craig Sorrell, Scott Steger, Trovarius Thomas and Alvin Watson. Their instructor, Thomas Truitt, is at the far right. Water Survival – Seafarer Edwin Olamit Salada (above) recently improved his skills by completing this class. The GUDE graduated from the course Dec. 1. Marine Refrigeration – Five Seafarers finished their requirements in this course Nov. 10. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Carlos Eduardo Amaya Avila, Mervin Mortilla Cruzat, Julio Gomez, Yuri Adrian Oliveros and Guiomar Rancel. William Dodd, their instructor, is at the far left. Engine Room Resource Management – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Dec. 1: Talib Aekins, Eric Barrera Cunanan, Lionel Rivera and Frank Sambula. Basic Firefighting (Upgraders) – Fifteen Seafarers improved their skills by completing this course Nov. 10. Graduating (photo at right, in alphabetical order) were: Glenn Valera Agustin, Ali Qaid Ahmed Alwaqedi, Gregg Blevins, Charlene Briggs, Graeme Simbajo Dy, Troy Rudyard Ingersoll, Brice Jackson, Engracio Lagda Moratin Jr., Hussein Nasser, Jack Sheldon, Craig Sorrell, Scott Steger, John Stephens, Alvin Watson and Walter Wise. Class instructors John Thomas and Joe Zienda are at the far left and far right, respectively. Notice to All 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. 22 Seafarers LOG March 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Basic Firefighting (Upgraders) – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Dec. 8: Albert Ugali Dulig, Randolph Patterson and Wayne Yeargain. Basic Training Revalidation – Fourteen Seafarers finished this course Nov. 17. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Fritz Bernier, Larry Calixto, Edward Collins, David Crisp, Arnell George, Wilfredo Guerrero, Christopher Janics, John Jaremchuk, Donnell Lewis, Benjamin Mathews, Mohamed Ali Noman, Ingrid Soveira Ortiz-Rosario, Samuel Sinclair and Zaza Tchitanava. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Combined Basic & Advanced Firefighting – The following upgraders enhanced their skills when they completed their course requirements Dec. 1. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Saad Mohammed Al Aqel, Annie Bivens, Kelly Doyle, Travis Hudgins, Christopher Morgan, Ahmed Omar Sharif and Bernard Wade II. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Galley Ops (SUA) – Five individuals finished this course Nov. 3. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Richard Ayers-Vazquez, Justin Barbee, Mashonda Corley, Neyda Oviedo-Bermudez and Jurod Gumar Page. Galley Ops (SUA) – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Dec. 1: Italy Bozhane Laquanta Byers, Lady Joanna Cano-Orozco, Amar Ahmed Mohamed Gabar, Brittany McKay, Phuoc Chau-Hue Nguyen, Nicoll Quinones-Rodriguez, Sherley Rivera-Aguila, Cesar Andres Rosado-Rodriguez and Eugene Williams Jr. Galley Ops – Four steward department Seafarers finished this course Dec. 1. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: William Moran IV, Sallahaldin Kassem Nasser, Rhonda Williams and Ronald Williams. March 2018 Chief Steward – Five steward department Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Nov. 10: Melvin Cooper, Rio Ngitong Cuellar, Timothy Heffernan, Ashley Lee and Grazyna Tomaszewska Advanced Galley Ops – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Nov. 3: Jorcell Davis, Ryan Marquez Gallano, Cynora Hunter and Marilou Dumalao Toledo. Class instructor Bryan Owens is at the far right. Galley Ops – Phase III Apprentice Aaron Helton-Cox (photo above) recently completed the enhancement of his skills in this course. The Tennessee native graduated Dec. 1. Certified Chief Cook (Module 1) – Two steward department upgraders completed their requirements in this class Dec. 1. Graduating were Joseph Allen (above, left) and Jeffery Toliver Jr. Seafarers LOG 23 �MARCH F E B R U 2018 ARY 2014 o NO. V O LVOLUME U M E 7 6 80, N O . 32 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 U.S. Rep. Mark DeSaulnier (D-California) (standing) speaks to attendees at his campaign kickoff gathering at a union hall in Concord. Port Agent Nick Marrone II, Congressman DeSaulnier Seafarers Turn Out for Pro-Maritime Candidates SIU members and officials voluntarily participated in a few recent grassroots events supporting pro-maritime, pro-labor political candidates. On the West Coast, Seafarers turned out for a campaign kickoff for U.S. Rep. Mark DeSaulnier (D-California), hosted in early January by UA Local 342 in Con- cord. Earlier, SIU personnel went to U.S. Rep. Jerry McNerney’s (D-California) annual barbeque in Stockton, California. Finally, Houston-area Seafarers in early January took part in block walks for Todd Litton (D), a labor-endorsed candidate for U.S. Congress (Second District). SIU personnel (photo above) including Patrolman Joe Zavala (fourth from left) are welcomed by the candidate, Todd Litton (fourth from right). In the photo at immediate left, Supporters gather for a group photo with the candidate (he’s standing second from right). The annual event (photo above) for U.S. Rep. Jerry McNerney (D-California) took place in a Stockton park and included live music (photo at left). In the photo at right, Port Agent Nick Marrone II greets Congressman McNerney. � 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 2018 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES IMB PIRACY REPORT REFLECTS LOWER INCIDENT TOTALS IN 2017 MEDIA REPORTS UNDERSCORE JONES ACT’S BENEFITS USNS MIGUEL KEITH SIGNALS ADDITIONAL SIU GOVERNMENT SERVICES DIVISION JOBS SIU DEEP SEA CREWS DONATE TO SAIPAN SHELTER SEAFARERS-CREWED USNS GRUMMAN COMPLETES OVERSEAS DEPLOYMENT USA MARITIME SETS RECORD STRAIGHT ON VITAL FOOD FOR PEACE PROGRAM FORMER NMU MEMBER RACES THROUGH RETIREMENT SEAFARERS LATEST LITERARY EFFORT FEATURES FOUR SHORT STORIES SEAFARERS STILL ‘DELIVERING GOODS’ IN PUERTO RICO OPERATION AGUA CONTINUES AS TERRITORY RECOVERS FROM HURRICANE SEAFARERS-CREWED RRF SHIPS REMAIN ‘KEY ELEMENT’ OF DOD STRATEGIC SEALIFT SEAFARERS TURN OUT FOR PRO-MARITIME CANDIDATES 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 03/01/2018 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. 80, No. 3 2018 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/ff2edfde9eff70d3cb915ac52d9b6f95.pdf 5da64d5b582a7b9e910f9c8145fc54fc PDF Text Text FEBRUARY F E B R U A2018 RY 2014 V O L U M EVOLUME 7 6 o 80, N ONO. . 22 House Hearing Backs U.S. Maritime Strong Bipartisan Support Evident for Merchant Marine During a recent hearing in the U.S. House of Representatives, congressmen from both sides of the aisle forcefully spoke in favor of maintaining a robust American maritime industry. U.S. Reps. Duncan Hunter (R-California) (far right), John Garamendi (D-California) (immediate right) and others expressed unwavering support for the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, cargo preference laws, and American crews. Hunter chairs the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, where the hearing took place, while Garamendi is the ranking member. Some of the other attendees are pictured below. Pages 2, 3. SIU Philanthropy Aims to Aid American Military Families Seafarers in Tacoma, Washington, late last year continued their traditional support of Santa’s Castle, an annual program that provides toys and other goodies for U.S. military families during Christmas season. The union hall in Tacoma served as a staging area for SIU donations. Pictured at the hall are (photo below) Chief Steward Norman Cox and (photo at right, from left) DEU Reynaldo Mambulao and SA Lisa Wert. The SIU participants donated around $9,500 worth of toys and other items. Page 24. Union Membership Increases Page 2 Rep. Scalise Honored Page 5 Annual Tax Tips Pages 12-14 �Maritime’s Puerto Rico Relief Efforts Continue President’s Report ‘Cornerstone of Security’ There were a number of highly encouraging comments made at last month’s U.S. House of Representatives hearing on the state of the American maritime industry. These remarks included written testimony as well as dialogue that happened during the usual question-and-answer sessions that followed the prepared remarks from two separate panels. (Full coverage of the hearing appears elsewhere in this edition.) Several things stood out to me about the supportive commentary. For one, it came from both sides of the aisle and from pretty much every component of our industry. For another, it reflected not only in-depth knowledge of the laws and programs that keep Old Glory flying on American-built ships and tugs and other vessels, but also the need to spread the word about precisely why the United States must maintain a viable U.S. Merchant Marine. Congressman Duncan Hunter chaired the hearing of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, and as usual, he didn’t Michael Sacco sugarcoat his pro-maritime views. I especially appreciated his description of the Jones Act. Congressman Hunter said in part, “In order for us to maintain the way of life as we know it as a nation that is secure and is able to project power, be it Navy power or commercial (maritime) power, the Jones Act is intrinsic to that. It’s the cornerstone of all of them.” He also said it would be “stupid” and “absurd” to give away our shipbuilding capacity and let foreign-owned, foreign-crewed vessels loose on our waterways. I could not agree more. But he finished with a vital point, and it may seem familiar if you’ve kept up with these columns. Congressman Hunter cited the need to “keep educating and educating because that’s what it’s going to take so that people understand why [America needs the Jones Act] and how it is one of the cornerstones of our entire country’s national security apparatus.” You might recall that three other congressmen voiced the same sentiment during the Maritime Trades Department (MTD) convention in October. One of them, Congressman Bennie Thompson, said our industry has “the best message in the world.” But it’s up to us, collectively, to inform Congress, the administration, other politicians and the general public. It’s up to us to help people understand why America needs not only the Jones Act but also the Maritime Security Program, strong cargo preference laws, a fully functional U.S. Export-Import Bank and – most importantly in my admittedly biased eyes – a cadre of U.S. civilian mariners who are always available to uphold the U.S. Merchant Marine’s role as the fourth arm of defense. The SIU works on this mission every day, whether through individual grassroots political action, or participating in departments like the MTD or coalitions like the American Maritime Partnership, or using our newspaper, website and social-media accounts to promote the outstanding work of SIU members. I agree with the congressmen who spoke at last month’s hearing and at the MTD convention – they basically said that some of our industry’s problems stem from lack of awareness about our outstanding value. That’s an ongoing project, but I think we’ve all stepped up and are making progress since last year’s hurricanes (which spurred some severe misrepresentations of what American maritime is really all about). My thanks go to Congressman Hunter and Congressman John Garamendi (ranking member of the subcommittee) for conducting the hearing, and to the other representatives who attended and spoke out in favor of the U.S. Merchant Marine. They include Congressmen Garret Graves, Randy Weber, Rick Larsen and Alan Lowenthal. With people like that on our side, we are going to succeed in revitalizing our industry. Our entire nation will benefit, and we’ll all be more secure. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 80, Number 2 o NO. 2 February 2018 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2018 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. The United States territory of Puerto Rico was hit by Hurricane Maria in September 2017, leaving millions of people to pick up the pieces in the wake of the storm’s devastation. U.S.-flag vessels (many with SIU crews) promptly began transporting relief supplies to the island, which was in desperate need of clean water, generators and other basic necessities. The SIU, along with the union’s allies in the maritime, labor and business communities, has continued to support recovery efforts in the New Year. For example, the SIU is a co-sponsor of Operation Agua, an initiative spearheaded by the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) that has helped provide clean drinking water to people throughout the territory. Operation Agua’s other cosponsors are the Asociación de Maestros de Puerto Rico (AMPR, an affiliate of the AFT), Seafarers-contracted Tote Maritime, AFSCME, Operation Blessing International, and the Hispanic Federation. “The AMPR is here for our students, our members, our schools and our communities,” said Aida Diaz, AMPR president. “We started our efforts in the schools because we wanted to ensure our students and staff had safe drinking water. This is a continuing plan to help Puerto Rico recover and rebuild and to support public education on our island.” As of mid-January, the coalition had raised more than $1.6 million dollars in donations, all of which go directly to providing Kohler Clarity water filters to families in need all over the island, as well as larger-capacity filtration systems for schools, union offices and other community centers. “We delivered Operation Agua water filters, clothes and gifts to students and faculty at Puerto Rico public schools—some still without electricity and only intermittent access to drinking water for the past three months since Hurricane Maria,” said AFT President Randi Weingarten. “I am in awe of all the educators and students here who are striving to move forward in the face of such daunting circumstances. I am equally inspired by the generosity of people all across our country who have collectively helped us get half way to our goal. We will continue to support Puerto Rico to help make sure that our children are safe, that they receive all the help they need and that this crisis is not invisible, and the federal government should do the same.” All the filters that have been distributed on the island as a part of Operation Agua were shipped to Puerto Rico free of charge by Tote Maritime. Containers full of filters and other relief supplies continue to arrive weekly on Tote-operated Jones Act vessels. Separately, Seafarers-contracted Crowley and other vessel operators have also been delivering relief cargoes to the island. As stated by the new chairman of the American Maritime Partnership (AMP), Matt Woodruff, during recent testimony before Congress, “Since Hurricane Maria hit the island, domestic liner carriers including Crowley, TOTE, and Trailer Bridge have delivered over 75,000 containers to the island. These containers include relief cargoes like food, clothing, water, and medicine as well as rebuilding supplies. In addition to containers, roll-on/roll-off, tank, and bulk shipments have delivered fuel, electric poles, utility trucks, tanker trucks, heavy equipment, and other cargoes.” Woodruff concluded, “Finally, the Puerto Rico carriers are doing more than just delivering cargo – they are supporting the island, including using their own truck distribution networks to deliver goods; coordinating with federal and local government entities and relief organizations to improve final mile delivery; and organiz- ing community events and donations on the island.” In addition, Kohler produced a short video on the relief efforts, and how to donate to Operation Agua. Links to more information, as well as details on donating or becoming an Operation Agua sponsor, can be found at www. operationagua.com. Meanwhile, some private individuals are making their own contributions to the recovery of the island. Assisted in their endeavor by Tote, Deb and Robin Roberts recently distributed more than 30,000 pounds of food, bottled water and other necessities to the people of Puerto Rico. They had organized their relief effort in November by asking their local community in Wilton, Maine, to donate supplies in honor of their son, Michael Holland. Holland was serving aboard the El Faro as the third engineer when tragedy struck in October 2015, claiming his life and those of the other 32 people aboard, including 17 SIU members, amidst a hurricane not unlike 2017’s Hurricane Maria. Holland had spent considerable time in Puerto Rico, as the El Faro was dedicated to the Puerto Rico trade lane. The Roberts felt called to support the people and communities who played such an integral role in their son’s life. “It was truly a rewarding experience to be able to help the people of Puerto Rico in memory of our son, Michael,” commented Deb and Robin Roberts. “We are so grateful to everyone at Tote for helping us to make the drive a success. Without their efforts and support, we never would’ve been able to make it happen.” “Partnering with the Roberts to bring goods to the island has been a gift,” said Anthony Chiarello, president and CEO of Tote. “There are still so many families and communities struggling to survive after Hurricane Maria – these goods will be invaluable to people throughout the island.” BLS Data Shows Increase in Union Membership Union membership was on the rise in 2017, according to the latest annual report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. As stated in the report, union membership in the U.S. grew by 262,000 last year, to 14.817 million, while union density stayed at 10.7 percent. Unionists’ wage advantage over their non-union colleagues grew again, according to the BLS, which issued its report in mid-January. The median wage for unionist members in 2017 was $1,041, compared to $829 for unrepresented workers. And the wage gap between working men and women was, as usual, smaller for union workers, at 88 percent of the average male union wage ($970 for women, $1,102 for men.) The data showed that last year, 11.4 percent of working men and 10 percent of working women belonged to a union. Those percentages are much higher in the public sector, where 34.4 percent of government employees are protected by a union. In the transportation industry, 17.3 percent of workers were union in 2017. As shown in the BLS report, union membership also increased among younger people, with 877,000 Richard Trumka President, AFL-CIO union members between the ages of 16 and 24 and 3 million members between 25 and 34. According to the report, union density rose in Michigan, Minnesota and South Carolina, and declined slightly in Missouri – though the legislation that would have brought so-called “right to work” laws to Missouri has stalled thanks to grassroots political efforts. The most unionized states in 2017 were still New York and Hawaii, at 23.8 and 21.3 percent, respectively. The report reaffirmed that most union members are still concentrated in the Northeast, the Great Lakes and the Pacific Coast, though gains are being made in other states. The AFL-CIO, of which the SIU is a member, hailed these latest numbers as a victory, saying that the increase in union members “reflects critical organizing victories across a range of industries, which have reaped higher wages, better benefits, and a more secure future for working people around the country.” “In the face of a challenging year, the power of working people is on the rise,” said AFLCIO President Richard Trumka. “Together, we organized historic new unions, stood up to powerful corporations, and won higher wages.... But today’s data is more than numbers on a page; it’s a growing movement of working people that can’t be measured as easily. When more union members fill the halls of power, when wages rise and inequality shrinks, and when a growing number of people see that we can and will change the rules of this economy – that’s when you’ll know unions are on the rise.” Reversed to White Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG February 2018 �Congressional, Maritime Leaders Emphasize Backing of Jones Act, MSP, Cargo Preference Strong bipartisan support for the U.S. Merchant Marine was readily apparent during a recent hearing in the U.S. House of Representatives. Conducted Jan. 17 by the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation (part of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee), the hearing’s broad purpose was to examine the state of the U.S.-flag maritime industry. U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-California) chairs the subcommittee, while U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) is its ranking member. Subcommittee members heard from two panels. The first consisted of U.S. Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby and U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. John Nadeau, the agency’s assistant commandant for prevention policy. The second comprised Matt Woodruff, newly elected chair of the American Maritime Partnership (AMP); Eric Ebeling, president and CEO of American Roll-On/Roll-Off Carrier Group (testifying on behalf of USA Maritime); Aaron Smith, president and CEO of the Offshore Marine Service Association; Matthew Paxton, president of the Shipbuilders Council of America; and Bill Van Loo, secretary-treasurer of the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (testifying on behalf of his union along with the SIU, AMO and MM&P). Throughout the two-hour hearing, legislators from both sides of the aisle along with panelists spelled out why U.S. national, economic and homeland security rely on a strong American maritime industry. The industry in turn depends on laws and programs prominently including the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program (MSP), and cargo preference. The return of a fully functioning U.S. ExportImport (Ex-Im) Bank also would provide a much-needed boost to American-flag shipping, several speakers noted. Hunter voiced concern about the shrinking pool of U.S. mariners, and commended the industry’s efforts to mitigate the problem in part through the Military to Maritime program, which assists veterans in transitioning to careers in the U.S.-flag industry. (The SIU is a partner organization.) Hunter also expressed incredulity at recent opposition to the Jones Act, which he described as “the absurdity of trying to take away America’s cabotage law. In order to maintain life as we know it, the Jones Act is intrinsic to that. It is the cornerstone…. I hope that we keep educating, because that’s what it’s going to take. The Jones Act is one of the cornerstones of our entire security apparatus.” Garamendi also cited Jones Act support as a top maritime priority. He said, “First and foremost, we cannot become complacent in our defense of the Jones Act, and our efforts along with other organizations to raise public awareness of the need for, and the many benefits that flow from this longstanding maritime policy.” He added, “We need to … find new cargoes for U.S.-flag vessels in the international and coastwise trades. More cargo means more ships, and more ships mean more good-paying maritime jobs…. The export of oil and natural gas give us such an opportunity. We need better enforcement of existing cargo preference requirements, especially for the Food Aid shipments…. We also need to look creatively at how best to recapitalize our nation’s Ready Reserve Force, Military Sealift Command (MSC), and Maritime Security Program fleets.” Buzby, formerly the commanding officer of MSC, reviewed the statutory mission of the Maritime Administration (MARAD), which is part of the Transportation Department. That mandate “is to foster, promote, and develop the maritime industry of the United States to meet the nation’s economic and security needs,” he said. “Congress long ago recognized that it is necessary for national defense, and development of domestic and foreign commerce, that we have a U.S. Merchant Marine capable of serving in times of war or national emergency, and composed of the best-equipped, safest, and most suitable types of vessels, constructed in the U.S., and crewed by trained and efficient citizen mariners.” He continued, “Unfortunately, over the last few decades, the U.S. maritime industry has suffered losses as companies, ships, and jobs moved overseas. MARAD will continue to leverage, as appropriate, the current mainstays of the merchant marine: the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, and cargo preference…. The U.S. military, the most powerful military in the world, relies on U.S.-flag vessels crewed by U.S. civilian mariners, operating from strategic ports, and using intermodal systems to ensure delivery of vital supplies and equipment to service members and their families stationed overseas. This transportation partnership between the U.S. military and the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine has been proven as reliable, enabling, and cost-effective to meeting sealift requirements.” Turning to cabotage, Buzby stated, “Coastwise trade laws promote a strong and vibrant U.S. domestic maritime industry, which helps the United States maintain its expertise in shipbuilding and maritime transportation. The Jones Act also ensures that vessels navigating on a daily basis among and between U.S. coastal ports and vulnerable inland waterways are operating with U.S. documentation and crew rather than under a foreign flag with foreign crew.” Nadeau said, “A healthy maritime industry is vital to the nation’s economic prosperity and national security. It is also dynamic and continually evolving to meet stakeholder demand.” AMP Chairman Woodruff praised U.S. mariners for their effective responses to last year’s hurricanes that struck the mainland, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. “In many cases, the men and women of our industry put aside the need to address damage to their own homes in order to help their fellow Americans because they knew the cargo they carried represented a lifeline to impacted areas,” Woodruff said. Specifically addressing the Puerto Rico relief effort, he added, “As you all know, the original narrative was that the Jones Act was impairing the recovery effort, a narrative that was proven to be patently false. Thanks to your hearing last October, public statements, and other factors, the story quickly changed and the truth came out. In reality, the Jones Act fleet was steadily delivering containers to the island, which, unfortunately, were stacking up on the terminals due to road closures and other inland infrastructure issues that resulted from the hurricane. Today, we can say without equivocation Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-California) Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) that the Jones Act fleet was and continues to be a major part of the recovery effort.” Woodruff concluded his prepared statement by citing the numerous security benefits directly stemming from the Jones Act: “If your concern is national security, the Jones Act contributes to it, whether by helping maintain the shipyard industrial base that is vital to national security, providing a pool of mariners who have demonstrated through the ages that they will go into harm’s way to support America’s interests and defense, or through using commercial vessels for military cargoes. If you worry about homeland security, you can sleep better knowing that the vessels plying our inland waters, often carrying dangerous cargoes, are manned by security-screened Americans, who care about keeping your home safe and secure, because they are your neighbors. If you care about economic security, you are glad to know that the vessels that keep vital goods moving between American cities and energy flowing will not disappear overnight because of a decision by a foreign power. You know the industry provides well-paying, family wage jobs that allow Americans to climb the ladder of economic security. You know that we cannot have energy independence or dominance if we have to depend on foreign interests to get our domestic energy out of the ground and to its markets in America.” Ebeling said the U.S.-flag fleet “has been at a crossroads in recent years.” He reiterated the industry’s confidence in Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao, Transportation Command Commanding Officer Gen. Darren McDew, and Maritime Administrator Buzby. He then detailed the effectiveness and importance of the MSP, cargo preference laws and a fully functioning Ex-Im Bank. “Smart and effective management by the U.S. Maritime Administration, and full cooperation of the shipper agencies such as the Department of Defense, Export-Import Bank, USAID, and other government shipping agencies is critically important to the U.S. international fleet, and to the survival of the U.S. Merchant Marine, which provides the loyal, competent, well-trained mariners for our ves- Mark Buzby Maritime Administrator Bill Van Loo MEBA Secretary-Treasurer Eric Ebeling President/CEO, ARC sels,” Ebeling said. “It is a rather simple equation. Without cargo, carriers will not invest in ships, and without ships, there will not be jobs for merchant mariners. Without those merchant mariners, the government-owned reserve fleet cannot be crewed.” Smith of OMSA said his organization “is a strong supporter of the Jones Act. This act has proven time and again to promote U.S. national, homeland, and economic security.” Paxton, head of the shipbuilder coalition, said of the Jones Act, “This policy, which is provided at no cost to the U.S. government, helps to maintain a merchant marine that is sufficient to carry our domestic waterborne commerce and also ensures that there is sufficient U.S. capacity to serve as a naval and military auxiliary in time of war or national emergency.” He offered several illustrations of how some foreign countries subsidize their shipyards – a fact that shouldn’t be overlooked when calculating the costs of American-built vessels. “U.S. shipyards do not compete on a level playing field in the worldwide market,” he observed. “For example, last year South Korea’s government injected $2.6 billion into one of their most prominent shipyards in order to keep the yard from going bankrupt. China’s government subsidies are extremely difficult to detect and measure, partly because international trade agreements prohibit direct and indirect subsidies. However, we know that there is a certain extent of market manipulation based on international news reports and recent studies. “On top of [a] scrapping incentive, the Chinese government offers more overt support for its shipyard industry through cash infusions,” he added. “One such shipyard, Rongsheng, received state subsidies of up to $202 million per year from 2010 to 2012.” Van Loo pointed to the U.S. Merchant Marine’s centuries-long history of supporting the nation in peace and war. Like other panelists, he also said America has reached a dangerous point for its U.S.-flag fleet and the men and women who crew the vessels. “We continue the patriotic tradition of American mariners serving since the founding of our nation – we remain willing to sail into harm’s way in order to support and supply our military overseas,” Van Loo said. “A strong U.S.-flag fleet and the corresponding base of American merchant mariners is imperative to securing America’s economic and national security. Unfortunately, the pool of licensed and unlicensed mariners has shrunk to a critical level. Without governmental action, the military will no longer be able to rely on the allvolunteer U.S. Merchant Marine as our nation’s fourth arm of defense…. The commercial sealift capacity and its pool of highly trained and experienced mariners is reaching a diminished point of no return.” He then spelled out numerous steps that can be taken to rectify the problems, and pledged the ongoing cooperation of maritime labor. During question-and-answer periods, other subcommittee members expressed strong support for the Jones Act and the industry as a whole including Reps. Garret Graves (R-Louisiana), Randy Weber (R-Texas), Rick Larsen (D-Washington) and Alan Lowenthal (D-California). February 2018 Seafarers LOG 3 �El Faro Investigation Concludes After 26 Months The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) on Dec. 12 conducted an all-day meeting in the nation’s capital that marked the end of its 26-month investigation of the El Faro sinking. While the board cited numerous factors in the October 2015 tragedy – an incident that claimed the lives of 33 mariners, including 17 SIU members – they primarily pointed to the vessel master’s “failure to avoid sailing into a hurricane despite numerous opportunities to route a course away from hazardous weather,” the NTSB said in a news release. However, NTSB Chairman Robert Sumwalt stated, “The El Faro didn’t have to sail into Hurricane Joaquin, and having met the hurricane, didn’t have to sink. The captain’s decisions were important, but there’s also more to this accident.” He added, “We may never understand why the captain failed to heed his crew’s concerns about sailing into the path of a hurricane, or why he refused to chart a safer course away from such dangerous weather. But we know all too well the devastating consequences of those decisions.” Based on the findings of the investigation, the NTSB made 29 recommendations to the U.S. Coast Guard, two to the Federal Communications Commission, one to the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration, nine to the International Association of Classification Societies, one to the American Bureau of Shipping, one to Furuno Electric Company and 10 to vessel operator Tote Services. Many are consistent with conclusions from related report (issued in October 2017) by the Coast Guard’s Marine Board of Investigation. NTSB Chairman Robert L. Sumwalt speaks during an El Faro investigation press briefing on Dec. 12, 2017. (Photo courtesy NTSB) The NTSB recommendations include: n Revise regulations to increase the minimum required propulsion and critical athwartships machinery angles of inclination. Concurrently, requirements for lifeboat launching angles should be increased above new machinery angles to provide a margin of safety for abandoning ship after machinery failure. n Propose to the International Mari- time Organization (IMO) that all watertight access doors and access hatch covers normally closed at sea be provided with open/close indicators both on the bridge and locally. n Require that vessels in ocean service (500 gross tons or more) be equipped with properly operating meteorological instruments, including functioning barometers, barographs, and anemometers. Tacoma, Washington n Require that all personnel employed on vessels in coastal, Great Lakes, and ocean service be provided with a personal locator beacon to enhance their chances of survival. Tote Services released a statement on the NTSB’s findings that read, “We as a company intend to learn everything possible from this accident and the resulting investigations to prevent anything similar from occurring in the future. Tote also remains focused, as we have from the start, on caring for the families of those we lost and working daily ashore and at sea to safeguard the lives of mariners.” The complete accident report is expected to be available in the near future. The executive summary, including the findings, probable cause and safety recommendations is available online. Additional information related to this investigation, including news releases, photographs, videos, and a link to the accident docket containing more than 30,000 pages of factual material, is available on the El Faro accident investigation web page. The 790-foot cargo vessel El Faro, en route from Jacksonville, Florida, to San Juan, Puerto Rico, sank Oct. 1, 2015, in the Atlantic Ocean during Hurricane Joaquin. As outlined in the report, when the ship departed, the vessel had a range of navigational tools that would have allowed it to steer clear of the storm, which would eventually strengthen into a Category 4 hurricane. According to the NTSB, the captain ignored suggestions from the bridge, and used outdated weather forecasts in ordering a course that failed to avoid the path of the hurricane, which pounded the ship with 35-foot seas and 100-mph winds. Oakland, California Benefits Conferences Conclude At Nine SIU Halls Around Country Pictured at the hall in Wilmington, California, are (from left) SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel, SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone and Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen. The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) in midDecember finished a series of informational conferences that began last summer and took place at a total of nine SIU halls. The three most recent gatherings occurred Dec. 11-13 at (in order) the halls in Tacoma, Washington; Wilmington, California; and Oakland, California. Prior conferences happened at the halls in Piney Point, Maryland; Jacksonville, Florida; Houston; New Orleans; Norfolk, Virginia; and Jersey City, New Jersey. The meetings offered wide-ranging benefits information to SIU members, retirees and their families, plus union employees, many of whom are pictured here. Seafarers Plans Benefits Director Teresa Zelko (right in photo directly above) and Cigna Representative Melissa Smith (second from right) assist attendees in Tacoma, Washington. The photo at left shows some of the SIU members, retirees and family members who turned out for the conference in Wilmington, California 4 Seafarers LOG February 2018 �Congressman Scalise Receives Maritime Honor A longtime backer of the U.S. maritime industry recently received prestigious recognition from a major coalition. U.S. Rep. Steve Scalise (R-Louisiana) on Dec. 12 accepted the “Champion of Maritime” award from the American Maritime Partnership (AMP) during a brief ceremony in the nation’s capital. AMP’s member organizations, including the SIU, represent all facets of the domestic maritime industry. In announcing the award, AMP cited Scalise’s “extraordinary support and dedication to the American maritime industry.” “Each year, AMP presents the Champion of Maritime Award to a Member of Congress who has demonstrated exceptional support for the hard-working men and women of the American maritime industry,” the coalition said in a news release. “Rep. Scalise is a longstanding champion of the Jones Act and recognizes not only the critical contribution that the American maritime industry makes to Louisiana by providing thousands of family-wage jobs in the state, but also the critical importance of this industry to the nation’s economic, national, and homeland security interests.” Scalise stated, “I’m honored to receive the Champion of Maritime Award. The maritime industry is vital to Louisiana’s economy, creating more than 50,000 jobs for hard- A close-up view of the Champion of Maritime award USNS Yuma’s SIU Crew Rescues 7 SIU members sailing aboard the Military Sealift Command (MSC) vessel USNS Yuma put their skills to the test during a recent rescue at sea of some adrift pleasure boaters off the coast of Florida. Those stranded aboard the smaller boat had been without power for six hours, and were at the mercy of the sea, by the time their distress call was heard at 10 p.m. on October 29. The Yuma is an expeditionary fast transport vessel that is crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division. “Yuma was transiting from Gulfport, Mississippi, to Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story when we received a request from the U.S. Coast Guard to assist the 50-foot pleasure boat Good Ole Girl II, which had working Louisiana families, and contributing more than $11 billion annually into our state’s economy. Additionally, America’s maritime industry is not only responsible for creating and supporting hundreds of thousands of good-paying jobs across our country, it is also a critical component of America’s homeland security strategy. I have long been a strong advocate for the hard-working men and women in America’s maritime industry who work tirelessly to protect our waterways, and I’ll continue to fight every day to defend and uphold the Jones Act, which is vital to the national and economic security of our country.” “Congressman Scalise continues to be a tremendous champion for the domestic American maritime industry and truly understands our industry’s critical role to the vitality and security of our nation,” said Thomas Allegretti, who served as chairman of AMP through 2017. “Through his steadfast support for our domestic maritime industry that sustains nearly 500,000 jobs from coast to coast, it is our honor to award Congressman Scalise with our highest recognition – the Champion of Maritime Award – for his diligent dedication to our American maritime companies and American mariners.” Citing just one recent example of the congressman’s backing of the nation’s freight cabotage law, the coalition pointed out that earlier in 2017, “Rep. Scalise demonstrated his unwavering commitment when he defended the importance of the lawful interpretation of the Jones Act while U.S. Customs and Border Protection reviewed a flawed letter ruling.” In an op-ed from 2014 that he co-authored with U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-California), Scalise described robust domestic shipbuilding as well as the numerous, vital contributions made by the maritime industry to U.S. security. That piece continued, “This growth would not be possible without the Merchant Marine Act passed by Congress in 1920, commonly referred to as the Jones Act, which requires that vessels moving cargo between U.S. ports be owned by American companies, crewed by American mariners and built in American shipyards. The resulting benefits cannot be understated: More than 40,000 American-owned vessels built in American shipyards and crewed by American mariners move agricultural goods, petroleum, coal, natural gas, chemicals and other essential commodities safely and efficiently along our rivers and coastlines. The domestic maritime industry supports nearly 500,000 jobs and almost $100 billion in economic output.” lost power and was adrift in the heavy seas approximately 15 miles south of Key West, Florida,” said Capt. David Gommo, USNS Yuma’s master. “The boat was approximately 45 miles south of Yuma when the distress call was received.” There were no other Coast Guard or Navy vessels in the area when the distress call was picked up by the Yuma, so the ship, the Navy’s newest in its class, changed course to search for the adrift vessel. The seas were between 7-9 feet at the time of the search. “My biggest initial concern was that if we were going to perform a rescue at sea, I wanted to do it during daylight hours as I didn’t want the added complexity of performing a rescue at sea in the dark,” said Gommo. They eventually arrived on scene and performed a “skin-to-skin” maneuver with the Good Ole Girl II. Initially, attempts were made to tow the disabled vessel back to Florida, but the rough seas proved too much of a challenge, and the seven passengers of the pleasure vessel boarded the Yuma and left the smaller craft to drift. U.S. Rep. Steve Scalise (left) is introduced by Tom Allegretti, who served as chair of the American Maritime Partnership. The op-ed went on to point out, “The security importance of this law is equally, if not more important than the economic benefits. For decades, U.S. military leaders have supported the Jones Act because of its national and homeland security benefits…. The domestic maritime industry also protects America’s security interests within our own borders. Our connected system of waterways links the heart of our nation to our coasts. Without the Jones Act, vessels and crews from foreign nations could move freely on U.S. waters, creating a more porous border, increasing possible security threats and introducing vessels and mariners who do not adhere to U.S. standards into the bloodstream of our nation…. The Jones Act should be hailed as a commercial and a public policy success. It is the critical factor that ensures a vibrant domestic maritime sector, which in turn helps propel the American economy and protect vital U.S. national and homeland security interests.” The Good Ole Girl II has since washed up on the shores of Cuba, and the owner is in the process of retrieving the vessel. “The rescue of the passengers aboard Good Ole Girl II was an all-hands evolution. From maintaining the proper propulsion and navigational direction to line-handling, all of Yuma’s mariners were key to the rescue’s success,” said Gommo. The rescued boaters wrote a letter to Rear Adm. Dee Mewbourne, commander of MSC, to convey their thanks to the crew of the Yuma. As stated in the letter, “We want to express our deepest gratitude, honor, praise and respect to these heroes. We are forever indebted to them. Everyone demonstrated the highest quality of care and generosity while aboard Yuma.... Yuma is an incredible vessel, but it is the captain and crew which make her extraordinary to us.” Mewbourne likewise expressed his thanks to the crew of the Yuma, in a letter which congratulated them on a job well done. The rescued boaters pose for a photo with the crew of the USNS Yuma. (Photo courtesy USNS Yuma) February 2018 Seafarers LOG 5 �SIU-Crewed USS Cable Completes Upgrade The Seafarers-crewed submarine tender USS Frank Cable transits the Pacific Ocean in late December. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Randall W. Ramaswamy) The Seafarers-crewed submarine tender USS Frank Cable is headed back to its home port at Naval Base Guam, following a lengthy shipyard period. Members of the SIU Government Services Division sail aboard the Cable, which departed the Vigor Industrial shipyard in Portland, Oregon, Dec. 21 and arrived at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Jan. 2 en route to Guam. The ship carries a hybrid crew of civilian mariners and Navy sailors. According to the U.S. Navy, the Cable spent more than eight months in the shipyard, where “it went through a main reduction gear foundation repair and shafting, a collection holding tank replacement and received more than 600,000 pounds of renewed steel to enhance survivability and watertight resistance.” The improvements to the nearly 40-year-old ship cost $56 million. “The Navy and Military Sealift Command crew worked very hard during this shipyard period to maximize repairs and material conditions,” said MSC ship’s master Capt. Patrick Christian. “Now we are ready to rejoin the fleet and get back on our mission.” “MSC and what they bring is vital to our mission,” said Capt. Jeff Farah, the Cable’s commanding officer. “Our mission can take place in port, forward deployed, through fly-away teams, or on land. MSC gives us the flexibility to deploy at a moment’s notice.” During off-duty hours, the crew made appearances for Fleet Week and supported multiple organizations, including Meals on Wheels and Wreaths Across America. “Portland is a community that doesn’t typically have a large naval presence,” said Farah. “During our time there, not only did we have a chance to get involved in the community and volunteer, but we got to participate in the Portland Rose Festival.” Longtime Seafarer Walter Wise Shares Safety Tips SIU member Walter Wise isn’t sure what made him think of it, but when he realized he’d reached a significant safety milestone, he wanted to share some pointers. Wise joined the SIU in 1989 and sailed as a chief cook in the inland division on the Mississippi River until 2004. He shifted to the Great Lakes from 2004-2015 (sailing as second cook and chief cook), and then pivoted to the deep-sea division in 2016. Through it all – last September marked 28 years with the Seafarers – Wise has never had a lost-time injury. “I’m definitely not bragging or anything,” Wise said. “But I’m proud of going that long without a lost-time injury, and I also owe a lot to the SIU. If it weren’t for the union, I don’t know where I’d be. They’ve helped me to stay safe. I just thought about it the other day.” Wise, who most recently sailed as an ACU, said the training he has received at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland, played a big role in his milestone. He has completed numerous safety and upgrading courses at the school, dating back to 1996. “The school has improved and changed quite a bit over the years,” he observed. In addition to learning through upgrading, when it comes to safety, Wise says, “Pay attention to your supervisor, and keep your eyes open at all times for things that can cause you to have an accident. I’ve been in the galley for a long time (he previously sailed in the deck department), but you can get hurt there, too.” In summary, he said the key is “awareness. Just be aware of surroundings to stay safe.” Wise, 68, got started with the SIU after working for a fleet service while he lived in Illinois. He plans to sail for at least a few more years, and has a favorable view of the industry. “I’m enjoying sailing with the union,” he stated. “I recommend it to whoever I talk to on the beach.” SIU member Walter Wise 6 Seafarers LOG February 2018 �Alaska Tanker Company Reaches Safety Milestones Solidarity in Sunshine State The SIU was well-represented in mid-December at the Florida AFL-CIO convention in Orlando. Pictured from left are SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware, AFL-CIO Executive VP Tefere Gebre, and SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins. Ware was re-elected as a vice president at large of the state federation. For Seafarers-contracted Alaska Tanker Company (ATC), the start of the New Year also marked a noteworthy pair of safety milestones. In a written communication to the company’s employees in early January, ATC President and CEO Anil Mathur noted, “The men and women of Alaska Tanker Company have now completed 16 years and 22 million man-hours with only one lost-time injury: a fractured finger back in 2011. During this period, ATC has carried 1.4 billion barrels of crude oil and spilled less than 2.2 gallons of crude to sea (yes: we count every drop).” He continued, “This combination of long-term safety and environmental performance is unmatched in the oil tanker industry, worldwide. Yet, we in ATC do not see ourselves as extraordinary individuals. It’s always felt like a team of ordinary men and women, performing at an extraordinary level. The bedrock of our world class performance is the support we get from our external stakeholders, our operations integrity system, and our safety culture.” Mathur then described the multiple layers of that culture, which include training, teamwork, vessel integrity and much more. Additionally, and as usual when commenting on prior safety achievements, Mathur was quick to include the company’s shipboard unions when crediting others for contributing to ATC’s success. “ATC’s performance has been made possible with the support and encouragement of our external stakeholders,” he wrote. “We are profoundly grateful for this: The financial and technical support from our client, BP; our Owners: Keystone and OSG; our Unions: the SIU and the MEBA; our Suppliers; the citizen groups we work with (RCAC); and our main Regulators: the U.S. Coast Guard; the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation; Washington Department of Ecology; the office of California Oil Spill Prevention and Response. “It is our shipmates and shore staff that have delivered this amazing performance, one job at a time, one day at a time, during this 16-year stretch,” he concluded. “We work 24/7 in mind-numbing freezing cold, howling winds that chill our bones, interrupted sleep patterns, and with months away from our families, and yet our dedication to safety does not waiver. For my shipmates’ unrelenting passion for safety and unparalleled commitment, I am deeply grateful.” Spotlight on Mariner Health Facts About Urinary Tract Infections A urinary tract infection (UTI) is caused by microbes. These are organisms that cannot be seen by the human eye; you must use a microscope to see them. Most UTIs result from bacteria. Some can be caused by fungi and on rare occasions from viruses. A UTI can happen anywhere in the urinary tract. This includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. However, most urinary infections involve the urethra and bladder. UTI symptoms can include the following (for both men and women): burning sensation with urination; bloody urine; frequency and urgency of urination; cloudy urine with a strong odor; pelvic or rectal pain. Women have a much higher chance of getting a urinary tract infection than men do. Repeat infections are also very common. This is probably due to the fact that women have a shorter urethra, which allows bacteria quicker access to the bladder. Test can be done to check and see if you have a UTI. A routine urine test (called a clean catch) is usually done first. Next, a urine culture can be done to show if any bacteria are in the urine causing problems. Treatment is done with antibiotics that specifically kill the offending organism. Remember that you must take the whole prescription in order to kill the pathogen or you can build up a resistance to the prescribed antibiotic. If you do not finish the antibiotic, the organism can come back and cause more harm. It’s also important to drink lot of water, February 2018 which flushes the kidneys and the bladder. Your doctor may also prescribe a medication in order to soothe the pain and urgency of urination. There are many home remedies for UTIs. None can cure a urinary tract infection! Cranberry juice is good to drink because it does force fluids, but it will not treat the urinary infection. If a urinary infection is left untreated, it can progress up the ureters to the kidneys and cause many more problems such as sepsis. This is a life-threatening event. Risk factors for UTIs include: age (older adults are more likely to get an infection); reduced mobility and sitting for long periods of time; kidney stone history; previous UTIs; urinary tract obstructions or blockages, such as enlarged prostate, certain forms of cancer, and stones; prolonged use of urinary catheters; diabetes that is poorly controlled, There are many things to help in the prevention of UTIs, including: drink lots of water (6-8 glasses a day); not holding urine for a long time in the bladder; trying to manage urinary incontinence so meds are not needed to help fully empty the bladder. A urinary infection can cause pain, urgency, and a real headache. If you suspect that you have one, see your doctor or local health center for treatment as soon as possible. Catch the infection early, get antibiotic treatment as necessary, and you’ll be able to resume your daily activities quickly. Healthy Recipe Bourbon Chicken Servings: 20 8 pounds chicken thighs without skin, trimmed of fat ½ gallon warm water 1 cup brown sugar, packed 1 ¼ teaspoons granulated garlic ½ tablespoons kosher salt ½ tablespoon garlic pepper ¼ cup white vinegar ½ cup soy sauce, low sodium ½ cup ketchup ½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice, bottled ¼ cup garlic, minced ¼ cup Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons canola oil n Place the chicken in a tub large enough to hold them. n In a 5-gallon bucket, pour in the warm water and brown sugar along with all the dry ingredients. n Stir all ingredients. n Add all the rest of the ingredients to the warm-water mixture. n Mix until well-blended to make the marinade. n Pour ¾ of the marinade over the chicken. Save ¼ of the marinade to make sauce for later step. n Cover and refrigerate overnight. n Preheat grill to 350 degrees/medhigh. n Coat the grill with some of the canola oil each time you cook a batch of the chicken to help the chicken from sticking to the grill. n Grill the chicken on each side for about 2-3 minutes to get color on them. Chicken will be finished in the oven. n Place the marked chicken in 2” hotel pans. Each pan should have about 20 pieces arranged in 3 rows. n Make the bourbon sauce by heating the reserved marinade. Then thicken with a cornstarch slurry. n Put one cup of bourbon sauce in each pan. n Bake the chicken in a 350-degree oven for about 15-20 minutes until the internal temp is 165 degrees. Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 193 Calories; 6g Fat (26.2% calories from fat); 21g Protein; 14g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 86mg Cholesterol; 590mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain (Starch); 3 Lean Meat; ½ Vegetable; 0 Fruit; ½ Fat; 1 Other Carbohydrates. Provided by the Paul Hall Center’s Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship Seafarers LOG 7 �A-BOOK IN JERSEY – AB Alex Busby (left) receives his Aseniority book at the union hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. Port Agent Mark von Siegel is at right. WELCOME ASHORE IN NORFOLK – Port Agent Georg Kenny (right in both photos) congratulates AB Billy Ray Hanbury (photo above) and Lead Tankerman Michael Parks (photo at right) on their respective retirements. Hanbury most recently sailed on the Resolve, while Parks spent the bulk of his career sailing with Penn Maritime. At Sea and Ashore With the SIU FULL BOOK IN HOUSTON – Seafarer Charles Hanohano (hand raised, standing at right) takes the oath from Patrolman Joe Zavala as other SIU members look on. ABOARD ATB VISION – This photo was taken Nov. 19 at the Shell Terminal in Martinez, California. Pictured from left aboard the Crowley vessel are Port Agent Nick Marrone II, Second Mate Thomas Crawley, ABT Matthew Jenness and Recertified Steward Laura Deebach. FULL BOOK IN FLORIDA – Pumpman Jason Horn (left) receives his full book at the hall in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where he’s pictured with SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins. SALUTING JOHN PATRICK – The SIU in early December turned out in force for an event honoring the service of Texas AFL-CIO President John Patrick (third from right), who stepped down from his post in September. Pictured from left are Safety Director Kevin Sykes, Asst. VP Mike Russo, ITF Inspector Shwe Aung and his son, Ryan Tun Aung, Patrick, SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and Fr. Sinclair Oubre, who gave the invocation. (Fr. Sinclair is an SIU member.) ABOARD WILLIAM BUTTON – Recertified Bosun Gregory Jackson said Thanksgiving aboard the Crowley-operated William Button was a winner, thanks to the efforts of Recertified Steward Ernest Carlos, Chief Cook James Martin and SAs Porcia Johnson, Jamaal McKenzie, Apalogie Labrador and Jacob Casarez. FULL BOOKS IN PINEY POINT – SIU members recently picking up their respective full books at the union-affiliated school in southern Maryland include QMED Jeffery Thomas (photo at far left), Chief Cook William Moran (above, center), and Chief Cook Frederick Conroy (right in remaining photo, with Port Agent Pat Vandegrift). 8 Seafarers LOG February 2018 �At Sea and Ashore With the SIU BOOKS ISSUED IN OAKLAND – AB Richard Flores (center in photo at left with Port Agent Nick Marrone II, left, and Patrolman Adrian Fracccarolli) receives his B-seniority book at the hall, while FOWT Claude Letts (right in photo at right, with Safety Director Kathy Chester) picks up his A-book. ABOARD ATB GALVESTON – Pictured aboard the USS Transport vessel are (from left) ABs Arthur Patterson, Reny Arzu and Romeo Codillero and Recertified Steward Rene Fernando Guity. DIPLOMAS EARNED IN PINEY POINT – Two Paul Hall Center apprentices successfully tested for their respective high school diplomas late last year at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Earning the honors were Tristan Cordero (photo at right) and Bryan Velazquez (above). Bryan also got a celebratory cake. ABOARD USNS ALGOL – Recertified Bosun Ritche Acuman does preventive maintenance on the forward crane aboard the Ready Reserve Force ship, which is operated by Ocean Duchess, Inc. WELCOME ASHORE IN TACOMA – Recertified Steward Lincoln Pinn (left) picks up his first pension check, from Port Agent Joe Vincenzo. ABOARD SEABULK TRADER – Getting into the Thanksgiving spirit aboard the Seabulk Tankers vessel are Chief Cook Josh Lee, Chief Steward Marlon Brown, 1AE Douglas Sherman, Capt. Jonathan Nadaeu, OMU Carlos Flores, GSU Dagoberto Norales, CM David Jenkins, 3M Rexford Ryman, CE Luong Trinh, AB Jonathan Anderson, AB Andre Robinson and 3M Tamara Talley. WITH MARYLAND PILOTS – Port Agent Pat Vandegrift submitted this photo of Seafarers Adam Xenides and Kevin Kuhne, who are employed by the Association of Maryland Pilots. CHRISTMAS FEAST ABOARD MAERSK OHIO – The steward department went all out with a scrumptious, wide-ranging menu a few days early, since the ship was scheduled to arrive in port Dec. 25. Pictured from left in the group photo at the immediate left are Recertified Steward Kenneth “Andy” Hagan, AB Richard Sandiford, Recertified Bosun James Joyce, AB Michael Sherman, 3AE Bryan Higgins and Electrician Antoine Rainey. SA Elena Hoener stands by the tree in the photo at right. Rounding out the galley gang (but not pictured) was Chief Cook Kenneth Epps. Thanks to vessel master Capt. Christopher Kavanagh for the photos (and a copy of the menu). February 2018 Seafarers LOG 9 �Seafarers Celebrate Holidays at the Halls T he photos on Pages 10 and 11 were taken at various SIU halls during the winter holidays. In addition to the traditional gatherings, a special event organized by the union took place Dec. 22 in Puerto Rico for Seafarers and their families. SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey attended the get-together in Puerto Rico, where he expressed the union’s ongoing support of, and participation in recovery efforts that are continuing many months after Hurricane Maria devastated the island. In addition to sailing aboard Jones Act vessels that are carrying critical supplies to the territory, the SIU is co-sponsoring Operation Agua, a successful project through which portable water filters are being delivered to schools and residences. Baltimore Recertified Bosuns David James (left) and Rick James Port Agent John Hoskins, SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi Retiree Mike Kaminski, QEE Timothy Chestnut GVA Mohamad Khodeiri, Recertified Steward Kim Strate Wilmington From left: Patrolman Michael Bell, Port Agent Jeff Turkus, VP West Coast Nick Marrone, Safety Director Gordon Godel, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen U.S. Congressional candidate Sam Jammal (second from left) stops by with campaign manager Megan Smith (left). Also pictured are SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (right) and Port Agent Jeff Turkus. Jersey City 10 Seafarers LOG February 2018 �Puerto Rico SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (holding microphone) welcomes guests to the SIU-sponsored gathering for Seafarers, their families and retirees. February 2018 Port Agent Amancio Crespo (center) and guests Seafarers LOG 11 �What’s New for the 2018 Tax Filing Season Following are some of the changes that took effect in 2017 and 2018, along with provisions that remain in effect from 2016. Please check www.irs. gov before filing your return. Due date of return - File Form 1040 by April 17, 2018. Exemptions - The personal exemption and the dependency exemption is $4,050 for 2017. For tax year 2017, the phase-out is reinstated at the higher threshold of $261,500 for single individuals, $287,650 for heads of household, $313,800 for married filing joint, and $156,900 for married filing separately. For tax year 2018, the deduction for the personal exemption is reduced to zero. Standard Deductions – The standard deduction for married couples filing a joint return has increased to $12,700 for 2017. The standard deduction for single individuals and married couples filing separate returns has increased to $6,350 for 2017. The standard deduction for heads of household increased to $9,350 for 2017. The additional standard deduction for people who have reached age 65 (or who are blind) is $1,250 for married taxpayers or $1,550 for unmarried taxpayers. You can use the 2017 Standard Deduction Worksheet or see page 141 from Publication 17 which can be found on irs.gov to figure your standard deduction. For tax year 2018, the standard deduction is increased to $24,000 for married individuals filing a joint return, $10,000 for head of household filers and $12,000 for all other taxpayers. The additional standard deduction for the elderly and blind still applies. Itemized Deductions - For tax year 2017, the phase-out is reinstated at the higher threshold of $261,500 for single individuals, $287,650 for heads of household, $313,800 for married filling joint, and $156,900 for married filing separately. High-income taxpayers are also subject to limits on exemptions and deductions in 2017. The income threshold for the Pease and PEP (personal exemption phase-out) limitations is $313,800 of adjusted gross income (AGI) for joint filers and $261,500 for singles. The Pease limitation reduces the value of charitable contributions; mortgage interest; state, local, and property taxes; and miscellaneous itemized deductions. For 2017, this limitation is the lesser of 3% of AGI above the threshold up to 80% of the amount of the itemized deductions otherwise allowable. The PEP limitation reduces the total personal exemption by 2% for every $2,500 of income above the same income thresholds with no upper limitations. That means it’s possible for some taxpayers to completely phase-out of their personal exemptions. Medical Care Itemized Deduction Threshold - For tax years 2017 and 2018, for all taxpayers, unreimbursed medical expenses may be claimed as an itemized deduction to the extent they exceed 7.5% of adjusted gross income. 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 2017: n Credit of $6,318 if you have three or more qualifying children and you earn less than $48,340 ($53,930 if married filing jointly) n Credit of $5,616 if you have two qualifying children and you earn less than $45,007 ($50,597 if married filing jointly) n Credit of $3,400 if you have one qualifying child and you earn less than $39,617 ($45,207 if married filing jointly), or n Credit of $510 if you do not have a qualifying child and you earn less than $15,010 ($20,600 if married filing jointly) The maximum amount of investment income you can have and still get the credit has increased to $3,450 in 2017. For tax years beginning after 2015 – a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) is not valid for EIC purposes unless it was used on or before the due date of the return. New to 2017, you may be able to qualify for the EIC under the rules for taxpayers without a qualifying child if you have a qualifying child for the EIC who is claimed as a qualifying child by another taxpayer. Social Security and Medicare Taxes - The maximum amount of wages subject to the Social Security tax for 2017 is $127,200. There is no limit on the amount of wages subject to the Medicare tax. In 2017, 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. For 2018, the maximum amount of wages subject to Social Security tax is $128,400. Self-Employment Tax Rate and Deduction – The FICA portion of the self-employment tax is 12.4% in 2017. The Medicare portion of the SE tax is 2.9% not including the 0.9% additional tax on the amounts above the applicable thresholds as noted above. The SE tax rate for 2017 is 15.3%, and the deduction is equal to one-half of self-employment tax. Capital Gains and Losses - Continuing from 2012 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 2017, 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 – In 2017, the tax rate on long-term gains and qualified dividends is 20% for income that exceeds the 39.6% tax bracket threshold amount of: n $470,700 for married filing jointly and surviving spouses n $444,550 for head of household n $235,350 for married filing separately n $418,400 for single The rate goes down to 15% for lower tax brackets and then 0% for 10%15% tax brackets. In 2017, capital gain income will be subject to an additional 3.8% Medicare tax for income that exceeds the threshold amounts listed above. Medicare Tax on Investment Income – In 2017, 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: n $250,000 for married filing jointly and surviving spouses n $125,000 for married filing separately n $200,000 for all others Investment income reduced by deductions properly allocable to that in- 12 Seafarers LOG come 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 has increased to $13,570 per child with adjusted gross income phase out starting at $203,540. 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 2017 tax returns one or more adoptionrelated documents. Child Tax Credit - The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 extends the enhanced child tax credit of $1,000 maximum credit per child through the end of 2017. For 2017 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). Effective from 2016: Taxpayers cannot claim the Child Tax Credit for any tax year if the individual or a qualifying child did not have an individual TIN issued on or before the due date of the return for that tax year: For tax years beginning after 2015 – the Child Tax Credit is not allowed for (1) two tax years after a final determination or reckless or intentional disregard of rules and regulations or (2) 10 tax years after a final determination of fraud. If the Child Tax Credit is denied due to failure to supply required information to the IRS, no Child Tax Credit is allowed for any later tax year unless the taxpayer supplies the needed information. Child and Dependent Care Credit - For 2017, there is a credit equal to the amount of qualified expenses multiplied by an applicable percentage determined by the taxpayer’s adjusted gross income. The maximum amount of qualified expenses to which the credit may be applied is $3,000 for cost to care for one child under age of 13 or up to $6,000 for two or more children, so that 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 credit amount has not changed). The American Opportunity Tax Credit - For tax year 2017, the maximum credit amount can be up to $2,500, and up to 40% 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 $90,000 for Single, Head of Household, and Qualifying Widow(er) n $180,000 for Married Filing Joint Taxpayers cannot claim the American Opportunity Credit for any tax year if the individual or a student did not have a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) issued on or before the due date of the return for that tax year. For tax years beginning after 2015, the American Opportunity Credit is not allowed for (1) two tax years after a final determination of reckless or intentional disregard of rules and regulations or (2) 10 tax years after a final determination of fraud. If the American Opportunity Credit is denied due to failure to supply required information to the IRS, no American Opportunity Credit is allowed for any later tax year unless the taxpayer supplies the needed information. Taxpayers must report the Employer Identification Number (EIN) of the educational institution to which payments were made. Lifetime Learning Credit - For tax year 2017, 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 your Modified AGI exceeds $56,000 ($112,000 if married filing joint return) and is completely eliminated if your Modified AGI exceeds $66,000 ($132,000 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 – For 2017, the tuition and fees deduction has expired. If it is extended, you will not be able to take it if your filing status is married filing separately. Expanded Definition of Qualified Expenses for Qualified Tuition Programs - Qualified higher education expenses generally include tuition, fees, 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 Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015 extended the above-the-line 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. For tax years beginning after 2015 – Eligible expenses also include expenses for professional development courses the educator takes related to the curriculum he teaches or to the student he teaches. State & Local Sales Tax Deduction – You can elect to deduct state and local general sales taxes, instead of state and local income taxes, as an itemized deduction on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 5b. Individual Retirement Accounts: Education IRAs (Coverdell Education Savings Account) - Taxpayers can contribute a maximum of $2,000 cash each year to an Education IRA for a person under age 18. The dollar limit is phased out for married individuals filing jointly with modified adjusted gross income between $190,000 and $220,000, and between $95,000 and $110,000 for single filers. The contribution is not deductible. 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 Charitable contributions 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 1-888-872-9829 or 1-888-729-1040 or visit websites 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 76b, 76c and 76d on their Form 1040. Line 76b is for the bank’s routing number. Line 76c indicates the type of account, and line 76d 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 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 $4,050 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 2017 at $12,700. The standard deduction for single individuals and married couples filing separate returns also increased in 2017 at $6,350. The standard deduction for heads of household increased to $9,350 for 2017. Personal Interest Deductions: For 2017, personal interest cannot be deducted. Personal interest includes interest on car loans, credit cards, personal loans and tax deficiencies. Interest on Secured Loans Deductible: 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% of adjusted gross income. If they do, only the portion over the 2% 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% of Adjusted Gross Income: These include investment advisory fees, trustees’ 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: Travel to the union’s designated medical facility to take the required physical and drug tests are examples of expenses which are work-related but not reimbursed by the company. Members of the galley crew may deduct the costs of knives and other equipment they personally own but use when on a ship performing their work duties. The purchase of work-related clothing and other gear, as long as it is truly for work and not paid for by the employer, are likely to be considered tax-deductible. Deducting Work-Related Car Expenses: Use of a personally owned automobile in work-related travel can result in deductible expenses. Two methods can be used to compute automobile expenses—either listing a standard mileage rate or determining actual cost. On the tax return, due April 17 of this year, the IRS is accepting a standard mileage rate. The rate for 2017 is 53.5 cents. Parking fees and tolls can be added when using the standard mileage rate. If using actual expenses, information must be available on all 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 $63 a day ($68 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 ($1,250 for a married person or “spouse” or $1,550 for an unmarried person). Note that the personal exemption deduction is $4,050. Filing Status Standard Deduction Single and Married filing separate ...........................................................................$ 6,350 Married filing joint return or qualifying widow(er) with dependent children.........$12,700 Head of household......................................................................................................$ 9,350 February 2018 February 2018 for travel outside the continental United States) from January 1 through December 31, 2017. 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. 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 2017, 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 State income tax refunds Rents Repayments Royalties Unemployment benefits 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 n Social Security Benefits n n n n n n 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, 2018, 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 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. 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 taxpayerrelated services. At a minimum, IRS forms are available at all U.S. embassies and consulates located in: Berlin, Germany; Caracas, Venezuela; London, England; Mexico City, Mexico; Nassau, Bahamas; Ottawa, Canada; Paris, France; Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Rome, Italy; Sao Paulo, Brazil; Sydney, Australia; Tokyo, Japan. 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, intercostal, interstate or noncontiguous trade shall be withheld pursuant to the provisions of the tax laws of any state, territory, possession or commonwealth, or a subdivision of any of them, but nothing in this section shall prohibit any such withholding of the wages of any seaman who is employed in the coastwise trade between ports in the same state if such withholding is pursuant to a voluntary agreement between such seaman and his employer.” The law, however, does not exempt seamen from paying state and local taxes. Mariners, just like any other citizens of any given state, must meet their obligations to the government of the area in which they live. Each state has a set of criteria to determine whether an individual is a resident of that state. A seaman should check with a state tax office if he or she is unsure about residency status. For example, in California during the early 1970s, a case before the California State Board of Equalization stated that a merchant seaman—despite the fact that he was on a ship for 210 days of the year— was a resident of the state for tax purposes. The board took into consideration the fact that the seaman owned a home in California and maintained a bank account in a California-based bank. Additionally, each state has established conditions under which non-residents of that state must pay a portion of state tax if such an individual earned income from a source based in that state. Many states allow a credit in the amount an individual must pay the state if that person has already paid taxes in another state. In 2000, President Clinton signed into law the bipartisan Transportation Worker Tax Fairness Act, a measure aimed at providing “equitable treatment with respect to state and local income taxes for certain individuals who perform duties on vessels.” The law, which took effect Nov. 9, 2000, stipulates that pilots and other mariners “who perform regularly assigned duties while engaged as a master, officer or crewman on a vessel operating on the navigable waters of more than one State” shall be subject to state income tax only in his or her residential state. If any questions arise regarding residency and state tax issues, mariners should telephone the taxpayer assistance office in the state in which they reside. 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. 1-800-829-4477 is the IRS’s automated TeleTax 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 website 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 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 �Various Changes Greet Tax Filers During 2017 Season Continued from Page 12 Traditional IRAs - For 2017, the contribution limit to a traditional IRA is the lesser of $5,500 or your compensation. For taxpayers age 50 or older as of year-end, an additional catch-up contribution of up to $1,000 is allowed. Thus, the 2017 contribution limit for these taxpayers is the lesser of $6,500 or your compensation. For the deduction, the Modified Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) phase-out range in 2017 is $62,000-$72,000 for single and head of household, $99,000-$119,000 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 $5,500 (increased to $6,500 for taxpayers age 50 or older at year end) 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 $118,000 and $133,000, for joint filers and qualifying widow(er) with an AGI between $186,000 and $196,000, 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. Special Charitable Contributions for Certain IRA Owners - The Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act of 2015 permanently extends the Qualified Charitable Distributions. It offers older owners of IRAs a different way to give to charity. An IRA owner age 70 and one-half or older 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, donoradvised 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 2017, you may have to file Form 8938 with your return. In addition, a separate FBAR document must be e-filed by April 17, 2018 if the aggregate value of the foreign accounts exceeds $10,000 in any time during the calendar year. 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. Repayment is reported directly on Form 1040, line 60b. 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. This provision was extended for premiums paid or accrued before 2017. Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit – For property placed in service after December 31, 2016 and before January 1, 2022, the credit is available only for eligible solar electric property and solar water heating property. The credit is equal to 30 percent of the cost of eligible property placed in service in 2017, 2018 or 2019; 26 percent of the cost of the property placed in 2020; and 22 percent of the cost of property placed in service in 2021. Standard mileage rates - The standard mileage rate for 2017 is 53.5 cents per mile for business miles driven and was decreased to 17 cents per mile for medical or moving expenses. The rate for providing services for a charity is 14 Seafarers LOG set by statute and equals 14 cents per mile. Deduction for corrosive drywall – If you suffered property losses due to the effects of certain imported drywall installed in homes between 2001 and 2009, under a special procedure, 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. For details, see Pub. 547. Personal Casualty & Theft Loss – This loss remains unchanged from 2016. 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 2017, the maximum foreign earned income exclusion amount is $102,100. This amount is up $800 from tax year 2016. The Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) Exemption – AMT 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 2017, the alternative minimum tax exemption increases to the following levels: n $84,500 for married couples filing a joint return and qualifying widows and widowers, up from $83,800 in 2016. n $42,250 for married couples filing separately, up from $41,900. n $54,300 for singles and heads of household, up from $53,900. Health Care Coverage – In 2017, individuals must have health care coverage, to qualify for a health care coverage exemption or make shared responsibility payment with their tax return. Coverage Exemptions: An individual may be exempt from the requirement to maintain minimum essential coverage and thus will not have to make a shared responsibility payment if, for 2017, he or she: n Has no affordable coverage options because the minimum amount he must pay for the annual premiums is more than 8.16% of his household income; n Has a gap in coverage for less than three consecutive months or n Qualifies for an exemption for one of several other reasons, including having a hardship that prevents him from obtaining coverage, or belonging to a group explicitly exempt from the requirement. If the taxpayer, spouse or any of the dependents did not have minimum coverage for any month in 2017, a payment needs to be computed and reported on Form 1040, line 61. For 2017, the annual payment amount is the greater of: n 2.5% percent of the household income that is above the tax return filing threshold for taxpayer’s filing status, or n The family’s flat dollar amount, which is $695 per adult and $347.50 per child, limited to a family maximum of $2,085. Premium Tax Credit – Individuals with low to moderate income who get health coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace may be eligible for this refundable credit. Individuals who are eligible for PTC need to meet the following requirements: n Purchased coverage in the Marketplace for someone in their tax family (taxpayer, spouse, if married filing jointly and dependents for which a personal exemption is claimed) for a month that person was not eligible for minimum essential coverage (other than coverage in the individual market). n Have household income at least 100%, but no more than 400% of the federal poverty line for taxpayer’s family size. Exception: In some cases, taxpayers with household income less than 100% of the federal poverty line can take the credit. n If married, individuals must file a joint return. Note: Exceptions apply to victims of domestic abuse or spousal abandonment and to individuals who are considered unmarried. n Cannot be claimed as a dependent by another person. Health Coverage Tax Credit (HCTC) – The health care tax credit is a tax credit that pays a percentage of health insurance premiums for certain eligible taxpayers and their qualifying family members. The health coverage tax credit is a separate tax credit with different eligibility rules than the premium tax credit. Affordable Care Act – Several very important provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) that affect individuals and businesses first became effective in 2015. The Employer Shared Responsibility provision of the Affordable Care Act requires employers with 50 or more full-time equivalent employees to either offer minimum essential coverage that is “affordable” and that provides “minimum value” to their full-time employees and their dependents, or potentially make an employer shared responsibility payment to the IRS. Transit Benefits – The Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015 extended transit benefits. These include van pool benefits, transit passes and qualified parking. Beginning in 2017, the monthly exclusion amount will remain $255. Earned Income Credit and Additional Child Tax Credit – IRS Refund Claim – The IRS has additional time to review refund claims based on the Earned Income Credit or the refundable portion of the additional Child Tax Credit in order to reduce fraud and improper payments. No credit or refund for an overpayment shall be made to a taxpayer before February 15 following the close of the tax year, if the taxpayer claimed the Earned Income Credit or additional Child Tax Credit. Form 1098-T Required to Claim Certain Education Incentives – Taxpayers must receive a form 1098-T, Tuition Statement, from educational institutions to claim the American opportunity credit, the Lifetime Learning tax credit or the above the line deduction for qualified tuition and fees. Rollovers to SIMPLE IRAs – For rollover contributions made after December 18, 2015, distributions from employer sponsored retirement plans and traditional IRAs may be rolled over into a SIMPLE IRA, as long as the SIMPLE IRA has been open for at least two years. Extended Filing and Payment Deadline – Section 7503 states that filing and payment deadlines that fall on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday are timely satisfied if met on the next business day. April 15, 2018 is on Sunday, and the Emancipation Day holiday will be observed in the District of Columbia the following Monday. Therefore, most individuals will have until Tuesday, April 17, 2018 to file their 2017 Forms 1040. Tax Rates for 2017 – For 2017, there remains a 39.6% bracket (for single individuals at $418,400, head of household at $444,550, married filing jointly at $470,700 and married filing separately at $235,350). Trusts and estates will hit the 39.6% bracket at $12,500. The rate for capital gains and qualified dividends is 20% if the income is in excess of the threshold amount: n $418,400 for single individuals n $444,550 for heads of household n $470,700 for married filing joint n $235,350 for married filing separately Exclusion of Cancellation of Indebtedness on Principal Residence – Cancellation of indebtedness income is generally includible in income. However, income from cancellation of debt on a qualified principal residence, of up to $2 million, may be excludable. 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. Hurricane Relief - Qualified charitable contributions made before January 1, 2018, for relief efforts in the designated disaster areas for Hurricane Harvey, Irma or Maria are not subject to the phase out of itemized deductions. In addition, Congress is currently considering legislation that would provide additional tax relief for those affected by Hurricane Harvey, Irma, or Maria, and tax relief for those affected by other 2017 disasters, such as the California wildfires. n Casualty and Theft Losses - Disaster relief enacted for those impacted by Hurricane Harvey, Irma, or Maria includes a provision that modified the calculation of casualty and theft losses. n Earned Income Credit (EIC) and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) - Disaster relief enacted for those impacted by Hurricane Harvey, Irma, or Maria allows prior year earned income to be elected as 2017 earned income when figuring both the 2017 EIC and the 2017 ACTC. n Increased Standard Deduction - In addition to the annual increase due to inflation adjustments, your 2017 standard deduction is increased by any net disaster loss due to Hurricane Harvey, Irma, or Maria. To claim the increased standard deduction, you must file form 1040. See Pub. 976 for more information. Possible Legislation - Congress is currently considering legislation that would extend certain tax benefits that expired at the end of 2016 and that currently can’t be claimed on your 2017 tax return, such as: n The credit for nonbusiness energy property, n Parts of the credit for residential energy property, n The deduction for mortgage insurance premiums, n 7.5% of adjusted gross income threshold for deducting medical and dental expenses, n The credit for alternative fuel vehicle refueling property, and n The deduction for tuition and fees. To learn whether this legislation was enacted resulting in changes that affect your 2017 tax return, go to Recent Developments at IRS. gov/Pub17. Your Online Account – In order for you to access your online account, you must authenticate your identity. To securely log in to your federal tax account, go to IRS.gov/Account. View the amount you owe, review 18 months of payment history, access online payment options, and create or modify an online payment agreement. You can also access your tax records online. Mailing your return. If you live in Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, or West Virginia and you are mailing your return, you will need to mail it to a different address this year. See Pub. 17 for more information. 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 agencies 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 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 (1-877-4384338). 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 1-877-7774778. February 2018 �NMC Releases Reminders About USCG Email System Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea December 12, 2017 - January 15, 2018 The U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center issued the following notice in early January: Email Attachments Sent to the NMC Total Registered Port A All Groups B Total Shipped C A Registered on Beach All Groups B C Trip Reliefs A All Groups B C 0 1 1 7 0 2 0 3 5 5 0 2 2 3 1 0 0 5 0 2 39 0 3 0 11 0 8 1 14 20 17 0 6 16 4 2 1 2 13 0 11 129 34 2 6 36 3 19 18 104 64 75 6 25 36 21 6 2 10 56 4 59 586 14 2 5 15 2 3 5 24 24 18 4 4 23 8 4 1 7 17 5 16 201 2 3 0 6 0 8 3 21 18 5 0 10 12 5 1 1 0 8 0 8 111 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 3 0 2 14 2 0 1 4 0 0 3 5 11 5 0 1 6 4 2 1 0 4 0 5 54 2 1 5 12 0 1 20 34 38 21 4 8 21 18 4 1 2 36 2 24 254 3 0 6 10 0 2 5 13 24 11 1 8 16 7 2 6 6 7 2 13 142 0 1 0 7 0 1 2 4 2 0 0 1 6 1 0 1 0 5 0 2 33 Email is a critical way for mariners to communicate with the National Maritime Center (NMC). This notice is intended to advise our stakeholders of the following limitations in the Coast Guard’s email system regarding sending of emails with attachments to the NMC: n The system will not accept attachments larger than 10 MB. It is highly recommended that attachments larger than 8 MB be split into multiple emails. When sending multiple emails, please ensure the subject of each email indicates the order of the attachments. n The system will not accept compressed (ZIP) files, regardless of size. Emails that are larger than 10 MB or that include compressed files as attachments will not be delivered. Furthermore, neither the sender nor intended recipient will be notified of the delivery failure. We apologize for any inconvenience related to email submissions to the NMC. Questions should be addressed to the NMC call center via email to IASKNMC@uscg.mil, via Chat, or via phone at 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662). Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 19 4 6 20 0 11 8 61 44 46 4 14 19 20 11 2 6 30 1 32 358 7 3 2 9 2 7 3 14 16 8 5 2 10 4 5 1 7 9 4 10 128 2 3 1 5 0 5 1 9 17 3 1 5 7 4 0 1 0 6 0 5 75 Deck Department 2 3 2 2 6 0 14 12 3 1 13 5 5 2 37 7 26 11 26 9 2 4 6 2 17 14 13 2 6 4 2 1 4 3 32 7 0 2 23 11 239 102 Personals Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 0 1 1 8 0 3 10 17 21 14 5 8 11 8 3 1 1 18 0 10 140 2 0 7 7 0 2 2 9 16 8 1 6 8 3 3 3 2 3 2 9 93 2 0 0 5 0 1 0 4 3 0 1 1 5 0 0 0 0 4 0 1 27 Engine Department 0 1 0 0 1 5 6 5 0 1 5 0 8 2 12 4 12 18 9 4 2 0 4 5 11 6 6 4 1 2 2 1 1 2 10 5 0 1 14 5 104 71 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 4 1 2 15 2 11 12 15 20 9 1 4 14 13 3 5 3 8 5 19 166 1 0 1 2 2 0 2 3 8 3 1 3 10 2 1 2 2 4 0 9 56 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 6 3 0 1 2 4 2 0 0 0 2 1 3 28 Steward Department 1 0 0 1 3 1 2 1 0 0 7 1 9 1 12 2 12 7 11 1 1 0 6 2 9 12 11 3 3 0 7 4 2 1 11 1 1 0 10 8 118 46 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 8 1 0 1 1 0 5 5 8 9 3 1 1 8 6 1 1 1 0 0 11 63 6 1 3 20 4 11 19 28 35 15 1 8 23 28 3 1 4 22 7 36 275 3 0 0 4 2 1 4 11 18 3 3 5 10 6 1 2 3 4 0 11 91 0 0 0 1 0 3 0 8 3 0 1 2 4 4 0 0 0 2 1 2 31 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 0 0 0 0 1 2 2 2 2 0 0 0 3 0 0 1 1 0 3 18 14 0 0 4 1 1 5 15 22 16 1 0 26 10 0 1 2 12 0 18 148 8 0 3 6 0 2 6 6 43 10 1 1 40 10 0 1 0 11 0 25 173 Entry Department 0 2 1 0 0 1 1 2 0 0 1 1 0 3 1 7 1 9 1 11 0 0 1 0 0 13 1 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 10 0 0 4 14 15 76 2 2 2 4 1 2 4 5 22 4 1 0 5 3 0 1 0 13 0 11 82 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 3 2 0 0 2 1 0 1 0 3 0 1 17 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 6 5 4 0 0 0 3 0 0 1 6 0 5 33 17 0 1 10 2 1 8 25 34 30 2 1 40 15 1 1 2 22 0 32 244 14 5 5 10 0 5 9 29 88 23 1 2 71 18 1 0 0 23 0 56 360 GRAND TOTAL: 682 425 303 143 263 1,148 678 535 Attn: Tom Banks Congratulations and wishing you well in retirement. From Recertified Bosun Scott Heginbotham Searching for Interview Subject I am trying to locate Henry “Baghdad” Everhart/Eberhardt or anyone who might remember him. Baghdad lived in the Oakland area and worked the Merchant Marine in the 1970s. I would like to interview him for a documentary about actor Rick Cluchey. Contact me (Lance Duerfahrd) at laduerfahrd@ gmail.com February & March 2018 Membership Meetings Piney Point..................................Monday: February 5, March 5 Algonac..........................................Friday: February 9, March 9 Baltimore...................................Thursday: February 8, March 8 Guam.....................................Thursday: February 22, March 22 Honolulu....................................Friday: February 16, March 16 Houston....................................Monday: February 12, March 12 Jacksonville...............................Thursday: February 8, March 8 Joliet......................................Thursday: February 15, March 15 Mobile...............................Wednesday: February 14, March 14 New Orleans............................Tuesday: February 13, March 13 Jersey City..................................Tuesday: February 6, March 6 Norfolk......................................Thursday: February 8, March 8 Oakland.................................Thursday: February 15, March 15 Philadelphia...........................Wednesday: February 7, March 7 Port Everglades.....................Thursday: February 15, March 15 San Juan...................................Thursday: February 8, March 8 St. Louis....................................Friday: February 16, March 16 Tacoma......................................Friday: February 23, March 23 Wilmington.............*Tuesday: February 20, Monday: March 19 * Wilmington change due to Presidents’ Day Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m SPAD Works For You, Contribute to the Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD February 2018 476 295 Seafarers LOG 15 �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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by Seafarers in Piney Point, Maryland, at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Question: What was one of the most memorable voyages in your career, and what made it so memorable? Ryan Joseph Cushing Chief Steward When I started back in 1994, I was working as a waiter on an American Hawaii cruise ship, which was an incredible experience. More recently, I was working in Diego, and it was like cruise-ship living out there – except you get paid! Dionesio Monteclaro Jr. Oiler I work in the engine room, so most voyages go pretty smoothly for me. As long as the weather is good, and the sea is calm, any voyage can be a good one. Kareem Walters QMED One of my most memorable trips was on the European run on the Maersk Ohio. Seeing all the different ports, seeing all those bigger ships getting loaded with cargo at once is really something. And of course, visiting Germany, Belgium and Rotterdam, Holland, were really memorable places. Rotterdam was really nice. Joseph Hernandez Chief Cook As a second-phase trainee, I was working on the Liberty Grace during a Food for Peace mission to South Africa. The training I received on that trip proved invaluable to my career, and the whole experience was really special. Liberato Viray AB Working on board the LNG ships on the run to Indonesia, Japan and Korea was a really memorable time. Of course, those old LNG ships are all gone and replaced now, but I’ll always remember that run, and experiencing those different cultures and locations. Jim Romeo AB My most memorable trip was on the Sealand Consumer. We went to the Mediterranean, Italy, Turkey, and then on to the Caribbean. It was a really great way to see a lot of different parts of the world in a short time. I really enjoyed learning about the different cultures in those places. Pic From The Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 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 Stop 16 ½ Santurce, PR 00907-4601 (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 first ran in an August 1945 issue of the LOG. The original caption: “Specimen rope board is being explained to two admiring SIU men by Warren Wymon who made it for the New York hall. On display in New York on the recreation deck, the board contains such fancy creations as a wheel, anchor, propeller, splices, sizings, whippings and the more essential knots used aboard ship. Across the top of the board is the word “Seafarers” spelled out in fancy braid.” 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 February 2018 �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 FAISAL ABDO Brother Faisal Abdo, 67, signed on with the union in 2000. He worked as a member of both the deck and engine departments, initially sailing aboard the American Merlin. Brother Abdo upgraded on at the Piney Point school in 2003 before his last voyage aboard the Black Eagle. He makes his home in Lackawanna, New York. FABIAN AGUILAR Brother Fabian Aguilar, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1997. A member of the steward department, Brother Aguilar first sailed on the Independence. He last shipped on the Overseas Long Beach and makes his home in Bremerton, Washington. JOSEPH BOEVINK Brother Joseph Boevink, 65, first donned the SIU colors in 1975. Initially sailing on the Bradford Island, he worked as a member of the deck department. Brother Boevink upgraded on multiple occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. He most recently sailed aboard the Chilbar and resides in Aberdeen, Washington. BRUCE BUSSERT Brother Bruce Bussert, 68, signed on with the SIU in 1998. Initially sailing on the USNS Kayne, he worked as a deck department member. Brother Bussert upgraded his skills in 2010 at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. He most recently sailed aboard the Dewayne T. Williams before settling in Agana, Guam. WILFREDO CAIDOY Brother Wilfredo Caidoy, 65, joined the SIU 1989, first working aboard the Independence. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded in 2002 at the Piney Point school. Brother Caidoy’s last vessel was the Horizon Enterprise. He lives in Milpitas, California. DARRELL CAMP Brother Darrell Camp, 65, started shipping with Seafarers in 1974, initially working aboard the Ultramax. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Camp most recently February 2018 shipped on the Quality. He calls Bacliff, Texas, home. USNS Denebola before settling in Uniontown, Pennsylvania. LARRY CHILDRESS BILLY GIGANTE Brother Larry Childress, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1998, working aboard the Baldomero Lopez. A member of the deck department, he took advantage of the training opportunities at the Piney Point school and upgraded in both 2002 and 2003. Brother Childress most recently sailed on the ITB Barbara Kessel. He resides in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Brother Billy Gigante, 58, became a member of the SIU in 1980. Initially sailing aboard the Atlantic, he was a member of the steward department. Brother Gigante upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center before last shipping on the Safmarine Kuramo. He resides in Spring Hill, Florida. LEESTHER COLLINS Sister Leesther Collins, 65, joined the SIU in 2003, working aboard the Cape Douglas. She was a member of the steward department and upgraded on several occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Sister Collins most recently sailed on the Cape Domingo. She is a resident of Summerville, South Carolina. THOMAS CONWAY Brother Thomas Conway, 72, joined the union in 2003 and first sailed on the Regulus. A member of the engine department, he last worked aboard the USNS Seay. Brother Conway calls Las Cruces, New Mexico, home. MICHAEL CORREA Brother Michael Correa, 67, joined the SIU in 2009 and first sailed on the Washington Express. A member of the steward department, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Correa most recently shipped aboard the Maersk Atlanta and makes his home in Houston. JEROME DAVIS Brother Jerome Davis, 69, joined the union in 1981. He initially worked on the Santa Maria and was a member of the steward department. Brother Davis upgraded on multiple occasions before sailing on his final vessel, the Washington Express. He resides in Teaneck, New Jersey. JACQUELINE ELLSWORTH Sister Jacqueline Ellsworth, 65, started shipping with the Seafarers in 2003. Her first vessel was the Atlantic Guardian. A member of the steward department, Sister Ellsworth upgraded in 2004 and 2010 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. She most recently sailed aboard the the NMU, he most recently worked on the Alaskan Navigator. Brother Mokry lives in Chula Vista, California. LINCOLN PINN Brother Lincoln Pinn, 69, became a Seafarer in 1982 when he worked on the President Taylor. A member of the steward department, Brother Pinn upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school. His final vessel was the Horizon Tacoma and he calls Ellensburg, Washington, home. DAVID HAMILTON LONNIE PORCHEA Brother David Hamilton, 66, signed on with the SIU in 1979, working aboard the Del Sol. A member of the engine department, he took advantage of the training opportunities at the Piney Point school and upgraded on several occasions. He last sailed on the Green Bay before settling in Glendora, California. Brother Lonnie Porchea, 69, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1997, first working on the Integrity. The deck department member took advantage of the training opportunities at the Paul Hall Center and upgraded on multiple occasions. Brother Porchea last sailed aboard the Overseas Texas City before settling in Gresham, South Carolina. BILLY HANBURY Brother Billy Hanbury, 61, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1979. He initially sailed on the El Paso Arzew. Working as a member of the deck department, Brother Hanbury most recently sailed aboard the Resolve. He resides in Suffolk, Virginia. DOUGLAS HODGES Brother Douglas Hodges, 66, started shipping with the SIU in 1974, sailing aboard the Monticello. A member of the deck department, he upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Hodges last sailed on the Alliance Norfolk before settling in Jacksonville, Florida. JOE LOCKETTE Brother Joe Lockette, 65, joined the SIU in 2002, initially sailing aboard the Developer. He worked in the deck department, most recently aboard the Green Cove. Brother Lockette is a resident of Houston. JAMES MILLER Brother James Miller, 65, began his seafaring career in 1989, working aboard the American Condor. The deck department member upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 2001. Brother Miller last worked aboard the Noble Star. He makes his home in Napoleon, Ohio. WILLIAM MOKRY Brother William Mokry, 65, started sailing with the SIU in 2004, working aboard the Prince William Sound. A member of the deck department who formerly sailed with ROBERT GEORGE Brother Robert George, 63, signed on with the SIU in 1989, initially working for Dixie Carriers. He took advantage of the training opportunities at the Paul Hall Center and upgraded in both 2004 and 2016. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments and most recently worked for Penn Maritime before settling in Tucson, Arizona. CHARLES LOWE Brother Charles Lowe, 62, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1994, when he worked for Penn Maritime. He upgraded in 2003 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Lowe sailed in the deck department and remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He lives in Moss Point, Mississippi. JAMES MOORE OWEN RICHARDS Brother Owen Richards, 75, started shipping with the SIU in 1980. His first vessel was the Cove Sailor. Brother Richards upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center before working on his final vessel, the Great Republic. He sailed in all three departments and resides in Brooklynn, New York. FADEL SALEH Brother Fadel Saleh, 62, became an SIU member in 1975. A member of the deck department, he first sailed on the on the Galveston. Brother Saleh upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 2001 before sailing on his final vessel, the Midnight Sun. He makes his home in Tacoma, Washington. NORBERTO VERA Brother Norberto Vera, 72, first donned the SIU colors in 1988 when he worked on the Overseas Arctic. A member of the deck department, he upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Vera’s final vessel was the St Louis Express. He resides in Houston. INLAND GERALD BISHOP Brother Gerald Bishop, 63, began his career with the SIU in 1977. He first worked for Hvide Marine and was a member of the deck department. Brother Bishop upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. He last worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation and lives in Westminster, California. Brother James Moore, 66, joined the SIU in 1973 when he worked for Inland Tugs. A member of the deck department, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on several occasions. Brother Moore most recently shipped aboard the Liberty and makes his home in Orange, Texas. JOHN TANNER Brother John Tanner, 62, started shipping with the SIU in 1978, sailing with Steuart Transportation. A member of the engine department, he upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 1982. Brother Tanner last sailed with Piney Point Transportation before settling in Portsmouth, Virginia. GREAT LAKES SCOTT COBURN Brother Scott Coburn, 62, joined the SIU in 1981, working aboard the Richard J. Reiss. The deck department member upgraded on multiple occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Coburn last worked for Luedtke Engineering and resides in Bloomingdale, Michigan. TERRANCE DEMENTER Brother Terrance Dementer, 62, became an SIU member in 1977 when he worked for Quality Quarries Inc. A member of the deck department, he upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 1993. Brother Dementer concluded his career after working last with Upper Lakes Towing. He makes his home in Gladstone, Michigan. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA PERFECTO AMPER Pensioner Perfecto Amper, 90, passed away November 17. He joined the union in 1964 and first sailed aboard the Western Comet. Brother Amper was a member of the deck department. His final trip was aboard the Long Lines before he retired in 1995. He resided in Concord, California. ALLAN CAMPBELL Pensioner Allan Campbell, 80, died December 7. Brother Campbell joined the SIU in 1974 and worked as a member of the deck department. He first sailed on the Anchorage and last worked aboard the Integrity before retiring in 2002. He resided in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. JOHN CLARKE Pensioner John Clarke, 85, passed away December 8. His first trip to sea with the SIU was in 1953, when he sailed aboard the Royal Oak. A member of the steward department, he last sailed on the Overseas Valdez. Brother Clarke retired in 1994 and settled in Houston. CHARLES CLAUSEN Pensioner Charles Clausen, 71, died December 22. He signed on with the SIU in 1974, when he sailed on the McLean. Brother Clausen was a member of the engine department, last sailing on the Performance. He became a pensioner in 2009 and settled in Lexington Park, Maryland. HERBERT DAVIS Pensioner Herbert Davis, 62, passed away December 24. He joined the union in 1978, first sailing with Southern Ohio Towing. Brother Davis shipped as a member of the steward department. He last worked on the Atlantic Forest and became a pensioner in 2006. He was a resident of Hertford, North Carolina. ROBERTO ESCOBAR Pensioner Roberto Escobar, 75, died September 7. The steward department member’s first vessel was the Transeastern in 1961. Brother Escobar most recently sailed on the Carolina before going on pension in 1995. He resided in Carolina, Puerto Rico. ABDUL HASSAN Pensioner Abdul Hassan, 87, passed 18 Seafarers LOG away December 10. He joined the SIU in 1966, initially working aboard the East Point Victory. Brother Hassan was a steward department member and last sailed on the Sealand Value. He became a pensioner in 1995 and lived in Inverness, Florida. EDGEL LUZIER Pensioner Edgel Luzier, 93, died January 14. Brother Luzier worked as a deck department member and signed on with the SIU in 1951. His first vessel was the Yorkmar; his last, the Discovery. Brother Luzier began collecting his pension in 1993 and settled in Diana, West Virginia. WILLIE MANUEL Pensioner Willie Manuel, 68, passed away November 22. He began his seafaring career in 1967 when he worked aboard the Kyska. Brother Manuel sailed in the steward department. His final voyage was aboard the Liberty Wave before he retired in 1996. He resided in his home state of Alabama in the city of Mobile. DOMINGO MELANIO Pensioner Domingo Melanio, 86, died November 13. He began his seafaring career in 1969, working aboard an Overseas Carriers vessel. A member of the engine department, he last sailed on the Mariner before going on pension in 1997. Brother Melanio was a resident of Fremont, California PETER PATRICK Pensioner Peter Patrick, 88, passed away November 30. He began sailing with the SIU in 1951. One of his first trips to sea was aboard the Lafayette as a member of the steward department. He last worked as the port steward for Puerto Rico Marine before becoming a pensioner in 1986. Brother Patrick lived in Monroe Township, New Jersey. PETER SCHMITT Pensioner Peter Schmitt, 64, died November 8. He joined the union in 1985 and initially worked in the inland division, with Crowley Towing and Transportation. Brother Schmitt was a steward department member and last sailed on the Maersk Denver. He began collecting his pension in 2016 and lived in Paradise, California. JOHANNES SOREL Pensioner Johannes Sorel, 94, died December 18. Brother Sorel’s first trip to sea was in 1951, when he worked aboard the Fort Bridge. A deck department member, he most recently sailed on the Innovation and began collecting his pension in 1989. Brother Sorel made his home in Milton, Florida. ROBERT STEVENSON Pensioner Robert Stevenson, 68, passed away November 22. He joined the SIU in 1988 and worked as a member of the engine department. He first sailed with Bay Tankers and last worked aboard the Liberty Glory. He was a resident of New Orleans. OSWALD STOIBER Pensioner Oswald Stoiber, 76, died December 30. Working in the steward department, he initially sailed on the Independence in 1991. Brother Stoiber most recently worked aboard the Overseas Los Angeles before going on pension in 2013. He called Sonora, California, home. DONAL SWANNER Pensioner Donal Swanner, 81, passed away November 11. Brother Swanner joined the SIU in 1977 and worked as a member of the engine department. The Oklahoma native first worked for Western Towing and last sailed aboard the Paul Buck before retiring in 1999. He lived in Pasadena, Texas. RONALD WESTERFIELD Brother Ronald Westerfield, 58, died September 12. His first trip to sea was in 2005, when he worked aboard the Brenton Reef as an engine department member. Brother Westerfield was native to Pennsylvania and last shipped aboard the Constitution. He called St Louis home. GREAT LAKES DONALD GORDON Pensioner Donald Gordon, 89, passed away December 30. He joined the union in 1962, initially working for Great Lakes Towing. Brother Gordon also concluded his career with the same company when he retired in 1990. He lived in Kingsville, Ohio. JAMES SMITH Brother James Smith, 55, passed away December 9. He joined the SIU in 1987, first sailing aboard the Charles E Wilson. A deck department member, he last sailed aboard the Sam Laud before settling in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. passed away December 19. He became an SIU member in 1969 when he worked for Dixie Carriers. Brother Williams was a member of the deck department. He last sailed with Michigan Tankers before retiring in 1998. He called Bogalusa, Louisiana, home. PACIFIC MARINE INLAND RICHARD DIXON Pensioner Richard Dixon, 71, died December 11. He signed on with the SIU in 1965, working for Crescent Towing and Salvage. The deck department member continued to work for the same company until his retirement in 2013. Brother Dixon lived in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. WILLIAM FITZGERALD Pensioner William Fitzgerald, 74, passed away December 6. He joined the SIU in 1997, working as a member of the deck department. He began collecting pension in 2005, after sailing with Crowley Towing and Transportation for his entire SIU career. He was a resident of McDade, Texas. JOSEPH KLEIMANN Pensioner Joseph Kleimann, 90, died December 30. Working for G&H Towing, he became a member of the SIU in 1962. Brother Kleimann sailed as an engine department member, and remained with G&H Towing for the duration of his career. He lived in Galveston, Texas. STEPHEN OLSON Brother Stephen Olson, 49, passed away April 19. He signed on with the SIU in 1993, when he worked for G&H Towing. Brother Olson remained with the same company for the duration of his career and sailed as a member of the deck department. He resided in his home state of Texas in the city of Aransas Pass. VINCENT THOMPSON Pensioner Vincent Thompson, 73, died December 1. A member of the deck department, he first worked with Red Circle Transport in 1980. Brother Thompson last sailed with G&H Towing before becoming a pensioner in 2006. He lived in Pass Christian, Mississippi. JORGE BARAHONA Pensioner Jorge Barahona, 73, died January 12. Working in the steward department, he became an SIU member in 1968. Brother Barahona’s first vessel was the Andrew Jackson; his last, the Mahi Mahi. He became a pensioner in 2006 and settled in Las Vegas. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION THOMAS ITO Pensioner Thomas Ito, 82, passed away November 25. Brother Ito was born in Japan. He went on pension in 1990 and was a resident of Las Vegas. HARRIE NELSON Pensioner Harrie Nelson, 83, died November 17. Born in Georgia, Brother Nelson became a pensioner in 1989. He was a resident of Perth Amboy, New Jersey. Editor’s note: The following individuals, all former members of the National Maritime Union, have also passed away. Insufficient information was available in their respective personnel files to develop written accounts of their careers. Name Acosta, Diego Adams, Juan Aracri, Anthony Bradsher, Linwood Collins, Randolph Colon, Jesus Davis, Charles Fields, Otis Fitzpatrick, Julia Flowers, Rufus Franklin, Charles Jackman, Harold Joseph, Conrad Le Fave, Anne Kitchings, Willie Miller, Sidney Murphy Jr., Ernest Reyes, Damian Rivera, Jose Rivers, Nathan Romano, Nicholas Villegas, Rodrigo Age 86 78 84 94 93 92 91 88 85 91 90 93 81 101 95 90 90 91 91 85 89 88 DOD 12/26/2017 01/02/2018 12/17/2017 12/24/2017 12/07/2017 12/16/2017 12/12/2017 01/05/2018 11/14/2017 12/29/2017 12/20/2017 12/02/2017 12/18/2017 12/27/2017 12/26/2017 12/01/2017 11/21/2017 12/20/2017 12/14/2017 01/17/2018 10/11/2017 10/15/2017 CHARLES WILLIAMS Pensioner Charles Williams, 82, February 2018 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings USNS STOCKHAM (Crowley), October 29 – Chairman Fadhel Mohamed, Secretary Shanita Flachbart, Educational Director Randy Slue. Crew discussed old business including vacation pay as well as pay for transport to and from airport. Chairman reported new jobs due to Watsonclass contract award. Secretary reminded crew to check all documents before joining ship to ensure up-to-date physicals. Educational director encouraged members to take advantage of all upgrading courses by going to the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed engineer’s efforts to turn water back on and made resolution for better communication while at sea. Upon discussion, members were informed of compensation rate for the indefinite water restriction. Crew mentioned including compensation for any water restrictions in the next contract. Members expressed need for additional laundry facilities. Chairman reminded crew to close all watertight doors while at sea. SLNC GOODWILL (Chesapeake Crewing), October 31 – Chairman Bernardino Eda, Secretary Thomas Brooks, Deck Delegate Joran Hough, Engine Delegate Shawn Alexander, Steward Delegate Cody Herndon. Chairman discussed how to use member portal. He thanked steward department for good food, and encouraged crew to upgrade in Piney Point. Secretary thanked crew for cleanliness. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed SIU President Michael Sacco’s Seafarers LOG column on Jones Act and Puerto Rico. Next port: Diego Garcia. LIBERTY GLORY (Liberty Maritime), November 19 – Chairman Lionel Rivas, Secretary Gordon Major, Deck Delegate Lloyd Lindsey. New washing machine ordered. Chairman announced payoff and reminded departing crew to clean rooms and leave keys. Secretary said new linen will be distributed. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new galley equipment, sat phone and cleaning agents. Everyone was thanked for doing a good job. It was a good trip with no lost-time injuries. Crew reiterated need to always stay safe. MAERSK IDAHO (Maersk Line, Limited), November 25 – Chairman Ronald Mena, Secretary Alonzo Belcher, Educational Director Richard Huffman, Steward Delegate Marcus Logan. Crew discussed old business regarding requests for new refrigerator in the crew lounge. Chairman thanked mariners for a smooth voyage. Secretary reminded crew members to leave fresh linen for oncoming mariners before departing the vessel. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members discussed health and optical benefit plans. They were reminded to remove all belongings from rooms upon departure, allowing joining members to have space for their respective belongings. HORIZON KODIAK (Matson), November 29 – Chairman Christopher Pompel, Secretary Antoinette Amato, Educational Director Lon Maduro. Chairman discussed upcoming schedule including shipyard period. He reminded crew to keep current with dues and to make sure proper beneficiary information is on file. Educational Director advised members to upgrade at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall 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. Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for great meals and a job well done keeping up with ship cleanliness. Members expressed interest in purchasing disability insurance through the union and for relief positions no less than 60 days. Next port: Portland, Oregon. HORIZON PACIFIC (PASHA), December 1 – Chairman Daniel Ticer, Secretary Clifton Medley, Educational Director Thomas Flynn, Steward Delegate Mercurion Abuan. Crew discussed concerns with standby pay, frequency of physicals, crew lounge conditions and additional topics under old business. These concerns were later forwarded to Oakland patrolman. Chairman talked about Jones Act and Puerto Rico and referred to SIU President Michael Sacco’s related column in union newspaper. Educational director reminded members to take advantage of upgrading opportunities at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members mentioned lack of ventilation in crew lounge. Requests made for clock, fan and toaster oven. Crew suggested changing how contracts are negotiated. They extended wishes for happy holidays “to all our fellow Seafarers, family and friends.” Next port: Oakland, California. MICHIGAN (Maersk Line, Limited), December 10 – Chairman Gerald Alford, Secretary Gregory Keene, Educational Director Moses Mickens. Chairman spoke about the importance of union meetings and Aboard Dodge Island Aboard USNS Seay Seafarers aboard the USNS Seay gather for a photo after successfully installing a satellite drone (background). The vessel is operated by U.S. Marine Management. the attendance of all crew members. Crew was reminded to make sure Coast Guard certificates are up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members mentioned contact with company representative, in hopes of receiving a new microwave. Need for repaired dishwasher reported, as well as new mattresses and adaptors for TVs. MV JEAN ANNE (Tote), December 30 – Chairman Thomas Johnson, Secretary Ingra Maddox, Educational Director Joseph Letang, Deck Delegate Mohamed Saleh, Engine Delegate Servando Canales, Steward Delegate Mary Maddox. Chairman reported safe voyage. Educational Director reminded crew to apply for scholarships for themselves and to also encourage dependents to apply. He encouraged members to go to the Paul Hall Center to upgrade their skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew advised to read LOG and were instructed how to find it on the ship’s computer. Members were reminded of how to request exams via member portal. They reviewed new method of filling out overtime sheets. Crew requested physical exam requirement frequency be changed to once a year. Steward department thanked for a good job providing crew with great meals. SHBP Offers Eight Scholarships For Mariners, Family Members AB Darryl Nelson (front) and Third Mate Mike Mennella (rear left) are pictured on the Great Lakes Dredge and Dock vessel late last year in Florida. Thanks to Patrolman Adam Bucalo for the photo. February 2018 Eight scholarships totalling $132,000 are available to Seafarers and their dependents under the Seafarers Health and Benefit Plan’s 2018 Scholarship program. Three scholarships (one for $20,000 and two for $6,000) have been designated for ative Seafarers while five others have been set aside for dependents. Each of the dependents offerings will be for $20,000. To take advantage of these opportunities online, visit the SIU website, navigate to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan menu and select Scholarship Booklet (PDF). Although the booklet says 2016, all information is still current for the 2018 SHBP Scholarships. Seafarers LOG 19 �Letter to the Editor 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. Retired Recertified Bosun Thankful For SIU Experience I started my career as a merchant mariner in 1974, when I entered the Harry Lundeberg School as a trainee. Four years later, I upgraded to AB. I had a personal goal of continuing to hone my craft as a mariner. Part of my drive for career growth came from family members who were members of the Longshoremen. As I learned about their backgrounds, I also gained knowledge about the maritime industry and the AFL-CIO. That’s what led me to Piney Point. My career wasn’t only about advancement. I wanted to understand politics and everything that went into laws being enacted. That hunger was fed in 1993 when the SIU gave me the opportunity to be part of the bosun recertification program. Afterward, I was Cowans (left) participates in a rally for Doug Wilder (right) in Virginia in the late 1980s. Wilder became the nation’s first black governor in 1989. Cowans (center) trains in Piney Point in 1993. better equipped to share knowledge and insight aboard our ships. It was an honor to be in that position, and I was able to be a mentor for other mariners who came aboard the vessels. Educating them was my way of giving back to an industry that has been such a tremendous blessing to me and my family over the years. It’s part of the legacy I would like to leave as my career comes to a close. As I begin to transition into retirement, I want to continue being a strong supporter of the maritime industry. The next step for me is entry into the political arena. I’ve seen some positive changes in my home state of Alabama, where Doug Jones just won an election. I want to continue to be a voice promoting the Jones Act and other laws that will help to support all maritime workers, and help ensure equal opportunity and fairness. Finally, I will be working on a book to share with others about my career as a merchant mariner. Again, my goal is to make a positive impact and give back to an industry that has been very rewarding for me. I want to thank This recent photo of the Seafarers InTerry Cowans was ternational Union taken shortly after he for giving me the retired. opportunity to enjoy a great career and a secure retirement. I owe a lot to the union. Terry D. Cowans, Sr. Mobile, Alabama Cowans is pictured Aboard the ITB Groton in 2007 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 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 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 February 2018 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 FOWT March 10 May 5 April 6 June 1 Junior Engineer June 9 August 3 Title of Course Machinist April 28 June 16 May 18 July 6 Marine Refer Tech March 17 April 27 Pumpman May 19 July 7 May 25 July 13 Welding February 24 March 24 May 5 March 16 April 13 May 25 Start Date Date of Completion Gap Closing Courses Engine Room Resource Management March 10 March 16 Leadership and Managerial Skills March 17 March 23 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck March 10 May 5 April 6 June 1 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Students will be advised of dates once accepted. ARPA April 7 May 12 April 13 May 18 Bosun Recertification July 21 August 6 Crane Familiarization March 3 March 9 ECDIS April 7 April 13 Fast Rescue Boat June 16 June 22 GMDSS March 10 June 2 March 23 June 15 Lifeboat March 10 April 7 May 5 June 2 March 23 April 20 May 18 June 15 March 24 April 28 June 16 April 6 May 11 June 29 Radar Observer Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW April 7 June 2 May 4 June 29 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Ops March 24 June 9 April 20 July 6 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start February 5. Chief Steward April 21 June jgu8 Galley Operations April 21 May 18 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 March 3 March 17 March 9 March 23 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 February 24 March 10 March 2 March 16 Steward Recertification April 21 May 7 Serve Safe July 14 July 20 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training w/16hr FF March 24 March 30 Basic Training Revalidation March 9 March 9 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation March 10 March 16 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting March 3 March 9 Government Vessels February 24 March 31 March 2 April 6 Medical Care Provider February 24 April 21 March 2 April 27 Advanced Refer Containers June 2 June 15 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL April 7 April 13 BAPO April 7 June 2 May 4 June 29 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG March 10 March 16 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 # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. February 2018 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, or 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. 2/18 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #830 – The following Phase I apprentices (photo at right, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Nov. 3: Austen Amoroso, Tommy Romero Benton, Justin Bodnar, Jose Luis Borrero Rodriguez, Kevin Campfield Jr., Tyler Catron, Micah Champion, Carlos Colon De Jesus, Elhassene Elkori, Samuel Fanjoy, Devin Hoerr, Terkwon Knight, Ryan Manlapit, Myles Otis, Somitya Rana, Christopher Redding, Andy Salado, Gabriel Santa-Ramos, Nicolas Smith, Brian Wendler and Omaree Oshae Williams Welding & Metallurgy – Three upgraders honed their skills by completing this course Nov. 10. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Kenneth Cabrera, Elliot Duncan and Richard Lawson. Chris Raley, their instructor, is at the far right. FOWT – Seven individuals completed their requirements in this course Nov. 3. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ferdinand Malicay Cabanlit, Arsenio Jenkins, Tarrell Jones, Vincent Knight, Viliamu Milikini, Al Carnel Seay II and Kyle Savage. Class instructor John Wiegman III is at the far left. UA to AS-D – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Nov. 3: Eduardo Yesier Centeno-Rosario, Nestor Antonio Costas Lugo, Darla Ferranti, Kaila Foster, Madigan Angelica Gilligan, Mohsen Abdulshafiq Hassain, Frank McCracken, Joseph Parr, Edward Voskamp, Derek Willis and Mehdi Youssef. Thomas Truitt, their instructor, is at the far right. RFPNW – Seven Phase III apprentices finished their requirements in this course Nov. 6. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Arnold Dimaandal Baluyot, Jordan Bates, Hector Ulises Garibaldi, Macey Horne, Jared Nichols, Levon Prophet and Charles Turner Jr. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – The following upgraders (photo at right, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Nov. 27: Mohamed Mossad Abdelwahab GAD, Martin Allred, Maurice Backey, Sotero Sumalinog Berame Jr., Randall Craig, Henry Jimenez Crespo, Luddy Duffey, Sherrod Frazier, Victor Frazier, Harold Harding, Leola Johnson, Bonnie KropolinskyHinkle, Carl Pedersen, Luis Guillermo Ramos Rosa, Joel Ramos, Kaled Minasar Saleh, David Sexton, Nabil Mohamed Ali Sharif, Benjamin Sivells, Darryl Smith and Ivan Moises Vargas. Class instructors Joe Zienda and Mark Cates are at the far left and far right, respectively. 22 Seafarers LOG February 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Combined Basic & Advanced Firefighting – Thirteen upgraders improved their skills by completing this course Oct. 27. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Christopher Bean, Charles Borsellino Jr., Edward Mateo Galbis, Bobbie Gibbs, Devin Dangelo Gordon, James Kayser, Grayson Ross, Frank Sambula, Anthony Sanchez Villarrubia, Christopher Shivalier, Christopher Sykes, Brett Van Pelt and Antjuan Webb. Government Vessels (Upgraders and GAP) – The following individuals (photo above and the one immediately below, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Oct. 20: George Burton Jr., James Cherico, Michael Cruz, Ernest Frank III, Reynard Gibbs, Paula Blanca Gomez, Jack Gourgue, Brittany Harris, Joseph Huls, Ernest Latimore, Milan Marshall Hampton, Nina McFall, Anthony McAfee, Pedro Rodriguez, Anthony Sanchez Villarrubia, Insook Smith, Nakeya White and Rick Worthington. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Twelve upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Oct. 20: Sure Anitak, Roberto Avila, Christopher Bean, Steven Blair, Kenneth Cabrera, John Canson, James Crate, Kenneth Long, Clayton Lupton, James May, Julio Soriano and Ahmed Sultan. Basic Training Revalidation – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) finished their requirements in this course Oct.13: Nasser Saleh Ahmed, Saleh Abubakar Ahmed, Jared Charles Blavat, Michael Cruz, Nicole Donald, Ramadan Elsayed Edres, Edward Mateo Galbis, Paula Blanca Gomez, Mark Jones Jr., James Kayser, Brian Lunsford, Lon Oliver, Arnedo Barco Paredes Jr., Kevin Penrose, Cary Pratts, Dennis Salvatore Saggese, Neonito Salle Sodusta, Javier Oswaldo Wurttele and Ibrahim Mohamed Yahya. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Nineteen upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills when they finished this course Oct. 6. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Abdulghafor Nasr Ahmed, Bentley Arrundell, Charlito Aseberos, Chris Badouin, Eric Baynes, Ernest Bullock Jr., Nathan Elliott, Dominic Gilmartin, Derek Ivory, Ali Ahmed Matari, Kenneth McDaniel, Daniel Mensah, Abdul Hakeem Muhammad,Leonard Elad Soriano, Terry Taylor Jr., Armando Madriaga Vicente, Reginald Walker, Timmy Williams and Devin Zug. Class instructor Mark Cates is at the far right. Advanced Galley Operations – Four Seafarers who sail in the steward department improved their skills by finishing this course Nov. 3. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jorcell Rashad Davis, Ryan Marquez Gallano, Cynora Hunter and Marilou Dumlao Toledo. Their instructor, Bryan Owens, is at the far right. February 2018 Certified Chief Cook – Three steward department Seafarers recently graduated from modules in this course. Craig Wooten (photo directly above) finished Module 3 Oct. 6 while Stacy Fuller (left in photo at right) and John Jewell each completed Module 5 Nov. 3 Seafarers LOG 23 �FEBRUARY F E B R U A R Y2018 2014 V OVOLUME L U M E 7 680,o NO. N O2 . 2 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 22-23 Seafarers donated nearly $9,500 (photo at left) worth of gifts for military families. Carrying some of the toys (photo above) to the delivery truck are (from left) SA Ahmed Shamman, DEU Edmondo Monteclaro, SA Raul Ventanilla and Recertified Bosun Sanjay Gupta. In photo at right, SAs Marcelino Pabito (left) and Abdufatah Abdulla enthusiastically transport some of the goodies outside. ‘I Love the Way Our Union Gets Involved’ SIU Again Steps Up for Santa’s Castle; Military Families Benefit F rom a distance, it may seem as if the steady philanthropic outreach practiced by SIU members in the Pacific Northwest happens by rote. But even a brief series of conversations with those most closely involved in projects including Santa’s Castle quickly and powerfully illustrates joyful, thoughtful giving that makes a difference in people’s lives. Most recently, the SIU participated in Santa’s Castle for the eleventh straight year. The all-volunteer program is dedicated to providing Christmas gifts to U.S. military families (primarily E-4 and below) who are experiencing financial hardship. For the 2017 holiday season, Seafarers (including retirees, family members and union employees) teamed up to donate approximately $9,500 worth of toys through the hall in Tacoma, Wash- Port Agent Joe Vincenzo (left) chats with Seafarer Jozef Ignacak and the member’s daughter. ington. The haul included nearly 30 bicycles, dozens of drones and remotecontrolled helicopters and cars, American Girl dolls, musical instruments and much more. Recertified Steward Amanda Suncin stated, “Any time I can be a part of something so beautiful that makes such a difference, I want to be part of it. The military does so much for us, and we have so many blessings throughout our lives…. I just love the way that our union gets involved. To me, it’s an honor, and a lot of credit goes to Joe (Port Agent Joe Vincenzo, who spearheads the SIU’s participation).” QMED Elliott Duncan sounded similarly enthused. “It’s a really positive thing,” he said. “Everybody seems to enjoy donating and having a good time giving back. I’ve definitely enjoyed being a part of it. Paint Tacoma is another great program.” (The SIU also participates in Paint Tacoma Beautiful each summer. It’s a program through which area volunteers paint and repair dwellings for homeowners who are unable to do it themselves.) Shelly Hinzman is the president of Santa’s Castle, which is the formal name of both the program and the organization itself (it’s a private 501(c)(3)). She said, “The donation that we get from the Seafarers always blows us away. We are always so appreciative. Hinzman also enjoyed the annual luncheon during which the toys were moved from the hall to delivery trucks. The hall was packed with volunteers (and with good food). “I’ve been to three of those luncheons and the SIU always treats us so wonder- fully,” she noted. “It’s the highlight of our season to go visit them.” Hinzman said the overall program “went very well this year,” and benefited 925 military families (2,131 children). Anita Vargo also is familiar with the SIU. She’s the purchasing vice president for Santa’s Castle. “The Seafarers always start our year off for us,” she said. “The men and women who donate all the presents are amazing. They go way far beyond our expectations every year. The families are so appreciative, and we are blessed to be partners with you.” Vincenzo emphasized the specific desire to brighten the holidays for military personnel. He said the donations “make a difference in the lives of those who dedicate themselves in service to others. There is some fanfare that arises in connection with our annual toy drive and holiday luncheon, but that is not the story and doesn’t speak to why Seafarers step up every year bearing gifts.” He continued, “The story is the gift of giving itself, and knowing that in a small way and for a time, a soldier and his or her family’s life was made better around the holidays…. It brings out the best of who we are, and the good will that it generates is worth far more than the actual dollar amounts of all the toy drives that we have done to date.” Pictured from left are Santa’s Castle VP Anita Vargo, Santa’s Castle President Shelly Hinzma, Port Agent Joe Vincenzo, another Santa’s Castle volunteer, Admin. Asst. Brenda Flesner, Patrolman Warren Asp and Safety Director Ben Anderson. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 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 2018 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES HOUSE HEARING BACKS U.S. MARITIME STRONG BIPARTISAN SUPPORT EVIDENT FOR MERCHANT MARINE MARITIME’S PUERTO RICO RELIEF EFFORTS CONTINUE BLS DATA SHOWS INCREASE IN UNION MEMBERSHIP CONGRESSIONAL, MARITIME LEADERS EMPHASIZE BACKING OF JONES ACT, MSP, CARGO PREFERENCE EL FARO INVESTIGATION CONCLUDES AFTER 26 MONTHS BENEFITS CONFERENCES CONCLUDE AT NINE SIU HALLS AROUND COUNTRY CONGRESSMAN SCALISE RECEIVES MARITIME HONOR USNS YUMA’S SIU CREW RESCUES 7 SIU-CREWED USS CABLE COMPLETES UPGRADE LONGTIME SEAFARER WALTER WISE SHARES SAFETY TIPS ALASKA TANKER COMPANY REACHES SAFETY MILESTONES SEAFARERS CELEBRATES HOLIDAYS AT THE HALLS SIU AGAIN STEPS UP FOR SANTA’S CASTLE; MILITARY FAMILIES BENEFIT 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 02/01/2018 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. 80, No. 2 2018 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/31abacc9217a1d38ee4ffe1be991ee2d.pdf e8b169ce43c069b57dfee35a15cb1852 PDF Text Text JANUARY F E B R U2018 ARY 2014 V O L U MVOLUME E 7 6 o80,N NO. O . 12 Jones Act Tanker Delivered SIU members are sailing aboard the new Jones Act tanker American Pride (above), which was delivered by Philly Shipyard in late November. Constructed for American Petroleum Tankers and operated by Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning, the union-built vessel is 600 feet long and can carry 14.5 million gallons of crude oil or refined products. Page 3. SIU Continues Recovery Efforts The union hasn’t let up in its work to assist hurricane victims in Puerto Rico. One of the latest components of the recovery is named Operation Agua, a major project through which portable water purifiers are being distributed across the territory. Pictured below, the SIU-crewed USNS Brittin (operated by American Overseas Marine) arrives in Ponce, Puerto Rico, late last year with 53-foot generator trailers and other supplies. Page 8. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Teresa J. Cleveland) Oakland Hosts Traditional Thanksgiving Gathering The SIU hall in Oakland, California, once again hosted its renowned Thanksgiving feast two days before the holiday. Many speakers addressed the critical need to maintain the Jones Act – a law that’s vital to U.S. national, economic and homeland security. Pictured at the hall are (from left) SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone, U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) and SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona. Page 7. Maryland Governor Visits Piney Point Page 2 Remembering Bobby Selzer Page 4 SIU Year in Review Page 28 �Maryland Governor Visits PHC, Offers Congratulations on 50th Anniversary President’s Report Energized for New Year Any given year is bound to include its share of ups and downs, but 2017 in some ways seemed extreme. In particular, the series of hurricanes that tore through the Caribbean and parts of the southern U.S. mainland had meteorologists scrambling for the record books. And even as the year wound down, first responders in California were battling wildfires so severe they almost seemed like something from an over-the-top disaster movie. While the fatalities associated with those crises – not to mention the hundreds of billions of dollars in damages – are beyond sobering, it also has been heartening to not only read about, but also participate in relief efforts. I’m especially proud of how the SIU continues to step up with donations and deliveries for hurricane victims. Whether that involves monetary contributions to an online relief fund, donating badly needed items that we’ve collected at several different facilities, or sailing aboard ships that have helped lead the recovery operations in Michael Sacco Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, Seafarers once again have answered the call. So have our contracted vessel operators, despite unbelievably erroneous criticism of the Jones Act in the press and on social media. Unless you are brand new to this industry as of this month, you couldn’t have missed the fight over America’s freight cabotage law. It began last September and was still happening as 2017 drew to a close. The bottom line when it comes to the Jones Act is that the facts are firmly on our side. There’s a reason this law has enjoyed strong bipartisan support since it was enacted almost a century ago. Actually, there are many reasons, and they all point to U.S. national, economic and homeland security. I understand there are citizens who were fooled by all the shoddy reporting about the Jones Act and Puerto Rico, but for those who know better and helped spread the lies, shame on all of them. There were, of course, other SIU- and maritime-specific stories in 2017, many of them uplifting. Our entire industry got a boost with the confirmations of Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao and Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby. Brothers and sisters, we simply could not have two people who are more proven and capable and trustworthy going to bat for American-flag shipping and the U.S. Merchant Marine. I am also confident in Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta, following a meeting with him last month. He’s very interested in our industry and I believe that he, too, will be a strong ally. We’ve got our regular year-in-review story elsewhere in this edition, and I encourage all members to check it out. There was a lot of good news when it came to new tonnage and new contracts, not to mention several successful conventions and the 50th anniversary of our affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. But with that out of the way, I’m ready to charge into 2018. We’ve got a lot of work to do, promoting both the U.S. Merchant Marine and the labor movement. While it’s not great that we’re facing a manpower crisis, at least there is very high-level awareness of the issue. When the commanding officer of the U.S. Transportation Command is sounding the alarm about the number of civilian mariners available in times of crisis, it means we’ve got a real chance to make progress. Specifically on the union side, we’ve got strong leadership at the AFL-CIO following the reelections of President Rich Trumka, Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler and Executive Vice President Tefere Gebre. They all know what’s at stake and the challenges that lie ahead, but they also have my full confidence. Our causes couldn’t be more worthwhile. America needs a strong U.S. Merchant Marine, and any society is better off when workers have the benefits and protections of union representation. That’s why I’m excited about tackling our agenda in 2018. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 80 Number 1 o NO. 2 January 2018 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2018 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. 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 Maryland Governor Larry Hogan (R) visited the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) Dec. 4 in Piney Point, Maryland, to offer his congratulations on the facility’s realization of a significant milestone: 50 years of excellence in maritime training. The anniversary formally was celebrated Sept. 26 during the Seafarers International Union of North America’s 2017 Convention on the southern Maryland-based campus. (Hogan was unable to attend that event because of prior commitments.) After being introduced by SIU President Michael Sacco, the governor addressed the audience, which was comprised of SIU officials, rank-andfile Seafarers and apprentices during the union’s monthly membership meeting in the PHC’s John Fay Memorial Auditorium. “Thank you for giving me this opportunity to help you celebrate this incredible milestone,” Hogan said upon taking the podium. “For years now, the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education has been a national leader in offering the most U.S. Coast Guard courses of any maritime school in America.” After informing those present that they should all be proud of the achievements made by the school, its founders and officials over the years, the governor elaborated briefly on the PHC’s rich history. “This campus and the Paul Hall Center have undergone significant transformation over the years,” he said, “transitioning from a facility with no formal classrooms into the nation’s largest training facility for merchant seafarers. “Despite the change and incredible progress that has been made here over the decades, one thing has remained the same,” the governor said. “This stateof-the-art facility continues to provide world-class education and training to its thousands of students.” To drive home his point, the governor pointed out that the husband of his current deputy chief of staff (Jeannie Haddaway-Ricio, who was present) underwent his training at the PHC. Hogan said the many achievements of the PHC team over the years in large part are the direct result SIU President Michael Sacco (left) accepts a proclamation that formally lauds the Paul Hall Center’s 50th Anniversary from Maryland Governor Larry Hogan. Hogan made the presentation Dec. 4 during the union’s monthy membership meeting at the school’s Piney Point, Maryland based-campus. of the vision and dedication of the school’s early leaders, including Seafarers International Union Presidents Harry Lundeberg and Paul Hall. “We are so blessed that [the school is located] right here in Piney Point,” the governor concluded. “And thanks to your current leaders, the Paul Hall Center and the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship will continue to be a (source) of pride for Southern Maryland and the entire state for many generations to come.” At the conclusion of his remarks, Governor Hogan presented President Sacco with an official state proclamation which lauded the school’s accomplishments. His visit ended with a tour of some of the school’s facilities, including its state-of-the art simulators. Editor’s note: Visit the SIU Facebook page to see more photos from the governor’s visit. SIU-Contracted Companies Earn Environmental Safety Awards A number of SIU-contracted companies and their subsidiaries recently earned environmental safety recognition from the Chamber of Shipping of America (CSA). The awards were distributed Nov. 8 in Washington, D.C., during a dinner ceremony featuring remarks by U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California). Rear Adm. Linda Fagan of the U.S. Coast Guard participated in the event and congratulated the honorees. The CSA normally conducts two awards ceremonies per year: one in late spring or early summer, recognizing shipboard safety, and one near year’s end, for environmental safety. The organization itself represents U.S.-based companies that own, operate or charter oceangoing tank, container, or 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. Current members include companies that own or operate U.S.-flag or foreign-flag vessels. During the November gathering at the Ronald Reagan Building in the nation’s capital, CSA President Kathy J. Metcalf 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. Safe and environmentally responsible operations is a culture fully embraced by the maritime industry as a whole and as evidenced by the performances of the award recipients recognized tonight.” According to the association, the average num- ber of years operating without incident for vessels and tugs that received awards is 8.1. In alphabetical order, the Seafarers-contracted companies that were honored included Alaska Tanker Company; Crescent Towing; Crowley Maritime Corporation and several of its subsidiaries; E.N. Bisso & Son; General Dynamics-American Overseas Marine; Harley Marine; Keystone Shipping; Matson Navigation; Ocean Shipholdings and subsidiary Ocean Duchess; OSG Ship Management; Patriot Contract Services; Seabulk Tankers; Seabulk Towing; Tote Services; American RollOn/Roll-Off Carrier; Pasha Hawaii; and U.S. Shipping Corporation. U.S. Rep. John Garamendi congratulates honorees at the Chamber of Shipping of America event. (Photo by Barry Champagne) January 2018 �Philly Shipyard Delivers New Product Tanker SIU-Crewed American Pride Sailing in Jones Act Trade SIU members are sailing aboard another union-built ship. Two days before Thanksgiving, Philly Shipyard delivered the American Pride, a 50,000 dwt product tanker constructed for American Petroleum Tankers (APT), a subsidiary of Kinder Morgan, Inc. Delivered 10 days ahead of schedule, the ship is operated by Seafarers-contracted Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning. The delivery marked the 28th vessel built by Philly Shipyard (formerly known as Aker Philadelphia Shipyard, Inc.). According to the yard, the ship “is based on a proven Hyundai Mipo Dockyards design that also incorporates numerous fuel efficiency features, flexible cargo capability, and the latest regulatory requirements. The vessel has also received LNG Ready Level 1 approval from the American Bureau of Shipping. The 600-foot tanker has a carrying capacity of 14.5 million gallons of crude oil or refined products.” “We are proud to deliver the final product tanker in the four-ship series for American Petroleum Tankers that began with the promotion by Philly Shipyard of a new Jones Act shipping venture, Philly Tankers, over three years ago,” remarked Steinar Nerbovik, Philly Shipyard’s president and CEO. “As the American Pride leaves our dock, there is a piece of each and every one of us at the yard that leaves with her. We celebrate this achievement and wave farewell as she joins the other 27 Jones Act vessels built here in Philadelphia that are currently servicing America’s ports.” The shipyard has delivered 28 vessels in its 20-year history. Currently, the facility is in the process of constructing two 3,600 TEU containerships for Seafarerscontracted Matson Navigation Company, Inc. with planned deliveries in 2018 and 2019. In addition, the shipyard has entered into a letter of intent with SIU-contracted Tote Maritime for the construction and sale of up to four new, cost-efficient and environmentally friendly containerships for the Hawaii trade. The Jones Act requires that cargo moving between domestic ports is carried on ships that are crewed, built, flagged and owned American. Military and government leaders have hailed the law as vital to U.S. national, economic and homeland security. A detailed study by PricewaterhouseCoopers found that the Jones Act helps maintain around 500,000 American jobs while contributing billions of dollars to the economy each year. Last year, Gen. Darren McDew, commanding officer of the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM), told Congress, “There are several pieces of Matson Announces Start Of Construction on Two New ‘Kanaloa Class’ Vessels SIU-contracted Matson, Inc., recently announced the start of production on two new combination container and roll-on/roll-off (ConRo) vessels for their Hawaiian fleet. These new Jones Act vessels are scheduled for delivery in the fourth quarter of 2019 and second quarter of 2020, respectively. After a ceremony conducted Nov. 29 at General Dynamics NASSCO’s shipyard in San Diego, the construction work began, with the cutting of the first steel plates. The new vessels, which will be crewed by SIU members, will be called the “Kanaloa Class,” in honor of the ocean deity revered in the native Hawaiian culture. Additionally, each of the new vessels will be named after predecessor ships from the company’s 135-year history. The first vessel will be named Lurline, the sixth Matson vessel to carry that name, while the second vessel will be the fifth named Matsonia. “Construction of these new ships underscores Matson’s commitment to serve Hawaii with the largest, most reliable and environmentally friendly vessels for the long-term,” said Matson President Ron Forest. “The Kanaloa Class is designed specifically to meet Hawaii’s freight demands while reducing our environmental impact and improving our efficiency for decades to come.” The ships will be built on a 3,500 TEU vessel platform, which is 870 feet long, 114 feet wide (beam), with a deep draft of 38 feet and enclosed garage space for up to 800 vehicles or breakbulk cargo. In addition, the new vessels will have state-of-the-art green technology features, including a fuel-efficient hull design, environmentally safe double hull fuel tanks, fresh water ballast systems and dual-fuel engines, meaning that they will be able to operate at speeds up to 23 knots on either conventional fuel oils or liquefied natural gas (LNG) with some adaptation for LNG. General Dynamics NASSCO, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics is a leading U.S. shipyard constructing vessels for the U.S. military and for commercial operation in the Jones Act market. It is a union yard. The American Pride is a new addition to the SIU-crewed fleet. (Photo by John Curdy) U.S. law that are part of the industrial base and it’s not just one. The Jones Act is probably the anchor for it, but without the Jones Act, without the Maritime Security Program, without cargo preference, our maritime industry is in jeopardy and our ability [to] project forces is in jeopardy.” His predecessor at USTRANSCOM, Gen. Paul Selva (now the vice chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff), said in a 2015 address to the AFL-CIO’s Maritime Trades Department he is “committed to supporting the Jones Act. The Jones Act isn’t about a political statement and, to be honest, while it is an incredibly patriotic piece of legislation, my interest in it has nothing to do with patriotism. It has to do with coldhearted math. “The Jones Act trades … support the industry that allows this nation to be successful,” Selva continued. “If I run the numbers, it’s an easy call. There are … merchant sailors who operate on ships that participate in the Jones Act trade that have crewed and will crew Ready Reserve Force ships and surge-sealift ships. It’s easy for me to say the economics favor the Jones Act; national security favors the Jones Act; and my operational requirements demand access to the labor pool that is supported by the jobs that are provided by the Jones Act. Without the contribution that the Jones Act brings to support of our industry, there is a direct threat to national defense.” Adm. Buzby: Media Missed Story on Puerto Rico Sealift In a speech at the International Workboat Show late last year, U.S. Maritime Administrator Rear Adm. Mark Buzby (USN, Ret.) Mark Buzby U.S. Maritime Administrator took the mainstream media to task for its coverage of the Jones Act and the American maritime industry’s support for Puerto Rico. “Everyone in this room knows – or should know – how critical the Jones Act is to our economic strength and security. But this is a message with several moving parts that many people just don’t get,” he said. “The vital [relief] contribution of U.S.-flagged Jones Act shipping was obliterated by a barrage of false narratives and uninformed reporting.” Never a Shortage of Jones Act Tonnage After Hurricane Maria, at the same time that American shipping companies (most utilizing SIU crews) were making every effort to carry more goods to Puerto Rico, they were “falsely accused in the media of delaying the flow of relief supplies,” Buzby said. He asserted that despite frequent calls for Jones Act waivers to allow foreign ships to carry relief cargo, there was never a shortage of Jones Act tonnage. Also late last year, in an interview with Maritime Executive, Buzby expounded on the U.S. maritime industry’s effort to provide relief cargoes to the territory. “We literally built an iron mountain on the dock in Puerto Rico – there were 5,000 containers at one point awaiting truck transport to their final destinations,” he stated. During a speech at the Maritime Trades Department convention in October, Buzby also took the press to task for faulty reporting on how America’s freight cabotage law affected relief efforts in Puerto Rico. “The Jones Act has always been an easy target for people who, frankly, either don’t get it or are too lazy to get the facts right,” Buzby stated. “All these missions that our Jones Act carriers were performing (in Puerto Rico), that’s the real deal. They literally saved American lives along with thousands of others. The U.S. Merchant Marine delivered in this crisis. It did its job despite all the accusations and false narratives being thrown about in the media.” An artist’s rendering of the new class of Matson ships January 2018 Seafarers LOG 3 �Bobby Selzer is pictured in New York in 1980, when he worked as a patrolman. He’d become port agent in 1984. In this 2015 photo, Selzer (center) is flanked by AB Saleh Mothana (left) and then-Patrolman Mark von Siegel. Retired Port Agent Bobby Selzer Dies at 78 An iconic figure in SIU history passed away late last year. Retired Port Agent Bobby Selzer, 78, died Nov. 6 after fighting health problems for many months. The Brooklyn, New York, resident served the union for 56 years before calling it a career in late 2016. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez knew Selzer very well. “People remember him yelling all the time, but beneath that exterior, as you could tell from all of the Facebook posts after he died, he was a generous person who cared about the members,” Tellez stated. “Whatever it involved – whether it was money, or getting people into the school, or convincing someone to take an LNG job – he was always helping people. That was the real Bobby.” Tellez added that despite his long and very active career, Selzer shied away from publicity. For example, he rarely appeared in the union newspaper. “Because of changes in our society, a guy like him won’t come around again,” Tellez concluded. Selzer joined the union in 1960. In addition to sailing, the New York native later wore several hats, including working for the Seafarers LOG and as the creator and supervisor of an in-house print shop – but he is best remembered as the port agent in Brooklyn (and later in Jersey City, New Jersey). Selzer held the port agent post from 1984 until retirement. “Bobby was a true labor leader,” said SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi. “He only cared about the well-being of the membership and the union that he worked for. He taught me a lot about the history of the SIU and how to carry myself as a union official. I’ll always be grateful for all the knowledge he passed on to me. He will be missed.” SIU Assistant Vice President Nick Celona recalled that when he first went to the hall after completing the trainee program in 1977, “Bobby was at the counter. I introduced myself and he was very kind to me – professional, but always very kind. He explained everything to me. “Whenever I got off of a ship, he was always someone I could count on to take the time to ask how the trip was,” Celona continued. “He’d also encourage me to go back to Piney Point (home of the SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education). He was like a guardian angel in those early years, and he became my friend, my brother. Periodically, I would call him over the years to see how he was doing.” Current Jersey City Port Agent Mark von Siegel said, “Bobby was an old-school trade unionist, my mentor and teacher and a good friend to all of us. Bobby never had any children of his own, but all of us were his kids. He had the love and respect of countless SIU members, officials and retirees from across the country and all over the world. To this day, from time to time, all of us reminisce with admiration about Bobby and repeat some of his catchphrases like, “Look at my eyes,” “The house is covered,” and “Listen to your fat friend”. Anyone who knew him, knew that even though Bobby had a gruff exterior, he had a heart of gold. He would do anything in his power to help the membership. He was taught trade unionism by the very best and I feel very fortunate to have learned from him.” NY Waterway Crews Rescue Two Jumpers in Hudson River SIU members aboard NY Waterway ferries have put their training to the test recently, with two different crews rescuing men who jumped into the Hudson River during the month of November. On Nov. 3, Captain David Dort and his crew on the ferry Thomas Kean rescued a man from the Hudson off of Battery Park. The crew saw him jump from the seawall just north of the Brookfield Place/Battery Park City Ferry Terminal, and moved quickly to save him. Deckhands Gregorio Pages and Pietro Romano deployed a Jason’s Cradle, a rollup ladder which is dropped from the bow of the boat in rescue scenarios. The crew pulled the man aboard, and attended to him until arriving at the terminal, where they handed him over to New York Police and medical personnel. “The crew did an excellent job. They did what they were trained to do,” Dort said. “For us, this is all in a day’s work.” This most recent rescue was Dort’s second in the last two years. In July 2016, he spotted a man in the Hudson River near West 39th Street and led his crew in the successful rescue. Deckhand Pages also took part in that operation. 4 Seafarers LOG Meanwhile, less than three weeks after the Kean’s recent rescue, Captain Vincent Lombardi and his crew – Deckhands Edwin Laboy and Terrence Brown – aboard the Lautenberg rescued a man dangling from the Battery Park wall along the Hudson on Nov. 21. “I steered immediately in his direction – I knew it wasn’t some sort of stunt,” Lombardi said. “We were able to grab him right before he did let go, right before he [would have] hit the water.” Brown said he and Laboy rushed into action, preparing for a man-overboard situation. The ferry arrived just in time, as the crew retrieved the man from the seawall. Brown remarked on the value of the training he and the rest of the crew received at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. “The training we received, like the man-overboard drill, definitely helped,” he stated. “Even though we didn’t have to get the rescue equipment out, it definitely helped prepare us. But it was a good thing we got there when we did.” The crew calmed the man, who reportedly was having suicidal thoughts, before handing him over to the New York Police Department. NY Waterway crews have rescued more than 250 people in the last 31 years, including 143 people during the “Miracle on the Hudson” on January 15, 2009. Lombardi and Pages were both part of the rescue effort that day. Patriot Contract Services Marks Anniversary Editor’s note: Seafarers-contracted Patriot issued the following news release in November: Patriot Celebrates 20 Years of Excellence in Ship Management Patriot Contract Services, LLC is proud to announce the 20th anniversary of its operations as a completely U.S.-owned ship management company. During the past 20 years PCS and its affiliate American Ship Management, LLC have provided ship management and other maritime services to valued customers such as the Military Sealift Command (MSC), the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD), American President Lines (APL) and Schuyler Lines Navigation Company, while Patriot Maritime Compliance, LLC has provided expert regulatory guidance to both U.S. flag and international clients. We at Patriot pride ourselves on having an excellent track record in safety and operational reliability, as well as on meeting unique and challenging requirements posed by our customers’ business and the maritime environment. We would like to thank our affiliated unions, customers, advisors, suppliers, and both shoreside and seagoing employees, for the key roles they have all played in our success, and we look forward to continuing to provide exceptional service in the years to come. January 2018 �Crowley’s Newest LNG-Fueled ConRo Ship Launched VT Halter Marine has launched SIU-contracted Crowley Maritime Corp.’s second Commitment Class ship, Taíno, one of the world’s first combination container and roll-on/roll-off (ConRo) ships powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). In announcing the early December launch of the vessel in Pascagoula, Mississippi, Crowley hailed the event as marking the latest achievement in the company’s “transformation and modernization of its shipping and logistics services between Jacksonville, Florida, and San Juan, Puerto Rico. The new ships, port terminal improvements and technology upgrades underway are all designed to improve the overall velocity of the customers’ supply chains and speed products to retail shelves.” The Taíno will now proceed through the final topside construction and testing phase before beginning service in the U.S. Jones Act trade later this year. The ship will join sister vessel El Coquí, which also carries an SIU crew and was launched earlier in 2017. At press time, the El Coquí was in final testing prior to entering service in early 2018. The December launch “represents another momentous achievement for the men and women at Crowley, VT Halter Marine and other partners, who have dedicated themselves to designing and building this pioneering ship as well as sister ship, El Coquí,” said Tom Crowley, company chairman and CEO. “We appreciate their hard work, and look forward to putting these modern, environmentally friendly ships into service for our customers and the people of Puerto Rico.” Construction of both El Coquí, which is named for the popular indigenous frog on the island, and Taíno, the name for native Puerto Ricans who lived off the land and who had great appreciation and respect for their environment, is being managed in the shipyard by Crowley’s solutions group, which includes naval architects and engineers from company subsidiary Jensen Maritime. The Taíno, like the El Coquí, will be able to transport up to 2,400 20-foot-equivalent container units (TEUs) and a mix of nearly 400 cars and larger vehicles in the enclosed, ventilated and weather-tight Ro/Ro decks. A wide range of con- tainer sizes and types can be accommodated, ranging from 20-foot standard, to 53-foot by 102-inch-wide, high-capacity units, as well as up to 300 refrigerated containers. “The added speed and efficiency provided by these highperforming ships will benefit customers shipping goods between the mainland and the island,” said John Hourihan, senior vice president and general manager, Puerto Rico services. “Cargo for businesses and consumers will be able to dependably reach markets at peak time, whether it is dry, refrigerated, or breakbulk, such as vehicles and other rolling stock.” Fueling the ships with LNG will reduce emissions significantly, including a 100-percent reduction in sulphur oxide (SOx) and particulate matter (PM); a 92-percent reduction in nitrogen oxide (NOx); and a reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) of more than 35 percent per container, compared with current fossil fuels. The recent launch continued a series of milestones that have already enhanced Crowley’s capabilities in Puerto Rico. In San Juan, Crowley has begun operating three new, shipto-shore gantry cranes, manufactured by Liebherr Container Cranes, in Ireland, at Crowley’s Isla Grande Terminal. The cranes are the first new, specialized gantry cranes to be received for operation in San Juan Harbor in more than five decades. The cranes complement new 900-foot-long, 114-foot wide concreate pier at Isla Grande. In addition, Crowley has expanded Isla Grande’s terminal capacity for handling refrigerated containers; paved 15 acres to accommodate container stacking; added containers and associated handling equipment to its fleet; installed a new electrical substation to provide power for the new gantry cranes; constructed a new seven-lane exit gate for increased speed and efficiency; implemented a new, modern terminal operating software system (TOS), and more. The TOS in both San Juan and Jacksonville accelerates gate operations and reduces trucker turn times at the terminals by as much as 50 percent. When entering and leaving the terminal, truckers interact with Crowley workers via kiosks, which include communication handsets and cameras. The Taíno is launched last year. The vessel will carry an SIU crew. Safety is improved because gate workers are no longer in the truck lanes, the operation has become paperless, and gatelane transaction times have been reduced – all enhancing the velocity of customers’ supply chains. DOT Announces Important Changes to Regulations Governing Drug Testing On Nov. 13, 2017, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) issued amendments to its drug testing regulations. These changes were scheduled to take effect Jan. 1, 2018, and apply to all mariners who ship with the SIU. These are the significant changes that SIU members should be aware of: n The following drugs have been added to the panel that mariners are tested for: hydrocodone, hydromorphone, oxymorphone, and oxycodone. (Some of the brand names for these drugs are: Norco, Vicodin, Vicoprofen, Percocet, Percodan, Zohydro ER, Hysingla ER, Dilaudid, Exalgo, Numorphan, Oxaydo, OxyContin, Oxyfast, Roxicodone, Opana, Opana ER and Xtampza ER.) If you are not sure if you are taking one of these medications, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. n If a mariner tests positive for one of the drugs listed above, the Medical Review Officer (MRO) will verify whether the mariner has a legally valid prescription for the drug. If the mariner has a legal prescription, the drug test will be reported as negative. The MRO must then allow the mariner five (5) business days so that the mariner’s physician can contact the MRO, to see if a different drug can be prescribed that does not make the mariner medically unqualified and will not pose a safety risk. If the prescription cannot be changed or the doctor does not respond, and the MRO determines that the drug is a safety risk, the MRO will report this information to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. The mariner will then be medically unqualified to ship through the SIU, until the prescription is changed, or the mariner is no longer taking this drug. n If the mariner tests positive for one of these drugs and does not have his or her own valid prescription for the medication, the test will be reported by the MRO to the Coast Guard as a positive test. You should be aware that the Coast Guard does not permit a mariner to ship if he or she is taking any of the opioids listed above. If you are currently taking one of these prescriptions, talk to your provider about other treatment options. If you feel that you may require treatment for addiction to a medication and you would like to have a confidential discussion about your options, you may contact Jack Gallagher at the Seafarers Addictions Rehabilitation Center (SARC) at (301) 994-0010, extension 5333. The complete DOT notification is available online at the following web address (it’s a 20-page PDF file): https://tinyurl.com/yclx2jqn It’s also linked on the SIU website, in the News section (the post is dated Nov. 15). January 2018 Seafarers LOG 5 �Culinary instructor Bryan Owens (left in photo at left) bakes some cookies, while PHC Executive Chef and Culinary Coordinator John Hetmanski looks on. New ovens (above, center) line the walls of the culinary department’s bakery. One of the school’s deep freezers (above, right) has been vinyl-wrapped to show union pride. Paul Hall Center Revamps Steward Dept. Curriculum ‘Culinary 2.0’ Marks Upgrade at Union-Affiliated School in Piney Point After many months of careful design, review and implementation, the staff of the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) has completed an overhaul of the culinary program with the introduction of Culinary 2.0, which is aimed at benefiting SIU members. With a state-of-the-art test kitchen and bakery, brand new galley equipment and a modern, thoroughly vetted curriculum, the program is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the school’s administration. All of the current steward department courses have been redesigned to the new standards of Culinary 2.0, which serves as a blanket term for the new steward department courses and curriculums. For existing chief cooks and chief stewards, there are two new revalidation courses that have been designed to ensure a consistent level of culinary training and efficiency: Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 and Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0. “The single largest change to the culinary program is the complete overhaul and redevelopment of the written curriculum,” said PHC Acting Vice President Tom Orzechowski. “Over 2,000 hours have been invested in rewriting and updating all the culinary curriculum for 2.0.” These changes were based largely on feedback provided by the union’s contracted shipping companies, who helped offer a look at the real-life situations occurring within the galleys of the U.S.flag fleet. Those suggestions provided a blueprint for the school’s staff to update the culinary program in a way that will produce the best stewards possible. PHC Executive Chef and Culinary Coordinator John Hetmanski described the changes to the program, saying, “2.0 was formed by a collection of our contracted partners’ concerns about the quality of student coming out of the training. They wanted to improve the students’ skills, and to teach them additional skills that were not previously taught. They were also very interested in more class time, increasing the number of assessments and improving the quality of the curriculum.” Hetmanski continued, “So, what we tried to do with 2.0 – and it’s still a work in progress – is take the steward department curriculum and put it in the same format as the deck and engine departments ... while also incorporating the suggested changes from our contracted operators.” PHC Director of Training Priscilla Labanowski expounded on that point, saying, “The steward department is not governed by the U.S Coast Guard, but we as an institution decided that we should take our culinary courses and put them in the same format, and hold them to the same standards as we would deck and engine courses.” The changes to the curriculum have been continually tweaked and implemented for the past year, and as Labanowski explained, some recent culinary students may have taken the new courses already: “Anybody who took courses in 2017 for Chief Cook or Chief Steward, we went back and gave them certification for Culinary 2.0 because they’re under the new program. Anyone going forward, of course, will earn the certification after passing the program.” For those already sailing, all steward department personnel must attend one of the revalidation courses within 24 months of implementation in order to exercise preference and priority in accordance with Shipping Rule 5.A.(6). That rule, which will go into effect January 1, 2020, states, “Within each class of seniority in the Steward Department, priority shall be given to those seamen who possess an advanced Culinary 2.0 certificate from Brand new workstations sit ready for students in the Paul Hall Center’s test kitchen. 6 Seafarers LOG In a photo taken in March 2017, Recertified Stewards Verleshia Robinson (left) and Gilbert Louis prepare some biscuits as part of the Culinary 2.0 curriculum. the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, in the event such program is being offered and that the seaman is registered in Group I, Steward Department.” According to SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker, “The intent of this assessment is not to disqualify a seaman’s ability to retain employment, but to identify targeted training needs and or skills that require remediation. Individuals who do not receive the Culinary 2.0 Orientation/Assessment Certificate will still be eligible to return to their permanent position.” Members of the steward department should take full advantage of the new assessment courses. According to Orzechowski, “The assessment courses are for individuals to come in and reaffirm that they have the skills, and if they’re unaware of certain things that are changing in the industry, it’s an update on what the industry is looking for from the galley crew.... It’s more about efficiency, inventory, purchasing, cooking cleaner and with more of an eye to wellness.” He concluded, “Culinary 2.0 is about instructing mariners that these industry changes are here. If a mariner is a little deficient in, say, computer skills, then we’re going to get them the help they need and get them back to work. And as we continually progress with this program, they’ll have the skills needed to continue to move forward in their careers.” Mariners seeking to enroll in Culinary 2.0 courses should be aware that class size is limited, and should plan ahead in order to secure a spot. If a person is applying to take one of the revalidation courses, he or she must have completed the previous Chief Cook or Chief Steward course before enrolling in the respective Orientation/Assessment 2.0 course. The test kitchen is well stocked, and allows up to six students to work simultaneously. January 2018 �Oakland Hall Hosts Jones Act-Themed Thanksgiving The always popular annual Thanksgiving feast at the SIU hall in Oakland, California, had a new wrinkle this past November – specifically, a focus on the vital importance of America’s freight cabotage law. While the rest of the 27th annual gathering proved routinely successful, one speaker after another defended the Jones Act – standing in front a banner that celebrates the longstanding law. The Jones Act has been under attack in recent months, with critics consistently butchering the facts or just ignoring them. Otherwise, the scene at the union hall on Nov. 21 proved seasonal and scrumptious. Approximately 200 guests enjoyed traditional Thanksgiving fare. Attendees included Congressional Representatives John Garamendi, Mark DeSaulnier and Barbara Lee, U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Todd Sokalzuk, members of the U.S. Marine Corps, Seafarers and their families, members and officials from other unions, shipping company executives and others. SIU Assistant Vice President Nick Celona, always the driving force behind the U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee (D-California) celebration, stated, “Everything went well, and we received a lot of volunteer support to make it all happen. The Jones Act re- Recertified Bosun Ken Abrahamson (right) teams up with members of the 23rd Regiment, 4th Marine Division Color Guard. San Francisco Fire Chief Joanne Hayes-White is flanked by SIU VP Nick Marrone (left) and SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona. U.S. Rep. Mark DeSaulnier (D-California) (center) poses with SIU VP Nick Marrone (left) and SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona. marks were especially timely.” Editor’s note: Please visit the SIU Face- USCG Rear Adm. Todd Sokalzuk, SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone John Evalle of Congressman Garamendi’s office, Max Alper and Kurt Landwehr of MEBA book page for additional photos from the Oakland Thanksgiving celebration. All photos (there and here) by Charles Farruggia. SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona, IBEW official John O’Rourke Chief Steward Kenneth Greenidge (left) and his wife are pictured with SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (Photo at left) Larry Mazzolo Jr. from the Plumbers, Joe Maraccini of the Sheet Metal Workers, SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona, Rick Rivas from Congressman Jimmy Panetta’s office, R.J. Ferrari of the Plumbers (Photo at right) MFOW Pres. Anthony Poplawski, SUP Pres. Gunnar Lundeberg, AMO Exec. VP Dan Shea In photos at left and right, Seafarers and guests enjoy the festivities. January 2018 Seafarers LOG 7 �Seafarers in Philadelphia load another container for Puerto Rico relief. From left are Ken Kelly, Thomas Drummond, Ryan Drummond, Charles Wright, Kyle Miller and Julius Thomas. SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo (right), AFT President Randi Weingarten (third from left) and other representatives of Operation Agua partners speak during a Nov. 21 press conference in Puerto Rico. SIU Helps Deliver in ‘Operation Agua’ Jones Act Ships & Crews Remain Vital to Puerto Rico Recovery As the lengthy process of rebuilding Puerto Rico continues, the SIU late last year teamed up with several other organizations for a long-range project that delivers portable water purifiers to residents of the territory. Named Operation Agua and spearheaded by the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), the endeavor got off to a great start. By early December, more than $1.2 million in donations had been raised. (Visit operationagua.com for more information and an opportunity to contribute.) Overall, the program’s goal is to purchase and distribute 100,000 individual water filtration systems for households and classrooms, and 50 large-capacity clean-water devices to a network of nonprofit organizations, union offices, schools and other community-based groups to provide stable and reliable sources of safe water. Several thousand of the individual systems had been handed out as of early last month, addressing one of the most vital and ongoing needs on the island in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. Joining the AFT in this mission are the SIU, Seafarers-contracted Tote Maritime, AFSCME, Operation Blessing International, and the Hispanic Federation. (The AFT’s affiliate in Puerto Rico represents 40,000 active and retired educators.) SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo spoke during an Operation Agua press conference in Puerto Rico a few days before Thanksgiving. He described the mission as a “lifesaving project” and thanked the AFT for starting it. “And I also thank our other partners in Operation Agua,” Crespo continued. “We’re proud to stand beside all of you, shoulder to shoulder, as we push forward under very challenging circumstances.” After briefly describing the SIU and its members, Crespo added, “We’re not here today for a referendum on the Jones Act, but I would be remiss in not mentioning that Jones Act ships – prominently including ones operated by Tote Maritime, one of our Operation Agua partners – have been here since the very first days of the recovery. They’ve delivered life-saving cargoes and have provided shelter, too. Those are union-crewed, American-flagged vessels that have collectively delivered more than 36,000 containers with millions of pounds of commercial and relief cargo to Puerto Rico just since the hurricane hit. And those cargoes have included the water filters on display here today.” The press conference happened Nov. 21 – two days after a demonstration in the nation’s capital that aimed to call attention to ongoing needs in the Puerto Rico recovery. Parts of the rally in Washington, D.C., also included misguided attacks on the Jones Act, America’s freight cabotage law. Ahead of the rally, the coalition American Maritime Partnership (AMP) (to which the SIU is affiliated), issued a statement that read in part: “While the American maritime industry was delivering cargo to the docks of Puerto Rico with relief supplies within hours of the hurricane passing, familiar opponents worked to fan debunked myths about our industry and the Jones Act. The fact remains the Jones Act does not add costs to Puerto Rico; it provides stability, jobs and reliable transportation of relief and recovery items to our families and neighbors in Puerto Rico. We support those who march for the well-being of Puerto Rico, as we have been working for the same cause since the storm, but we need to march for what will help, not hurt, the island. First understand the facts before the march.” AMP went on to detail how any foreign vessel can call on Puerto Rico, and again debunked claims that the Jones Act somehow increases the cost of goods on the island. “Over the last decade, a parade of politicians and ‘experts’ have attempted to estimate the so- called ‘cost’ of the Jones Act in Puerto Rico,” the coalition noted. “Because the estimates have been wildly contradictory, in 2012, Puerto Rico Delegate Pierluisi asked the GAO to determine the true ‘cost.’ The GAO studied the issue for more than a year and debunked the previous estimates. First, the GAO said there are far too many factors that impact the price of a consumer good to determine the supposed cost related to shipping, much less the Jones Act. Second, the GAO said, one could not truly estimate the cost unless one knew which American laws SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware is pictured with donated relief supplies outside the SIU hall in Jacksonville, Florida. 8 Seafarers LOG Members of the SIU Government Services Division pitched in with relief efforts when the hospital ship USNS Comfort deployed to the island. Pictured in the galley (photo above) are Adrian Reed, Donta Wiggins, Niles Harper and Kevin Benjamin; pictured on deck below are Reynaldo Abadilla, Michael Williams, Gerald Butch, Marion Malley and Dwight Hall. would be applied to foreign ships if they were allowed to enter the domestic trades, which would certainly increase the cost of foreign shipping.” Moreover, according to figures from what is believed to be the world’s largest database of user-contributed statistics about cities and countries worldwide, Puerto Rico receives Jones Act shipping service that is cheaper, more regular and more reliable than foreign The SIU has teamed up with the AFT and other partners to help address the need for safe drinking water in Puerto Rico. These filters are being widely distributed. shipping rates and service to the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI). Consumer prices are far lower in Puerto Rico than in the USVI; in fact, in most cases, they’re also higher on the U.S. mainland than in Puerto Rico. In addition to working as part of Operation Agua, the SIU continues to collect and help transport donations on the mainland both for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Puerto Rico residents display a water purifier they received as part of Operation Agua. January 2018 �ABOARD CAPE TAYLOR – Chief Steward Abraham Mills (left) and Houston Patrolman J.B. Niday are pictured aboard the Patriot Contract Services vessel. Other members of the ROS crew said Mills boosts morale every day. A-BOOKS IN JERSEY – Seafarers Jose Burgos (left in photo at left) and Rogelio Agustin (left in remaining photo) recently picked up their respective A-seniority books at the union hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. They’re both pictured with Port Agent Mark von Siegel. At Sea and Ashore With the SIU ABOARD EMPIRE STATE – This snapshot aboard the Crowley-operated tanker was taken Nov. 8 in Rodeo, California. Pictured from left are Port Agent Nick Marrone II, QMED Arlyn Fernandez, GVA Mohsen Shayef, SA Salahi Al Salahi, Steward/Baker Keesha Holloway, ACU Philip Valentine, AB Hussein Mohamed and Bosun Frank Sena. WELCOME ASHORE IN TACOMA – Recertified Bosun Fadel Saleh (right) picks up his first pension check from Safety Director Ben Anderson at the union hall. WELCOME ASHORE IN HOUSTON – Tugboat Capt. Michael Maneely (left) receives his first pension check from Patrolman J.B. Niday at the union hall. ABOARD MAERSK DENVER – Patrolman Ray Henderson submitted this photo of the galley gang aboard the Maersk Line, Limited vessel. Pictured from left are Recertified Steward Caezar Mercado, SA Mohammad Khan and Chief Cook Medardo Thomas. January 2018 ABOARD ISLA BELLA – Thanksgiving aboard the Tote Services vessel was a hit thanks to meals provided by (from left) Recertified Steward Lauren Oram, Chief Cook Fernando Ortiz and SA Alan Squier. BOOKS PRESENTED IN PINEY POINT – Port Agent Pat Vandegrift (left in both photos) presents a full membership book to Karl Morrow (right in photo above at left) and an Aseniority book to Jerome Luckett (right in remaining photo). ABOARD MV NORFOLK – Pictured from left aboard the Argent Marine ship in Houston are Patrolman J.B. Niday, Recertified Bosun William Rios, Steward/Baker Saeed Alahmadi, QMED David Garrett, AB Yafet Antah, Electrician Igor Yakunkov and Chief Cook Edwin Sebastian. ABOARD USNS MAURY – Steward/ Baker Rhonda Jenkins (left) and Chief Cook Toriano Brown are about to serve a delicious dinner of BBQ chicken, burgers and hot dogs. Thanks to MDR Brandon Maeda for the pic from the Ocean Shipholdings-operated vessel. Seafarers LOG 9 �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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered in Piney Point, Maryland, by students who are enrolled in the Paul Hall Center’s galley assessment program, and are just entering the industry. Question: What are you looking forward to in 2018, either personally or professionally? Alvin Watson I am looking forward to spring and summertime. Looking forward to going out to sea, and then getting to spend time with my family. The year 2018 is the start of a new chapter for me, and I’m looking forward to that. Greg Blevins Looking forward to retiring from the Navy after 20 years, and getting a chance to see how the civilian side lives. Travelling, as always, is a perk. Brice Jackson I look forward to seeing what the union has to offer me. I’m looking forward to working my way up through the ranks, all the way up. Graeme Dy My biggest goal in 2018 is to become a chief steward, hopefully. I’m also excited to get out on the water, as soon as possible. Scott Steger Really looking forward to this new industry. I’ve been working in restaurants for 15 years, and this is the first time in my career where the ceiling has been raised, and there’s a finish line in the future. Charlene Briggs I’m looking forward to achieving financial solvency through the SIU. I’m looking forward to the freedom to experience what most people never will. With this new career, I’ve gained the freedom to do what strikes my fancy. 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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Pic From The Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 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 39 Luna Aven Camino del Sol 2 Manati, PR 00674 (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 When U.S. Rep. Leonor Sullivan (D-Missouri), a member of the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee, paid a visit to the SIU-contracted Delta Lines ship Del Norte in late 1966, SIU VP Lindsey Williams, New Orleans Port Agent Buck Stevens and Delta Lines President J.W. Clark were on hand to show her around. Pictured from left are Stevens, Sullivan, Williams and Clark. The congresswoman met with the entire crew, and spoke to them about why she strongly supports the U.S. Merchant Marine. She also took questions from the mariners. 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 10 Seafarers LOG January 2018 �JANUARY 2018 FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 80N O NO. 1 . 2 VOLUME 76 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, Maryland, 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. During the past year, the school underwent a multi-million dollar upgrade that included new simulators, updated classrooms and more. Tens of thousands of rated and licensed mariners have completed upgrading classes at the training center. Addition- o ally, more than 16,000 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’s vocational staff 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. This includes academic support; a wide range of assistance is available, including help for students whose first language isn’t English. Students are strongly encouraged to ask for help as needed. 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 Guard-approved classes, many of which emphasize hands-on training. An overview of many of the courses available at Piney Point is contained in this eightpage 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 com- 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. panies. 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 medical/fitness certificate, a TWIC, 125 days’ sea time in the previous year, 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. Seafarers should note that beginning in 2017, sea service no longer can be used to renew STCW Basic Safety training requirements. This does not mean mariners have to complete Basic Safety by the end of 2016. However, Seafarers are strongly encouraged to complete a Coast Guard-approved Basic Safety class before renewing their credentials. 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, Maryland 20674-0075, or call (301) 994- 0010, or email admissions@seafarers.org. Please note that not all courses in this guide are on the current schedule; students are encouraged to check the LOG each month and/or the website to see if the classes they’re interested in are being offered. Paul Hall Center Course Guide for 2018 All courses require a valid MMC, TWIC, Basic Training and 125 days sailing in the previous calendar year. Applicants must have a valid union medical through the start date of class. Any member attending a course which requires an application to the USCG must have a valid drug test through the test date of class. Deck Department UA to AS-D Program (SHLSOS-733) The Unlicensed Apprentice to Able Seafarer-Deck program consists of a combination of five phases of training and sea service meeting the training requirements for an Able Seafarer-Deck endorsement. This program differs from the old UA program in that we have added new elements to the RFPNW course. See Able SeafarerDeck course for more information. Able Seafarer-Deck (SHLSOS-731) 120 hours Successful completion of this course will satisfy the training requirements of STCW Code Section A-II/5, Table A-II/5; and the competency requirements of 46 CFR 12.603(a)(4). This course specifically addresses the competencies from NVIC 12-14 contribute to safe navigational watch; berthing, anchoring and other mooring operations; contribute to the handling of cargo and stores; contribute to the safe operation of deck equipment and machinery; apply occupational health and safety precautions; contribute to the prevention of pollution; and contribute to shipboard maintenance and repair. Prerequisites: Must have 12 months’ service as Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch (RFPNW), Lifeboatman and have 540 days sailing in the deck department Advanced Meteorology (SHLSOS-18) 40 hours Successful completion of this course will satisfy the advanced meteorology training requirements of 46 CFR 11.305(a) January 2018 (2)(iii) and 11.307(a)(2)(iii) for STCW certification as Master or Chief Mate on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC); and the practical assessments will be accepted as the equivalent of the following tasks from Table A-II/2 of the STCW Code, as amended 2010 and NVIC 10-14(Ch-1) namely 7.1, 7.2, and 7.3. This course provides training in marine weather forecasting including extra-tropical and tropical weather systems, wave motion theory, extreme weather phenomena, and the access and use of HF facsimile (including NWS FTP mail) weather charts for minimizing the destructive effects of weather on ship operations. Prerequisites: Basic Meteorology Advanced Shiphandling (SHLSOS-22) 80 hours This course will satisfy the Advanced Shiphandling training requirements of 46 CFR 11.305(a)(3)(i) and 11.307(a)(3)(i) for STCW endorsements as Chief Mate or Master on vessels of 3,000 GT or more and 46 CFR 11.311(a)(3)(i) and 11.313(a) (3)(i) for STCW Code, as amended 2010 endorsements as Master or Chief Mate on vessels of more than 500 GT and less than 3,000 GT; and the following practical assessments meet the National Assessment Guidelines from NVIC 10-14 and 11-14: 8.1.A, 8.2.A, 8.3.A, 8.4.A, 8.4.B, 8.5.A, 8.6.A, 8.7.A, 9.1.A, 9.2.A, 9.3.A, 9.4.A, 9.5.A, 9.6.A, 9.6.B, 9.7.A, 9.8.A, 9.9.A, 9.9.B, 9.11.A, 9.11.B, 9.11.C, 9.12.A, 9.13.A, 9.14.A, 9.15.A, 9.16.A, 9.16.B, and 9.17.A. Prerequisite: Meet eligibility requirements for management-level license Advanced Stability (SHLSOS-25) 35 hours This course satisfies the training requirements of 46 CFR 11.305(a)(3)(ii) and 11.307(a)(3)(ii) for STCW endorsements as Chief Mate or Master on vessels of 3000 GT or more and 46 CFR 11.311(a)(3)(ii) and 11.313(a)(3)(ii) for STCW endorsements as Master or Chief Mate on vessels of more than 500 GT but less than 3000 GT; AND the specific tasks from the National Assessment Guidelines found in NVIC 10-14 and 11-14: 9.10.A, 9.16.B, 11.1.B, 11.2.A, 11.3.A, 11.3.B, 11.3.C, 11.3.D, 11.4.A, 11.5.D, 14.1.A, 14.1.B, 14.1.C, 14.1.D, 14.2.A, 14.3.A, and 17.2.A. Prerequisite: Meet eligibility requirements for management-level license Automatic Radar Plotting Aids (ARPA) (SHLSOS-37) 32 hours Successful completion of this course will satisfy the ARPA training requirements of 46 CFR 11.305(a) (3)(vi), 11.307(a)(3)(vi), 11.309(a)(4) (xiv), 11.311(a)(3)(viii), 11.313(a)(3) (viii), 11.315(a)(3)(v), 11.317(a)(3)(vii), 11.319(a)(4)(viii), and 11.321(a)(3)(vii); the practical assessments are equivalent to the National Assessment Guidelines as follows: NVIC 12-14(CH-1) tasks 3.5.A and 3.6; NVIC 10-14 (CH-1) task 5.1; and NVIC 11-14 (CH-1) task 5.1. Prerequisite: Valid Radar Observer Cargo Handling (Operational Level) (SHLSOS-101) 40 hours Successful completion of this course satisfies the Cargo Handling and Stowage training requirements of 46 CFR 11.309(a) (4)(x) for STCW endorsements as OICNW on vessels of 500 GT or more; and the tasks from the National Assessment Guideline NVIC 12-14 (CH-1) Guidelines on Qualifications for Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on Vessels of 500 GT or more: 10.2, 10.3.A, 11.1, 11.2, 11.4.A, 11.5, 11.6, and 11.7 Prerequisites: General requirements and TWIC, MMC or USCG license Basic Shiphandling and Steering Control Systems (Operational Level) (SHLSOS-72) 40 hours Successful completion of this course will satisfy the approved training requirements of 46 CFR 11.309(a)(4)(xi), the competency requirements of Table A-II/1 of the STCW, as amended 2010 and the following Assessments from Enclosure (3) to NVIC 12-14 (CH-1) for STCW Endorsements as Officer in Charge of an Navigational Watch on Vessels of 500 GT or more: 1.8.A, 1.8.B, 9.1.A, 9.2.A, 9.2.B, Seafarers LOG 11 �9.3.A, 9.4, and 9.5.A. Prerequisite: AB with one year of sea service Bridge Resource Management (SHLSOS-75) 35 hours This course satisfies the bridge resource management requirements of 46 CFR 11.309(a)(4)(vii); 11.319(a)(4)(vii); 11.321(a)(3)(iv); and Section A-II/1, Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code as amended 2010; AND the practical assessments have been found to be equivalent of National Assessment Guideline Tasks from NVIC 12-14 for Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 Gt or more (2.2.A, 2.2.C, 2.2.D, 2.2.E, 2.3.A, 2.3.B, 2.3.C, 2.4.A, 2.5.A, 2.6.A, 2.7.A, 2.7.B, 2.7.C, 2.7.D, 2.7.E, 2.7.F, 2.7.G). Prerequisites: Radar Unlimited, ARPA, License of 200 Gross Tons or greater OR seeking an original third mate or unlimited license Celestial Navigation (SHLSOS-103) 126 hours Applicants completing this course will satisfy the Celestial Navigation training requirements for OICNW on vessels of 500 or more gross tons (ITC). This course specifically addresses the competencies found in NVIC 12-14 and Table A-II/1 of the STCW 2010, as amended. This course specifically addresses the following tasks: 1.1.A, 1.1.B, 1.1.C, 1.1.D, 1.1.E, 1.1.F. This course will not satisfy in-lieu-of testing for any part of a USCG examination. Prerequisites: ARPA, Radar Observer Crane Familiarization (Non-USCG) 35 hours This course consists of 35 hours of simulation which will provide the student with a familiarization of both the Leibher and Haaglund cranes, their controls and operations. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to perform daily checks to ensure safe operations, perform normal crane operations including raise and lower the hook/boom, slew, follow hand signals, load/discharge heavier cargo using hooks and buckets, use a spreader bar, and lift stack loads, and operate the crane in twin mode. THIS COURSE DOES NOT CERTIFY A STUDENT TO BE A CRANE OPERATOR. Prerequisites: General requirements and TWIC, MMC or USCG license Electronic Chart Display Information Systems (ECDIS) (SHLSOS-179) 35 hours This course provides training in the basic theory and use of ECDIS for deck officers as listed in 46 CFR 11.304(a) 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. This course addresses the OICNW STCW Competency of “Use of ECDIS to maintain the safety of navigation” as found in Table A-II/1 of the STCW 2010, as amended. This course specifically addresses the following tasks from NVIC 1214: 4.1.A, 4.2.A. This course also addresses the Master or Chief Mate STCW Competency of “Maintain the safety of navigation through the use of ECDIS and associated navigation systems to assist command decision making” as found in Table A-II/2 of the STCW 2010, as amended. This course specifically addresses the following tasks from NVIC 10-14: 6.1.A, 6.2.A, 6.3.A, 6.4.A, 6.5.A, 6.6.A, and 6.7.A. Prerequisites: Must have valid Radar and ARPA certificate; and either Terrestrial and Coastal Navigation or hold a license Electronic Navigation (SHLSOS-181) 40 hours Successful completion of this course will satisfy the training requirements for certification as OICNW on vessels of 500 or more GT. The specific assessments performed during this course have been determined to be equivalent of National Assessment Guidelines for STCW code, as amended 2010 Table A-II/1 as documented in NVIC 12-14; Tasks 1.4.C, 1.4.D, & 1.5.A. Applicants are not required to present completed task sheets. Prerequisites: AB with 1 year of sea service, radar and ARPA Fast Rescue Boat (SHLSOS-193) 30 hours Students completing this course will satisfy the training requirements of 46 CFR 12.617(a)(3) and the STCW Code Section A-VI/2; and the competency demonstration requirements of 46 CFR 12.617(a)(4) and STCW Table A-VI/2-2 for an STCW endorsement for Proficiency in Fast Rescue Boats; and all the tasks from enclosure (2) to NVIC 05-14 “Assessment Guidelines for Proficiency in Fast Rescue Boats”. Prerequisites: Must be rated Global Maritime Distress & Safety System (GMDSS) (SHLSOS-210) 70 hours This course satisfies the training requirements for certification for deck officers as listed in 46 CFR 11.304(a). It meets the requirements set forth in Table A-IV/2 of the amended STCW code. 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. An FCC filing fee is required for this course. Prerequisites: One year experience as a member of navigational watch on the bridge of an oceangoing vessel OR licensed radio officer or engineer Leadership and Managerial Skills (SHLSOS-751) 35 hours Successful completion of this course will satisfy the Leadership and Managerial Skills within 46 CFR 11.305, 11.307, 11.311, 11.313, 11.315, 11.317, 11.325, 11.327, 11.331, 11.333; and the equivalent of the specific tasks found in NVIC 10-14 (CH-1) (Tasks 18.1-18.2), NVIC 11-14 (CH-1) (Tasks 18.1-18.2); NVIC 15-14 (Tasks 7.1.D, 11.1.A, 14.1.A); and NVIC 16-14 (Task 14.1.A); AND the Leadership and Teamworking Skills within 46 CFR 11.309, 11.319, 11.321, and the equivalent specific tasks from NVIC 12-14 (CH-1) (Tasks 18.1.A-18.5.A) for an endorsement as OICNW; AND Leadership and Teamworking Skills within 46 CFR 11.329; and the equivalent specific tasks from NVIC 17-14 (CH-1) (Tasks 16.1.A-16.4.A) for an endorsement as OICEW. Prerequisites: This course is open to deck and engine officers at the 2nd Mate or 2nd Asst. Engineer level who have sufficient supervisory experience with shipboard operations to understand that leadership and managerial skills are an essential part of their role on board Leadership and Teamworking Skills (SHLSOS-768) 14 hours This course satisfies the training requirements for leadership and teamworking skills for deck officers as listed in 46 CFR 11.304(a). As specifically stated in tables A-II/1, A-III/1, and A-III/6 and 46 CFR 11.309(c)(1), 11.319(b)(1), 11.321(b) (1), and 11.329(c), “Application of leadership and team working skills” students will be able to carry out the duties of officer in charge of a navigational watch, officer in charge of an engineering watch in a manned engine room, designated duty engineer in a periodically unmanned engine room, and electro-technical officer. Task numbers are referenced from NVICs 12-14, 17-14, and 23-14. Additional Prerequisites: This course is open to deck and engine officers at the operational level, or soon-to-be officers, who have sufficient familiarity with shipboard operations to understand that leadership and teamwork are essential parts of their role on board. There are no prerequisites for this course. Magnetic and Gyro Compasses (SHLSOS-262) 30 hours Any applicant who has successfully completed this course will satisfy the Magnetic & Gyro Compasses training requirements of 46 CFR 11.309(a)(4) for an STCW endorsement as OICNW on vessels of 500 or more GT; AND the practical assessments are equivalent of the National Assessment Guidelines, as documented in NVIC 12-14 for Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 GT or more: 1.6.A, 1.6.B, 1.6.C, 1.6.D, 1.7.A, 1.7.B, 1.7.C, 1.7.D, 1.7.E, 1.7.F. Prerequisite: AB with 1 year of sea service Master 100 Tons (SHLSOS-281) 96 hours Successful completion of this course and presenting our certificate within one year of completion of training will satisfy the examination requirements of 46 CFR 11.201(j)(1) for an original issuance, 46 CFR 10.227(e)(1)(iii) for renewal and 46 CFR 10.227(i) for reissuance for any one of the following endorsements and may not be used for any application transac- 12 Seafarers LOG tions thereafter: Master of less than 100 GRT, Near Coastal or Great Lakes & Inland, or Inland Waters; OR Master of less than 100 GRT, Near Coastal, Raise in Grade from OUPV Near Coastal; OR Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV) or Mate of less than 100 GRT upon Near Coastal, or Great Lakes & Inland, or Inland Waters. Prerequisites: MMC or USCG license; Radar Observer Unlimited; AB Meteorology (Operational Level) (SHLSOS-316) 40 hours Successful completion of this course will satisfy the approved training requirements of 46 CFR 11.309(a)(4)(xiii) towards certification as an Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 gross tons or more; and the equivalent of the specific assessment tasks from National Assessment Guidelines found in NVIC 12-14 (CH-1), namely tasks 1.9, 1.10 and 1.11. Prerequisite: AB with 1 year of sea service Proficiency in Survival Craft (SHLSOS-372) 35 hours This one-week course is provided for our NCL members on board Pride of America. Successful completion of this course will satisfy the competency requirements of Table A-VI/2-1 of the STCW, as amended 2010, for Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats other than Fast Rescue Boats (PSC) and will satisfy the professional exam and practical demonstration requirements of 46 CFR 12.407(b) (3) for endorsements for Lifeboatman and PSC and have performed the equivalent of all practical demonstration requirements as guided by the PSC NVIC 04-14. Prerequisites: Basic Training within 5 years and 180 days of deck sea time Proficiency in Survival Craft/Personal Survival Techniques (SHLSOS-378) 35 hours Successful completion of this course will satisfy the competency requirements of Table A-VI/2-1 of the STCW, as amended 2010, for Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats Other Than Fast Rescue Boats (PSC) and will satisfy the professional examination and practical demonstration requirements of 46 CFR 12.407(b)(3) for endorsements for Lifeboatman and PSC; AND the Personal Survival Techniques training and competency requirements of STCW, as amended 2010, Section A-VI/1 and 46 CFR 11.302(a)(1) and 12.602(a)(1); AND have performed the equivalent of all practical demonstration requirements as guided by PSC NVIC 04-14 and the Personnel Survival Techniques section within Basic Training NVIC 08-14. Prerequisites: 180 days of deck sea time Radar Observer Recertification (SHLSOS-402) 1 day This course satisfies the requirements of 46 CFR 11.480(f) for maintaining the validity of an endorsement as Radar Observer. This course does not satisfy any training or assessment requirements of the STCW Convention and STCW Code. Prerequisites: Radar Observer Unlim- January 2018 �requirements of 46 CFR 12.407(b)(3) for endorsements for Lifeboatman and PSC; AND if presented within one year of the completion of training, the written and practical examination requirements of 46 CFR 12.407 for a Lifeboatman endorsement; AND the written “Survival Craft” examination requirements of 46 CFR 12.409(a)(5) for service on vessels not equipped with lifeboats; AND the Personal Survival Techniques training requirements of Table A-VI/1-1 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 11.202(b)(1). This course meets the specific tasks outlined in NVIC 04-14 (1.4.A, 1.5.A, 2.1.A, 3.1.A, 3.1.B, 3.2.A, 4.1.A, 4.1.B, and 4.2.A) and NVIC 08-14 (1.3.A, 1.14.A, 1.14.B, 1.14.C, 1.14.D, 1.14.E, 1.14.F, 1.14.G, 1.14.H, 1.14.I, 1.14.J, 1.14.K). Prerequisites: 180 days seatime ited valid or not have expired more than 6 months Radar Observer Unlimited (SHLSOS-399) 10 days Successful completion of this course, including successful demonstration of all practical assessments, will satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 11.480(d) for an endorsement as Radar Observer (Unlimited) and the radar training requirements of Section A-II/1 and Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code, as amended 2010 for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tons (ITC). Practical assessments will be accepted as the equivalent of the assessment from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code NVIC 12-14(CH-1) tasks 3.1, 3.2.A, 3.2.B, 3.3.A, and 3.4. 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: Must be rated with one year as AB Rating Forming Part Of a Navigational Watch (SHLSOS-408) 20 days The objective of this course is to train students involved in navigation at the support level. To prepare for this role, they will learn to steer the ship and also comply with helm orders in the English language. They will learn to keep a proper lookout by sight and hearing, contribute to monitoring and controlling a safe watch, learn Rules of the Road, operate emergency equipment, apply emergency procedures, and contribute to the handling of cargo and stores. This course also incorporates the standards of competence as outlined in Table A-II/4 of STCW 2010, as amended and NVIC 06-14. Prerequisites: Completion of Phase II of UA program or 6 months of sea service in deck department Search and Rescue (Operational Level) (SHLSOS-447) 16 Hours Successful completion of this course will satisfy the training requirements of 46 CFR 11.309(a)(4)(iii) for an STCW endorsement as OICNW on vessels of 500 GT or more; and the tasks from the National Assessment Guidelines found in NVIC 12-14 (CH-1) 5.1.A, 5.2.A, 5.3.A and 6.1. Prerequisite: AB with 1 year of sea service Search and Rescue (Management Level) (SHLSOS-445) 19.5 Hours Successful completion of this course will satisfy the Search and Rescue approved training of: 46 CFR 11.305(a) January 2018 (3)(v) and 11.307 (a)(3)(v) for STCW endorsements as Master or Chief Mate on vessels of 3000 GT or more; 46 CFR 11.311(a)(3)(v) and 11.313(a)(3)(v) for STCW endorsements as Master or Chief Mate of more than 500 GT and less than 3000 GT; 46 CFR 11.315(a)(3)(i) for an STCW endorsement as Master on vessels of less than 500 GT; the Search and Rescue competence of Table A-II/2 of the STCW Code; AND will be considered to have successfully completed assessment task 4.1 of NVIC 10-14(Ch-1). Prerequisite: Licensed Mate with proof of completing Search and Rescue (Operational Level) course Ship Construction and Basic Stability (SHLSOS-449) 40 hours Successful completion of this course will satisfy the ship construction and ship stability standard of competence requirements of Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code, as amended 2010; and the approved training requirements of 46 CFR 11.309(a) (4)(xii) for certification of an Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 GT or more; AND the equivalent of the specific tasks from National Assessment Guidelines found in NVIC 12-14 (CH-1), specifically 10.1, 11.3, 13.1, 13.2, 13.3 and 13.4. Prerequisites: AB with 1 year of sea service Terrestrial & Coastal Navigation (SHLSOS-512) 102 hours This course satisfies the training requirements of 46 CFR 11.309(a)(4)(viii) for an STCW endorsement as OICNW on vessels of 500 or more gross tons (ITC); AND the practical assessments conducted in this course will be accepted as the equivalent of the assessments from National Assessment Guidelines Tasks in NVIC 12-14 (1.2.A, 1.2.B, 1.2.C, 1.3.A, 1.3.B, 1.3.C, 1.4.A, and 1.4.B). Prerequisite: AB with 1 year of sea service Watchkeeping (Operational Level) (SHLSOS- 548) 80 hours Successful completion of this course will satisfy the Watchkeeping and SMCP training requirements of 46 CFR 11.309(a) (4)(ix) for an STCW endorsement as OICNW on vessels of 500 or more gross tons (ITC) and 46 CFR 11.319(a)(4)(iii) for an STCW endorsement as OICNW on vessels of less than 500 gross tons (ITC); and the BRM training requirements of 46 CFR 11.309(a)(4)(vii), 11.319(a)(4)(vii), and 11.321(a)(3)(iv). Practical assessments have been determined to be equivalent of NVIC 12-14 for Qualification as OICNW of 500 GT or more: 2.1.A, 2.1.B, 2.1.C, 2.1.D, 2.1.E, 2.1.F, 2.1.G, 2.2.A, 2.2.B, 2.2.C, 2.2.D, 2.2.E, 2.3.A, 2.3.B, 2.3.C, 2.4.A, 2.5.A, 2.6.A, 2.7.A, 2.7.B, 2.7.C, 2.7.D, 2.7.E, 2.7.F, 2.7.G, 12.1.A, 12.2.A, 12.3.A, and 17.1.A. Prerequisite: AB with one year of sea service, Radar, ARPA and ECDIS certificates Engine Department UA to FOWT Program (SHLSOS-642) Students completing the UA to FOWT program and making application within one year of completion will: (1) satisfy the written exam requirements of 46 CFR 12.505 for the endorsements as FOWT, provided that the applicant presents evidence of at least 90 qualifying days of engine room sea service; AND (2) satisfy the training and assessment requirements of 46 CFR 12.609(1)(3) and Table A-III/4 of the STCW Code, as amended for RFPEW - Limited to Steam and Motor propelled vessels only PROVIDED that the applicant also presents evidence of at least 60 days of engine watchkeeping service; AND (3) receive 90 days of sea service credit that can be applied towards the service requirements of 46 CFR 12.503 for QMED endorsements PROVIDED applicants present an additional 90 days of qualifying engine room sea service, and meet all other requirements before issuance of any QMED endorsements. Advanced Refrigerated Containers Maintenance 2 weeks This course is designed to advance the knowledge of those seafarers who have been previously trained as a Refrigerating Engineer. The training provides students with the theoretical and practical knowledge and the skills necessary to operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair refrigerated containers while serving in the capacity of maintenance electrician on board a container ship. Students receive training in 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 and leads to certification in refrigerated containers maintenance and consists of classroom and practical shop training. Prerequisites: SHLSS Junior Engineer, QMED-Any Rating, Marine Electrician or Marine Refrigeration Technician Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (SHLSOS-51) 140 hours This is the first of three courses required to earn a USCG rating as a Fireman/Watertender Oiler (FOWT) and the first of three courses required to satisfy STCW endorsement as a Ratings Forming Part of the Engineering Watch. The objective of this course is to provide students with knowledge and practical operational skills required of rated engine department watchstanders in auxiliary plants as they prepare to sail in the capacity of FOWT. Successful completion of this course and presentation of the certificate within ONE year of completion, will receive 30 days sea service credit towards a QMED rating, and will be accepted as having completed the tasks for General Subjects and Shipboard Systems and Subsystems and the general practical assessments from NVIC 07-14 (1.1.C, 1.1.D, 1.1.E, 1.1.F, 1.1.G, 1.2.A, 1.2.E, 1.2.F, 1.3.A, 1.3.B, 1.3.C, 2.3.A, 3.1.A, 4.1.A, 4.2.A) and NVIC 18-14 (3.1.A, 4.1.A, 5.1.A, 5.1.B, 6.2.A, 7.2.A, 7.6.A, 9.1.A, 9.1.B, 9.2.1, 9.3.A, 10.4.A, 10.6.A, 10.6.B). Prerequisites: 90 days seatime in engine department Basic Electricity (Junior Engineer Course) (SHLSOS-52) 70 hours This is one of three courses required for those seeking a QMED - Junior Engineer endorsement. The course provides the mariner electrical skills required of a rated member of the engine department. Successful completion of this course and presenting the certificate of training WITHIN ONE YEAR of the completion of training will satisfy the examination requirements of 46 CFR 12.505 towards an endorsement Visual Communications (Flashing Light) (SHLSOS-542) Self-study This self-study course will satisfy the Visual Signaling requirements of 46 CFR 11.309(a)(4)(vi) and 11.319(a)(4)(vi) if presented within one year of the completion of training; AND will be considered to have successfully demonstrated the equivalent of tasks 8.1 and 8.2 of NVIC 12-14 (CH-1) for an STCW, as amended 2010, endorsement as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on Vessels of 500 GT or more. Prerequisites: Should be near ready to apply for OICNW license Water Survival (SHLSOS-549) 66 hours This two-week course satisfies the competency standards of STCW Code Table A-VI/2-1 of the STCW, as amended 2010, for Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats Other Than Fast Rescue Boats (PSC) and will satisfy the examination and practical demonstration Seafarers LOG 13 �Distance Learning Courses We offer several distance learning courses. All can be done as self-paced courses under the guidance of the Academic department. A few can be done remotely. Courses are listed below. For more information, contact the Academic department. MSC Environmental Awareness Hazardous Material Control and Management Hearing Conservation Heat Stress Management Shipboard Pest Control Respiratory Protection Shipboard Water Sanitation of Junior Engineer, PROVIDED they have also completed the Engineering Plant Maintenance (SHLSOS-191) and Basic Refrigeration and HVAC (SHLSOS-64); AND present evidence of acquiring at least 90 days of engine room service while endorsed as a QMED Oiler or FiremanWatertender prior to commencing the above training. Prerequisites: Must hold RFPEW and 180 days seatime after FOWT in engine department Basic Motor Plant Operations (SHLSOS-63) 66 hours This is the last of three courses required to earn a USCG rating as a Fireman/Watertender Oiler (FOWT) and the last of three courses required to satisfy STCW endorsement as a Ratings Forming Part of the Engineering Watch. The objective of this course is to provide students with knowledge and practical operational skills required of rated engine department watchstanders in motor plants as they prepare to sail in the capacity of Oiler. Successful completion of this course and presentation of the certificate within ONE year of completion, will receive 30 days sea service credit towards a QMED rating, and will be accepted as having completed the tasks for General Subjects, Electrical Subjects, Motor Propulsion Subjects and the motor/diesel practical assessments from NVIC 07-14 (1.1.A, 1.1.B(M), 1.1.H(M), 1.1.I(M), 1.1.J, 1.1.K, 1.2.B, 1.2.C, 1.2.D, 2.1.A, 2.1.B, 2.1.C, 2.2.A, 2.2.B, 2.3.A, 4.2.B). Prerequisites: Must have BAPO and 180 days engine seatime Basic Refrigeration & Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) (Junior Engineer Course) (SHLSOS-64) 70 hours This is one of three courses required for those seeking a QMED - Junior Engineer endorsement. This course provides the cognitive and practical mechanical skills required of Basic Refrigeration and HVAC. Successful completion of this course and presenting the certificate of training WITHIN ONE YEAR of the completion of training will satisfy the examination requirements of 46 CFR 12.505 towards an endorsement of Junior Engineer, PROVIDED they have also com- 14 Seafarers LOG pleted Engineering Plant Maintenance (SHLSOS-191) and Basic Electricity (SHLSOS-52); AND present evidence of acquiring at least 90 days of engine room service while endorsed as a QMED Oiler or Fireman-Watertender prior to commencing the above training. Prerequisites: Must hold RFPEW and 180 days seatime after FOWT in engine department Basic Steam Plant Operations (SHLSOS-73) 70 hours This is the second of three courses required to earn a USCG rating as Fireman/ Watertender Oiler (FOWT) and the second of three courses required to satisfy STCW endorsement as a Ratings Forming Part of the Engineering Watch. The objective of this course is to provide students with knowledge and practical operational skills required of rated engine department watchstanders in steam plants as they prepare to sail in the capacity of F/WT. Successful completion of this course and presentation of the certificate within ONE year of completion, will receive 30 days sea service credit towards a QMED rating, and will be accepted as having completed the tasks for General Subjects, Electrical Subjects, Steam Propulsion Subjects and the steam practical assessments from NVIC 07-14 (1.1.B(S), 1.1.H(S), 1.1.I(S), 2.1.A, 2.1.B, 3.1.A, 3.1.C, 3.1.D, 3.1.E, 3.1.F, 3.1.G, 3.1.H, 3.1.I, 3.1.J). Prerequisites: Must have BAPO and 180 days engine seatime Designated Duty Engineer (Non-STCW) This test prep course is intended for candidates for certification as a designated duty engineer in a periodically unmanned engine room on a seagoing ship powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more. This course reviews topics that will be given on the USCG examination. Prerequisites: Must have Water Survival, Advanced Firefighting, Medical Care Provider and 1080 days total sea time. Recommended to have Coast Guard approval letter valid through dates of the class Engineering Plant Maintenance (Junior Engineer Course) (SHLSOS-191) 140 hours This is a one of three courses required for those seeking a QMED - Junior Engineer endorsement. The course provides cognitive and practical mechanical skills required of engineering plant maintenance. Successful completion of this course satisfies the training requirements as outlined in 46 CFR 12.505(c), the requirements of Table A-III/5 of the STCW Code, as amended, and the equivalent tasks of the National Assessment Guidelines in NVIC 18-14 for an endorsement as Able Seafarer - Engine (1.1.A, 1.2.A, 1.3.A, 2.1.A, 2.2.A, 3.1.A, 4.1.A, 5.1.A, 5.1.B, 5.1.C, 5.2.A, 6.1.A, 6.2.A, 6.3.A, 7.1.A, 7.2.A, 7.3.A, 7.4.A, 7.5.A, 7.6.A, 8.1.A, 8.1.B, 9.1.A, 9.1.B, 9.2.A, 9.3.A, 10.1.A, 10.2.A, 10.3.A, 10.4.A, 10.5.A, 10.6.A, 10.6.B, 10.6.C, 10.7.A, 10.8.A, 10.8.B, 10.9.A) and the tasks from NVIC 17-14 for OICEW (5.2.B, 5.2.C, 5.2.D, 8.2.C, 9.1.B, 9.1.C). Prerequisites: Must hold RFPEW and 180 days seatime after FOWT in engine department Engineroom Resource Management (SHLSOS-187) 35 hours Successful completion of our Engine Room Resource Management course will satisfy the ERM training requirements in 46 CFR 11.325(a)(3)(i) and (b) (1); 11.327(a)(3)(i) and (b)(1); 11.329(a) (4)(iv); 11.331(a)93)(i) and (b)(1); and 11.333(a)(3)(i) and (b)(1); AND specific task 1.4 from NVIC 17-14 (CH1) OICEW. Topics include team organization and team building, engine room procedures and practices, engine room communications, situational and cultural diversity awareness, and factors affecting human performance. Students develop a greater understanding and awareness of correct watchkeeping procedures and have a greater practical understanding of the interdependency of the various operating machinery. Students will be able to anticipate problems and troubleshoot using critical thinking and situation awareness. They will contribute to the safe and effective operation of the vessel’s operation and machinery spaces. Prerequisites: 36 months of seagoing service in the engine department; upgrading to or hold an Engineering license Machinist (SHLSOS-261) 102 hours This course provides mariners cognitive and practical mechanical skills in the area of general metalworking and machine tool operations. Successfully completing the Machinist course and presenting the Certificate of Training WITHIN ONE YEAR OF THE COMPLETION OF TRAINING will satisfy the written examination requirements of 46 CFR 12.505(a) for the Machinist portion of the combined QMED-Pumpman/Machinist endorsement of 46 CFR 12.501(b)(1)(v) PROVIDED applicant currently holds a QMED-Pumpman rating or has completed an approved QMED-Pumpman course within one year of this application. Assessments will meet the requirements of 8.1.A of NVIC 17-14 for the use of hand tools. Prerequisites: Completed Junior Engineer course, 120 days seatime as a Junior Engineer and hold RFPEW Marine Electrician (SHLSOS-269) 280 hours Successfully completing this course and presenting the certificate of training will satisfy the examination requirements of 46 CFR 12.501 (b)(4) for the Electrician portion of the combined QMED-Electrician/Refrigerating Engineer, if presented within one year of the completion of train- January 2018 �ing; PROVIDED the applicant presents evidence of 90 days of engine room service while holding an endorsement as a QMED prior to the commencement of this training; AND the accepted tasks from the National Assessment Guidelines of NVIC 17-14 of OICEW (6.1.D, 6.1.E, 6.2.A, 7.1.A, 7.2.A, 7.2.B, 7.3.A, 7.4.A). The objective of the Marine Electrician course is to provide Engine Department personnel the ability to perform Function: Electrical, Electronic, and Control Engineering at the Support Level; Maintenance and Repair at the Support Level; and Controlling the Operation of the Ship and Care for Persons on Board at the Support Level. This course teaches the theoretical and practical knowledge and skills necessary to perform maintenance and repair operations on motors, generators, and controllers on board ship. Prerequisites: Must have completed SHLSS Junior Engineer, 90 days sea time as QMED, or endorsed as QMED-Any Rating Marine Refrigeration Technician (SHLSOS-274) 210 hours 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 ships’ 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 is also presented. Successfully completing the Marine Refrigeration Technician course and presenting the certificate of training WITHIN ONE YEAR OF COMPLETION OF TRAINING will satisfy the written exam requirements of 46 CFR 12.505(a) for the Refrigerating Engineer portion of the combined QMED-Electrician/Refrigerating Engineer endorsement of 46 CFR 12.501(b)(1)(iv) PROVIDED applicant currently holds a QMED-Electrician rating or has completed an approved QMEDElectrician course within one year of this application. Prerequisites: 120 days seatime after completion of SHLSS JE course; must have completed Marine Electrician course Pumpman (SHLSOS-380) 35 hours Successful completion of this course and presenting certificate within ONE year of the completion of training will satisfy the written exam requirements of 46 CFR 12.505(a) for the Pumpman portion of the combined QMED-Pumpman/Machinist endorsement of 46 CFR 12.501(b) (1)(v) PROVIDED applicant currently holds a QMED-Machinist rating or has completed an approved QMED-Machinist course within one year of this application; AND tasks 5.1.A, 5.2.A, 5.2.B, 5.2.C, 5.2.D, 5.2.E from the National Assessment Guidelines for an Officer in Charge of an Engineering Watch NVIC 17-14. The objective 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 on board a tankship. Topics covered in the Pumpman course are inert gas systems, crude oil washing systems, vapor recovery, and two days of assessment in the cargo simulator. Prerequisites: Must have completed machinist and welding courses Self-Unloading Advanced 32 hours This course is intended for mariners sailing in the capacity of head tunnelman/ conveyorman or intending to sail as head tunnelman/conveyorman. At the conclusion of this course, students will be able to safely operate and maintain the conveyor system and all associated components. Prerequisite: seatime as a Conveyorman with 1 year of sea service Self-Unloading Basic 35 hours This course is designed for mariners currently sailing on Great Lakes self-unloading vessels who have a desire to move into the conveyorman job. The objective of this course is to train deck or engine sailors in the basics of the job of conveyorman/tunnelman on a self-unloading ship. Topics will emphasize safety and include work hour management, job responsibilities, familiarization and operation of the unloading system, conveyor system clean up and shut down, troubleshooting, general maintenance, welding safety, record keeping and inventories. Prerequisite: seatime as a Conveyorman with 1 year of sea service Welding and Metallurgy Skills and Practices (SHLSOS-551) 105 hours The objective of the course is for Engine Department personnel to tack and run a straight bead in a variety of situations and to test a weld using dye penetrant. This course is part of the Pumpman Program and the Officer in Charge of an Engineering Watch Program. Any applicant completing this course and presenting the certificate of training will be credited with the tasks from OICEW NVIC 17-14, namely 8.1.B and 8.1.C. Prerequisites: Must be Q4 Steward Department ServSafe Manager 1 week The ServSafe Manager is an online course managed by the National Restaurant Association and is based on their text, ServSafe Manager Book (formerly ServSafe Essentials). This course is ideal for preparing students to take the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification Exam. It covers critical principles including: personal hygiene, cross contamination, time and temperature, receiving and storage, food safety management systems, training hourly employees, and more. A fee is required to take the test. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Galley Operations 293 hours The course introduces mariners to safe and sanitary practices necessary for a career in the Steward Department and covers the topics of cleaning and sanitizing the shipboard environment, foodborne illness, contamination, personal hygiene, measurements, abbreviations, safe food handling, ordering and storage, and salad bar production. Prerequisites: 365 days sea time as an SA, or Phase III UA’s deciding on a Steward Dept career Certified Chief Cook Six 2-week modules This course provides steward department personnel with an understanding and knowledge of sanitation, nutrition, and the preparation, production and service of soups, sauces, meats, poultry, and seafood. The structure of the course allows eligible upgraders to enroll at the start of any module. Prerequisites: Successful completion of UA Program and 180 days seatime OR successful completion of Galley Ops and one year seatime as SA Advanced Galley Operations 199 hours The course provides students with a thorough grasp of the advanced baking knowledge and skills required of a member of the steward department. Basic computer skills. Prerequisites: Successful completion of Galley Ops and Cert. Chief Cook and 180 days seatime Chief Steward 525 hours This course trains stewards to take charge of a production galley, supervise employees in galley operations, plan and prepare meals, incorporate a wellness environment in menu structure, order inventory, determine scheduling and oversee galley sanitation. On meeting the minimum requirements for Chief Steward, culinary students will be trained to take charge of a production galley. The course stresses the competencies related to management, breakfast production, communication, leadership, inventory control, ordering, scheduling, sanitation, healthy menu planning and healthy baking. Includes the use of FoodCo, a comprehensive galley management program to help with menu plan- 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, Maryland, there has been academic support for students taking vocational programs. There are a variety of opportunities offered to all students. Specific questions about the programs can be answered by contacting the Academic Department at (301) 994-0010, ext. 5411 General Education Program – Maryland 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 new computer-based GED test in Maryland or in their home January 2018 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.) 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 students who have been away from the class room; need to improve basic academic skills. College Program The Paul Hall Center is a degreegranting 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 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 15 �ning, inventory control and wellness. Prerequisites: Successful completion of Galley Ops, Cert. Chief Cook, Adv. Galley Ops and 180 days seatime Safety Courses Basic Firefighting (SHLSOS-53) 16 hours This course is an element of Basic Training and satisfies the following: 1) Fire Prevention per STCW table A-VI/1; 2) Fire Prevention per 46CFR 11.302(a)(2) and 12.602(a)(2) and; 3) Basic Firefighting training required by 46CFR 11.201(h)(2) [Basic only] and 11.201(h)(3); and 4) Firefighting requirements for national tankerman endorsement in 46CFR 13.201(c)(3), 13.301(c)(3), 13.401(d), and 13.501(c)(3). Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Basic Firefighting (SHLSOS-57) 35 hours This course is part of the UA Program and satisfies the following: 1)Fire Prevention per STCW table A-VI/1; 2) Fire Prevention per 46CFR 11.302(a)(2) and 12.602(a)(2); 3)Basic Firefighting required by 46CFR 11.201(h)(2 [Basic only] and 11.201(h)(3); and 4)Firefighting requirements for national tankerman endorsement in 46CFR 13.201(c)(3), 13.301(c)(3), 13.401(d), and 13.501(c) (3). This course satisfies all the associated tasks from NVIC 08-14 for Fire Prevention and Firefighting: 3.2A, 3.7.A, 3.8.A, 3.8.B, 3.8.C, 3.8.D. 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 Training 40 hours The Basic Training Program consists of four stand-alone courses of components outlined in Basic Firefighting (SHLSOS-53), First Aid/CPR/AED (SHLSOS-203), Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities (SHLSOS-359), and Personal Survival Techniques (SHLSOS-363). Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Basic Training Revalidation (SHLSOS-718) 8 hours A mariner who successfully completes the course will satisfy the continued competency requirements for Personal Survival Techniques and Fire Prevention and Firefighting in STCW Section A-VI/1, 46 CFR 11.302(d) and 46 CFR 12.602(d), provided that they have at least one year of sea service in the last five years. The following practical assessments performed during this course have been determined to be equivalent of National Assessment Guidelines as documented in NVIC 08-14 Guidelines on Qualifications for STCW Endorsements in Basic Training: 1.14.B, 1.14.D, 1.14.E, 1.14.F, 1.14.G, 3.7.A, 3.8.A, 3.8.B, 3.8.C, and 3.8.D. Prerequisite: Basic Training within last 5 years and proof of 1 year sea service within the last 5 years Basic Training & Advanced Firefighting Revalidation (SHLSOS-823) 35 hours A mariner who successfully completes this course AND having been previously endorsed for Basic Training, Advanced Firefighting and Proficient in Survival Craft, AND showing evidence of 1 year sea service in the last 5 years will: satisfy the BT Revalidation continued competency requirements for Personal Survival Techniques, Fire Prevention and Firefighting in STCW as amended 2010 Section A-VI/1, 46 CFR 11.302(d) and 12.602(d); satisfy the Advanced Firefighting revalidation requirements of STCW Section A-VI/3 and 46 CFR 11.201(h)(1) and 11.33(d), AND satisfy the PSC continued professional competence requirements of 46 CFR 12.613(b). It also satisfies the National Assessment Guidelines from NVIC 08-14 for BT (1.3.B, 1.14.A, 1.14B, 1.14.D, 1.14.E, 1.14.F, 1.14.G, 3.7.A, 3.8.A, 3.8.B, 3.8.C, 3.8.D) and 09-14 for Advanced Firefighting (1.3.A, 1.5.A, 2.1.A, 2.1.B, 3.1.A, 3.1.B, 4.1.A, 4.1.B, 4.1.C). Prerequisite: Previously endorsed for Basic Training, Advanced Firefighting, and Proficient in Survival Craft and proof of 1 year sea service within the last 5 years Combined Basic & Advanced Firefighting (SHLSOS-125) 40 hours Successful completion of this course will satisfy the following requirements: 1. Fire Prevention and Firefighting per STCW Code Section A-VI/1; 2. Advanced Firefighting per STCW Code Section A-VI/3; 3. Fire Prevention and Firefighting per 46 CFR 11.302(a)(2) and 12.602(a)(2); 4. Basic and Advanced Firefighting per 46 CFR 11.201(h)(2) and 11.201(h)(3); Advanced Firefighting per 46 CFR 11.303(a); and Firefighting requirements for a national tankerman endorsement in 46 CFR 13.201(c)(3), 13.301(c)(3), 13.401(d), and 13.501(c)(3). Prerequisites: Must be rated Crisis Management & Human Behavior (SHLSOS-138) 7 hours Successful completion of this course will satisfy the Crisis Management & Human Behavior training requirements of 46 CFR 11.1105(a)(1)(iii); AND Paragraph 3 of Section A-V/2; AND the competencies of Table A-V/2 of the STCW Code, as amended 2010. 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) 4 hours Any applicant successfully completing this course will satisfy the Crowd Management training requirements of 46 CFR 12.905, 11.1105 and the STCW Code Section A-V/2 paragraphs 1 and 2 of the STCW Code, as amended 2010. It provides the knowledge and skills necessary 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 First Aid & CPR (SHLSOS-197) 21 hours This course is part of the UA program and satisfies: (1) Elementary First Aid per Table A-VI/1-3; (2) Elementary First Aid per 46 CFR 11.302(a)(3) and 46 CFR 12.602(a)(3); and (3) the First Aid and CPR training requirements of 46 CFR 11.201(i)(1). Students in this class learn the principles and techniques of safety and basic first aid, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) according to the nationally accepted standards. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites First Aid/CPR/AED (SHLSOS-203) 8 hours This course is part of the BT classes and satisfies: (1) the Elementary First Aid per Table A-VI/1-3; (2) Elementary First Aid per 46 CFR 11.302(a)(3) and 46 CFR 12.602(a)(3); and (3) the First Aid and CPR training requirements of 46 CFR 11.201(i)(1). Students in this class learn the principles and techniques of safety and basic first aid, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) according to the nationally accepted standards. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites 16 Seafarers LOG Maritime Security Awareness (SHLSOS-561) 4 hours This course provides the knowledge required for all personnel who are not assigned specific duties in connection with a security plan but are involved in the work of ports, facilities, and vessels. Successful completion of this course will satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 12.627(a) (1) and paragraphs 1-4 of Section A-Vi/6 and Table A-VI/6-1 of STCW Code, as amended 2010, for an STCW endorsement for Security Awareness. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Medical Care Provider (SHLSOS-310) 35 hours This course will satisfy the STCW Code Table A-VI/4-1; the competency requirements of 46 CFR 12.619(a)(2); and the Medical First Aid Provider training requirements of 46 CFR 11.309(a)(4)(i), 11.317(a)(3)(i), 11.319(a)(4)(i), 11.329(a) (4)(i), 11.335(a)(3)(i), and 12.619(a)(1). Topics include a review of cardiac and airway management, rescuer safety, body structure, examining trauma victims and medical patients, treating head and spinal injuries, burns, musculoskeletal injuries, and rescued persons. Also included are obtaining radio medical advice, administering medication, and sterilization techniques. Prerequisites: Must be rated Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities (SHLSOS-359) 4 hours This course is part of the BT classes and satisfies the Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities competency and training requirements of Table A-VI/1-4 of the STCW Code 2010 as amended and 46 CFR 10.302(a)(4) and 12.602(a)(4). This course will also satisfy the renewal requirements for PSSR under STCW Section A-VI/1, as amended. This course familiarizes students with the fundamental knowledge and skills of basic shipboard safety, social interactions, communication, and sexual harassment as necessary for employment aboard deepsea vessels. This is accomplished through classroom lectures. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Personal Survival Techniques (SHLSOS-363) 12 hours This course is part of the BT classes and satisfies 1) PST competency and training requirements of A-V/1 and Table January 2018 �A-V/1-1 of STCW as amended; 2) continued competency requirements of 46 CFR 11.302(b) and 12.602(b) and requirements of A-V/1 and Table A-V/1-1 of STCW as amended; 3) renewal requirements of 46 CFR 11.302(e) and 12.602(e) for renewal of PST; and 4) continued competency requirements of 46 CFR 12.613(b)(3) for renewal of PSC provided there is documented 1 year of sea service in the last 5 years. Topics include: Planning Ahead, Station Bill, Lifeboats, Inflatable Liferafts, Personal Life Saving Equipment, Survival at Sea, Signaling, Rescue Procedures, and Abandoning Ship. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Social Responsibilities (SHLSOS-465) 25 hours This course is part of the UA Program and satisfies the Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities competencies to comply with emergency procedures, take precautions to prevent pollution of the marine environment and observe safe working practices of Table A-VI/1-4 of the STCW Code, as amended, and 46 CFR 11.302(a) (4). Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties (VPDSD) (SHLSOS-747) 7.5 hours This course satisfies the training requirements of 46 CFR 12.625(a)(1) and the STCW Table A-VI/6-2 for an STCW endorsement as Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Vessel Security Officer (SHLSOS-573) 14 hours This course satisfies the training requirements 33 CFR 104.215(d)(1)(iv) and STCW Code Section A-VI/5 for an STCW endorsement as Vessel Security Officer. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Tanker Courses Tank Barge Dangerous Liquids (SHLSOS-491) 38 hours This course satisfies the training requirements of 46 CFR 13.309 for an endorsement as Tankerman-PIC (Barge); AND satisfies the training requirements of 46 CFR 10.227(d)(8)(C) for renewal of a merchant mariner credential endorsed as Tankerman PIC (Barge Dangerous) Liquids. Prerequisites: Basic Firefighting, Tankerman Assistant Endorsement Tank Ship Familiarization (Dangerous Liquids) (SHLSOS-505) 34.5 hours This course satisfies the training requirements of 46 CFR 13.401(e)(1) for an original endorsement as TankermanAssistant DL; and satisfies the tanker fa- miliarization training requirements of 46 CFR 13.609(a)(2) and Table A-V/1-1-1 of the STCW Code 2010, as amended for an endorsement for Basic Oil and Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations. Prerequisite: Basic Firefighting within 5 years Tank Ship Familiarization (DL & LG) (SHLSOS-506) 67 hours This course will satisfy the course requirements of 46 CFR 13.401 (e)(1) for an endorsement as Tankerman- Assistant DL; AND the requirements of 46 CFR 13.609(a)(2) and STCW Code Table A-V/1-1-1 for an endorsement for Basic Oil and Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations; AND the course requirements of 46 CFR 13.401 (e)(1) for an endorsement as Tankerman-Assistant LG; AND the requirements of 46 CFR 13.611(a)(2) and STCW Code Table A-V/1-2-1 for an endorsement for Basic Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo Operations. Prerequisite: Basic Firefighting within 5 years Tank Ship Familiarization (Liquefied Gases) (SHLSOS-507) 34 hours This course satisfies the course requirements of 46 CFR 13.401(e)(1) for an endorsement as Tankerman-Assistant LG; AND the requirements of 46 CFR 13.611 (a)(2) and STCW Code Table A-V/1-2-1 for an endorsement for Basic Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo Operations. The course of instruction includes LNG firefighting, 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 operations), inert gas generator (general flow system), nitrogen gas system, LNG vapor compressor, warm-up heater and boil-off heater. Prerequisite: Basic or Advanced Firefighting within 5 years, must be rated Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Damage Control 2 days This course is a module of the SHLSS Government Vessels Training Program and can also be utilized independently. The course provides the student 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 Government Vessels 5 days This week includes the following courses: Shipboard Helo Firefighting, Marine Environmental Awareness, Damage Control, and Chemical, Biological, Radiological—Defense (CBR-D). See below for course descriptions. This week of training is required of all students in the UA program during Phase 3. Chemical, Biological, Radiological Defense (CBR-D) Orientation 2 days Students successfully completing this course will understand the triad of CBR survivability measures - equipment, detection, and decontamination - that must be taken to protect their ship and the crew. The primary focus of this course is the knowledge of Personal Protection Equipment, with an emphasis on survivability of the individual and the ship, and to impart confidence in their ability to survive and work in a contaminated environment for the rapid restoration of mission. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Marine Environmental Awareness 2 hours 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, which includes MSC policies regarding compliance with regulations, pollution prevention, and spill conservation response readiness. MSC Individual Small Arms Training and Qualification Course 32 hours This course meets the standards and content of OPNAVINST 3591.1 Series, Small Arms Training and Qualification and Course. The purpose of MSC’s Individual Small Arms Training and Qualification Course is to provide CIVMARs, CONMARs, and shipboard contract security personnel with the knowledge, skills and abilities to safely, responsibly and ef- MSC Courses fectively employ small arms in individual and unit self-defense of Department of Defense assets to the standards set by the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations and the Commander, Military Sealift Command. Prerequisites: MSC Security Watchstander Basic and Advanced MSC Security Watchstander – Advanced This course is recognized as meeting the Military Sealift Command’s standard and content for MSC’s Security Watchstander Advanced course and meets the Dept. of Defense Interservice nonlethal Individual Weapons Instructor course standards for Baton and Mechanical Advantage Control Holds. Prerequisites: MSC Security Watchstander Basic MSC Security Watchstander – Basic This course is recognized as meeting the Military Sealift Command’s standard and content for MSC’s Security Watchstander Basic course and is in line with the U.S. Navy’s Center for Security Forces Tactics, Techniques and Procedures. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Shipboard Helicopter Firefighting Team Member 1 day This course provides tailored team training for mariners who may serve as a member of a ship’s flight deck organization. Topics covered are helicopter nomenclature and hazards associated with helicopter operations, classes of fire, personal protective equipment, flight deck firefighting equipment, helicopter pilot, crew and passenger rescue procedures, helicopter fire suppression and extinguishment procedures and techniques. Students drill and are assessed in the procedures and techniques of pilot rescue and helicopter fire suppression and extinguishment. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites MSC Readiness Refresher 35 hours This refresher course is composed of our current USCG approved 21-Hour Basic Training Renewal course (SHLSOS-69) and the assessment components of Helicopter Firefighting, Chemical, Biological–Radiological Defense (CBRD) and Damage Control (DC). Marine Environmental Protection (MEP) is offered in the evenings as a self-study computer-based training administered through our Academic department. The course is intended for Civil Service Mariners and Contract Mariners who work aboard MSC-contracted ships. Prerequisite: Basic Training, Damage Control, CBR-D and Helicopter Firefighting January 2018 Seafarers LOG 17 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 March 10 BAPO June 2 June 29 FOWT March 10 April 6 Junior Engineer February 3 March 30 June 9 August 3 Machinist April 28 May 18 Marine Electrician January 20 March 16 Gap Closing Courses Engine Room Resource Management Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion March 16 Marine Refer Tech March 17 April 27 Leadership and Managerial Skills March 17 March 23 Pumpman May 19 May 25 Deck Department Upgrading Courses July 7 July 13 Able Seafarer Deck March 10 April 6 Welding February 24 March 16 May 5 June 1 March 24 April 13 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Steward Department Courses Students will be advised of dates once accepted. Advanced Galley Ops March 24 April 20 ARPA April 7 April 13 May 12 May 18 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start January 8. Bosun Recertification July 21 August 6 Chief Steward February 3 March 23 April 21 June 08 Crane Familiarization March 3 March 9 Galley Operations April 21 May 18 ECDIS April 7 April 13 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 March 3 March 9 March 17 March 23 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 February 10 February 16 February 24 March 2 Fast Rescue Boat June 16 June 22 GMDSS March 10 March 23 June 2 June 15 Lifeboat January 13 January 26 February 10 February 23 March 10 March 23 Radar Observer March 24 April 6 April 28 May 11 June 16 June 29 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW February 10 March 9 April 7 May 4 June 2 June 29 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers June 2 June 15 BAPO February 10 March 9 April 7 May 4 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 # and dates attended___________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 18 Seafarers LOG Steward Recertification April 21 May 7 Serve Safe February 10 February 16 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training w/16hr FF January 20 January 26 March 24 March 30 Basic Training Revalidation March 9 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation March 10 March 9 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting March 3 March 9 Government Vessels Medical Care Provider February 3 February 9 February 24 March 2 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL April 21 April 27 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG March 10 March 16 March 16 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, or any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or 1/18 activities. January 2018 �January & February Membership Meetings Piney Point..................................Monday: January 8, February 5 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea November 11, 2017 - December 11, 2017 Algonac........................................Friday: January 12, February 9 Total Registered Total Shipped Baltimore.................................Thursday: January 11, February 8 Port Guam.....................................Thursday: January 25, February 22 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 22 11 0 12 7 0 3 25 11 0 1 4 1 3 4 1 3 1 1 1 5 4 0 2 3 0 2 7 4 1 22 12 5 11 8 3 8 35 18 11 3 0 0 2 3 0 0 5 1 0 13 1 5 8 0 7 6 21 2 7 11 3 1 7 5 0 5 18 8 3 62 14 14 33 14 16 42 115 22 23 37 12 8 25 10 8 22 65 24 18 48 11 7 35 6 1 17 69 22 11 4 2 1 1 0 1 0 6 3 0 15 3 5 15 3 4 9 14 6 6 26 26 5 12 13 7 15 45 33 7 9 8 2 12 4 1 7 24 7 6 3 6 2 3 4 1 3 6 5 2 3 2 0 1 2 0 1 4 1 0 6 3 1 7 1 1 4 11 3 1 38 10 8 19 8 5 10 64 10 12 5 2 0 1 0 0 0 4 3 0 35 12 2 19 10 5 19 51 18 11 368 146 67 228 105 61 176 590 202 120 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 3 0 1 1 1 1 0 2 5 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 7 3 0 5 1 0 2 9 5 0 9 9 0 4 2 2 6 12 12 2 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 3 2 0 1 5 1 5 5 0 0 8 2 2 6 2 0 1 20 9 2 22 9 3 17 7 6 13 35 10 5 25 13 2 14 15 1 6 31 22 2 16 6 0 12 1 2 3 17 12 1 1 0 0 3 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 5 0 5 0 0 2 7 9 0 18 11 6 10 6 4 7 25 15 7 9 7 1 3 1 0 2 14 9 4 1 1 0 1 2 0 0 3 2 0 4 5 1 1 2 0 0 4 5 1 3 5 1 3 0 1 2 2 6 0 17 3 1 7 5 3 4 28 11 3 4 0 0 3 0 0 1 4 1 0 17 5 2 4 6 3 5 27 10 8 168 87 21 102 56 24 59 246 144 36 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 3 3 1 1 2 2 1 4 4 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 4 0 0 1 0 0 1 3 0 0 7 5 2 12 4 1 4 13 3 2 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 1 0 8 2 1 1 1 1 2 11 1 2 12 0 0 4 0 0 2 16 3 0 16 9 0 9 6 1 4 28 12 4 19 11 0 16 10 0 12 29 16 0 10 2 0 5 2 0 4 21 3 1 0 2 1 1 1 0 1 1 2 1 5 5 0 4 2 0 1 8 7 1 17 9 0 10 8 0 8 23 14 0 20 5 2 13 4 0 8 30 6 2 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 0 0 1 5 0 1 0 0 0 3 6 0 2 3 0 0 2 0 2 3 2 0 19 2 1 14 1 1 5 29 3 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 5 0 1 17 5 0 16 1 0 7 32 13 0 165 69 9 111 44 6 62 265 97 15 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 0 4 7 0 0 2 0 0 10 13 1 1 6 1 1 5 0 1 0 7 0 2 3 0 0 0 0 0 2 4 0 8 4 0 4 2 4 1 7 12 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 4 1 2 2 1 0 1 6 0 7 4 0 2 2 0 0 7 10 6 12 14 3 9 8 5 11 24 29 4 20 40 1 12 15 2 4 25 88 4 18 9 1 4 5 2 4 32 20 0 0 2 0 1 2 0 0 1 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 2 0 23 32 0 10 4 4 1 36 61 1 8 8 1 3 5 1 2 9 20 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 7 14 6 0 11 8 3 9 16 40 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 2 12 33 3 13 7 5 10 31 65 26 133 174 11 75 69 27 45 205 380 Honolulu....................................Friday: January 19, February 16 Houston..................*Tuesday: January 16, Monday: February 12 Jacksonville.............................Thursday: January 11, February 8 Joliet......................................Thursday: January 18, February 15 Mobile................................Wednesday: January 17, February 14 New Orleans............................Tuesday: January 16, February 13 Jersey City..................................Tuesday: January 9, February 6 Norfolk....................................Thursday: January 11, February 8 Oakland.................................Thursday: January 18, February 15 Philadelphia.........................Wednesday: January 10, February 7 Port Everglades.....................Thursday: January 18, February 15 San Juan.................................Thursday: January 11, February 8 St. Louis.....................................Friday: January 19, February 16 Tacoma.......................................Friday: January 26, February 23 Wilmington............Monday: January 22, **Tuesday: February 20 * Houston change due to Martin Luther King Jr. Day * Wilmington change due to Presidents’ Day 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 January 2018 All Groups A B C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C A All Groups B C GRAND TOTAL: 727 435 271 452 280 160 324 1,146 648 551 Seafarers LOG 19 �Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Offers Scholarship Funds Each year, the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) makes scholarships available to qualified individuals who are looking to further their education. The 2018 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 obtain a scholarship program booklet. This package contains eligibility information, procedures for applying for the scholarships and an application form. Union members and their dependents now have three avenues through which they may obtain this booklet. First, as has been the case in the past, prospective applicants may request these booklets via mail by completing and mailing the form provided below. Secondly, they may obtain the booklets by visiting any SIU hall. Finally, applicants may obtain the booklet online by visiting www.seafarers.org, going to the Member Benefits tab, navigating to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan menu and selecting Scholarship Booklet (PDF). 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, 2018. 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 2018. 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. Please send me the 2018 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 1/18 2017 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 multiemployer pension plan (the “Plan”). It also includes 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 required by federal law. This notice is for the plan year beginning August 1, 2016 and ending July 31, 2017 (the “2016 Plan Year”). How Well-Funded Is Your Plan? The law requires the administrator of the Plan to tell you how well the Plan is funded, using a measure called the “funded percentage.” The Plan divides its assets by its liabilities on the Valuation Date for the plan year to get this percentage. In general, the higher the percentage, the better funded the plan. The Plan’s funded percentage for the Plan Year and each of the two preceding plan years is shown in the chart below. The chart also states 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 2016 Plan Year 2015 Plan Year August 1, 2016 August 1, 2015 Over 100% Over 100% $104,135,946 $104,944,388 $91,445,010 $91,194,455 2014 Plan Year August 1, 2014 Over 100% $105,886,470 $83,624,556 Year-End Fair Market Value of Assets The asset values in the chart above are measured as of the Valuation Date. They also are “actuarial values.” Actuarial values differ from market values in that they do not fluctuate daily based on changes in the stock or other markets. Actuarial values smooth out those fluctuations and can allow for more predictable levels of future contributions. Despite the fluctuations, market values tend to show a clearer picture of a plan’s funded status at a given point in time. The asset values in the chart below are market values and are measured on the last day of the Plan Year. The chart also includes the year-end market value of the Plan’s assets for each of the two preceding plan years. The value of the Plan assets shown as of July 31, 2017 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 2016 annual report filed with the Department of Labor in May 2018. July 31, 2017 Fair Market Value of Assets $104,433,737 July 31, 2016 $101,515,817 July 31, 2015 $107,839,193 Endangered, Critical, or Critical and Declining Status Under federal pension law, a plan generally is in “endangered” status if its funded percentage is less than 80 percent. A plan is in “critical” status if the funded percentage is less than 65 percent (other factors may also apply). A plan is in “critical and declining” status if it is in critical status and is projected to become insolvent (run out of money to pay benefits) within 15 years (or within 20 years if a special rule applies). 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 or critical and declining status, the trustees of the plan are required to adopt a rehabilitation plan. Funding improvement and rehabilitation plans establish steps and benchmarks for pension plans to improve their funding status over a specified period of time. The plan sponsor of a plan in critical and declining status may apply for approval to amend the plan to reduce current and future payment obligations to participants and beneficiaries. The Plan was not in endangered, critical, or critical and declining status in the Plan Year. Participant Information The total number of participants and beneficiaries covered by the Plan on the valuation date was 1,818. Of this number, 771 were current employees, 1,016 were retired and receiving benefits, and 31 were retired or no longer working for the employer and have a right to future benefits. Funding & Investment Policies Every pension plan must have a procedure to establish a funding policy for plan objectives. A funding policy relates to how much money is needed to pay promised benefits. Plan benefits are funded by employer contributions and investment returns on those contributions. Commencing January 1, 2016, the shipping companies have agreed to make contributions to the Plan, and may agree through collective bargaining in the future to make additional contributions as necessary to satisfy the minimum funding standards of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”) and the Internal Revenue Code (“Code”). The Plan’s funding policy is to continue to fund Plan benefits in this manner in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA and the Code. Pension plans also have investment policies. These generally are written guidelines or general instructions for making 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 1. Cash (Interest bearing and non-interest bearing) 20 Seafarers LOG Percentage 4.0% 2. U.S. Government securities 19.9% 3. Corporate debt instruments 11.7% 4. Corporate stocks (other than employer securities) 33.5% 5. Real estate (other than employer real property) 8.2% 6. Value of interest in registered investment companies (e.g., mutual funds) 22.7% 7. Other 0.0% Right to Request a Copy of the Annual Report Pension plans must file annual reports with the US Department of Labor. The report is called the “Form 5500.” These reports contain financial and other information. You may obtain an electronic copy of your Plan’s annual report by going to www.efast.dol.gov and using the search tool. Annual reports also 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. Or you may obtain a copy of the Plan’s annual report by making a written request to the plan administrator, Ms. Michelle Chang, at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107. Annual reports for the 2015 Plan Year and earlier Plan Years are available now. The annual report for the 2016 Plan Year will be available when it is filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration in May 2018. Annual reports do not contain personal information, such as the amount of your accrued benefit. You may contact the plan administrator at 415-764-4993 or the address above if you want information about your accrued benefits. Summary of Rules Governing Insolvent Plans Federal law has a number of special rules that apply to financially troubled multiemployer plans that become insolvent, either as ongoing plans or plans terminated by mass withdrawal. The plan administrator is required by law to include a summary of these rules in the annual funding notice. 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 Plan is not insolvent 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. There are separate insurance programs with different benefit guarantees and other provisions for single-employer plans and multiemployer plans. Your Plan is covered by PBGC’s multiemployer program. 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 $600, 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 ($600/10), which equals $60. The guaranteed amount for a $60 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 addition, the PBGC guarantees qualified preretirement survivor benefits (which are preretirement death benefits payable to the surviving spouse of a participant who dies before starting to receive benefit payments). In calculating a person’s monthly payment, the PBGC will disregard any benefit increases that were made under a 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 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. For additional information about the PBGC and the pension insurance program guarantees, go to the Multiemployer Page on PBGC’s website at www.pbgc.gov/prac/multiemployer. Please contact your employer or fund administrator for specific information about your pension plan or pension benefit. PBGC does not have that information. See “Where to Get More Information about Your Plan,” below. 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, 415-7644993. For identification purposes, the official plan number is 001, the plan sponsor is the Board of Trustees of the SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, and the employer identification number or “EIN” is 94-6061923. January 2018 �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA ALI AKMAR Brother Ali Akmar, 68, signed on with the union in 1997. He worked as a member of the steward department, initially aboard the Independence. Brother Akmar upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school before his last voyage aboard the Maersk Memphis. He makes his home in New York. DARIUSZ CZEPCZNSKI Brother Dariusz Czepcznski, 65, joined the union in 1990. He initially worked on the Kinsman Independent and was a member of the steward department. Brother Czepcznski upgraded on several occasions before finishing his career aboard the Sunshine State. He resides in Palm Coast, Florida. DAVID HARVEY Brother Floyd Bishop, 65, became an SIU member in 1971, working as a steward department member on the Trans Hawaii. He took advantage of training opportunities at the Piney Point school, upgrading on several occasions. Brother Bishop last shipped on the Sulphur Enterprise and makes his home in Wilmer, Alabama. Brother David Harvey, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1997, working aboard the Perseverance. A member of the deck department, he took advantage of the training opportunities at the Piney Point school and upgraded on multiple occasions. He last sailed on the Florida before settling in Chipley, Florida. DOUGLAS BUCHANAN CHRISTOPHER LIGHTFOOT FLOYD BISHOP Brother Douglas Buchanan, 66, signed on with the SIU in 1990, working aboard the Cove Leader. A member of the deck department, he took advantage of the training opportunities at the Piney Point school and upgraded on multiple occasions. Brother Buchanan most recently sailed on the Horizon Kodiak. He resides in Port Orchard, Washington. WILLIAM BURNHAM Brother William Burnham, 71, joined the SIU in 2000, working aboard the USNS Bob Hope. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Burnham most recently sailed on the Observation Island. He is a resident of El Dorado Hills, California. WINSTON COBURN Brother Winston Coburn, 77, joined the union in 2002. He first worked on the Maersk Maryland, as a member of the steward department. Brother Coburn upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 2003. He last worked aboard the Maersk Iowa and calls Miami home. ELY CUARESMA Brother Ely Cuaresma, 68, joined the SIU in 1998 when he worked on the Independence. A member of the engine department, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2012. Brother Cuaresma most recently shipped aboard the Tyco Dependable. He calls Honolulu home. January 2018 Brother Christopher Lightfoot, 65, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1991. He initially sailed on the Cape Avinof, working as a member of the deck department. Brother Lightfoot most recently worked aboard the Courier and now lives in Campobello, South Carolina. ROBERT MOSLEY Brother Robert Mosley, 63, became a member of the SIU in 1979. Initially sailing aboard the President Wilson, he was a member of the steward department. Brother Mosley upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center before sailing on his final vessel, the Ocean Giant. He makes his home in Jackson, Mississippi. ANTONIO OCTAVIANO Brother Antonio Octaviano, 66, started shipping with the SIU in 2003, sailing aboard the Paul Buck. A member of the engine department, he upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 2011. Brother Octaviano last sailed on the Resolve before settling in Daly City, California. EARL POWERS Brother Earl Powers, 65, joined the SIU in 1991, initially sailing aboard the USNS Kane. He was a member of the deck department; his most recent ship was the Maersk Detroit. Brother Powers is a resident of Pensacola, Florida. RICHARD PROVOST Brother Richard Provost, 65, began his seafaring career in 1971, working aboard the William Reiss. The deck department member upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in both 1999 and 2001. Brother Provost last worked aboard a Maersk ship. He makes his home in Marengo, Wisconsin. GARY RAMIREZ Brother Gary Ramirez, 65, joined the SIU in 2001, working for OSG Ship Management. A member of the steward department, he sailed in both the inland and deep-sea divisions. Brother Ramirez upgraded on several occasions and most recently sailed on the National Glory. He lives in Long Beach, Mississippi. DADANG RASHIDI Brother Dadang Rashidi, 65, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1992. He first worked on the OMI Wabash. The steward department member took advantage of the training opportunities at the Paul Hall Center and upgraded on several occasions. Brother Rashidi last sailed aboard the Marstan before settling in Brooklyn, New York. SAMUEL REED Brother Samuel Reed, 62, joined the SIU in 1980. He originally sailed on the Gemini and worked as a member of the deck department. Brother Reed upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. He last sailed on the Evergreen State before settling in Mobile, Alabama. GEORGES ROSE Brother Georges Rose, 69, started shipping with the SIU in 1999. An engine department member, his first vessel was the Green Island. Brother Rose upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center before working on his final vessel, the Maersk Kentucky. He resides in Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands. HUSAIN SALAH Brother Husain Salah, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1998. A member of the steward department, he first worked aboard the Global Mariner. He upgraded multiple times at the Piney Point school before sailing on his final vessel, the Maersk Memphis. Brother Salah calls Bronx, New York, home. GREAT LAKES CHARLES BEARMAN Brother Charles Bearman, 65, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1989. He initially worked for Bob-Lo Island as a deck department member. Brother Bearman upgraded on several occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. After sailing on his final ship, the Burns Harbor, Brother Bearman settled in Rogers City, Michigan. ROBERT EVAVOLD Brother Robert Evavold, 65, joined the union in 1973. A member of the deck department, his first vessel was the J.S. Morrow; his last, the Kinsman Enterprise. Brother Evavold makes his home in Nevis, Minnesota. INLAND ROBERT DEANE Brother Robert Deane, 62, signed on with the union in 1975, working for Maritrans. He took advantage of the training opportunities available at the Piney Point school and upgraded in 1975. A deck department member, he last worked for Interstate Oil. Brother Deane makes him home in Medford Lakes, New Jersey. DANIEL HULTGEN Brother Daniel Hultgen, 66, became a member of the SIU in 1978, working for Crowley Towing and Transportation. He was a deck department member and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in both 1983 and 1997. Brother Hultgen worked for the same company throughout his career and settled in Ventura, California. EDMUND IDLER Brother Edmund Idler, 59, started shipping with the SIU in 1981. He initially worked for Interstate Oil as a member of the deck department. Brother Idler upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. He last worked for OSG Inland and resides in Woodbury Heights, New Jersey. MICHAEL MANEELY Brother Michael Maneely, 62, joined the SIU in 1976. He initially worked for National Marine and was a deck department member. Brother Maneely last sailed with Higman Barge Lines and calls Cypress, Texas, home. with Penn Maritime Inc. An engine department member, Brother Mattson upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. He continued working for the same company for his entire career and calls Saint Cloud, Florida, home. JOHNNY ROBBINS Brother Johnny Robbins, 62, signed on with the SIU in 1979, working for Allied Transportation. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Robbins last worked for Penn Maritime Inc. He resides in Gloucester, Virginia. SHERWOOD ROBINSON Brother Sherwood Robinson, 64, became an SIU member in 1973, sailing with CG Willis. He was a member of the deck department and finished his career working with Mariner Towing. Brother Robinson resides in Atlantic, North Carolina. DAVID SMITH Brother David Smith, 62, started shipping with the SIU in 1976, working for National Marine. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 1978. Brother Smith concluded his career working for Crowley Towing and Transportation. He resides in Los Angeles. FRANK SOUZA Brother Frank Souza, 64, donned the SIU colors in 2008, sailing with Crowley Towing and Transportation. He was a member of the deck department and remained with the same company throughout his career. Brother Souza makes his home in San Diego. NMU JOHN JENNINGS Brother John Jennings, 65, initially sailed with NMU before the merger with SIU in 2001. He most recently worked aboard the Green Wave, sailing as a member of the steward department. Brother Jennings took advantage of the educational opportunities at the Paul Hall Center and upgraded in 2002. He makes his home in Lancaster, California. DAVID MATTSON Brother David Mattson, 62, became an SIU member in 2002, sailing Seafarers LOG 21 �Final Departures DEEP SEA GEORGE ALLEN Pensioner George Allen, 74, passed away November 1. His first trip to sea was in 1966, sailing aboard the Delaware. Brother Allen worked as a member of the deck department. His final trip was aboard the Jeb Stuart before retiring in 1998. He resided in his home state of Alabama in the city of Robertsdale. LAWRENCE BERKLEY Pensioner Lawrence Berkley, 84, died October 31. Brother Berkley joined the SIU in 1967 and worked as a member of the deck department. He first sailed on the Cosmos Mariner and last worked aboard the Franklin J Phillips before retiring in 1998. He resided in New Lisbonn, New Jersey. VIRGILIO CASILDO Pensioner Virgilio Casildo, 79, passed away October 27. His first trip to sea was in 1991, sailing aboard the Capella. Working as an engine department member, his last trip to sea was on the Overseas New Orleans. Brother Casildo went on to retire in 2003 before settling in Conroe, Texas. STEVEN CHAPIN Pensioner Steven Chapin, 69, died November 3. He signed on with the SIU in 1991, when he sailed on the USNS Relentless. Brother Chapin was a member of the deck department, last sailing on the Tyco Dependable. He became a pensioner in 2014 and settled in Princeton, West Virginia. EDMUNDO CRUZ Pensioner Edmundo Cruz, 81, passed away September 22. He joined the SIU in 1981, first sailing on the Coastal Kansas. Brother 22 Seafarers LOG Cruz shipped as a member of the deck department. He last worked on the Liberty Grace and became a pensioner in 2003. He was a resident of New Orleans. ANDREW DIXON Brother Andrew Dixon, 52, passed away September 9. His first trip to sea with the SIU was in 1997, aboard the Advantage. Brother Dixon sailed in the deck department. His final voyage was aboard the Fidelio. He resided in his home state of Alabama in the city of Mobile. LEWIS FRANCIS Pensioner Lewis Francis, 92, died October 18. He began his seafaring career in 1951, working for Victory Carriers. A member of the deck department, he last sailed on the Stonewall Jackson before going on pension in 1990. Brother Francis was a resident of Sutherlin, Virginia. THEODORE KUBECKA Pensioner Theodore Kubecka, 79, passed away October 27. He began sailing in 1954, working aboard the President Taylor. Brother Kubecka was a member of the engine department and last sailed on the Elizabeth. He became a pensioner in 2003 and lived in Dundalk, Maryland. SIVASA LAUPATI Pensioner Sivasa Laupati, 72, died November 1. Joining the SIU in 1978, he initially worked aboard the Del Rio. Brother Laupati was a steward department member and last sailed on the Mahi Mahi. He began collecting his pension in 2010 and lived in Kent, Washington. SILVIO LINO Pensioner Silvio Lino, 71, passed away November 23. Brother Lino’s first trip to sea was in 1989, when he worked aboard the Independence. As a deck department member, he most recently sailed on the Washington Express and began collecting his pension in 2013. Brother Lino made his home in Houston. TERRENCE MEADOWS Brother Terrence Meadows, 38, died October 13. He joined the SIU in 2011 and worked as a member of the engine department. He first sailed on the Black Eagle and last worked aboard the USNS John Glenn. Native to Florida, Brother Meadows lived in the city of Jacksonville. ALVA MCCULLUM Pensioner Alva McCullum, 89, died November 11. Brother McCullum joined the SIU in 1953 and worked as a member of the steward department. He first sailed on the Steel Flyer and last worked aboard the Westward Venture before retiring in 1987. He resided in Baltimore. WILLIAM POLLARD Brother William Pollard, 73, passed away September 28. His first trip to sea was in 1966, aboard the Robin Locksley. He was born in North Carolina and worked as an engine department member. Brother Pollard’s last voyage was on the Cape Henry. He called Columbia, South Carolina, home. JOHN STOUT Pensioner John Stout, 75, passed away November 8. He joined the SIU in 1962, working for Hercules SS Corporation. Brother Stout was a member of the deck department, last sailing aboard the Innovator. He began collecting his pension in 2001 and lived in Magnolia, Texas. GEORGE VORISE Pensioner George Vorise, 90, died November 23. He began sailing in 1970, aboard the Noonday. Brother Vorise was a steward department member, last sailing aboard the Horizon Hawaii in 2005. He called Jacksonville, Florida, home. JAMES WOHLFERT Pensioner James Wohlfert, 73, passed away November 4. He began sailing in 1998, working as a deck department member aboard the McDonnell. Brother Wohlfert last sailed aboard the Indiana Harbor before becoming a pensioner in 2013. He settled in Hubbardston, Michigan. INLAND RENE CAZANOVE Pensioner Rene Cazanove, 85, died October 7. He signed on with the SIU in 1975, working for Dixie Carriers. Brother Cazanove was born in Honduras and continued to work for the same company for his entire career. He lived in Mandeville, Louisiana. DOUGLAS JARDINE Brother Douglas Jardine, 40, passed away November 2. He joined the SIU in 2003, first sailing on the Lawrence Gianella. Brother Jardine shipped as a member of the deck department. He last worked for OLS Transport and was a resident of Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. JOHN MCDERMOTT Pensioner John McDermott, 90, died October 27. A member of the deck department, he first sailed on the TMT Ferry. Brother McDermott last worked for OSG Ship Management before becoming a pensioner in 1991. He lived in Sunrise, Florida. JAMES MEEKINS Pensioner James Meekins, 90, passed away November 5. Brother Meekins joined the SIU in 1962, working for Moran Towing of Virginia. As a member of the deck department, he worked for the same company for the majority of his career before going on pension in 1988. Brother Meekins called South Mills, North Carolina, home. NORMAN USEY Pensioner Norman Usey, 61, died November 4. Brother Usey began sailing in 1973, working for Crescent Towing of New Orleans. He was a member of the deck department and remained with the same company until his retirement in 2011. The Louisiana native settled in York, Alabama. died November 28. She first sailed with the SIU in 1994, aboard the Steel Crapo. Sister Sabin sailed in the steward department. She last worked on the Sam Laud before going on pension in 2009. Sister Sabin lived in Rogers City, Michigan. NMU GEORGE BARGIE Pensioner George Bargie, 96, passed away October 30. Brother Bargie was born in New Jersey. He went on pension in 1983 and continued to live in his home state. HOLLIS BURGESS Pensioner Hollis Burgess, 82, died October 14. Born in Trinidad, Brother Burgess became a pensioner in 2000. He was a resident of Brooklyn, New York. MARCIAL CARDONA Pensioner Marcial Cardona, 90, passed away October 28. Brother Cardona was a native of Puerto Rico. He began collecting his retirement pay in 1989. Brother Cardona resided in New York. Editor’s note: The following individuals, all former members of the National Maritime Union, have also passed away. Insufficient information was available in their respective personnel files to develop written accounts of their careers. Name Acliese, Linton Bennett, Carl Bouffard, Joseph Casanova, Cecil Fitzpatrick, Nathan Hernandez, Victor Hubbard, Cleveland Linden, William Littleton, Robert Merritt, Katina Mitchell, James Moreno, Rafael Murphy, Ernest Porter, James Romano, Nicholas Stephens, Perry Toussaint, Joseph Williams, Percy Wilson, Cornelius Age 69 71 90 91 84 84 91 78 81 91 90 89 90 84 89 93 92 94 81 DOD 10/28/2017 12/01/2017 11/11/2017 10/07/2017 11/30/2017 10/25/2017 12/02/2017 10/30/2017 11/23/2017 08/1/2017 10/15/2017 11/6/2017 11/21/2017 11/27/2017 10/11/2017 11/18/2017 11/9/2017 12/05/2017 10/26/2017 GREAT LAKES DORIS SABIN Pensioner Doris Sabin, 75, January 2018 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings OVERSEAS CHINOOK (OSG), October 1 – Chairman Nicholas Smithling, Secretary Jack Hart, Educational Director Jason Horn, Deck Delegate John Mbelwa, Engine Delegate Anthony Arzu, Steward Delegate Terry Fowler. Chairman thanked crew for working safely. He advised members to take breaks as needed, noting importance of staying hydrated during hot weather conditions. He urged crew to donate to SPAD in effort to protect the Jones Act. Secretary thanked members for good housekeeping. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at the Piney Point school and to keep documents current. Deck delegate reported disputed penalty pay for one dayman. Houston hall notified. Crew expressed appreciation for new union jobs and requested new blankets. 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 In Jacksonville In photo at immediate the right, AB Doug Hodges (right) picks up his first pension check from SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware. Hodges sailed for 44 years. In photo at the far right, AB Jerald Young (right) receives his A-book from Patrolman Adam Bucalo. Future Seafarer Taelor, Jerald’s daughter, is in front. In the two remaining photos, members (photo at left below) and officials (photo at right below) congratulate longtime administrative assistant Karen Shuford (front in both photos) upon her retirement. Shuford worked for the SIU for 26 years. Ware told her, “Congratulations on a job well done. You deserve a happy retirement. May your golden years be your best.” NATIONAL GLORY (Crowley), October 1 – Chairman Joseph White, Secretary Algeron Ramseur, Educational Director Timothy Chesnut. Crew requested broader Wi-Fi availability. Chairman thanked crew members for clean housekeeping and allowing off-watch members to rest. Steward department was thanked for a job well done. Crew also gave thanks to National Shipping for water donations to Puerto Rico as well as their allowance of family aboard the ship. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members cited the benefits of leaving vehicles at the port parking lot. They want to reinstate the allowance to do so. ALASKAN EXPLORER (ATC), October 1– Chairman Michael Moore, Secretary John Huyett, Educational Director Winfred Opare, Deck Delegate Jesse Mixon, Engine Delegate Tristan Brand, Steward Delegate Brandy Clemons. Chairman reminded crew about watchkeeping compliance. Educational director urged members to upgrade and allow time for Basic Training classes prior to renewing documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed lowering sea time requirements for full retirement and requested penalty time for working in overheads. They request replacement TVs, new sheets, and recliners for unlicensed rooms. Thanks given to steward department for good food. Next Port: Valdez, Alaska. NATIONAL GLORY (Crowley), October 8 – Chairman Joseph White, Secretary Algernon Ramseur, Educational Director Timothy Chesnut. Crew discussed old business including Wi-Fi issues, satellite TV and lack of long-term parking at Houston port. Chairman thanked everyone for working well together and reminded them of safety precautions that should be taken with current welding job. He thanked the steward department for a continued job well done. Educational director en- January 2018 couraged members to upgrade at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. More supplies reportedly being sent to families in Puerto Rico by National Shipping. OVERSEAS LONG BEACH (OSG) October 15 – Chairman Samuel Porchea, Secretary Kenneth Kelly, Educational Director Brandon Purcell, Deck Delegate Basil McMillan, Engine Delegate Francisco Martinez, Steward Delegate Santiago Amaya. Chairman announced arrival expected in three days and informed mariners of upcoming crew change. Also expecting to take on stores. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requests refrigerators for unlicensed personnel. Steward department thanked for great food and professionalism while preparing loads of ice for delivery in Puerto Rico. MATSON KODIAK (Matson), October 23 – Chairman Garry Walker, Secretary Scott Opsahl. Chairman reminded crew members to pay their dues on time. He said vessel will have a brief shipyard period in Portland, Oregon, beginning in late November. Secretary expressed appreciation for members keeping the mess hall and lounge clean and instructed everyone to have fresh linen awaiting relief crew. He reminded members of the online portal for Seafarers and recommended it for awareness of keeping documents current. Secretary encouraged members to make themselves available when called for oneday standby relief. He reiterated the importance of breaks among crew. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Components of new contract discussed, including concerns about how they may impact availability of reliefs. Steward department thanked for a job well done. Next Port: Kodiak, Alaska. INDEPENDENCE II (Tote), October 29 – Secretary Michael Todman. Bosun thanked crew for fine job and welcomed everyone aboard. Secretary discussed importance of keeping ship clean. Educational director recommended members upgrade when opportunity arises and make sure documents are up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed several contract-related items including proposals about benefits. They asked for additional computer with Wi-Fi access. Members asked for TVs with satellite ac- cess in every room as well as a game system in the lounge. Next Port: Galveston, Texas. ALASKAN EXPLORER (ATC), October 29 – Chairman Michael Moore, Secretary John Huyett, Educational Director Winfred Opare, Deck Delegate Jesse Mixon, Engine Delegate Anne Scott, Steward Delegate Brandy Clemons. Chairman went over penalty rates and reminded crew to double check with captain for correct mailing address. Crew still awaiting contracts. Educational director urged members to upgrade and reminded them scholarships are available. Members were advised to check as soon as possible for shipboard training requirements and also were encouraged to use the SIU website. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members expressed interest in reduction of days needed for retirement as well as increasing days of vacation. Requests made to bring back additional food items to database. Next port: Valdez, Alaska. LIBERTY EAGLE (Liberty Maritime), October 29 – Chairman Albert Konning, Secretary George Quinn, Educational Director Ahmed Nasser, Deck Delegate Adams Mohammed, Engine Delegate Abdulkareem Ahmed, Steward Delegate Jose Burgos. Chairman announced payoff date of Nov. 6 in Houston. He thanked crew for safe voyage and for working well together. Secretary encouraged crew to read the LOG and reminded them to leave a clean room and fresh linens for oncoming members. Educational director advised members to upgrade at Piney Point. Steward department thanked for a job well done. SANTORINI (OSG), October 29 – Chairman Frank Hedge, Secretary Crista Ali, Deck Delegate Paul Altenor, Engine Delegate Muthana Koraish. Chairman thanked crew for safe voyage and for keeping a clean and organized ship. He noted a productive crossing despite harsh weather conditions. Secretary reiterated importance of leaving clean linen and a clean cabin for next crew. Educational director advised members to upgrade at Piney Point, noting how beneficial it is. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks to captain for his multiple efforts to keep morale high on ship. Members discussed interest in increasing pension benefits. Steward department thanked for a job well done. Seafarers LOG 23 �Spotlight on Mariner Health Take Precautions to Avoid Kidney Stones A kidney stone is a hard, mineral-type crystal formed inside of the kidney or the urinary tract/ bladder. One in every 20 people will develop kidney stones at some point in their lives. Kidney stones tend to form when a person has a decrease in urinary volume or an excess of stone-forming substances in the urine itself. Dehydration is a major factor in the formation of kidney stones. When there is a decrease of fluid intake or strenuous exercise without adequate fluid replacement, there is a higher chance of stones being formed. People with certain medical conditions, such as gout, may have an increase in uric acid in the blood and urine that can cause kidney stone problems. Individuals that take certain types of medication, such as diuretics, antacids with calcium, etc., are also at a higher risk for the formation of stones. Additionally, people with diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, inflammatory bowel disease, and ostomy surgeries are more prone to stones. Kidney stones can also result from urinary tract infections. A change in the PH of the urine, or the stagnation of urine in the bladder can form crystals. Dietary and hereditary considerations are also factors in their formation. A diet high in animal proteins, salt and sugar can influence the formation of stones. Urinary tract stones are more common on men than in women. Most stones develop in people between ages 20 to 49 years. Those that have had one experience with a kidney stone are more likely to develop additional stones over time. Kidney stones are formed when there is a decrease in urine volume and/or an excess of stone-forming particles in the urine. The most common type of stone contains calcium in combination with oxalate or phosphates. A majority of kidney stones are calcium stones. Kidney stones are diagnosed through a typical pattern of symptoms that the patient exhibits. They will have pain in the groin and/or back area. It can radiate toward the front. The pain can come and go or be so severe that a person will need to seek medical treatment. Sometimes the pain can be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. The stone can cause bloody urine (and the patient should talk about this symptom to the doctor). Stones also are diagnosed by urine testing, non-contrast CT scan, intravenous pyelogram (IVP), and an ultrasound. Plain abdominal Xrays have also been used. Treatment is aimed at relieving the pain and helping the patient pass the stone, if possible. Most stones typically pass through on their own in about 48 hours, with ample fluid intake. Pain meds can be used to help treat the pain along with over the counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. If the stone cannot be passed by the patient, the doctor may order that he or she sees a kidney specialist to discuss lithotripsy (a procedure that uses shock waves to break up the stones in the kidney, ureter, or bladder so that the tiny pieces can be passed), or another type of surgery where the doctor will remove the stone. Remember to drink adequate fluids, keep active, and eat a heart-healthy diet to help reduce the chance of a kidney stone formation. Healthy Recipe Garlic Herb Pork Tenderloin Servings: 20 8 pounds pork tenderloin 4 cloves garlic, halved 2 ¼ tablespoons thyme, dry, crushed 2 ¼ tablespoons rosemary, dry, crushed 1 ¼ teaspoons paprika ¾ teaspoon black pepper ½ tablespoons kosher salt 2 tablespoons olive oil n Cut the pork tenderloin in half to make two equal halves. Place the pork loin in roasting pans fat side up. n Using a thin sharp knife, cut small holes in the meat. Stuff the garlic cloves inside the small holes. Rub all the meat with olive oil. n In a medium-sized bowl, mix together all the remaining ingredients and rub all over the pork tenderloin equally. n Bake in a 325-degree F oven for about 20-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F. Serve hot and enjoy. n Take 1 cup of water to de-glaze the pan, scrape the front from the pan to make pan au jus. Drizzle the au jus over the sliced meat. Yield: ½ ounce Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 234 Calories; 8g Fat (30.6% calories from fat); 38g Protein; 1g Carbohydrate; Trace Dietary Fiber; 118mg Cholesterol; 232mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain (Starch); 5 ½ Lean Meat; 0 Vegetable; ½ Fat. Provided by the Paul Hall Center’s Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship 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 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: 24 Seafarers LOG 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 mon- ies 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 ACTIV- ITY 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 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Pumpman – Seven upgraders completed this course Oct. 6. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Tyrone Ellis, Walden Duldulao Galacgac, Olympia Harley, Michael Kelly, Kyle Miller, Andre Mitchell and Ryan Palmer. Class instructor Keith Adamson is at the far left. GMDSS – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 15: Brandon Albro, Eric Baynes, Christopher Bean, Robert Bryson III, Jerome Luckett, Bryan Page and Anthony Sanchez Villarrubia. Class instructor Terry Bader is at the far left. Government Vessels – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 8: Marlon Agulan Battad, Quinsha Davis, Jacob Gaskill, Braden Horne, Carlos Alberto Parrilla, Delbra Singleton-Leslie and Frank Smith. Government Vessels (GAP) - Ten individuals finished their requirements in this course Sept. 8. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Tricia Bush, Tkeyah Elliot, Raymond Forse, Travis Harris, Solymar Herrera Carreras, Joshua Hinton, Christopher Lanier, Evan Nantista, Jay Perry and Shana Ziedenberg. (Note: Not all are pictured.) FOWT – Nine individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 8: Daniel Dunn, Essam Abdulla Hussein, Mackenzie Latta, Thomas Leroy, Nicolae Marinescu, Mark Richardson, Daniel Surell, Robert Thomas and John Zimmerman. John Wiegman III, their instructor, is at the far left. Machinist – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 29: Tyrone Ellis, Walden Duldulao Galacgac, Olympia Harley, Michael Kelly, Kyle Miller, Andre Mitchell and Ryan Palmer. Class instructor Keith Adamson is at the far right. January 2018 Welding – Engine Department Seafarer Louise Dennisse Dogcio Digman (above, left) graduated from this course Oct. 20. Joining him to celebrate his achievement is his instructor, Chris Raley. UA to AS-D – Five apprentices improved their skills by finishing this course Sept. 8. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Omiles Johnson, Brandon Kernodle, Ryan Raynor, Nathaniel Robbins and Zachery Robbins. Seafarers LOG 25 �Paul Hall Center Classes Marine Electrician – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 20: Carlos Eduardo Amaya Avila, Julio Gomez, Yuri Adrian Oliveros and Guiomar Rancel. Sterling Cox, their instructor, is at the far right. Radar Observer – Five upgraders completed their requirements in this course Sept. 29. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Brandon Albro, Eric Baynes, Robert Bryson III, Ernest Frank III and Anthony Sanchez Villarrubia. Tank Ship Familiarization LG – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 15: Nestor Espejo Agcaoili, Antajuan Beasley, Farrel Bodden, Tristian Johnson, John Leahey, Daniel Mensah, Delbra Singleton-Leslie, Mario Standberry, Peter Stoker and Dana Thomas. ARPA – Five individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Oct. 6: Brandon Albro, Robert Bryson III, Ernest Frank III, Bryan Page and Anthony Sanchez Villarrubia. BAPO – The following Phase III apprentices (photo at right, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Oct. 6: Shawn James Diaz Benosa, Ashley Burke, Christian Canci, Julian Mariano Drago, Tony Hamaguchi, Christopher Hinton, Tyriq Mills, Durell Mitchell, Dillon Nelson, Mathew Palmer, Bryan Velazquez and Christopher Webster. Instructor Christopher Morgan is at the far left. Notice to All 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. BAPO (Upgraders) – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) completed the enhancement of their skills by graduating from this course Oct. 6: Sure Anitak, Johnathan Brown Jr. and Dionesio Bacsibio Monteclaro Jr. Class instructor Christopher Morgan is second from the left. 26 Seafarers LOG Magnetic & Gyro Compasses – Five individuals completed their requirements in this course Oct. 6. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Martin Baker, Matthew Botterbusch, Joshua Gonzalez, Brian Luba and George Steube III. January 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Basic Shipboard Crane Familiarization – Seven Phase III apprentices finished this course Oct. 4. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Phillip Borders, Scott Forrer, Rainiel Natividad, Tiyhana Roddy, James Russell, Angel Thompson and Javaris Wright. Their instructor Bernabe Pelingon is at the far left. Basic Shipboard Crane Familiarization – Two upgraders completed this course Oct. 4. Graduating were John Rascon, left, and Joseph Dupre. Basic Training Revalidation (Upgraders) – The following Seafarers (photo at left, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 22: Willie Allen, Bentley Arrundell, Haeven Sangalang Bautista, Fermin Velasguez Bernardez, Julito Cordova Crodua, Nathan Elliott, Ronald Jarvis, Brian Jones, William Mogg, Terrance Sasnett, Mario Standberry, Oshema Watson, Donald Williams, Edward Wright and Frank Semegna Zoumakpe. Basic Training Revalidation – Twenty four upgraders (photo at right, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Oct. 6: Samuel Mensah Addo, Nasser Saleh Ahmed, Saleh Abubakar Ahmed, Barry Alviso, Antoinette Michelle Amato, Robin Ballard, Augusto Cesar Barbareno, Jared Blavat, Lawrence Brooks Jr., David Chisling, Timothy Dowd, Boddy Dunn Jr., Ramadan Elsayed Edres, Lamond Fulton, Edward Mateo Galbis, Ryan Marquez Gallano, Paula Blanca Gomez, James Kayser, Brian Lunsford, Lon Oliver, Arnedo Barco Paredes Jr., Kevin Penrose, Cary Pratts and Neonito Salle Sodusta. Mark Cates, their instructor, is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Basic Training Revalidation (Advanced Firefighting) – Seven upgraders completed this course Sept. 22. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Louis Ferrer Jr., Kenneth Johnson, Jason Keffer, Kelsey Longhi, Samuel Russell, Leonard Soriano and Mark Stabler. John Thomas, their instructor, is at the far left. January 2018 Galley Operations (Phase III) – Two Phase III apprentices, who plan to sail in the steward department aboard SIU-contracted vessels when they finish their training, completed this course Oct. 6. Graduating (above) were St. Clair Browne Jr. (left) and James Fisher. Seafarers LOG 27 �JANUARY 2018 FEBRUAR Y 2014 o V O L VOLUME U M E 7 6 80, NNO. O. 1 2 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 25-27 Three Hurricanes Dominate Headlines, But Year Also Includes Many Positives Had Mother Nature kept her temper in check, 2017 might be remembered as an especially productive and uplifting year for the SIU. But, she did no such thing. Starting with Hurricane Harvey in late August and continuing through Hurricane Irma and then Hurricane Maria in mid-September, parts of the U.S. and its territories endured a relentless pounding. The SIU immediately stepped up with relief efforts and hasn’t stopped, but, particularly in Texas, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, recovery may take years. Nevertheless, there were other notable stories for the union in 2017, including the approval of new contracts, securing new tonnage and new jobs, conducting conventions, celebrating a milestone in Piney Point, Maryland, and conducting its own elections. The following is a look back at some of the most significant developments from the prior year. Hurricanes Strike Because of media coverage and an ongoing political firestorm concerning recovery operations involving Puerto Rico, it may be easy for people outside the other affected areas to overlook the severity of the two hurricanes that immediately preceded Maria. But Harvey and Irma, respectively, also did plenty of damage. Harvey is estimated to have caused nearly $200 billion in destruction, including in parts of Texas and Louisiana. It made landfall in the Lone Star State as a Category 4 storm in late August and would strike again two different times within the same week, resulting in 82 deaths. Irma wasn’t far behind, hitting Florida on Sept. 10, also as a Category 4 hurricane. It is estimated to have caused almost $67 billion in damage and more than 100 fatalities (roughly a third of them in the U.S.). Irma was still a Category 5 storm when it hit the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) en route to the mainland. Maria wasn’t far behind, doing more damage in the USVI (home to thousands of members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers) before striking Puerto Rico Sept. 20 as a Category 5 hurricane. As one reporter put it, “From a meteorological standpoint, Maria was nearly a worst-case scenario for the territory: The center of a huge, nearly Category 5 hurricane made a direct hit on Puerto Rico, lashing the island with wind and rain for longer than 30 hours.” There has been inconsistent reporting about the number of Mariarelated fatalities, but at least 66 deaths appear to have been directly related to the storm. The financial toll could reach $95 billion, according to several published reports. As with other natural disasters, the after- math of the hurricanes at times showcased the best of human nature. For the SIU, assistance in the wide-ranging recovery has taken many forms, including starting a disaster aid fund, delivering relief cargoes to Puerto Rico and the USVI, working with the national AFLCIO and state labor federations to secure monetary and other support, and helping mobilize a Seafarers-crewed Navy hospital ship that was deployed to Puerto Rico. The union also partnered with the American Federation of Teachers, Seafarers-contracted Tote Maritime and several other organizations for Operation Agua, a massive undertaking that is delivering portable water purifiers throughout Puerto Rico (see page 8). No mention of Maria and Puerto Rico would be complete without at least touching on a resulting political fight concerning the Jones Act, America’s freight cabotage law. Even while Jones Act carriers – most of them utilizing SIU crews – were delivering relief supplies faster than the ports could distribute them, enemies of American-flag shipping publicized lies about the law and its effect on the territory. Legislation was introduced to weaken or eliminate the century-old statute, which is vital to national, economic and homeland security. The domestic maritime industry successfully fought back, both in Congress, in the media and behind the scenes. As SIU President Michael Sacco noted, “The bottom line is the Jones Act is good for our country – most definitely including Puerto Rico. It never hampered relief efforts, and in fact, Jones Act ships led those efforts from the very beginning, not only in Puerto Rico but also in the U.S. Virgin Islands.” Big Year for Contracts There was no shortage of news concerning SIU collective bargaining agreements as well as operating contracts awarded by the Defense Department. During the summer, Seafarers overwhelmingly approved new standard freightship and tanker agreements spanning five years. The pacts call for annual wage increases while maintaining benefits. Favorable contracts also were ratified at E.N. Bisso & Son; Crowley Liner Services; E-Ships, Inc.; Keystone Shipping; Liberty Maritime; Matson Navigation; Maersk Line, Limited; Marine Personnel and Provisioning; and Transoceanic Cable. Additionally, the SIU retained jobs when an operating agreement was awarded for seven oceanographic surveillance ships, and gained jobs through two separate awards covering a total of 11 LMSRs. SIU personnel in Puerto Rico unload a container of relief supplies sent by the Texas Gulf Coast Area Labor Federation for distribution to a hospital and other local destinations. Port Agent Amancio Crespo is at right, in front. SIU President Michael Sacco (standing) addresses a crowd at DOT headquarters during an event honoring Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao (seated at left). New Tonnage and Old Friends A number of SIU-contracted vessels were christened and/or delivered in 2017. They included the roll-on/roll-off ships Liberty, Liberty Passion, and Liberty Peace; the Jones Act tankers Palmetto State, American Freedom, American Pride and American Liberty; the ConRo El Coqui; the Government Services Division ships USNS Yuma and USNS Hershel “Woody” Williams; and the Great Lakes Towing tugboat Cleveland. Also, construction began on two ConRos for Matson, while Crowley announced plans to acquire three tankers from SeaRiver Maritime. On the political front, maritime labor applauded the respective confirmations of Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao in late January and Rear Adm. (Ret.) Mark Buzby as head of the Maritime Administration in late summer. Both are familiar allies for the U.S. Merchant Marine – Chao through prior work as Secretary of Labor and at the Maritime Administration and Federal Maritime Commission, Buzby as former commanding officer of the U.S. Military Sealift Command (2009-13). School News, Conventions The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) celebrated its 50th year through a special edition of the Seafarers LOG, a video, and a luncheon that featured remarks by Secretary Chao, Crowley Maritime President and CEO Tom Crowley Jr., and President Sacco, who worked at the Piney Point, Maryland, facility in its earliest days. The school also received proclamations from U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-Maryland), whose district includes Piney Point; and from Maryland Governor Larry Hogan. The luncheon happened during the Seafarers International Union of North America convention, hosted by the school. Just a week earlier, the PHC also was the setting for the United Industrial Workers convention. Earlier in the year, the school teamed up with the College of Southern Maryland to offer an Associate of Applied Science Degree program in Maritime Operations Technology. The Piney Point union hall moved into new space in the Crowley Building. The school’s advisory board convened in May, one day after the Seafarers Waterfront Classic marked its fifth year. The latter event is a partnership with the American Military Veterans Foundation, formerly named Wounded Warrior Anglers of America. Other News Not all of the union’s political activities were related to the Jones Act. The SIU also testified in Congress in support of cargo preference programs, and helped secure ongoing support for the U.S. Maritime Security Program. Early in the year, the union announced results of rank-and-file voting (and tallying) for national officers of the Seafarers International Union’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters. The tallying committee certified the reelections of Michael Sacco as president of the SIU; Augie Tellez as the union’s executive vice president; David Heindel as secretarytreasurer; and George Tricker as vice president of contracts and contract enforcement, among other results. Sacco was a featured speaker at a March 29 event in the nation’s capital both honoring Chao and celebrating the DOT’s 50th anniversary. Other speakers included U.S. Rep. Bill Shuster (R-Pennsylvania), former Sen./DOT Secretary Elizabeth Dole, Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky), Sen. John Thune (R-South Dakota) and Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) awarded $120,000 in scholarships to six dependents of Seafarers. The SHBP also conducted benefits conferences in Piney Point; Houston; Jacksonville, Florida; Jersey City, New Jersey; and Norfolk, Virginia. (Additional conferences were scheduled for mid-December in Tacoma, Washington and in Wilmington and Oakland, California.) On Oct. 1, the U.S. Coast Guard issued its final Report of Investigation into the loss of the El Faro. The commandant was expected to publish a decision outlining the final agency actions taken in response to the recommendations around mid-December. SIU-crewed ships participated in numerous international and domestic military support exercises throughout the year. The Maritime Trades Department conducted its quadrennial convention in St. Louis in October; the AFL-CIO held its convention a week later in the same city. Sacco was reelected both as president of the MTD and as a vice president of the AFL-CIO executive council, where he’s the longest-serving member. The union mourned the losses of many brothers and sisters and other friends throughout the year, including longtime shore gang Bosun Vern Poulsen; Hanafi Rustandi, president of the Indonesian mariner union Kesatuan Pelaut Indonesia; retired SIU Port Agent Bobby Selzer; and Paul F. Richardson, retired president and one of the founders of Sea-Land Service. � 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 2018 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES MARYLAND GOVERNOR VISITS PHC, OFFERS CONGRATULATIONS OF 50TH ANNIVERSARY SIU-CONTRACTED COMPANIES EARN ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY AWARDS PHILLY SHIPYARD DELIVERS NEW PRODUCT TANKER SIU-CREWED AMERICAN PRIDE SAILING IN JONES ACT TRADE MATSON ANNOUNCES SART OF CONSTRUCTION ON TWO NEW ‘KANALOA’ VESSELS ADM. BUZBY: MEDIA MISSED STORY ON PUERTO RICO SEALIFT RETIRED PORT AGENT BOBBY SELZER DIES AT 78 NY WATERWAY CREWS RESCUE TWO JUMPERS IN HUDSON RIVER PATRIOT CONTRACT SERVICES MARKS ANNIVERSARY CROWLEY’S NEWEST LNG-FUELED CONRO SHIP LAUNCHED DOT ANNOUNCES IMPORTANT CHANGES TO REGULATIONS GOVERNING DRUG TESTING PAUL HALL CENTER REVAMPS STEWARD DEPT. CURRICULUM ‘CULINARY 2.0’ MARKS UPGRADE AT UNION-AFFILIATED SCHOOL IN PINEY POINT OAKLAND HALL HOSTS JONES ACT-THEMED THANKSGIVING SI HELPS DELIVER IN ‘OPERATION AGUA’ JONES ACT SHIPS AND CREWS REMAIN VITAL TO PUERTO RICO RECOVERY THREE HURRICANES DOMINATE HEADLINES, BUT YEAR ALSO INCLUDES MANY POSITIVES HURRICANE STRIKE BIG YEAR FOR CONTRACTS NEW TONNAGE AND OLD FRIENDS SCHOOL NEWS, CONVENTIONS OTHER NEWS 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 01/01/2018 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. 80, No. 1 2018 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/4a40e104c1497f4734ad8d7d753bba1d.pdf a112ddc26522d6ec34ce360c55909135 PDF Text Text DECEMBER F E B R U A2017 RY 2014 NO.. 12 V O L U M EVOLUME 7 6 o 79 NO 2 Conventions Chart Courses For Labor, American Maritime Officials and delegates from the Maritime Trades Department (MTD) and the AFL-CIO recently gathered in St. Louis for two conventions. The MTD convention (Oct. 19-20) helped identify strategies for further promoting the American maritime industry (among other goals), while the AFL-CIO event (Oct. 22-25) featured innovative approaches for boosting workers’ rights. SIU President Michael Sacco (left in photo at right above) was reelected both as MTD president and as a VP of the federation’s executive council. He’s pictured with AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, a longtime friend of the SIU. The full photo at far left shows SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez on screen as he hits the deck to speak up for U.S. mariners during the AFL-CIO convention, while the inset photo shows SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel also speaking at the same event. President Sacco’s column on Page 2 discusses both gatherings; the AFL-CIO meeting is covered on Page 4, while MTD coverage starts on Page 8. Hurricane Relief Efforts Continue The SIU, Seafarers-contracted operators, other unions and allies are continuing to collect relief cargoes and deliver them to Puerto Rico as well as the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI). The photo directly above shows SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins (right) with Crowley employees in Port Everglades, Florida, rounding up bottled water and more for delivery to the USVI. The other snapshots were taken Oct. 12 at the SIU hall in Houston, where Mayor Sylvester Turner (center in photo at lower left, with SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, right, and SIU Asst. VP Mike Russo) spoke at a press conference highlighting union efforts to assist hurricane victims. Page 3. Food for Peace Benefits USA Page 2 Beck Notice Page 6 SHBP Scholarship Info Page 14 �Maritime Coalition Details How U.S. Greatly Benefits from Food for Peace President’s Report Grassroots Action and the U.S. Merchant Marine Late October marked the end of a whirlwind stretch of four conventions in a little more than a month. In order and respectively, those gatherings were conducted by the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers; the Seafarers International Union of North America; the Maritime Trades Department; and the AFL-CIO. Throw in the formal celebration for the 50th anniversary of our affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, and you’ve got quite a bit of activity. These conventions are important for many reasons, not the least of which is they offer dedicated time to sharpen our strategies for promoting and protecting members’ jobs as well as generally boosting the industries that support them. This time around, we also focused much of our attention on disaster relief for hurricane victims, especially in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. One thing that really stood out to me was the common thread in remarks by three different Michael Sacco congressmen (two Republicans, one Democrat) who spoke at the MTD convention. I’m paraphrasing, but they reminded us that we have to do our share of constantly educating politicians, their staffs and the public about the American maritime industry. On one hand, that may seem obvious. There’s always going to be turnover with administrations and in Congress, as well as at the state and local levels of government. Plus, as people throughout our industry regularly say, maritime seems to be an unintentionally well-kept secret. We can’t assume that anyone outside the industry understands it. And on the other hand, that prodding from members of Congress was a timely and valuable reminder. People who make careers in our industry – regardless of which component they work in – may sometimes forget that what’s second nature to us (such as understanding the extremely high importance of the Jones Act, cargo preference, and the Maritime Security Program) is anything but apparent to some others. “Exhibit A” is the current fight about the Jones Act, which probably could have been avoided if more congressmen and senators had already understood the truth about America’s freight cabotage law. I think our industry is doing a good job of setting the record straight – most definitely including grassroots outreach by rank-and-file Seafarers – but the scope of the task has been jolting in some ways. Even some of the legislators who are usually pro-worker and promaritime temporarily got on the wrong side in this battle, but it was due to misinformation and misunderstanding. Brothers and sisters, this is why we constantly remind you about the importance of all forms of political action. I know we talk a lot about SPAD, and SPAD is crucial for us, but our voluntary political action fund is only one piece of the puzzle. There’s also great value in grassroots activities such as precinct walks, phone banking, leafletting, and assisting your neighbors to the polls. As an organization, we truly never stop working to promote the U.S. Merchant Marine. But above all else, politicians listen to constituents, and that’s why we ask you to get involved. When legislators know that jobs in their district or state are on the line, it’s usually not hard to get their attention. One of the congressmen I mentioned, Bennie Thompson, wrapped up his MTD speech with a great description of our pro-maritime communications. He said, “You’ve got the best message in the world.” I could not agree more. We are promoting family-wage American jobs, national security, economic security and homeland security. We are promoting the support of our troops as America’s fourth arm of defense. That’s why I know we’ll come out on top in our battles to preserve the U.S. Merchant Marine. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 79 Number 12 o NO. 2 December 2017 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2017 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. 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 Following an October U.S. Senate hearing that featured erroneous statements concerning the Food for Peace program, the coalition USA Maritime responded with facts. The SIU is a member of USA Maritime; the coalition also includes American ship operators, maritime trade associations, and other maritime unions committed to protecting U.S. national security through a public-private partnership that features the U.S. Merchant Marine. USA Maritime Chairman James L. Henry said, “Statements made during the hearing misrepresent the value proposition of shipping Food for Peace cargoes with the U.S. Merchant Marine pursuant to our nation’s cargo preference laws. Hiring Americans sailing on U.S.-flag ships, instead of foreign mariners, leverages transportation dollars our government already has to spend to ensure we maintain a U.S. Merchant Marine necessary to support our nation in times of war and national emergency.” He continued, “For example, the U.S.-flag merchant fleet carried more than 90 percent of the supplies our troops needed in Iraq and Afghanistan at a fraction of the cost of other alternatives. Relying upon this partnership with the U.S. commercial fleet is a costeffective alternative to replicating such sealift capacity by building military gray-hull ships and hiring more government employees. This approach saves taxpayers more than $1 billion in annual operating costs for vessels and related intermodal assets together with $13 billion in vessel capital costs. In contrast, data from the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) and recent Government Accountability Office findings show that hiring Americans to ship Food for Peace cargoes adds just one percent to the program budget – less than $20 million annually to support a $1.7 billion program. Total program costs for ocean shipping – not just U.S.flag shipping – amount to only eight percent of the budget. Moreover, for every dollar invested in U.S.flag shipping, $3.14 is returned in tax revenue, which would otherwise be lost if we instead opted to support foreign sealift capability to move these government cargoes.” Henry went on to cite government data “demon- strating the importance of food aid to sustaining our national defense sealift capability.” Specifically, a MARAD report shows the main reason for the recent decline of U.S. ships and crews is the decrease in U.S. government preference cargoes. The USA Maritime statement (posted in its entirety in the News section of the SIU website) quotes prior and current commanding officers of the U.S. Transportation Command expressing support cargo preference because it is vital to America’s sealift capability. For example, the current commander, Gen. Darren McDew, testified earlier this year, “Without cargo preference, our maritime industry is in jeopardy and our ability [to] project the force is in jeopardy.” In an earlier, separate statement, the coalition noted, “Even though funding is the lowest in years, the need for Food for Peace is greater than ever. According to the USDA, 12 million metric tons of commodities are needed each year to fill food gaps in the 70 most foodinsecure countries. The number of hungry people has increased to 925 million from 833 million at the end of 2002, according to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization. In many cases, Food for Peace is the difference between life and death. And the program has served an essential role in helping stabilize countries, support foreign policy, and build important trade links for our farmers in countries like India, Poland, Romania, and Egypt. “Unlike other foreign aid programs, the program does more than just send aid overseas,” the statement 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 between American faith-based organizations, 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 simply cannot.” Maritime Piracy Update Report Finds Fewer Incidents, New Hot Spots The International Maritime Bureau (IMB), a specialized division of the International Chamber of Commerce, has released its “Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships” report for the first nine months of 2017. While the total number of incidents is down from previous years, there are some concerning trends. Although many locations have seen a decrease in total piracy incidents, the Philippines and Venezuela saw sharp increases from 2016. Taken together, these regions accounted for 28 of 121 reported incidents in the period, or 23 percent, as opposed to eight total incidents the year before. According to the report, “While only three lowlevel incidents took place in Venezuela during the same period in 2016, the number this year racked up to 11. All vessels were successfully boarded by robbers armed with guns or knives and mostly took place at anchorage. Four crew members were taken hostage during these incidents, with two assaulted and one injured.” In addition, while the numbers of incidents in Nigeria are down, officials warned that the area remains risky. “In general, all waters in and off Nigeria remain risky, despite intervention in some cases by the Nigerian Navy. We advise vessels to be vigilant,” said Pottengal Mukundan, director of the IMB. “The number of attacks in the Gulf of Guinea could be even higher than our figures, as many incidents continue to be unreported.” The following are additional trends, as described in the full report: “Ninety-two vessels were boarded, 13 fired upon, and there were 11 attempted attacks and five vessels hijacked. Eighty crew were taken hostage compared to 110 for the same period in 2016. The number of crew kidnapped from their vessels was the same at 49 for the first nine months of 2016 and 2017.” The report also highlighted specific examples of prevented pirate attacks, including this one: “One vessel was reported hijacked in the third quarter of 2017, when a Thai product tanker was attacked off Pulau Yu in Malaysia in early September. However, thanks to the prompt intervention of the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, 10 hijackers were successfully apprehended and the tanker was safely escorted to a nearby port. The pirates were quickly tried and sentenced to long periods of imprisonment.” “The Malaysian response demonstrates exactly the type of speedy and robust action that is needed to deter such attacks,” said Mukundan. Since 1991, the IMB’s 24-hour-manned Piracy Reporting Center (PRC) has provided the maritime industry, governments and response agencies with timely and transparent data on piracy and armed robbery incidents received directly from the master of the vessel or the shipowners. In announcing the newest report, the organization stated, “The IMB PRC’s prompt forwarding of reports and liaison with response agencies, its broadcasts to shipping via Inmarsat Safety Net Services and email alerts to CSOs, all provided free of cost, has helped the response against piracy and armed robbery and the security of seafarers, globally.” December 2017 �Seafarers (photo above) pause for a photo at the Philadelphia hall amidst some of the donated relief cargoes. In photo at right, SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware (right) and another member load relief supplies at the hall in Jacksonville, Florida. SIU Remains Active in Hurricane Relief Operations The SIU is continuing to help collect, transport and deliver hurricane relief supplies to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI), in addition to assisting victims on the U.S. mainland. Seafarers-contracted vessel operators Crowley Maritime and Tote Maritime, respectively, are playing leading roles in the ongoing effort in Puerto Rico, while other labor organizations and the AFL-CIO also are significantly contributing to what is sure to be a years-long endeavor. Working with the labor federation and other unions (both In Puerto Rico, Seafarers and family members prepare to unload a shipment from union brothers and sisters on the mainland U.S. SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo is in the middle. Jones Act Allies Continue Standing Up for Vital Law That Boosts U.S. Security Supporters of America’s freight cabotage law are continuing to fight back against false accusations concerning the Jones Act. The latest battle began after Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico in September. Jones Act critics, facilitated by sloppy reporting in the commercial media, falsely claimed that the law was hampering recovery efforts. They also erroneously charged that the Jones Act harms Puerto Rico’s economy. The SIU and many allies immediately took action, on multiple fronts. The union testified at two House hearings, while Jones Act carriers, the coalition American Maritime Partnership (AMP), pro-maritime legislators, the AFL-CIO and others (along with the SIU) engaged in wide-ranging grassroots activities. Those efforts included contacting legislators, submitting op-ed articles, being active on social media, purchasing ads, posting news releases and more. Although proposed legislation has been submitted in both houses of Congress to weaken or eliminate the Jones Act, support for the law remains strong. On the books since 1920, the Jones Act requires that cargo moving between U.S. ports is carried on vessels that are crewed, built, owned and flagged American. It’s a source of nearly 500,000 American jobs, and is consid- December 2017 maritime and non-maritime), the SIU continues collecting relief cargoes in Houston; Philadelphia; Jacksonville, Florida and elsewhere. The SIU also (as previously announced) established a new fund to assist Seafarers and retirees living in areas affected by the recent hurricanes (this includes SIU affiliates). The fund’s name is Seafarers Disaster Aid Fund. Click on the PayPal link on the SIU home page (www. seafarers.org) in order to donate. If donating by check, please make it out to Seafarers Disaster Aid Fund and mail to: Seafarers Disaster Aid Fund, c/o SIU Secretary-Treasurer, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Unlike prior relief funds set up by the union, the plan is to make the Seafarers Disaster Aid Fund a permanent entity. This should help expedite donations and payments in the future. Also, SIU members who are enrolled in the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan (SMPPP) and who have suffered losses due to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma or Maria now have the option to withdraw a portion of their account balance. SMPPP trustees approved this option for hardship withdrawals after learning about the number of members who have suffered substantial losses. The hardship withdrawal allowance period will end at the trustees’ discretion, once the situation in the affected areas improves. (For more information, SIU members should contact their port agent. Also, be sure to discuss potential tax implications, if any, with your tax preparer.) While Puerto Rico understandably has garnered most of the headlines following the spate of hurricanes, Texas also is facing a long, costly recovery. One news outlet noted that the Houston region has cleared “enough post-flood debris from its neighborhoods to fill 700 Olympic-size pools.” More significantly, two months after Hurricane Harvey battered Texas, tens of thousands of people remained in temporary housing, and not all schools had reopened. By some estimates, Harvey caused approximately $73.5 billion in economic losses, making it the second-costliest natural disaster in U.S. history (after only Hurricane Katrina). Estimates of Maria’s economic impact are also gigantic, ered vital to national, economic and homeland security. Dozens of other nations maintain similar statutes, known as cabotage laws. In a mid-October letter to U.S. senators, William Samuel, director of government affairs for the AFL-CIO, wrote in part, “Since 1789, the federal government has regulated coastal trade and, like many other maritime nations, has enacted laws to maintain a domestic maritime industry to ensure that we would not be dependent on foreign nations in times of war or natural disasters. The Jones Act accomplishes this goal…. Since the Jones Act ensures that our labor laws protect maritime employees, repealing the Act would pave the way for foreign companies to replace domestic crews with lower-paid workers lacking basic labor protections. According to the International Transport Workers’ Federation, foreign-flag ships often do not enforce safety standards, minimum social standards or trade union rights, fail to pay crews, and avoid compliance with environmental standards. “The Jones Act has in no way impeded Puerto Rico’s recovery,” he continued. “Fully loaded Jones Act ships began arriving as soon as the main port in Puerto Rico reopened. News footage of containers piling up at the Port of San Juan offered visual proof that life-saving supplies were arriving hourly on Jones Act ships, as well as on foreign ships not covered by the Jones Act. These supplies were not getting to interior sections of Puerto Rico because of transportation bottlenecks and a shortage of truck drivers, not because of a lack of ships…. Repealing the Jones Act would not result in additional supplies getting to the island, but it would jeopardize the survival of the U.S. maritime sector and along with it thousands of jobs that would be outsourced to foreign carriers.” AMP pointed out, “The domestic American maritime ranging from $45-$95 billion. Irma, too, is expected to cost tens of billions of dollars in recovery. Editor’s note: Visit the News section of the SIU website (www.seafarers.org) for updates on hurricane relief operations. We are also regularly posting photos and information on our social media sites, which are linked on the SIU home page. To sign up for text alerts from the SIU (we use them sparingly), text the word JOIN (it’s not case-sensitive) to 97779. Message and data rates may apply.) The SIU has teamed up with the Pennsylvania State AFLCIO, Crowley, the Philadelphia AFL-CIO, IATSE Local 8, plus other unions and supporters to collect and ship relief supplies to Puerto Rico. These snapshots were taken in October at the Local 8 hall. industry strengthens U.S. national security at zero cost to the federal government. The domestic maritime fleet provides capacity and manpower that the armed forces can draw upon to support U.S. military operations. American ships, crews to man them, ship construction and repair yards, intermodal equipment, terminals, cargo tracking systems, and other infrastructure are available to the U.S. military at a moment’s notice in times of war, national emergency, or even in peacetime. “The Jones Act ensures a strong and vibrant maritime industry, which helps ensure the United States maintains its expertise in shipbuilding and waterborne transportation,” AMP continued. “The U.S. Navy’s position is clear – repeal of the Jones Act would ‘hamper [America’s] ability to meet strategic sealift requirements and Navy shipbuilding.’ Without American maritime, the U.S. would be dependent on foreign-owned and -flagged vessels for the transport of waterborne commerce in and around the country.” Just as the claims that the Jones Act slowed recovery efforts were baseless, so, too, are the accusations about the law driving up costs on the island. The U.S. Government Accountability Office found no evidence that the Jones Act increases expenses in Puerto Rico, and in fact concluded that it has helped ensure reliable shipping service between there and the continental U.S. Similarly, according to figures from what is believed to be the world’s largest database of user-contributed statistics about cities and countries worldwide, Puerto Rico receives Jones Act shipping service that is cheaper, more regular and more reliable than foreign shipping rates and service to the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI). Consumer prices are far lower in Puerto Rico than in the USVI; in fact, in most cases, they’re also higher on the U.S. mainland than in Puerto Rico. Seafarers LOG 3 �AFL-CIO Elects Top Officers at 2017 Convention On Oct. 22, delegates to the AFL-CIO’s 28th constitutional convention in St. Louis elected Richard Trumka as president, Liz Shuler as secretary-treasurer and Tefere Gebre as executive vice president. In addition, delegates elected 55 vice presidents – including SIU President Michael Sacco – who will serve as the executive council for a four-year term. Sacco is the longest-serving member of the federation’s executive council. Trumka begins his third term as president of the AFL-CIO; he first was elected in 2009. Before his election to president, Trumka became the youngest president of the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) in 1982 and secretary-treasurer of the AFL-CIO in 1995. Born in the small, coal-mining town of Nemacolin, Pennsylvania, Trumka’s commitment to improving life for working people began early. He worked in the mines while attending Penn State and Villanova University law school. Throughout his leadership positions in the labor movement, Trumka has retained a strong commitment to creating an economy based on broadly shared prosperity, and holding elected officials and employers accountable to working families. “I am humbled and honored for the opportunity to serve the working families of the AFL-CIO,” Trumka said. “We are committed to delivering on what we’ve started – a focused, independent and modern federation that works for working people and fights successfully for our shared priorities. We’ve come a long way, but we still have work to do.” Shuler begins her third term as secretarytreasurer, the second-highest position in the labor movement. Initially elected in 2009, she became the first woman elected as the federation’s secretary-treasurer. Shuler, a graduate of the University of Oregon, worked her way through the ranks of the International Brotherhood of Electrical AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler AFL-CIO Executive VP Tefere Gebre Workers (IBEW) beginning at IBEW Local 125 at Portland General Electric in Portland, Oregon, where she grew up. As secretarytreasurer, Shuler has led the federation’s efforts to engage with young workers, promote women’s leadership, guide the future of work and ensure the federation is on solid fiscal ground. “Serving as secretary-treasurer of the AFL-CIO has been the greatest honor of my life and I’m confident that together, we will adapt to the challenges ahead and secure the future of our movement,” Shuler said. “As we look ahead, we realize the future of our movement isn’t far off, and it won’t be easy. But nothing worth doing ever is.” Gebre begins his second term as executive vice president. In 2013, Gebre became the first immigrant, political refugee, black man and local labor council leader elected as a national officer of the AFL-CIO. Born in Gondar, Ethiopia, Gebre fled state-sanctioned violence and emigrated to Los Angeles as a teenager. A graduate of Cal Poly Pomona, Gebre has devoted his entire life to the values of democracy, justice and helping workers organize to achieve a voice at the workplace. Before coming to the AFL-CIO, Gebre led the Orange County Labor Federation. As executive vice presi- dent, Gebre has focused on building strong labor-community partnerships at the local level through the movement’s central labor councils and state federations. “These are tough times for our country, our movement, and our communities,” Gebre said. “But in the face of these challenges, I have hope of a brighter day, a stronger tomorrow and an America with liberty and justice for all. As executive vice president I pledge to do my part, lead with my heart and never stop fighting.” Visit the AFL-CIO website (aflcio.org) for detailed coverage of the convention, which ended Oct. 25. Members of the Seafarers delegation along with other delegates and guests are pictured at the convention. Among those shown in the photo are SIU President Michael Sacco (front row, third from right), SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (front, second from right), SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (front, fourth from right) and SIU of Canada President Jim Given (fourth from left). AFL-CIO Delegates Adopt ‘Workers’ Bill of Rights’ Editor’s note: Delegates to the AFLCIO convention unanimously approved the following resolution, titled Workers’ Bill of Rights. Working people in America will no longer accept economic rules written of, by and for the wealthiest few. We refuse to accept the reality of struggling to make ends meet in the richest country in the world at its richest point in history. We can do bet- 4 Seafarers LOG ter. We must do better. And so we demand rights that ensure we are able, through our work, to lead better lives. Working people demand the right to come home safely at the end of the day. We demand the right to be paid enough to support ourselves and our families. We demand the right to quality health care, paid time off to spend with family, a schedule that is flexible and fair, and protection from discrimination. Finally, after decades of hard work, we demand the right to retire with dignity and security. We demand a comprehensive Workers’ Bill of Rights. Standing together in unions and working with all who share our values, we will make this bill of rights a reality for all working people. All working people have the right to: n A Good Job with Fair Wages: Everyone who wants to work has the right to a good job where we earn a fair return on our work and receive a wage that allows us to support ourselves and our families. n Quality Health Care: Regardless of income, job or a pre-existing condition. n A Safe Job: Free from harassment and violence. n Paid Time Off and Flexible, Pre- dictable Scheduling: To spend time with family or care for ourselves or a loved one. n Freedom from Discrimination: In hiring, firing and promotions. n Retire with Dignity: And financial security. n Education: Public K-12, higher education and career training that advances our knowledge and skills without leaving us in debt. n Freedom to Join Together: With our co-workers for better wages and working conditions, whether we are in a union or not. n A Voice in Democracy: To freely exercise our democratic voice through voting and civic participation so that we can make sure our government stands up for this Workers’ Bill of Rights. December 2017 �Navy League Honors Congressman Garamendi Earlier this year, the Navy League of the United States honored maritime stalwart U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) during a gathering on the West Coast. Garamendi, the Ranking Member of the U.S. House Subcommittee on the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, received the Vincent T. Hirsch Maritime Award for Outstanding Leadership. The ceremony occurred Sept. 15 at the California State University Maritime Academy in Vallejo, California. According to the Navy League, the Hirsch Award “is presented to a distinguished American who has been singularly effective in creating a broader understanding of the importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine and the maritime industry to national security.” “America is a maritime, seafaring nation,” Garamendi stated. “Our maritime and shipbuilding industries and the U.S.flag Merchant Marine are vital to both our economy and our national security. It’s a great honor to receive the Navy League’s Hirsch Award, and I’m looking forward to continuing our collaboration to rebuild these crucial American industries.” “Congressman Garamendi has always been a strong supporter of our sea services,” said Alan Kaplan, national president of the Navy League. “He has been one of the greatest champions of the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine in Congress, and understands why our country must invest in this valuable service. We are proud to present this award to someone with such a remarkable record of support. His is a great American who understands that we are a maritime nation.” Garamendi’s legislative efforts have led to the creation of language directing the U.S. Secretary of Transportation to develop guidelines to promote the use of U.S.-flag ships and American mariners in the export of liquefied natural gas (LNG), and have resulted in increased funding for the Maritime Security Program. His legislation, the Energizing American Shipbuilding Act, would spur investment in domestic shipyards, job creation, and skills training while enhancing national security. It would also put 2,500 American mariners to work and create thousands of jobs in shipyards and at manufacturers across the United States who supply steel, pumps, electrical components, navigational equipment, and more, the Navy League reported. 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, 2016 to December 31, 2016. 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 $129,917,775 as of December 31, 2016 compared to $98,990,536 as of January 1, 2016. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $30,927,239. 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 $102,232,545. This income included employer contributions of $95,348,699, employee contributions of $527,750, realized gains of $1,628,674 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $4,705,554 and other income of $21,868. Plan expenses were $71,305,306. These expenses included $12,820,794 in administrative expenses and $58,484,512 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; n Assets held for investment; and n 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. The charge to cover copying costs will be $6.50 for the full 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: 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 2017 Rep. Garamendi (left) is congratulated at the event by SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona. Crowley to Acquire 3 SeaRiver Tankers Crowley Alaska Tankers, LLC, announced Nov. 1 that it has signed an agreement, subject to regulatory approval, to purchase three tankers from SeaRiver Maritime Inc., and charter them back to SeaRiver under varying multi-year terms. Included in the acquisition are the tankers Liberty Bay and Eagle Bay, each of which has a capacity of 800,000 barrels and transports crude from Alaska to West Coast refineries; and the tanker American Progress, which has a capacity of 342,000 barrels and transports refined petroleum between U.S. Gulf and East Coast ports. “We are proud of the SeaRiver acquisition and will operate these tankers with our relentless pursuit of quality and safety,” said Tom Crowley, chairman and CEO of SIU-contracted Crowley Maritime Corp. “We were selected as the company who could deliver, and we are committed to doing just that – by operating these assets in the safest, most reliable manner possible.” Crowley operates and manages the largest U.S.-flag petroleum and chemical tank vessel fleet in the country. By the end of 2017, the company will be operating 37 Jones Act-qualified large petroleum transportation vessels in the United States with a combined capacity of more than 10 million barrels. Among this tank vessel fleet are a tanker and an articulated-tug-barge (ATB) already on charter to SeaRiver. “We anticipate a smooth transition with SeaRiver crews, and look forward to personally welcoming them to the Crowley team,” said Rudy Leming, Crowley vice president of labor relations. “We know they share our values – safety, integrity and high performance – and will work diligently with us to uphold them as we serve SeaRiver’s needs.” Key to ensuring the success of this transaction and ongoing operations will be obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals to serve the Alaska and West Coast markets. Crowley will work together with regulators to ensure a seamless transition and continued safe operations. “We have an excellent safety record, which we intend to uphold,” said Rob Grune, Crowley senior vice president and general manager, petroleum services. “Last year, for example, we transported 410 million barrels of product and made 4,868 product transfers with zero spills to environment – a credit to our professional, safety-minded crews and management systems.” Crowley has been operating in Alaska since 1953, six years before statehood, providing upstream energy support services, tanker assist and escort services with tugboats, and petroleum transportation, distribution and sales throughout the state. In addition to the company’s own ATBs calling in Alaska, Crowley currently manages and crews tankers carrying petroleum between Alaska and the U.S. West Coast. Crowley owns and/or operates a diverse, sophisticated fleet of double-hull tank vessels, including 17 ATBs and 19 tankers, all built since 2002. One additional tanker will join Crowley’s managed fleet in 2017. SeaRiver Maritime, Inc., headquartered in Spring, Texas, is a privately held subsidiary wholly owned by ExxonMobil that provides a wide range of technical and commercial marine services to ExxonMobil affiliates throughout the world. Crowley Alaska Tankers is a new subsidiary of Crowley Petroleum Holdings LLC, part of the Crowley Maritime Corporation family of companies. U.S. Coast Guard Notice Editor’s note: The U.S. Coast Guard issued the following notice on Oct. 20. It pertains to online tools for mariners. Release of HOMEPORT 2.0 On October 17, 2017, HOMEPORT 2.0 was launched. HOMEPORT has a different user interface but much of the same information is available. The update did not affect the Merchant Mariner Sea Service Renewal Calculator or Merchant Mariner Certificate printing. The following applications are available for use; however, the search functions have been modified: - Merchant Mariner Application Status: Mariners will be able to search by Reference number (Mariner number) and Application ID. Reference number and application ID can be found in the automated emails sent once your application has been received. If you are not receiving status update e-mails and would like to, please contact the NMC via Chat, via e-mail (iasknmc@uscg.mil), or by phone at 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662). - Merchant Mariner Credential Verification: Users will be able to perform a Document Search by Document Number and Document Type, a Single Mariner Search by Reference Number and Last Name, and a Multiple Mariner Search by Reference Number and Last Name. Searches using the Last Name, Date of Birth, and the last four numbers of the Social Security Number will no longer be available. Links to the HOMEPORT Merchant Mariner Application Status and Merchant Mariner Credential Verification can be found on NMC’s homepage (uscg.mil/nmc). If you are having technical difficulties with HOMEPORT 2.0, contact HOMEPORT at 304-262-5971 or 877872-4999 or via email at OSC-Homeport@uscg.mil. 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, 2016 to December 31, 2016. 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 $10,358,227. These expenses included $1,097,473 in administrative expenses and $9,260,754 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 15,084 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 $117,210,800 as of December 31, 2016 compared to $112,500,165 as of January 1, 2016. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $4,710,635. 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 $15,068,862, including employer contributions of $8,449,526, employee contributions of $181,679, losses of $144,913 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $6,572,394 and other income of $10,176. 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; n Transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets; n Insurance information including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers; and n 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. The charge to cover copying costs will be $7.50 for the full 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: 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, 2016 to December 31, 2016. 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 $22,072,212 as of December 31, 2016 compared to $20,528,222 as of January 1, 2016. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $1,543,990. 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 $64,101,415. This income included employer contributions of $61,977,943, realized gains of $426,787 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $1,545,172 and other income of $151,513. Plan expenses were $62,557,425. These expenses included $6,690,712 in administrative expenses and $55,866,713 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; n Assets held for investment; and n 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. The charge to cover copying costs will be $15.50 for the full 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: 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, AGLIW 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, AGLIW 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, AGLIW. 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, AGLIW are the right to attend union meetings, the right to vote for candidates for union office and the right to run for union office. Members also have the right to participate in the development of contract proposals and participate in contract ratification and strike votes. Members also may play a role in the development and formulation of union 6 Seafarers LOG Summary Annual Report For Seafarers International Union AGLIW 401(K) Plan This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers International Union AGLIW 401(K) Plan, (Employer Identification No. 26-1527179, Plan No. 002) for the period January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2016. 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 $1,112,417. These expenses included $58,249 in administrative expenses, $987,111 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries and $67,057 in other expenses. A total of 9,894 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $28,777,633 as of December 31, 2016 compared to $23,847,097 as of January 1, 2016. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $4,930,536. 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 $6,042,953, including employee contributions of $4,172,478, others contributions of $217,862 and earnings from investments of $1,652,613. 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; n Schedule of delinquent participant contributions; and n Insurance information including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers. 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. The charge to cover copying costs will be $7 for the full 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: 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 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 2016 calendar year, the fee cost associated with this representa- tion amounts to 79.98 percent of the dues amount. This means that the agency fee based upon the dues would be $399.90 (three hundred ninety-nine dollars ninety cents) for the applicable year. An appropriate reduction also will be calculated for working dues. This amount applies to the 2018 calendar year. This means that any individual who wishes to elect to pay agency fees and submits a letter between December 1, 2017 and November 30, 2018 will have this calculation applied to their 2018 dues payments which may still be owed to the union. As noted below, however, to continue to receive the agency fee reduction effective January 2019, your objection must be received by December 1, 2018. 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, AGLIW, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. This report is based upon an audited financial report of the union’s expenses during 2016. 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, Secretary-Treasurer’s Office, Seafarers International Union, AGLIW, 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 2017 �LIBERTY PEACE IN WILMINGTON – Patrolman Gordon Godel submitted these photos from the new Liberty Maritime ship on the West Coast in late September. That’s Recertified Bosun Michael Presser at left. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD MV HOUSTON – AB Jimmy Hargrove provided this photo of fellow Seafarers aboard the USS Transportoperated ship. Pictured from left are QMED Noel Magbitang, Bosun Carlos Arauz, Chief Steward Fausto Aranda, Pumpman Jorge Lawrence, AB Cliff Alexis, ACU Abdulla Gobah, DEU Amos Idris and DEU Miguel White. BOSUN DELIVERS – Recertified Bosun James Walker (right) on Sept. 30 found a dog that had been lost for 20 days. The pet’s owner (left), a retiree who lives in Butler, Pennsylvania, offered a reward – but the bosun said the pooch’s safe return was reward enough. AT THE JERSEY CITY HALL – In photo at left, Steward/Baker Dadang Rashidi (right) picks up his first pension check, from Patrolman Ray Henderson. Dadang started sailing with the union in 1992. In photo at far right, AB Trevor Patterson (left) takes the oath for his full book. Port Agent Mark von Siegel is at right. In the photo at center, von Siegel presents an A-seniority book to Bosun Ali Alhamyari. ABOARD USNS WILLIAMS – Bosun Brian Guiry (left) is pictured aboard the Crowley-operated vessel in mid-October in Jacksonville, Florida. The LOG is investigating how thoroughly the locker rules are enforced. December 2017 BURIAL AT SEA – Off-duty mariners gather aboard the Horizon Pacific to memorialize former mariner William Donawa, who passed away in May at age 91. Vessel master Capt. Gregory Gretz is standing at left, conducting the ceremony as the vessel sails approximately 570 nautical miles northeast of Honolulu. Donawa, a New York City native, sailed from 1945 to 1967 with (among other companies) American Export Lines, Lykes Brothers, U.S. Lines and Prudential Lines. His ashes were scattered at sea, at his widow’s request and in accordance with his wishes. Seafarers LOG 7 �2017 Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO Convention, October 19-20, St. Louis Gen. McDew is ‘Huge Advocate’ for Maritime TRANSCOM Leader Examines Cyber Security, Reiterates Industry Support The commander of U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM) recently urged maritime industry leaders to keep fighting for what’s right, and also credited them for consistently standing up for U.S. crews and American shipbuilding. Gen. Darren McDew, TRANSCOM’s commanding officer, offered his thoughts on the past, present and future of maritime during his speech at the Maritime Trades Department (MTD) convention, which took place Oct. 19-20 in St. Louis. The MTD is a constitutional department of the AFL-CIO; the SIU is affiliated with both organizations. SIU President Michael Sacco also serves as president of the MTD. “I fully understand that the United States of America is still a maritime nation, although our laws and policies don’t always reflect the fact that we understand that,” said McDew on Oct. 20. He continued, “I am huge advocate for the industry. I think I need to get stronger at it, but I’ve been one of your biggest fans and will remain one of your biggest fans.” Addressing some challenges, McDew stated, “We’ve got a mariner shortage, and we have got declining numbers in our U.S.flag fleet. I would like to tell folks that don’t know, we had 1,500 U.S.-flagged vessels in U.S.-flag maritime fleet in the ’50s…. We are down to less than 80.” Looking ahead, McDew discussed the importance of cyber security as it relates to the maritime industry. He stressed how crucial this aspect has become in recent years, and said, “Today, TRANSCOM is leading the cyber discussion in the Department of Defense. I did not want to lead the cyber discussion in the department. I’m a 35-year airman. I wanted to talk about airplanes and learn something about ships. But I talk more about cyber than anything else.” He then examined some of the possibilities that could arise in a modern war, due to advances in technology: “Wars in the future will transcend geographic boundaries, with globally networked information consumers who will be swimming in a sea of disinformation. These wars may be fought against Gen. McDew (left) speaks at the convention as MTD/SIU President Michael Sacco looks on. a technologically more advanced and numerically superior adversary. We will likely have to transport and sustain dispersed forces over long, contested lines of communication. You’ve heard about contested lines of communication; we’ve not dealt with that for 70-plus years. “The tactics, techniques, and procedures that have made us successful in the past will not be the same ones that will ensure our success in the future,” he stated. Other speakers at the convention also touched on cyber security. For instance, Maersk Line, Limited President William Woodhour spoke Oct. 19 of the cyber attack that wreaked havoc on their network earlier this year: “June 27 of this year we woke up, we came to work, and everything was great. It was a nice sunny day, we were doing our work as we normally would. And in the course of a half an hour, all those lights on that chart went dim. Twenty-five thousand computer screens went black; 2,500 servers were essentially destroyed along the way. People had no means of communication because all of our phones are (internet-based) VOIP.” Woodhour continued, “It’s cost the company, as we’ve said publicly, $300 million. I think that’s a conservative estimate, because it doesn’t take into account the time and the frustration of a lot of people out there. It’s drawn upon the organization, in a period of darkness, to say, ‘Okay, who knows what to do in the absence of technology?’. Basically … going back to manual solutions. We put those in place, but the strain and the stress cracks after about two to three weeks. People just get tired of doing it, they lose track of where they are in all the processes and it starts to break down. “It’s a significant challenge that faces us,” he concluded. “It’s one that affects your operations. It could affect your safety at sea. It can affect your financials, all your customer information, all of your human resource records, everything can go kaput in a second.” (Editor’s note: See page 9 for additional coverage of Woodhour’s remarks.) McDew referred to cyber security as one of the four command priorities of TRANSCOM, and to that end, he has hosted numerous cyber roundtables to help understand the problem. These meetings, featuring experts from all levels of government, the cyber security industry and academia, have allowed military leaders to gain valuable insight into the strategic threats of a technologically advanced enemy, he said. “We’ve been able to turn the corner, with the help of these experts,” McDew said. “We’re shaping a vision of mission assurance in the cyber-threat and cyber-degraded environments and making actionable changes to improve our cyber posture.” Despite the challenges facing the industry, McDew remains confident in U.S. mariners, as well as the unions that represent them and the companies they work closely with. “We are still, I believe, the strongest nation in the world, with the most battle-hardened, battle-tested force in our history,” he said. “But it doesn’t matter if we have the best military and the most advanced equipment if we can’t get it to where it needs to go when we need it to get there. We have to address cyber security as a nation to assure our power projection remains the cornerstone of America’s lethality and America’s ability to offer assistance. You’re a part of that cornerstone.” He concluded, “The answer to success in the future will not be found in the templates in the past of the past, in my opinion. That was their time, but this is our time, and we need you today more than we ever have in the past.” Maritime Administrator Strongly Backs Jones Act The head of the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) recently voiced his unwavering support for the U.S. Merchant Marine and the laws and programs that keep it viable. U.S. Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby spoke Oct. 20 at the Maritime Trades Department (MTD) convention in St. Louis. The MTD is a constitutional department of the AFL-CIO whose affiliated unions (including the SIU) represent approximately five million members. Buzby spelled out his support for the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program (MSP), cargo preference laws, domestic shipbuilding, and American crews. After being introduced by MTD President Michael Sacco (who also serves as president of the SIU), Buzby credited U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao for inspiring him to accept his nomination at MARAD, which is a DOT agency. Buzby formerly served as commanding officer of the U.S. Military Sealift Command from 2009-13, but had retired from that post and then went on to head up the National Defense Transportation Association. “I couldn’t ask for a better boss,” Buzby said of Chao. “She totally gets maritime; she knows it inside out…. She 8 Seafarers LOG is a true backer of the Jones Act.” Speaking both of union officials and rank-and-file members, Buzby stated, “Your members provide an incalculable service to the maritime industry and the U.S. Merchant Marine, promoting not only a comprehensive legislative agenda, but, perhaps more importantly, especially now, educating Congress, the administration, the international community and the American public about this vitally important industry. You need only look back over the last few weeks to see all of the misinformation and alternate narratives that have been going out discussing things like the Jones Act and American Merchant Marine and shipping to see just how much baloney that’s floating around out there that is being spewed over and over and over again. So, educating all levels of government is really key and something I’m going to be taking on with renewed effort. I appreciate the strong efforts by industry, by the folks in D.C. that do this for a living that go around and help with educating our lawmakers and others to continue forth with that.” The administrator noted that he took the job at an exceptionally busy time, in light of the recent hurricanes. “To say it was a good test of our U.S.- flag fleet is an understatement,” Buzby noted. “I can say our crews stood tall. In my book, they were heroes. They answered the bell, they stayed the course, and they saved lives.” He expressed confidence in the Ready Reserve Force (RRF), describing it as “an essential security asset for the nation.” But, he added, the fleet is getting old, though all of the vessels activated re- Continued on next page Maritime Administrator Buzby (at podium) praises U.S. mariners for their work on hurricane relief missions. Among those also on the dais are MTD/SIU President Michael Sacco (second from right) and MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan (far right). December 2017 �2017 Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO Convention, October 19-20, St. Louis Labor Leaders Praise RTW Stoppage in Missouri Trumka Examines Future of Labor Movement, Vows Jones Act Support During the recent convention of the SIUaffiliated Maritime Trades Department of the AFL-CIO, two labor leaders saluted the important actions that prevented so-called “right to work” from becoming law in Missouri. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka and Missouri AFL-CIO President Mike Louis both used the Oct. 20 meeting to applaud the efforts of union workers throughout the state who helped stop the passage of the bill. As described by Louis in his speech, “We set out back in February knowing that on Feb. 6, the governor signed a right-towork law that was passed in less than a month by the Missouri legislature. Rammed down our throats. We couldn’t even talk to the governor; he wouldn’t let labor in the room. We knew then we had one option our nuclear option - and that was to collect signatures to put it on the ballot, and let the people of Missouri decide whether or not Missouri should be a right-to-work state. We needed to collect 107,000 signatures, but we didn’t get there. Instead, we collected 310,567 signatures.” He continued, “Nov. 6, 2018 is going to be a big, big day here in Missouri. It’s the day we’re going to repeal right to work. What we have done is good. We stopped it from becoming law. It would have been law on Oct. 28. On Oct. 16, we turned in the signatures, and that law is held in abeyance. It will not become law now. But in November of 2018 we need your help.” He concluded by expressing his gratitude to those who supported his state’s fight, saying, “I want to thank you all for everything you’ve done for us. I want to thank you all for going forward with us. And I want you to be here in November of 2018 with us with when we say, ‘Missouri is not a rightto-work state.’ Right to work is a rip-off. We know it is, it’s always going to be a ripoff. And it’s over in Missouri. Move your show somewhere else.” These sentiments would later be echoed by Trumka, when he addressed the recent victory in his speech: “Right here in St. Louis I’ve been told all about the port council’s hard work and commitment to the ‘We Are Missouri’ campaign against [so-called] Head of MARAD Says He’s all in With Jones Act Continued from Page 8 cently for relief efforts performed well. Turning to the nation’s freight cabotage law, Buzby shook his head at the erroneous reporting about its effect on relief efforts in Puerto Rico. “The Jones Act has always been an easy target for people who, frankly, either don’t get it or are too lazy to get the facts right,” Buzby stated. “All these missions that our Jones Act carriers were performing (in Puerto Rico), that’s the real deal. They literally saved American lives along with thousands of others. The U.S. Merchant Marine delivered in this crisis. It did its job despite all the accusations and false narratives being thrown about in the media.” In addition to other benefits America enjoys because of the Jones Act, Buzby added, “It’s not news to most in this room, but it’s also the backbone of our shipbuilding and repair industry, directly supporting 110,000 employees, represented by many of you, and adding December 2017 Richard Trumka President, AFL-CIO Mike Louis President, Missouri AFL-CIO right to work. You heard my brother, Mike Louis. Mike, you’re doing a great, great job in leading and fighting an evil law that’s designed to lower wages and hurt working people. I want to thank you for that.” Despite that recent win, working people in Missouri are still under attack. According to Trumka, “We won’t stop when politicians cut the pay of the poorest and hardest working people among us, as they did right here in St. Louis - Mike can tell you this. The right-wing Missouri legislature actually passed legislation lowering the minimum wage from $10 back down to $7.70. Now, I got to tell you, that’s indefensible. We’re not going to take it. Mike’s right. Every one of them that vote to do that is no friend of working people. And on Election Day, we’re going to remember them – remember them really well.” A longtime friend of the SIU, Trumka then turned his attention to the future of the labor movement, saying, “We’re going to take America back. Quite frankly, it’s high time that we did so. Because it’s not too much to ask for because we make the ships, we build the roads, we teach the classes, we lift the loads, we do the jobs. We never run, and we never hide. Brothers and sisters, we are the North American labor movement, and we will not be denied. This is our country, and it is time that we took it back for the workers of this country.” In a possible portent of making such a future a reality, Trumka noted that union popularity is on the rise: “I find myself looking around at a labor movement that’s more focused, more unified, and more intent on winning than ever before,” he said. “And we’re more popular than we’ve been in a very, very, very long time. The latest Gallup poll shows 61 percent of Americans approve of unions. That’s a 14-year high. And collective action is on the rise. More over $9.2 billion in labor income to the U.S. economy annually. The Jones Act generates $10 billion in freight revenue and provides as much as $355 million in federal and state tax revenue. The Jones Act is responsible for over 38,000 onthe-water jobs, and for $4.7 billion in wages, salaries, and benefits paid to your seafarers.” He continued, “This industry and the supply chain is the same one we depend on to build and repair ships for our Navy. The military relies on these U.S. civilian mariners to crew both the commercial and the government cargo ships needed in wartime. The Jones Act is a core pillar of our national security. It supports our entire system of military deployment and sustainment which depends on a viable, qualified, sufficient pool of talent: your members.” Buzby described a civilian shipboard manpower shortage (calling it “the heart of my message”) and said it’s a critical circumstance that must be improved. He pointed out the motto on the U.S. Merchant Marine flag reads, “In Peace and War.” “That message can’t be emphasized enough,” he said. “Throughout my Navy career, I’ve seen it firsthand how critical it is that we do whatever it takes to maintain our ability to project our forces internationally, and then sustain them for extended engagements. We want to be able to play the away game; we don’t ever want to play the home game.” He described various military equipment and vessels utilized in war time before asking, “Where does all that stuff come from? It comes from the U.S. Merchant Marine carrying it forward. There’s not a buoy out there they tie up to and they get all this stuff from. It has to come by ship.” “The Jones Act has always been an easy target for people who, frankly, either don’t get it or are too lazy to get the facts right. All these missions that our Jones Act carriers were performing (in Puerto Rico), that’s the real deal. They literally saved American lives along with thousands of others. The U.S. Merchant Marine delivered in this crisis. It did its job despite all the accusations and false narratives being thrown about in the media.” - U.S. Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby and more workers are standing together and confronting corporate power head on.” He then discussed ongoing relief efforts in Puerto Rico, and the anti-labor attacks that continued despite the facts. Trumka said, “Brothers and sisters, we won’t stop. We won’t stop when politicians still use a hurricane as an excuse to attack the Jones Act. And that cheap shot against Americanflag vessels came at exactly the time you and your union brothers and sisters were organizing aid for Puerto Rico. We were putting supplies in containers on the ships as they were attacking us. They didn’t ask us to put that on. We saw a need, and we moved to fill that need. “We sent 340 skilled union members on a single plane with 80,000 pounds of cargo into Puerto Rico,” he continued. “They’re still there. They’ll be coming back in the next couple of days. We sent nurses and doctors, we sent carpenters, we sent ironworkers, we sent electricians, we sent plumbers, we sent operating engineers. We sent the skilled people that were needed to recover from that. And yet, while we’re doing that, the governor of Puerto Rico takes a cheap shot at us. Well, we’re doing it ourselves because the federal government couldn’t get the job done without us. Brothers and sisters, I want to tell you this: We’ll stand up for the Jones Act anytime, anyplace, anywhere, and we’ll do it as a single unified labor movement. All of us, locked arms, standing together.” In closing, Trumka offered: “If you only remember one thing from my remarks today, remember this. We’re not going to settle for merely surviving as a labor movement. That’s not good enough. We’re going to thrive. We’re going to take on these fights and come out on the other side stronger and change the rules of this economy so that every kid that wakes up in the morning has a fair shot at getting a good job and a good education, and that every kid that goes to bed at night doesn’t go to bed with an empty stomach. They got a fair shot at a good quality of life because the labor movement – the labor movement – opened up those opportunities.” Buzby reiterated his support of the MSP and cargo preference. A day earlier, the Senate had conducted a hearing on food aid that unduly and harshly attacked cargo preference laws. While some legislators want to reduce or eliminate the use of American-flag ships to carry such cargo, Buzby said the administration wants to increase the percentage of preference cargoes transported on U.S.-flag vessels. “There’s all sorts of discussion,” he said. “We’re obviously going to be pushing for as high as we can because cargo means ships, ships means jobs, jobs means we have the pool of mariners that we need to do our job. All three of those are critical to maintaining our U.S. Merchant Marine. “The challenge is getting people – again, educating them – to see the big picture of the importance of our U.S. Merchant Marine to the national and economic security,” he continued. “That’s kind of never-ending. For that reason, I appreciate the strong support that the Maritime Trades Department has voiced for decades for both the seafarers and the industry you work in and represent. Your voice has never been more important, and I personally appreciate your commitment to help the general public and our elected representatives to understand what they are doing when they turn their backs on the U.S.-flag fleet.” Seafarers LOG 9 �2017 Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO Convention, October 19-20, St. Louis U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Mississippi) U.S. Rep. John Shimkus (R-Illinois) U.S. Rep. Mike Bost (R-Illinois) Congressmen Vow Ongoing Jones Act Support, Urge Delegates to Continue Grassroots Outreach Three members of the U.S. House of Representatives spoke Oct. 19 at the Maritime Trades Department (MTD) convention in St. Louis, and each pledged to continue standing up for the Jones Act. But those representatives also put some of the onus on delegates and guests to reach out to other elected legislators with educational messages supporting America’s freight cabotage law. Addressing the MTD were U.S. Reps. Bennie Thompson (D-Mississippi), John Shimkus (R-Illinois), and Mike Bost (R-Illinois). They spoke in the midst of a misinformation campaign against the Jones Act, particularly as the law applies to Puerto Rico. Thompson, the ranking Democrat on the House Homeland Security Committee, said that while many fellow representatives understand the extremely high value of the American maritime industry, turnover on Capitol Hill – combined with anti-maritime messages aimed both at legislators and the general public – calls for vigilance. He said that during a recent trip to hurricane-ravaged Puerto Rico, he saw firsthand that Jones Act vessels had delivered plenty of relief cargoes, but the island’s damaged infrastructure was severely slowing movement ashore. “The problem is not the Jones Act,” Thompson stated, “it’s what happens when cargo gets to the port. It doesn’t get to the people.” He continued, “I want you to help us stop Washington from attacking the Jones Act. We have to make sure that people understand what it’s about. It’s a jobs program. It’s a program that’s been around for a long time and helps workers, but it also helps the (ship) owners and operators. It’s about business. And so why in the world would we do anything to something that’s working? Washington has a terrible reputation for fixing things that aren’t broken.” Thompson added that many unions have stepped up for relief efforts in the territory. “The house of labor has been very well-represented there, doing good jobs,” he said. “I saw nurses, I saw Teamsters, I saw a lot of other folks out there – Seafarers – doing a good job.” He then reiterated the need for grassroots outreach in support of the U.S. maritime industry. “If you don’t talk to us (Congress), your opposition – the folks who want to do away with the Jones Act – they’re going to talk. They’re going to come in and convince people that the only reason the economy is slowing down is because of that Jones Act. Oh, they’re going to make it sound good. The only way you can counter that is with your message, and you’ve got the best message in the world.” Shimkus, a retired U.S. Army officer, said the Jones Act’s benefits on America’s rivers also must not be overlooked. “The untold story of the Jones Act is its inland waterway transportation system, and we want trusted users whom we know operating (there),” he said. “Can you imagine taking a foreign-flag barge system into a major metropolitan area, underneath a bridge?” He also recalled participating in military exercises overseas that honed America’s ability to project its forces. “There’s only one way we do that,” he said. “We do that through what you all do, and the vessels you have.” Shimkus said attacks against the Jones Act related to Puerto Rico underscore the need “to retell the story” of how America relies on its domestic maritime industry. He also voiced support for the U.S. Export-Import Bank, which has been a good generator of cargoes for Americanflag ships in addition to delivering money to the U.S. Treasury. Rep. Bost also is a military veteran, having served in the U.S. Marine Corps, and comes from a union family. He said he sees bipartisan support in the nation’s capital for organized labor and for creating and keeping good jobs in the U.S. Turning to the Jones Act, Bost said, “It should be very, very clear to each member in Congress why it’s in place and why it should be maintained – not just for the labor side, but for security as well.” Bost pointed out that his district is the only one in the country “that has three navigable waterways. It’s got the Kaskaskia, Ohio, and the Mississippi rivers. And as we move forward trying to do the tax reform that we’re talking about, the springboard from that will be the revenues that try to put in place also for the infrastructure we have to have. We have to make sure that the Army Corps of Engineers, that we have enough money for that infrastructure that we can actually stop the bottleneck in the Mississippi to the north, and actually increase the size of our locks and dams in the north, but we’ve still got to maintain our locks and dams throughout this nation.” He also encouraged attendees to speak up for investment in U.S. infrastructure. “We need to be talking to everybody on the street and telling them how important this is,” Bost stated. “We have to look for unique funding streams, and not just for our waterways, but also for highways, bridges, and just the sheer amount of jobs….” Missouri Officials Credit Labor Unions for Jobs, Commerce The State of Missouri welcomed the 2017 Maritime Trades Department (MTD) convention with open arms – and speeches from the mayor of St. Louis and county executives from St. Charles and St. Louis counties. The MTD is a constitutional department of the AFLCIO. Mayor Lyda Krewson was the first speaker on Oct. 19, and she began by thanking SIU President Michael Sacco (who is also president of the MTD), as well as the members of the St. Louis Port Council in attendance, including SIU Port Agent Chad Partridge, for their efforts to promote American-flag shipping and good jobs. Krewson continued, “As you probably know, we have a strong maritime industry right here in St. Louis, because of the St. Louis Port Council and the St. Louis 10 Seafarers LOG Port Authority. Our port here in St. Louis is the third largest inland port in the United States, and 35 million tons of goods move through the port annually. The maritime industry is responsible for 20,000 jobs in the port district that are very, very critical to our economy.” She then talked about the many benefits that were created by the St. Louis Regional Freightway, a comprehensive site for manufacturing distribution in the St. Louis area. One of those benefits, she said, is an increase in union jobs for the region. The mayor also praised the work of the labor leaders in attendance: “None of this (job creation) would be possible without the work that all of you do every day. The river’s always been a way of bringing communities together to strengthen economic development. Its economic potential is vital for our future. And by capturing the river’s economic benefits, of course, we create great-paying jobs, and the opportunity to organize workers and prepare them to be successful members of our workforce. “I know each of your unions will continue to equip workers and train workers with the skills that they need to thrive,” she continued. “Because that’s what great unions to do. The Maritime Trades have a long legacy of fighting to protect workers, and fighting to strengthen the U.S. maritime industry. From wage increases to improved work conditions, the Maritime Trades have proven time and again that it protects its members. I’m proud to back you, and I’m proud to back your members.” Continued on next page December 2017 �2017 Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO Convention, October 19-20, St. Louis Maersk Exec. Underscores Partnership with Labor Woodhour Focuses on Commitment to Shipboard Safety, Boosting Industry The top executive of SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) says his company is committed to helping ensure a bright future for the U.S. Merchant Marine, and he is quick to recognize the vital role of maritime labor. MLL President and CEO William “Bill” Woodhour covered those points and others during an Oct. 19 speech to the Maritime Trades Department (MTD) convention in St. Louis. He updated attendees on developments involving MLL’s parent organization as well as some of its own subsidiaries. Woodhour also touched on cyber security, shipboard safety and more. In introducing Woodhour, MTD President Michael Sacco (who is also president of the SIU) stated, “All of you know that we in maritime are determined to maintain a strong working relationship with our companies that employ our members. Our next speaker represents that partnership.” Woodhour pointed out his company “has always used 100 percent union crews and labor. We have a $200 million shipboard payroll that makes us one of the largest deep-sea employers and contributors to the excellent benefit plans and training schools,” he said. “We know that none of this means anything without the hard work and dedication of the U.S. Merchant Mariners who sail our fleet. We’re committed to providing a safe workspace, competitive compensation, great training, and a work environment that’s dignified and respectful.” He continued. “We’ve been doing a lot of great things for the U.S. military over of the past couple of decades, and I want to thank everybody in this room for your contribution and leadership. It’s recognized that while we’re often viewed as being on the front line, we’re never in the headlines as an industry. It’s anonymous what we do, but it’s vital to our nation and our security in supporting our troops on the front line, so I thank you and all your team members for that contribution. We also could not have a better industry leader and a more trusted partner than Mike Sacco and the SIU in general.” Woodhour said the company recently “decided to reinvest in our fleet,” in part by bringing in four newer replacement ships. “We’re also investing heavily in longterm asset preservation, having completed 30-to-40-day dry dockings on 11 vessels…. It’s a significant investment that we’ve made this year,” he said. After detailing MLL’s efforts to bolster its cyber security, Woodhour added, “We’ve had a lot of conversations with the SIU leadership team, and are going to work closely with them in sharing what we’ve learned. How do we get that into the curriculum at Piney Point? How do we share that with the [people] here so you can also be an active part in preventing future cyber attacks? I think this threat is here with us to stay. We look forward to working closely with the SIU and its membership.” Briefly recapping the company’s history, he noted that MLL currently has “two lines of business. The first is the movement of U.S. military cargo, which also includes aid, household goods, and all the other segments, and we also have the operation of the U.S. Navy non-combatant vessels. We were formed in 1983. We have 32 deep sea vessels. On any given day we employ 750 U.S. Merchant Marine mariners, and we have about 150 colleagues on shore. The ships enrolled in the MSP program and in VISA, we have 23 of those vessels.” He said the company always remains focused on safety, operational excellence, national security, and helping maintain “a healthy maritime industry.” Honing in on safety, Woodhour pointed out that around the world, every day, ships “are involved in collisions, groundings, fires, pollutions, environmental challenges. We see the loss of life, we see pain, suffering, property and environmental damages. Study after study shows us that in 90 percent of the cases, it can be attributed to human error. “What the studies don’t show is how many thousands of disasters have been avoided by the actions of skilled, vigilant, and hard-working, and highly trained mariners looking out for each other every hour of the day,” he continued. “The safety of our employees is a core value at Maersk Line, Limited, and our company overall…. We believe in a robust safety culture that leads to operational MLL President/CEO Bill Woodhour conveys his appreciation for U.S. mariners. excellence, that leads to competitiveness, that leads to profits that can be reinvested in making this industry even stronger.” Woodhour said that aiming for perfection when it comes to safety “is not unrealistic. We see that in our fleet we have 26 ships that have achieved zero [lost-time accidents] for a full year…. It can be done, and to this end you have my commitment to ensure that safety is a top priority, and I rely upon your feedback on any ways that we can improve.” Union Labor Plays Significant Role in Missouri’s Economy Continued from Page 10 Representing neighboring St. Charles County, County Executive Steve Ehlmann began by explaining the region’s long history of commerce up and down the Mississippi River, adding, “As the mayor said, ports are a very important economic engine here in the region. My county right now, we have paid for a study to determine the feasibility of us creating a port authority in St. Charles County.” Ehlmann then spoke about the future need for shipping in the region, specifically in transporting food and other agricultural products. He said, “The freight district calls this the Ag Coast of America. And, as you know, one industry we know is going to grow in the next 20 years is agriculture. Just the very need to feed the people of the world, in our location between the fields and the mouths around the world, puts us in a position to play a very important role in that.” St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger emphasized the importance of union labor to the region, saying, “The Greater St. Louis Area and Vicinity Port Maritime Council includes people who work on the rivers, build our communities, drive on our highways, and are employed in our stores and restaurants. We are talking about glass workers, bricklayers, longshoremen, insulators, electricians, elevator constructors, ironworkers, firefighters, plumbers, and food and commercial workers among others. These hard-working men and women are a powerful economic and political force in Missouri, the nation, and indeed throughout the world. “Union labor has been the key to St. Louis County’s current construc- December 2017 St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson tion boom,” he continued. “Since last year, major corporations have invested $4 billion in capital improvements and expansions in our county. These investments generated over 5,700 new jobs and retained about 21,000 more, not to mention the thousands of good-paying union construction jobs that were needed to construct these fine facilities. This boom has attracted national attention. Companies that want work done right the first time are drawn to our region because we have the best-trained workforce in the Midwest.” County Exec. Steve Ehlmann Stenger concluded by stressing the importance of union solidarity: “As all members of the port maritime councils well know, there is strength in unity. And as was mentioned, this unity, this strength is called for ahead of the November 2018 election, when voters in Missouri will decide whether they want the so-called ‘right-to-work’ law that Governor Greitens signed into effect. I can remember when I was six years old, campaigning against right to work the first time in 1978. I was in the back of a County Exec. Steve Stenger blue Pinto handing out ‘right to work is a rip-off’ stickers with my pop.... And we know now what we knew then, that this law is designed to weaken unions – to really destroy unions – to drive down wages and turn back the clock on working conditions, and we certainly don’t want that. This bill was indeed, I think, the single worst blow against organized labor in the history of the state of Missouri, and I want you to know that I will continue to do everything in my power to help reverse it.” Seafarers LOG 11 �2017 Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO Convention, October 19-20, St. Louis Mark Woolbright Firefighters Brian Baker Electrical Workers Warren Fairley Boilermakers Mark Spano Novelty Workers Brett McCoy Plumbers Bradley Harmon CWA Dennis Arrington OPEIU Levi Allen Mine Workers Gunnar Lundeberg San Francisco PMC Paul Doell South Florida PMC Jeanette Bradshaw Michigan PMC Scott Reeves Philadelphia PMC Jacque Simon AFGE David Heindel Secretary-Treasurer SIU Nick Marrone VP West Coast SIU Dean Corgey VP Gulf Coast SIU 12 Seafarers LOG Jerry Abell Vice President MTD Mark Taylor TCU Robert Martinez Machinists John McCann Hamilton PMC Jack Martorelli St. Louis PMC Tim Bruxton Cleveland PMC Robert Bugarin Southern Calif. PMC James Sanfilippo Chicago PMC George Galis Painters Jim Given President SIU of Canada Patrice Caron Montreal PMC Augie Tellez Executive VP SIU Tommy Orzechowski VP Great Lakes SIU Joseph Soresi VP Atlantic Coast SIU Kermett Mangram VP Government Services SIU Geoge Tricker VP Contracts SIU MTD President Michael Sacco sounds the gavel officially closing the 2017 MTD Convention in St. Louis. Eric Dean Iron Workers December 2017 �2017 Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO Convention, October 19-20, St. Louis More MTD Convention Scenes The photos on this page and on page 12 show officers, delegates and guests at the MTD convention. The MTD is a constitutionally mandated department of the AFL-CIO; its 22 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 serves as MTD president, a post to which he most recently was re-elected in October. Bakery Workers Secretary-Treasurer Steve Bertelli (below left) and author William Geroux (below right) each addressed convention attendees during the event’s final day. Bertelli provided an update on his union’s on-going battle with Mondelez International (Nabisco) which in 2015 began closing union shops in the United States and sending thousands of middle class union jobs to Salinas, Mexico. Geroux delivered a synopsis of his new book “The Matthews Men,” which spotlights the role the U.S. Merchant Marine played in the winning of World War II. The work specifically highlights the contributions of seven mariners who hailed from Matthews, Virginia. AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler and AFL-CIO Executive Vice President Tefere Gebre made surprise appearances at the convention during its final day. They stand (below, center) while being acknowledged by the crowd. Spotlight on Mariner Health Hernias Could Strand Mariners on Beach A hernia happens when the intestines or an organ starts to push through an opening in the muscle or tissue that holds it in place. The intestines may break through a weakened area in the abdominal wall or any muscular wall due to straining. Hernias are more common in the abdomen, but they can also appear in the upper areas of the body. They usually do not go away on their own and may need surgical intervention to take care of the problem. Some need immediate repair due to strangulation of the bowel that has prolapsed (broken through) the weakened area in the abdomen and blood flow to that area ceases. There are many types of hernias. The most common type is called the Inguinal Hernia. This type makes up about 70 percent of all hernias and is more common in men than in women. It occurs when the intestines push through a tear/ weakness in the lower inguinal or pelvic region. The next type is the Hiatal Hernia. This occurs when part of the stomach protrudes up through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. This type is more common in people over 50 years old. Hiatal Hernias almost always cause gastroesophageal reflux. Another type is called the Umbilical Hernia. In many instances, this can happen to children and babies under 6 months old. This occurs when part of the intestines protrudes out through a weakness in the abdominal wall near the belly- button. A bulge can be noticed in the area when a baby cries or when the baby strains. If it happens in a baby, chances are good that it may go away before the baby is one year old. If this happen in an adult, you will notice a bulge in the umbilical area with straining and lifting. You will need to see a surgeon to decide if surgery will be needed. Yet another type of hernia is the Incisional Hernia. December 2017 This can occur after you have had abdominal surgery. The area is weak from the surgery and if you do not give the area time to heal, the intestines can push through and cause an out-pouching to that region. Common causes of muscle weakness are: age, failure of the abdominal wall to close properly in the womb (which is a congenital defect), chronic coughing and straining, and damage to the area from injury or surgery. The most common symptom of a hernia is the appearance of a bulge or lump in the area that is affected. A hernia can be seen when the person coughs, cries, strains, bends down, or stands up. There may be pain in the affected area, a heavy feeling in the area, or a burning or aching sensation to the site of the bulge. Treatment options for hernias Hernia size will dictate the treatment that is needed. Lifestyle changes will be needed such as weight loss, exercise, avoiding foods that cause acid reflux, and quitting smoking. Remember, as a Seafarer, mariners cannot ship out on any Military Sealift Command vessel (MSC) if they have any type of abdominal/umbilical/Inguinal hernia. It must be repaired before MSC will allow individuals to ship. The healing time will depend on the type of surgery performed (conventional-full open operation or laparoscopically) and whether or not surgical mesh was used in the operative field to help hold the intestines in place properly. Healing time also depends on the person. Once they get up and around, their diet and eating habits are very important as is being alert towards any signs of infection. Following any surgery, give your body time to rest and heal so that the hernia will not reappear. Good sailing! Healthy Recipe Greek Seasoned Salmon Servings: 25 Baking Time: 10 minutes 2/3 cup brown sugar 2/3 cup oregano ½ cup cumin 1 1/3 cups granulated garlic 1 1/3 cups cinnamon ¼ cup olive oil 1/3 cup chopped parsley 8 ½ pounds salmon filets, fresh cut into 3 oz filets Salt and black pepper, to taste Lemon wedges n Mix together seasonings in a bowl to make rub; set aside. n Season each salmon filet with the rub. Place in lightly greased 2” pans. Drizzle the olive oil over the top evenly. n Bake at 375 F for 15-20 minutes until salmon is flaky and has internal temp of 145 degrees F. Top with chopped parsley, serve with lemon wedges. Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 273 Calories; 10g Fat (33.8% calories from fat); 33g Protein; 12g Carbohydrate; 2g Dietary Fiber; 80 mg Cholesterol; 11mg Sodium. Exchanges: ½ Grain (starch); 4 ½ Lean Meat; 0 Vegetable; 1 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates. (Provided by the Paul Hall Center’s Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship) Seafarers LOG 13 �2018 Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Scholarship Program University Hall, University of Toledo Scholarships totalling $132,000 are available to Seafarers and their dependents looking to continue their education. Allocations for each category will be as follows: Seafarers Scholarships Dependents Scholarships Three scholarships designated for active Seafarers: Five scholarships designated for dependents: n One $20,000 offering for a four-year course of study at an accredited college or university n Two scholarships ($6,000 each) for Seafarers interested in pursuing two-year courses of study at a community college or vocational school n A total of five scholarships, each worth $20,000, are being offered to dependents (spouses included) to attend four-year courses of study at accredited colleges or universities. Dependents and spouses of active as well as retired Seafarers may apply. To take advantage of these opportunities, clip, complete and mail the form below, or visit www.seafarers.org, go to the Member Benefits tab, navigate to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan menu and select Scholarship Booklet (PDF). Although the booklet says 2016, all information is still current for the 2018 SHBP Scholarships. Please send me the 2018 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 14 Seafarers LOG 12/17 December 2017 �December & January Membership Meetings Piney Point.............................Monday: December 4, January 8 Algonac...................................Friday: December 8, January 12 Baltimore.............................Thursday: December 7, January 11 Guam................................Thursday: December 21, January 25 Honolulu...............................Friday: December 15, January 19 Houston.............Monday: December 11, *Tuesday: January 16 Jacksonville.........................Thursday: December 7, January 11 Joliet..................................Thursday: December 14, January 18 Mobile...........................Wednesday: December 13, January 17 New Orleans........................Tuesday: December 12, January 16 Jersey City..............................Tuesday: December 5, January 9 Norfolk................................Thursday: December 7, January 11 Oakland.............................Thursday: December 14, January 18 Philadelphia.....................Wednesday: December 6, January 10 Port Everglades.................Thursday: December 14, January 18 San Juan.............................Thursday: December 7, January 11 St. Louis................................Friday: December 15, January 19 Tacoma..................................Friday: December 22, January 26 Wilmington............................Monday: December 18, January 22 * Houston change due to Martin Luther King Jr. Day 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 December 2017 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea October 8, 2017 - November 8, 2017 Total Registered Total Shipped All Groups A B Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 20 11 0 13 7 1 0 19 17 0 4 1 1 0 2 1 1 5 1 1 3 3 0 3 1 1 0 5 3 1 13 8 6 9 8 2 8 27 17 12 5 3 0 2 0 0 0 6 4 0 18 1 6 12 1 2 3 18 2 10 9 5 1 6 4 0 3 20 12 2 47 15 13 42 8 8 29 95 25 35 32 11 16 21 17 7 17 52 32 23 42 16 6 21 5 1 14 73 22 8 2 2 0 3 1 2 2 3 2 0 10 3 5 12 3 1 4 15 8 4 18 18 12 17 11 6 9 31 32 11 13 3 3 9 6 0 3 27 9 6 5 5 1 3 2 0 1 6 5 1 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 4 2 1 5 1 0 5 0 0 0 12 8 1 35 6 5 33 8 3 20 64 17 10 1 1 0 3 0 1 2 3 2 1 24 11 12 11 9 5 7 42 33 15 308 125 87 225 94 41 123 527 253 142 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 1 5 1 4 4 1 1 1 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 5 5 0 2 3 0 2 8 4 0 4 4 4 8 2 0 3 9 5 5 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 3 2 1 1 0 0 0 4 4 1 9 5 0 4 1 0 1 19 13 0 15 5 2 8 5 1 7 29 13 8 19 15 1 17 12 0 6 29 30 1 11 5 0 9 3 0 3 19 10 3 3 1 0 4 3 0 0 3 0 0 10 3 0 4 2 3 2 11 5 0 17 14 3 15 10 2 4 20 16 11 9 3 1 5 4 0 4 12 6 3 2 3 0 1 1 0 0 3 3 0 0 3 0 1 0 0 0 1 3 0 3 1 1 2 1 1 2 5 1 0 19 10 4 16 5 3 7 30 15 6 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 3 1 1 12 8 6 9 6 4 6 28 13 7 143 93 24 111 63 15 48 236 148 46 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 2 2 2 4 0 1 1 4 5 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 1 0 1 0 0 0 6 1 0 8 2 0 12 4 0 6 20 3 2 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 3 0 0 4 0 0 0 7 0 0 2 2 0 5 0 0 1 17 3 0 16 5 4 18 6 1 7 33 6 2 15 9 1 10 5 2 4 28 16 0 17 1 0 8 0 0 3 17 6 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 2 1 0 2 0 0 1 2 0 0 5 4 1 14 9 0 13 2 0 7 20 13 0 18 3 0 12 0 1 4 28 6 0 3 1 0 1 1 1 0 5 0 0 4 2 0 2 1 0 0 7 4 0 2 1 0 1 1 0 0 2 5 0 12 0 0 11 0 0 4 30 4 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 0 0 22 7 0 18 4 0 11 28 11 0 146 47 7 123 27 6 48 264 90 10 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 1 9 9 2 6 4 1 1 12 14 0 1 3 0 1 1 0 1 0 5 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 4 1 2 9 0 2 2 0 1 5 14 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 1 2 0 2 0 1 1 3 5 0 4 6 1 4 3 0 0 8 11 3 11 19 7 9 5 0 6 26 22 2 7 44 1 12 15 5 3 21 77 3 17 17 1 11 5 4 4 31 18 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 2 2 0 0 1 0 1 2 1 2 15 25 0 8 6 3 1 22 46 1 8 14 0 13 6 5 2 13 19 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 2 1 0 2 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 3 12 17 1 6 7 4 3 23 37 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 21 20 0 8 2 2 13 33 47 22 113 193 14 83 59 26 38 206 325 GRAND TOTAL: 619 378 311 473 267 121 245 1,065 697 523 C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C A All Groups B C Seafarers LOG 15 �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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by members who ship out of Tacoma, Washington. Question: What are some of your plans for the winter holidays and the New Year? Adel Ahmed Bosun For the holidays, enjoy all of them and get ready for the NFL playoffs. That’s my plan. My team is the Seahawks. In the New Year, I think I’m going to be on a ship, enjoying the time with other Seafarers. Antoinette Amato Recertified Steward I’m going to be out to sea, probably boarding around Thanksgiving and sailing until March. I’m looking forward to celebrating the holidays with my extended family on board. For the New Year, possibly a trip to the Hawaiian Islands to enjoy some of the tropical sun in the wintertime. Thomas MacGregor Recertified Bosun I’m going to be working. I got a job on the Midnight Sun I just picked up. I will be celebrating the holidays with my brothers and sisters at sea. I don’t get off until the middle of January. Leonard Soriano AB I’m about to pick up a job in a few days. I’ll be spending time with the family, taking advantage of family time during the holidays. But otherwise, my plan is to get back to work. It’s work and family – that’s how I spend my time. Lewis Johansen Recertified Steward I will probably be working. I usually go to sea so that some of the guys that have younger families can get home and enjoy the holiday season. I’m now older than dirt. For the New Year, every year, I plan on gaining 20 pounds, because every year you plan on doing something, it just doesn’t happen. Mott Arnold AB I’ve been a Seafarer for 47 years, and most of my holidays have been out at sea. I’ve come to feel a connection with my brothers and sisters at sea more than I do with friends and family on shore. It’s more spiritual, whereas on shore it’s more presents and trees. At sea, we just keep doing what we do, 24 hours a day. The winter holidays are always a special time for us at sea. Pics From The Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 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 39 Luna Aven Camino del Sol 2 Manati, PR 00674 (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 AB Mark Smith (that’s him in photo above) submitted these snapshots from an early 2000 voyage aboard the LNG Capricorn. Former member AB Rick Spence is shown in the remaining photo. The Capricorn was built in 1978. Along with its sister ships, it sailed between Indonesia and Japan. Smith still sails with the SIU, most recently aboard the Alliance Fairfax. 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 2017 �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 THOMAS BANKS Brother Thomas Banks, 63, joined the SIU in 1971. He began his career working aboard the Yukon as a member of the deck department. Brother Banks upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school. He last sailed on the Alliance Fairfax before settling in Lovingston, Virginia. ANTHONY BURBANK Brother Anthony Burbank, 65, joined the SIU in 1999. Though primarily a member of the deck department, he first worked in the steward department aboard the Mahi Mahi. Brother Burbank upgraded in 2004 at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. He last sailed on the USNS Bob Hope and lives in Chula Vista, California. EDUARDO ELEMENTO Brother Eduardo Elemento, 66, began his Seafaring career in 1990, working aboard the USNS Pollux. He sailed as a member of the steward department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Elemento last sailed aboard the LTC John U.D. Page before settling in Texas City, Texas. CHRISTOPHER FAIRFAX Brother Christopher Fairfax, 66, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1980; one of his first vessels was operated by Ocean Shipholdings. The deck department member upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall center in Piney Point. Brother Fairfax most recently sailed on the Overseas Nikiski. He resides in Everett, Washington. BRYAN IVERSEN Brother Bryan Iversen, 60, joined the union in 1979, initially working on the Achilles. He sailed as a member of the deck department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Iversen last sailed aboard the Horizon Kodiak before settling in Kingston, Washington. GLENN MILLER Brother Glenn Miller, 65, began December 2017 sailing with the union in 1979. The deck department member originally worked inland before moving to the deep-sea division. He initially shipped with Crowley Towing and Transportation. His final vessel was the Maersk California. Brother Miller resides in Anderson, South Carolina. CURTIS NICHOLSON Brother Curtis Nicholson, 65, became a union member in 1994. He initially sailed on the USNS Altair, working in the engine department. Brother Nicholson upgraded often at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. He most recently shipped as a deck department member on the USNS Watson and lives in Chesapeake, Virginia. JOSEPH NOACH Brother Joseph Noach, 71, donned the SIU colors in 2006. A member of the engine department, he originally worked on the Pride of Hawaii. Brother Noach upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2007 and 2012. He last sailed on the Overseas Houston and resides in Sebastian, Florida. BENJAMIN PICAR Brother Benjamin Picar, 68, started sailing with the SIU in 1989. He first shipped on the Independence, and upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2001. A deck department member, Brother Picar last worked on the Gem State. He is a resident of Seattle. GLEN ROGERS Brother Glen Rogers, 68, began sailing with the SIU in 1989. He initially worked on the USNS Bellatrix and was a member of the deck department. Brother Rogers upgraded on multiple occasions and last sailed on the Maersk Ohio. He is a New Orleans resident. STANLEY SPORNA Moreno Valley, California. PETER WOODWARD Brother Peter Woodward, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1976. A member of the deck department, he first shipped on the RD Conrad. Brother Woodward upgraded several times at the Piney Point school. He last sailed on the Independence II and calls Whaleyville, Maryland, home. GREAT LAKES JOHN CHABOT Brother John Chabot, 65, became a union member in 1969. He first sailed with Inland Lakes Management, and was a member of the engine department. Brother Chabot most recently worked aboard the Steel T Crapo. He lives Lachine, Michigan. JAMES HOPSON Brother James Hopson, 65, signed on with the union in 1978. A deck department member, he first sailed aboard the Cove Leader. Brother Hopson upgraded at the Paul Hall center in 1978. He was last employed by OSG Ship Management and lives in Hampton, Virginia. STEVEN JONES Brother Steven Jones, 63, signed on with the SIU in 1997. He initially worked as a steward department member for Express Marine. Brother Jones upgraded on several occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. He remained with the same company for the duration of his career, working in the deck department for the majority. Brother Jones calls Aurora, North Carolina, home. DOUGLAS KELLUP Brother Larry Florip, 65, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1989. He first sailed as an engine department member on the Steel T Crapo. He most recently sailed aboard the JAW Iglehart. Brother Florip is a resident of Charlevoix, Michigan. Brother Douglas Kellup, 62, joined the SIU in 1979, working for the Delta Queen Steamboat Company. A member of the engine department, he upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2007. Brother Kellup most recently sailed with American West Steamboat Co. He lives in Gretna, Louisiana. GARY FULLER CLYDE MCNATT LARRY FLORIP Brother Gary Fuller, 65, joined the SIU in 1973, initially sailing with Erie Navigation. He sailed in both the engine and deck departments, and upgraded at the Paul Hall center in Piney Point, Maryland in 1987. Brother Fuller last shipped aboard the St. Clair. He settled in Hamburg, New York. INLAND ALBERT GRAUL Brother Stanley Sporna, 63, joined the SIU in 1976, initially working on the Jefferson Davis. He upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Sporna last shipped on the Lawrence Giannella as a member of the engine department. He is a resident of Mobile, Alabama. Brother Albert Graul, 68, became a union member in 1990, starting his career with OSG Ship Management. He worked as a member of the deck department, and upgraded at the Piney Point school on two occasions. Brother Graul continued to sail with the same company his entire career before settling in Toms River, New Jersey. RAMON TOLOSA BRENT HENSLEY Brother Ramon Tolosa, 67, joined the SIU in 2003. He initially sailed aboard the Green Point, working in the steward department. Brother Tolosa took advantage of training opportunities at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, upgrading on multiple occasions. After his final trip on the USNS Wheeler, he settled in Brother Brent Hensley, 64, joined the union in 1979. He first sailed with Dixie Carriers, working as a deck department member. Brother Hensley upgraded often at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. He concluded his career sailing with Crowley Towing and Transportation and resides in Bradenton Beach, Florida. Brother Clyde McNatt, 58, became a union member in 1987, working for Crowley Towing and Transportation. A deck department member, Brother McNatt took advantage of the educational opportunities at the Piney Point school and upgraded on several occasions. He worked for the same company for the duration of his career and settled in Port Aransas, Texas. MARK PRUITT Brother Mark Pruitt, 63, donned the SIU colors in 1995, working with Allied Transportation Company. The deck department member upgraded at the Piney Point school several times before concluding his career with the same company. Brother Pruitt is a resident of Onancock, Virginia. JOSEPH RIGGS Brother Joseph Riggs, 65, joined the union in 1989, initially working for Crescent Towing and Salvage. A member of the deck department, he remained employed with the same company for his entire career. He lives in Statesboro, Georgia. BACIL RISINGER Brother Bacil Risinger, 62, joined the union in 1984, first working for Higman Barge Lines Inc. The deck department member remained with the same company until his retirement. He settled in Orange, Texas. RICHARD SHELLENBACH Brother Richard Shellenbach, 62, began his seafaring career in 1977 as a member of the deck department. He initially sailed on Waterman ships. Brother Shellenbach upgraded on multiple occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. He most recently sailed with Crowley Towing and Transportation and calls St Augustine, Florida, home. MICHAEL SMITH Brother Michael Smith, 66, joined the SIU in 1986, working for Allied Transportation Company. He worked in the engine department and remained with the same company for the duration of his career. Brother Smith lives in Belhaven, North Carolina. JOSEPH SPICCIANI Brother Joseph Spicciani, 71, donned the SIU colors in 2008, working for Crowley Towing. A member of the deck department, he upgraded on two occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Spicciani remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He settled in Grand Bay, Alabama. MACARIO SUNGA Brother Macario Sunga, 65, signed on with the SIU in 2002. The deck department member sailed with Port Imperial Ferry for the entirety of his career. In 2003, Brother Sunga upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. He is a resident of Dumont, New Jersey. ALVIN YORK Brother Alvin York, 63, started sailing with the union in 2000. He shipped with Crowley Towing as a deck department member. Brother York upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. He resides in Cape Canaveral, Florida. NMU ALBERTINO BAPTISTA Brother Albertino Baptista, 68, initially sailed with NMU before the merger with SIU in 2001. He most recently worked aboard the Cape Douglass and calls Pawtucket, Rhode Island, home. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA EDUARDO BONEFONT Pensioner Eduardo Bonefont, 97, died October 13. A member of the deck department, he first sailed on the Dorothy. Brother Bonefont’s last vessel was the Borinquen. He became a pensioner in 1981 and lived in Guaynabo, Puerto Rico. MICHAEL BONSIGNORE Pensioner Michael Bonsignore, 82, passed away March 18. He joined the SIU in 1981, first sailing on the Del Oro. Brother Bonsignore shipped as a member of the steward department. He last worked on the USNS Wright and became a pensioner in 1999. He resided in Fallston, Maryland. PETER CIDDIO Pensioner Peter Ciddio, 77, passed away September 8. He began sailing in 1997, working aboard the USNS Silas Bent. Brother Ciddio was a member of the steward department and last sailed on the Ocean Charger. He became a pensioner in 2011 and made his home in San Francisco. ALEXANDER DANILUK Pensioner Alexander Daniluk, 85, died October 24. Brother Daniluk’s first trip to sea was in 1956, with World Carriers as a deck department member. He most recently sailed on the Cove Trader and began collecting his pension in 1990. Brother Daniluk was a resident of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. ALEXANDER DODOO Pensioner Alexander Dodoo, 72, passed away October 2. Brother Dodoo joined the SIU in 2002 and worked as a member of the deck department. He first sailed on the Chemical Pioneer and last worked aboard the Philadelphia Express before retiring in 2016. He resided in Houston. VIRGILIO GALDOS Pensioner Virgilio Galdos, 82, passed away September 29. He signed on with the SIU in 1978, when he sailed on the Santa Maria. Brother Galdos was a member of 18 Seafarers LOG the steward department, last sailing on the Lurline. He resided in Cloverdale, California. BOBBY HARRIS Pensioner Bobby Harris, 84, died August 19. Brother Harris joined the SIU in 1951, and he was a member of the engine department. He first sailed on Waterman’s LaSalle, and last shipped aboard another Waterman vessel, the Stonewall Jackson, in 1984. Brother Harris lived in Shiloh, North Carolina. JOSEPH JENKINS Pensioner Joseph Jenkins, 77, died October 25. He began his seafaring career in 1987, working aboard the USNS Wilkes. A member of the engine department, he last sailed on the Dewayne T Williams before going on pension in 2007. Brother Jenkins was a resident of Lynden, Washington. DONALD LUCAS Pensioner Donald Lucas, 74, passed away September 24. He began sailing in 1975, working as a deck department member for Dixie Carriers. Brother Lucas last sailed aboard the John Chapman before becoming a pensioner in 2012. He settled in his home state of Maryland in the city of Smithsburg. JOHN MARTELLO Pensioner John Martello, 81, died October 25. He joined the union in 1953, and initially worked aboard the Del Sud. Brother Martello was a member of the deck department and last sailed on the SeaLand Spirit. He retired in 1996 and lived in Nampa, Idaho. WILLIAM RAKESTRAW Pensioner William Rakestraw, 73, died October 23. Brother Rakestraw embarked on his SIU career in 1964 as an engine department member on the Steel Direct. He last sailed aboard the Senator before collecting his pension in 2010. Brother Rakestraw called Spring, Texas, home. RONALD RICHARD Pensioner Ronald Richard, 68, passed away September 23. He became an SIU member in 2002 and first sailed on the Diamond State. Brother Richard primarily worked in the deck department, last working aboard the Houston before going on pension in 2015. He made his home in Houston. SHAYIF SAEED Pensioner Shayif Saeed, 86, died October 2. He joined the union in 1967 and first sailed on the Alcoa Voyager. A member of the steward department, Brother Saeed last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Innovator. He retired in 1996 and settled in Buffalo, New York. JOHN WHITING Pensioner John Whiting, 76, died October 18. Brother Whiting’s first trip to sea was on a U.S. Steel vessel in 1964. He most recently sailed on the Long Lines as a deck department member, and subsequently worked on the shore gang in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Brother Whiting retired in 2006. He lived in Stockton, California. INLAND CHARLES BOWLING Pensioner Charles Bowling, 78, passed away October 10. He signed on with the SIU in 1988, when he shipped with Steuart Transportation. A member of the deck department, he last worked for Penn Maritime. Brother Bowling settled in Homosassa, Florida. PETER BOYETTE Pensioner Peter Boyette, 79, died July 7. He began his seafaring career in 1981, working for Mariner Towing. Brother Boyette was a member of the deck department, remaining an employee with the same company until his retirement in 2009. He was a resident of Bokeelia, Florida. TEDDY CROCKETT Brother Teddy Crockett, 58, passed away August 7. His first trip to sea was in 1981 while working for STC Peggy S Co. A member of the deck department, Brother Crockett last shipped with Penn Maritime. He resided in Onancock, Virginia. WAYNE LAMOND Pensioner Wayne Lamond, 71, passed away October 9. He joined the SIU in 1996, working for Crowley. Brother Lamond remained with the same company for his entire career. He went on pension in 2009 and settled in Norwood, Pennsylvania. PAUL PUSLOSKIE Pensioner Paul Pusloskie, 84, died July 27. A member of the deck department, he joined the SIU in 1962, working for McAllister of Baltimore. After sailing with the same company for majority of his seafaring career, he began collecting his pension in 1984. Brother Pusloskie lived in Baltimore. CHARLES UNKRICH Pensioner Charles Unkrich, 84, passed away August 29. He began sailing in 1968, working for Dixie Carriers. Brother Unkrich was a member of the deck department and remained with the same company until he retired in 1995. He was a resident of Marrero, Louisiana. GREAT LAKES CARMEN POWELL Pensioner Carmen Powell, 77, died October 16. Sister Powell’s first trip to sea was on the Del Valle as a steward department member, in 1969. She most recently sailed on the Indiana Harbor and began collecting her pension in 2006. Sister Powell was a resident of Evart, Michigan. NMU JAMES ALLEN Pensioner James Allen, 91, passed away September 21. Native to Texas, he started receiving his pension in 1969. Brother Allen resided in San Mateo, California. VERNON BOLDS Pensioner Vernon Bolds, 93, died September 13. Brother Bolds was born in New Orleans and began collecting his pension in 1986. He was a Houston resident. RICHARD BOYD Pensioner Richard Boyd, 78, passed away October 12. Brother Boyd worked as a member of the deck department before retiring in 2007. He settled in his home state of South Carolina in the city of Charleston. CARIO NAGIBE Pensioner Cario Nagibe, 90, died September 27. Brother Nagibe was born in Brazil. He became a pensioner in 1987 and made his home in New York. WILLIAM PIERCE Pensioner William Pierce, 89, passed away September 29. Brother Pierce was born in Mobile, Alabama. He went on pension in 1994 and called Kilgore, Texas, home. WILLIAM VARGAS Pensioner William Vargas, 82, died September 13. Brother Vargas was a member of the deck department, last working aboard the TYCO Decisive. He began collecting his pension in 2006 and resided in his native Puerto Rico. ARTHUR WHITFIELD Pensioner Arthur Whitfield, 75, passed away October 3. He was born in Panama and worked in the deck department. Brother Whitfield last sailed aboard the Overseas New York before retiring in 1997. He lived in Oroville, California. Name Age Alsadi, Hussain Aponte, Pedro Cazanove, Rene Corbello, Joseph Cordier, Felix Craft, Dennis Delgado, Fausto Giarrusso, Marco Gois, Outran Gonzalez, Frank Henry, Anthony Jenkins, Calvin Long, Paul Mercado, Gil Pereira, Jose Petersen, Basil Price, Egbert Randolph, Earl Rivera, Rufino Santana, E. Shorter, Herman Vickery, Benton Watkins, Albert 84 88 85 73 81 82 91 89 91 88 83 89 93 87 86 93 78 94 83 86 83 85 87 DOD February 8 September 19 October 7 January 7 October 19 September 2 October 3 October 15 September 3 September 22 October 15 October 11 June 27 September 13 July 10 August 21 October 5 August 21 October 5 September 16 September 23 August 19 July 20 December 2017 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings GLOBAL SENTINEL (Transoceanic Cable Ship Co.) September 4 – Chairman Lee Hardman, Secretary Julio Marcone, Educational Director Aleksey Vigovskiy. Chairman reminded all new crew members of proper chain of command. Members directed to contact department delegate first, then chairman if issue is not resolved. Crew received new bikes and locks as well as new mattresses, pillows and shower curtains where needed. Also, new TV for forward end of crew mess. Chairman gave thanks to all involved with the biggest load the ship has ever seen, noting no report of accidents. Deck delegate asked all members, especially newcomers, to honor and respect the SIU by doing their best. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SAM LAUD (ASC) September 10 – Chairman Raymond Hotchkiss. Chairman reminded members to bring any problem to his attention, noting open-door policy. He mentioned safety as number one priority, and reported a problem-free, hardworking crew. Educational director advised crew to keep documents up to date and to upgrade whenever possible. Deck delegate reiterated importance of safety and encouraged teamwork among crew. Steward delegate reported a well-kept galley, and praised everyone for keeping up with cleanliness. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next Port: Fairport Harbor, Ohio. ENTERPRISE (Sunrise) September 29 – Chairman George Khan, Secretary Raymond Garcia, Educational Director Trent Sterling. Chairman reminded crew that Coast Guard will be on board for trip and informed crew of routine company audit. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade and keep documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed the Jones Act after reading the president’s report, noting negative and false portrayal by media. They desire more information presented to the public, accurately depicting the Jones Act and its benefits to the U.S. economy and military. Members also request cost of living increases for pensioners 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 Michigan Covers Many Miles Vessel master Capt. T. Pham submitted these photos and credited crew members for their work during recent voyages for the U.S. Military Sealift Command that saw the vessel travel from Fujairah to Salalah, Oman, to Diego Garcia and then to Singapore. The ship covered more than 4,000 nautical miles and made two equatorial crossings. Capt. T. Pham, AB Baltazar Sambaoa, AB J. Allen Chief Steward Devalence Smiley, GVA Rolando Batiz, Chief Cook Salvador DeGuzman Bosun Kenneth Abrahamson, AB John Diaz-Hernandez, AB Clifford Christopher, AB Robert Brown, Pumpman Moses Mickens, AB Baltazar Sambaoa, AB J. Allen every two to three years, citing the importance of their early contributions to the union. Crew received new mattresses in all cabins and were reminded to keep mess halls clean. Steward department thanked for good food. JEAN ANNE (Tote), October 1 – Chairman Noel Camacho, Secretary Ingra Maddox, Educational Director David Watkins. Chairman reported no injuries since last safety meeting. Next voyage plans discussed to include four military riders to accompany military cargo. Educational director reminded crew to apply for scholarships for them and their children. He advised members to upgrade their skills at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew was encouraged to read the Seafarers LOG and received instructions for accessing it on vessel’s computer. Members continued to show interest in changing physical requirements to only once a year and were reminded of their own ability to request exams through the member portal. Treadmill awaits repair from technician as it is not working. Crew fund was in receipt of $50 for turned-in recycling while in Honolulu. Electrician Watkins commended steward department for great food. USNS/SBX-1 (Tote), October 8 – Chairman Weldon Heblich, Secretary Larry Pugh, Educational Director Michael Rueter. Chairman reminded members of the Coast Guard physical and how it is accepted as the MSC physical. He advised QMEDs Derek Chestnut and Robert Ott crew to be mindful of expiration dates for training renewals and reminded them that SPAD is voluntary. Secretary reminded members to pay dues, update beneficiary cards, and register at hiring hall upon arriving home. Educational director encouraged members to take advantage of upgrading courses at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew expressed interest in increased pension benefits. Chairman updated crew on transportation to and from vessel. Benefits to be paid in full after filing vacation pay on auxiliary vacation form. He mentioned new bridge agreement between SIU and Tote Services. Agreement indicates a retroactive 1.5 percent raise dating back to October 2016 as well as a 1.5 percent raise for a year, bringing the pay increase With Seafarers Aboard the Jean Anne Pictured at the aft mooring station (photo at right) during departure are GVAs Shaif Alomary and Ibraham Mohamed. In the other photo, Chief Mate Darrell Sykes, Bosun Noel Camacho and AB Dennis Bracamonte participate in a fire and boat drill. The photos were taken in mid-September aboard the Pasha Hawaii vessel, which is operated by Tote. December 2017 to three percent. Discussion took place concerning vessel’s sewage system. GOLDEN STATE (Crowley) October 9 – Chairman Philip McGeoghegan, Secretary Michael Carello, Educational Director Sherrod Frazier. Members requested increase in pension days, as well as increase in vacation benefits. Chairman urged members to speak up at ship and hall meetings. Secretary discussed Jones Act and reviewed SIU President Michael Sacco’s related column in union newspaper. Educational director reminded everyone about timely renewal of documents. Deck delegate gave thanks to steward department for an exceptional salad bar. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun gave further explanation of definitions of resolutions and motions. Crew members requested TVs, Wi-Fi access in lounge and new microwave and table in mess hall. MARJORIE C (Tote) October 14 – Chairman Daniel Davenport, Secretary Samuel Sinclair, Educational Director Milan Dzurek. Crew requested to drop interval physical. With current rotation crew members are having to take physicals at each vacation interval and members would rather it be required on an annual basis. Chairman noted positive efforts among crew and thanked them for maintaining ship despite busy port schedule. Secretary discussed upcoming training opportunities and eventual requirements for steward department personnel. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested installation of permanent reefer power systems on DK6 to be expedited. Seafarers LOG 19 �2018 Union Membership Meeting Dates Port Traditional Date Piney Point Monday after first Sunday Jersey City January February March April May June July August September October November December 8 5 5 2 7 4 2 6 4 9 5 3 Tuesday after first Sunday 9 6 6 3 8 5 3 7 4 9 6 Philadelphia Wednesday after first Sunday 10 7 7 4 9 6 5 8 5 10 7 5 Baltimore Thursday after first Sunday 11 8 8 5 10 7 5 9 6 11 8 6 Norfolk Thursday after first Sunday 11 8 8 5 10 7 5 9 6 11 8 6 Jacksonville Thursday after first Sunday 11 8 8 5 10 7 5 9 6 11 8 6 San Juan Thursday after first Sunday 11 8 8 5 10 7 5 9 6 11 8 6 Algonac Friday after first Sunday 12 9 9 6 11 8 6 10 7 12 9 7 Houston Monday after second Sunday 16 12 12 9 14 11 9 13 10 15 13 10 New Orleans Tuesday after second Sunday 16 13 13 10 15 12 10 14 11 16 13 11 Mobile Wednesday after second Sunday 17 14 14 11 16 13 11 15 12 17 14 12 Oakland Thursday after second Sunday 18 15 15 12 17 14 12 16 13 18 15 13 Port Everglades Thursday after second Sunday 18 15 15 12 17 14 12 16 13 18 15 13 Joliet Thursday after second Sunday 18 15 15 12 17 14 12 16 13 18 15 13 St. Louis Friday after second Sunday 19 16 16 13 18 15 13 17 14 19 16 14 Honolulu Friday after second Sunday 19 16 16 13 18 15 13 17 14 19 16 14 Wilmington Monday after third Sunday 22 20 19 16 21 18 16 20 17 22 19 17 Guam Thursday after third Sunday 25 22 22 19 24 21 19 23 20 25 11 20 Tacoma Friday after third Sunday 26 23 23 20 25 22 20 24 21 26 23 21 4 Dates appearing in bold type indicates that meetings are being held on other than traditional meeting dates. The reasons for these changes at affected ports, respectively, are as follows: n Piney Point change created by Labor Day Observance n Piney Point change created by Columbus Day Observance n Philadelphia change created by Independence Day Observance n Houston change created by Martin Luther King Day Observance n Houston change created by Veteran’s Day Observance n Wilmington change created by Washington’s Birthday Observance n Guam change created by Thanksgiving Day Observance Meetings at all ports start at 10:30 a.m. 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 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 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. Conse­q uently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION. If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 December 2017 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 March 10 BAPO June 2 June 29 FOWT January 6 February 2 March 10 April 6 Junior Engineer February 3 March 30 June 9 August 3 Machinist March 28 May 18 June 16 July 6 Gap Closing Courses Engine Room Resource Management Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion March 16 Marine Electrician January 20 March 16 Leadership and Managerial Skills March 17 March 23 Marine Refer Tech March 17 April 27 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck January 6 February 2 March 10 April 6 May 5 June 1 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Stu- dents will be advised of dates once accepted. ARPA December 9 December 15 April 7 April 13 May 12 May 18 Bosun Recertification July 21 August 6 Crane Familiarization March 3 March 9 ECDIS April 7 April 13 Fast Rescue Boat June 16 June 22 GMDSS March 10 March 23 June 2 June 15 Pumpman May 19 May 25 July 7 July 13 Welding May 5 May 25 June 9 June 29 Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Ops Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW February 10 March 9 April 7 May 4 June 2 June 29 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers June 2 June 15 BAPO February 10 March 9 April 7 May 4 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 # and dates attended___________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. December 2017 February 2 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start December 11. Chief Steward February 3 March 23 Galley Operations January 13 February 9 Steward Recertification April 21 May 7 Chief Cook Orientation/Assessment 2.0 March 3 March 9 Chief Steward Orientation/Assessment 2.0 January 6 January 12 Lifeboat December 16 December 29 January 13 January 26 February 10 February 23 Radar Observer March 24 April 6 April 28 May 11 June 16 June 29 January 6 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training w/16hr FF January 20 January 26 Basic Training Revalidation January 5 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation January 6 January 5 Basic/Advanced Firefighting Revalidation January 6 January 12 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting March 3 March 9 Government Vessels Medical Care Provider January 6 January 12 February 24 March 2 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL April 21 April 27 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG March 10 March 16 January 12 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, or 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. 12/17 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class # 829 – Fifteen Phase I apprentices completed this course Oct. 6. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Samuel Ayers, Toren Bolden, Nicolas Brailsford, Tyler Catron, Jamil Andre Centeno-Rosario, Royce Cummings, Alexander Emrick, Casey Frederick, Jeffery Gullett Jr., Carleton Jenkins II, Travis Rogers, Grace Taylor, Erjay Dimalanta Velasco, Taylor Vertrees and Anthony Williams Jr. Welding & Metallurgy – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) improved their skills by graduating from this course Sept. 8: Kirk Chambers, Raibonne Charles, Darryl Churchill, Tyrone Ellis, Michael Kelly, Ryan Palmer, Mario Standberry, Terry Taylor Jr. and Ronald Westerfield. Their instructor, Chris Raley, is at the far right. Water Survival (Upgraders) – Three Seafarers completed the enhancement of their skills in this course Sept. 8. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Joseph Dupree, Daniel Mensah and Terrance Paige. Tank Ship Familiarization (Phase III) – Seven Phase III apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 1: Phillip Borders, Scott Forrer, Rainiel Natividad, Tiyhana Shonye Roddy, James Russell, Angel Thompson and Javaris Wright. Each plans to work in the deck department of union-contracted vessels upon the completion of their training. Tank Ship Familiarization (Phase III) – The following Phase III apprentices (photo at right, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 1: Shawn James Diaz Benosa, Ashley Burke, Christian Gabriel Canci, Jullian Mariano Drago, Tony Hamaguchi, Christopher Hinton, Tyriq Mills, Durell Mitchell, Dillon Nelson, Matthew Palmer, Bryan Velazquez and Christopher Webster. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the engine departments of SIU-contracted vessels. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Notice to All 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. Tank Ship Familiarization (Phase III) – Two Phase III apprentices finished their requirements in this course Sept. 1. Graduating were James Fisher (above, left) and St. Clair Browne. Both individuals plan to sail aboard union-contracted vessels once their training is completed. 22 Seafarers LOG Celestial Navigation – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) finished their requirements in this course Sept. 1. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: J.K. Borden, Jason Hardy, Saleh Mohamed Mothana and Sunnil Motley. Class instructor Brian Moore is at the far left. December 2017 �Paul Hall Center Classes Fast Rescue Boat – Four upgraders and one instructor in training completed this course Sept. 22. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Daniel Harris, Daniel Mensah, Bryan Page, Patrick Schoenberger (instructor in training) and Mario Standberry. Class instructor Tom Truitt is at the far left. Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) improved their skills by graduating from this course Aug. 25: Robert Bryson III, Antionne Kelly, Jerome Luckett, Bryan Page, Marcos Antonio Rivera Baez, Harry Schrefer III, Ricky Shumock, Delbra Singleton-Leslie, James Walker and Richard Wright. Basic Training (Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities) – Sixteen individuals completed their requirements in this course Sept. 1. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Robert Brown, Tricia Bush, Tkeyah Elliot, Raymond Forse, Travis Harris, Solymar Herrera Carreras, Joshua Hinton, Christopher Lanier, Jonathan Luna, Claudia Mauricio-Brice, Sylvester Merritt Jr., Evan Nantista, Jay Perry, Husain Salah, Colin Yee and Shana Zeidenberg. Cargo Handling – Three upgraders enhanced their skills by finishing this course Sept. 8. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Martin Baker, Joshua Jayson Gonzalez and George Steube III. Junior Engineer – The following upgraders (photo at left, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 8: Jarion Andrews, Jackson Blaty, Jarrett Ford, Andrew Gronotte, Vernon Humbles, Yahya Ali Mohamed, Justin Nicholson, Rodney Passapera-Barbosa, Jophrey Pelingon, David Sanchez-Flores, Michal Sinkiewicz, Patrick Spark, Oshema Watson and Paul Watts. Their instructor, Christopher Morgan, is at the far right. Certified Chief Cook Module 6 – Two steward department Seafarers completed their requirements in this course Aug. 25. Graduating were Antonio Holmes (above, left) and Dorothea Fabrizius. December 2017 Chief Steward – Three upgraders who sail in the steward department finished this course Sept. 1. Graduating were: Sulay Esmenia Martinez (second from left) James Martin Jr. (center) and Wilma Jackson. Their instructors, Kelly Imhoff and R.J. Johnson, are at the far left and far right, respectively. Certified Chief Cook Module 2 – Two steward department upgraders completed this course Sept. 22. Graduating were Tyrane Savage (above, left) and Luis Jose Perez Acosta. Seafarers LOG 23 �DECEMBER F E B R U A R Y2017 2014 VOLUME VOL U M E 7 679o NO. N O12 . 2 Snapshots from Paul Hall Center Season’s Greetings These recent photos were taken at the SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. The school opened in 1967; a 50th anniversary video and a PDF of a commemorative edition of the Seafarers LOG are available online at http://seafarers.org/paulhallcenter/ phc.asp GATEWAY TO JOBS FOR ALASKANS – In early September, a delegation from Alaska visited the school, which has long been springboard for successful maritime careers for residents of The Last Frontier. Pictured from left are Craig Fleener of Governor Bill Walker’s office, and Apprentices James Russell, Tyler Catron, Erjay Velasco and Justin Bodnar. All four students hail from America’s 49th state. EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND – While renowned for its vocational training, the Paul Hall Center also offers an accredited program through which students may earn a high school diploma. Recently, Apprentice Bryan Velazquez (pictured in the Paul Hall Memorial Library) took advantage of that opportunity and earned his diploma. BOOKS GALORE – Port Agent Pat Vandegrift (left in each of the photos below) made several book presentations in recent months. The Seafarers pictured with him each received full books – with the exception of Sulay Martinez, who picked up her A-seniority book. AB Hunter Cox ACU Preeyapha Kaisaard Chief Steward Sulay Martinez QMED Justin Nicholson AB Robert Bryson QMED Mario Standberry � 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 2017 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES MARITIME COALITION DETAILS HOW U.S. GREATLY BENEFITS FORM FOOD FOR PEACE MARITIME PIRACY UPDATE REPORT FINDS FEWER INCIDENTS NEW HOT SPOTS SIU REMAINS ACTIVE IN HURRICANE RELIEF OPERATIONS JONES ACT ALLIES CONTINUE STANDING UP FOR VITAL LAW THAT BOOSTS U.S. SECURITY AFL-CIO ELECTS TOP OFFICERS AT 2017 CONVENTION AFL-CIO DELEGATES ADOPT ‘WORKERS’ BILL OF RIGHTS’ NAVY LEAGUE HONORS CONGRESSMAN GARAMENDI CROWLEY TO ACQUIRE 3 SEARIVER TANKERS GEN. MECDEW IS ‘HUGE ADVOCATE’ FOR MARITIME TRANSCOM LEADER EXAMINES CYBER SECURITY, REITERATES INDUSTRY SUPPORT MARITIME ADMINISTRATOR STRONGLY BACKS JONES ACT LABOR LEADERS PRAISE RTW STOPPAGE IN MISSOURI TRUMKA EXAMINES FUTURE OF LABOR MOVEMENT, VOWS JONES ACT SUPPORT CONGRESSMEN VOW ONGOING JONES ACT SUPPORT, URGE DELEGATES TO CONTINUE GRASSROOTS OUTREACH MISSOURI OFFICIALS CREDIT LABOR UNIONS FOR JOBS, COMMERCE MAERSK EXEC. UNDERSCORES PARTNERSHIP WITH LABOR WOODHOUR FOCUSES ON COMMITMENT TO SHIPBOARD SAFETY, BOOSTING 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 12/01/2017 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. 79, No. 12 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/6ea71f721e5916b7320cac2dcead5b8c.pdf 87a0348faaa2196a2ed8c0dcbef1e00c PDF Text Text NOVEMBER F E B R U A2017 RY 2014 NO.. 11 V O L U M EVOLUME 7 6 o 79 NO 2 Jones Act Ships Aid Puerto Rico Relief Efforts Also Ongoing in Virgin Islands The SIU wasted no time mobilizing for relief efforts in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria devastated the territory Sept. 20. The Category 4 storm caused heavy flooding and knocked out power across the entire island. It also severely impacted the U.S. Virgin Islands and other areas in the Caribbean. In photo at left, the SIU-crewed, Tote-operated Perla Del Caribe loads cargo bound for Puerto Rico on Oct. 2 in Jacksonville, Florida. In photo above, SIU and AMO members in Puerto Rico unload supplies. Jones Act ships have played a crucial role in relief efforts from the start. Pages 2-3. Piney Point Hosts Conventions, School Anniversary Gathering The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education hosted two conventions in late September, along with its own 50th anniversary celebration. U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao (center) delivered keynote remarks both at the SIUNA convention Sept. 26 and at the anniversary luncheon later the same day. She’s pictured with SIUNA President Michael Sacco (right) and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. For coverage of the anniversary see Pages 6-7. SIUNA convention coverage appears on Pages 8-15, while the United Industrial Workers convention is recapped on Page 4. LMSR Contracts Awarded SIU job growth is on the horizon following the recent announcement of two operating contracts covering 11 large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off vessels, abbreviated as LMSRs. One of the Seafarers-crewed ships covered in the new contracts, the USNS Bob Hope, is pictured Aug. 24 in San Diego in support of Exercise Turbo Activation. Page 2. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kristen Heller) Industry Stands Up for Jones Act Page 2 El Faro Report Issued Page 5 SHBP Scholarship Info Page 18 �President’s Report Jones Act Truth on Our Side As if the recent, devastating series of hurricanes wasn’t bad enough, enemies of the U.S. Merchant Marine tried to pile on by erroneously blaming the Jones Act for somehow slowing recovery efforts in Puerto Rico.  For those of us who’ve spent a long time in the maritime industry, there’s nothing new about swatting down lies about America’s freight cabotage law. But I must say, the media really dropped the ball this time, by parroting outright falsehoods concerning the Jones Act. In late September, it felt as if American-flag shipping was being blamed for everything from locusts to the plague. Fortunately, and like always, our industry and our supporters pushed back and set the record straight, not only in the press but also in Congress. We go into detail elsewhere in this edition of the LOG and on our website, but the bottom line is the Jones Act is good for our country – most definitely Michael Sacco including Puerto Rico. It never hampered relief efforts, and in fact, Jones Act ships (most if not all of them proudly crewed by Seafarers) led those efforts from the very beginning, not only in Puerto Rico but also in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where thousands of members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers reside. Nevertheless, a threat remained in Congress at press time, in the form of legislation that would weaken this time-tested law. We were engaged in a grassroots campaign to stop that proposal, because the Jones Act remains vital for America’s national, economic and homeland security. It’s also a key source of jobs for our members, and I thank every Seafarer who reached out to their representatives in the House and Senate to urge their support. It’s frustrating when people lie about our industry, whether in the press or on social media or on Capitol Hill – or anywhere, for that matter. We always have to rise above it and stand up for ourselves, and that’s not hard when the truth is on our side.   Anniversary Notes It was surreal at times as we conducted recent conventions and an anniversary event at our affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Those gatherings are normally very uplifting, but in addition to conducting the business of the conventions, we were working every day to continue with hurricane relief efforts (and stand up for the Jones Act). Our bodies were in Piney Point, but I know our hearts were in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands – and yes, in Houston and Florida. We haven’t forgotten about you. Nevertheless, I do want to offer a tip of the hat to everyone at the Paul Hall Center who helped ensure the success of the UIW and SIUNA conventions. And I especially enjoyed the school’s 50th anniversary luncheon, where we debuted a video and appreciated heartfelt, in-person speeches. Piney Point has been a second home of sorts for me, but, far more importantly, it remains a gateway to maritime careers for our members, whether they’re just getting started or they’re upgrading their skills. As I said in the video (you can find it on our Facebook page), it’s one of the keys to our future.   House Hearing Reflects Strong Jones Act Support Industry Combats Lies Concerning U.S. Cabotage Law While the U.S.-flag maritime industry immediately mobilized for disaster relief operations in Puerto Rico, opponents of the Jones Act brazenly tried to politicize the situation. Both in the halls of Congress and in erroneous media reports, legislators and reporters made one false accusation after another concerning America’s freight cabotage law, starting in late September. The SIU, other unions, U.S.-flag vessel operators, rank-and-file members, supportive legislators and others pushed back quickly and effectively. From Capitol Hill to social media, from television to the printed page, the domestic maritime industry rallied and set the record straight. One of the more noteworthy moments took place Oct. 2, when the SIU testified at a hearing conducted by the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation. SIU Political and Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman spoke on behalf of the SIU; American Maritime Officers; Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association; and International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots. The hearing followed an announcement late the prior week that the Jones Act temporarily had been waived in Puerto Rico. Subcommittee Chairman U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-California) said in his opening statement, “Critics continue to assail the U.S.-flag fleet and the Jones Act as an antiquated industry and law, unnecessary in today’s world. These critics promoted claims the law prohibited supplies from getting to Puerto Rico. However, as we know, that was false. Supplies have been getting to the island and have been backlogged at the ports, due to the devastation of logistics on the island. Foreign vessels are also bringing fuel and supplies to the island from foreign ports; the Jones Act does not prohibit that from happening.” Schoeneman said in part: “To be clear – the Jones Act is not impeding relief efforts in Puerto Rico right now. It never did. It is not forcing aid to be turned away, nor is it slowing down efforts to get relief supplies to the people who need them. Foreign-flag ships with cargo from ports outside the United States are, and always have been, allowed entry to Puerto Rico. Continued on Page 4 Contract Awards Mean Additional SIU Jobs The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) recently announced two separate operating contracts covering a total of 11 ships – and the upshot for the SIU is additional jobs. On Sept. 18, the DOD reported that Seafarerscontracted U.S. Marine Management will operate seven Bob Hope-class ships. Those vessels are the USNS Bob Hope, USNS Fisher, USNS Seay, USNS Mendonca, USNS Pililaau, USNS Brittin and USNS Benavidez. Categorized as large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off (LMSR) ships, they’re currently operated by AMSEA, with SIU crews in all three departments. The contract includes a one-year “base period,” plus four 12-month options and then a sixmonth option. On Sept. 19, the DOD announced that Seafarerscontracted Ocean Ships has been selected to operate four other LMSRs: the USNS Gordon, USNS Gilliland, USNS Shughart and USNS Yano. Those vessels currently are operated by Patriot and carry SIU crews only in the steward department. Like the agreement for the Bob Hope ships, this one consists of a one-year base followed by four 12-month options and then a six-month option. Holiday Wishes As we head toward the winter holidays, I normally use this space to offer a heartfelt but routine greeting for a safe and happy experience. But, the times are anything but routine. Between the hurricanes and the horrific, tragic mass murder in Las Vegas, I think we’re all wondering how these things could happen and what’s next. The calendar keeps advancing, though. With Thanksgiving on the horizon, my hopes for all are for healing, recovery, and peaceful times with family. Give your loved ones an extra hug, and may we all count our blessings and lift up those in need. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 79 Number 11 o NO. 2 November 2017 The SIU-crewed USNS Mendonca (above and below), pictured earlier this year in Kuwait, helps support American troops and U.S. military operations, as do the other vessels in its class. (Photos by Lt. Col. Cinnie Mullins) 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, 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2017 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 Reversed to White Reversed to White November 2017 �Unions Step Up for Hurricane Recovery Jones Act at Center of Political Storm Following Maria The SIU, numerous other unions and American-flag vessel operators are helping lead the initial stages of relief efforts in Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria. It is sure to be a years-long endeavor, as the Category 4 storm devastated the territory on Sept. 20. The SIU’s outreach isn’t confined to Puerto Rico, however. The union also is sending supplies and other help to the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) (home to more than 2,000 members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers) in addition to continuing with assistance in Texas and Florida. During a three-week stretch from late August to mid-September, those states and territories were struck by one or more of Hurricane Harvey, Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Maria. Puerto Rico may have taken the worst of it. Maria left the entire island without power, caused heavy flooding and destroyed hundreds of homes. It’s the strongest hurricane to strike Puerto Rico in more than 80 years, and the island was still reeling three weeks later (at press time). While SIU-crewed Jones Act ships wasted no time delivering relief cargo to Puerto Rico, it quickly became apparent that moving the supplies from port facilities inland was in many cases impossible, due to the wrecked infrastructure. A week into October, there were 4,000 containers awaiting distribution in Puerto Rico terminals, with thousands more on the way. More than 30 U.S.-flag ships, many of them SIU-crewed, carried cargo to the island. Those vessels included ones operated by Crowley and Tote, respectively, among others. Despite the severe infrastructure problems, foes of the Jones Act tried to politicize the tragedy by pushing legislation to weaken or eliminate America’s freight cabotage law. At press time, related bills had been introduced in both houses of Congress (see coverage beginning on page 2). Undeterred, the domestic maritime industry delivered for Puerto Rico. Within the first 12 days of the hurricane, U.S.-flag ships had carried approximately 11,300 containers with millions of pounds of relief and other supplies to the territory. Accord- Some of Maria’s destruction is seen in Aguadialla, Puerto Rico, on Sept. 24. (Photo by Kris Grogan, U.S. Customs and Border Protection) ing to the coalition American Maritime Partnership (AMP), Jones Act carriers also anticipated delivering 9,000 more containers in the weeks ahead, including at least 3,300 for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) with food, clothing, medicines and more. Other unions in addition to maritime labor stepped up. As San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulin Cruz put it, “I put out a call for help, and who listened? The unions.” Among the AFL-CIO affiliates transporting union workers to Puerto Rico, or volunteering to stay there and help rebuild the island, were AFA-CWA, AFT, ALPA, AFSCME, Boilermakers, Cement Masons, CWA, IBEW, IBT, Ironworkers, IUPAT, Machinists, NNU, OPEIU, Operating Engineers, Plumbers/Pipefitters, SEIU, UAW, USW and Utility Workers. Moreover, the SIU and AFL-CIO started working together in late September to facilitate collection of relief supplies on the mainland at SIU halls – and to ensure those cargoes will be delivered to union families in Puerto Rico. Speaking of the overall relief effort made by the labor movement, AFL-CIO SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo (left) is pictured with Seafarers aboard the Tote ship Perla Del Caribe, which served as temporary office space for union personnel in Puerto Rico. November 2017 President Richard Trumka stated, “The working families of Puerto Rico are our brothers and sisters. And this incredible partnership will bring skilled workers to the front lines to deliver supplies, care for victims and rebuild Puerto Rico. Our movement is at its best when we work together during times of great need. But Continued on Page 17 Seafarers Disaster Aid Fund Launched The SIU has established a new fund to assist our members and retirees living in areas affected by the recent hurricanes (this includes SIU affiliates). The fund’s name is Seafarers Disaster Aid Fund. Click on the PayPal link on the SIU home page (www.seafarers.org) in order to donate. Contributions may be made using PayPal accounts, MasterCard, Visa, Maestro, Amex, Discover or any corresponding debit card. Please note that contributions cannot be accepted from contracted employers. If donating by check, please make it out to Seafarers Disaster Aid Fund and mail to: Seafarers Disaster Aid Fund c/o SIU Secretary-Treasurer 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 The fund will pay out a maximum of $500 per person. We’ll post and print information soon about how to apply. Unlike prior relief funds set up by the union, the plan is to make the Seafarers Disaster Aid Fund a permanent entity. This should help expedite donations and payments in the future. Seafarers LOG 3 �UIW Convention Focuses on Solidarity, Growth An impressive cadre of industry leaders, labor officials and union delegates recently converged on the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland, for the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers’ (UIW) 2017 quadrennial convention. Conducted Sept. 19-20 under the theme “The Union Edge,” the conference saw UIW officials, delegates and trade union supporters outline strategies to strengthen the labor movement and generate more good–paying union jobs. Besides witnessing the re-election of UIW President Michael Sacco and other union officials to office, convention attendees also heard from guest speakers who voiced their views on the current state of the labor movement, national politics and what the UIW and its membership can expect in the future. Along with Sacco, four guest speakers addressed the convention. These included Brian Schoeneman, political and legislative director of the UIW’s parent union, the SIU; Daniel Duncan, executive secretary-treasurer of the Maritimes Trades Department; Steve Loeffler, Kroger Company senior director of labor relations; and Valerie Cole, Union Plus union services coordinator. While each spoke at length on the intricacies of the labor movement, they shared a common message: The success of the UIW lies in the solidarity of its membership, the guidance of the union’s executive board and organized labor’s strength in numbers. As Duncan noted, “When [President Sacco] goes in to speak to a member of Congress or a person in the administration, or a person in the White House, he’s not speaking just for the couple thousands of people from the UIW, he’s not speaking for the 82,000 in the SIUNA, he’s speaking on behalf of the 5 million members of the MTD. That gets you clout; that gets the doors open. “And if that’s not enough, he (Sacco) is also the senior vice president of the AFL-CIO, which has 12 million members,” he continued. “So, when President Sacco goes in and says, ‘I’m here to talk on behalf of my members,’ he talking for 12 million members. And that how we have clout, how we have influence and that’s how we get things done.” Each speaker also stressed the importance of grassroots politics, in every form. Schoeneman talked about those political efforts, say- ing, “Where it starts is you guys, out in the field working with these folks before they are elected to office. That’s where this stuff starts, that’s where it matters the most... You may not think so, but a $25 check in a local race could mean as much as a $10,000 check does in a national level race,” Schoeneman continued. “Spending 15 minutes on the phone talking to your neighbor saying get out and vote, and vote for these union-friendly candidates matters more than a lot of the stuff folks will be spending a lot of money doing over the course of a single campaign.” In addition to the guest speakers, each of the UIW’s regional vice presidents addressed the convention: Kermett Mangram, Atlantic Region; Eugene Irish, Caribbean Region; Monte Burgett, Great Lakes Region; Dean Corgey, Gulf Coast Region; Tom Orzechowski, Midwest Region; and Herb Perez, West Coast Region. Each briefed the body on their regions’ respective accomplishments over the past four years. They also outlined goals the would facilitate continued progress and prosperity for the union membership. In his opening remarks, Sacco commented on hurricanes that had struck the U.S. Virgin Islands (where thousands of UIW members live) and the mainland. (A day later, a third hurricane – Maria – would hammer St. Croix.) “We’ve already sent generators to the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, along with other supplies and equipment,” the UIW president stated. “We’re working on setting up our own relief funds. We’re also working with the state AFL-CIO in Texas for Harvey relief, and we’re reaching out to our brothers and sisters in Florida, too. “But this operation goes way beyond the UIW and the SIU,” he continued. “Recovery is going to take years, and it’s going to cost tens of billions of dollars. Nevertheless, brothers and sisters, we’ve been through these situations before, and we’ve always bounced back. I know we need a lot more than a pep talk at a time like this, but please be assured that we’re not just sending thoughts and prayers to our members who are hurting. We’re active every day with gathering information and planning the most efficient ways to continue sending relief supplies and donations and whatever else might help.” Domestic Maritime Industry Rallies to Protect Jones Act Continued from Page 2 The claim that the Jones Act is impeding relief efforts is a lie – and no matter how many times those bought-and-paid-for academics and their cronies in the media repeat that lie, it remains a lie. The amount of fake news around the Jones Act has been staggering.” He added, “Despite the misinformation that has spread like a disease throughout both the mainstream media and through social media, maritime labor knows – from firsthand experience – the critical role that the Jones Act plays in keeping America safe, ensuring our economic, homeland and national security…. Make no mistake: Maritime labor has never, not once, opposed a waiver of the Jones Act in an emergency when there were not enough ships or mariners to handle the job. We have never let a ship sail shorthanded. At the same time, we have never been willing to support waivers of the Jones Act that were unnecessary.” Turning his attention to newly introduced legislation aimed and permanently exempting Puerto Rico from the Jones Act, Schoeneman said, “It is critical that Congress not act rashly in response to this disaster. Some of the proposals being made, whether for long-term waivers of the Jones Act or for a permanent exception for Puerto Rico, are foolhardy and misguided at best and blatantly anti-American opportunism at worst. These legislative proposals would have severe and drastic consequences not only for Puerto Rico, but for the entire United States. Both would be unprecedented, and neither should be considered seriously without significant Congressional review and a better understanding of the potential impacts of such a drastic change to centuries of American law. We urge Congress to exercise due diligence in fact finding, and beware of misinformation and false claims being propagated by anti-Jones Act agitators who are attempting to hijack this crisis to further their agendas.” U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California), ranking member of the subcommittee, stated, “Shipping carriers that comply with the Jones Act have more than enough capacity for a robust relief effort for Puerto Rico. Getting relief to the island isn’t the problem. The challenge is in getting relief off the docks. Right now, 6,000 containers full of everything the island needs are languishing on the docks in Puerto Rico because there are no trucks available to distribute them. The entire American maritime industry has done outstanding work to coordinate with local governments to provide relief. The Jones Act is essential to maintain a robust shipbuilding industry and sealift capacity, and waiving it will not help solve Puerto Rico’s problems.” In the midst of all this, U.S. Rep. Garret Graves (R-Louisiana) told the New Orleans Times-Picayune, “The problem isn’t the Jones Act. The problem is that there was a hurricane. Logistical systems are destroyed. Trucks, highways and other transportation systems are gone…. Anyone [who] thinks this waiver just solved the problem is confused. We have a huge shipping industry MSC Commander Tours Paul Hall Center These photos were taken Sept. 29 when Rear Adm. Dee Mewbourne, commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command, visited the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) in Piney Point, Maryland. Mewbourne was given a guided tour of the school’s state-of-the-art training facilities by SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez, PHC Acting Vice President Tom Orzechowski and members of the school’s faculty and staff. In photo at left, Mewbourne (left) pilots a simulated vessel as PHC Simulator Coordinator Susan Fagan provides instructions. In the other snapshot, Mewbourne (left) inspects part of the engine simulator with Instructor John Wiegman. 4 Seafarers LOG on the Gulf Coast that needs the jobs and economic activity now to help economies recover from their disasters. You just took American jobs and sent them overseas.” Additionally, the American Maritime Partnership (AMP) – a major coalition representing all components of the domestic maritime industry – posted numerous facts about the Jones Act as the relief efforts (and the legislative attacks) continued. Among other points, AMP noted the following as of Oct. 2: Changing the Jones Act in the Middle of the Recovery Effort Would Disrupt a Stable, Reliable Element of Ocean Transportation in Puerto Rico at the Worst Possible Time. The American maritime industry is working closely with stakeholders in Puerto Rico as part of hurricane recovery efforts, and, by all accounts, the ocean shipping efforts have been highly successful. Homeland Security Advisor Tom Bossert has publicly said that American shipping capacity is a key part of the recovery effort and that there are no Jones Act capacity issues. Domestic American companies have deployed 23 Jones Act vessels with multiple sailings each week to Puerto Rico. At least 11,300 containers with millions of pounds of relief supplies have already been delivered to Puerto Rico on American vessels. GAO Has Found that the Jones Act Provides Important Benefits to Puerto Rico and Changing the Jones Act There Could Be Harmful to the Local Economy and National Security Readiness. The definitive study of the Jones Act in Puerto Rico was prepared in 2013 by the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), a rare unbiased, non-partisan analysis of this subject. GAO’s study found that “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.” A Long-Term Waiver of the Jones Act Would Outsource American Shipping Companies and American Jobs - Including Puerto Rican Jobs - to Foreign Interests. A long-term Jones Act waiver is nothing more than a scheme to replace American companies and workers with foreign companies and workers in the Puerto Rican shipping trades. It seems particularly harsh to propose replacing the Puerto Rican workers, who have dedicated themselves to keeping cargo moving during the crisis, and American shipping companies that have invested hundreds of millions of dollars in Puerto Rico. In addition, a change in the law in one major Jones Act trade could have widespread ripple effects in shipbuilding and other domestic shipping trades throughout the United States, making America more vulnerable without a compensating benefit. The Supposed ‘Cost’ of SIU Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman testifies on behalf of U.S. maritime labor. Jones Act Shipping in Puerto Has Been Wildly Exaggerated. It appears that the primary argument against the Jones Act in Puerto Rico is that it adds to transportation costs by requiring American companies and workers. Some have gone so far as to say that the Jones Act doubles the cost of consumer goods in Puerto Rico, a preposterous statistic with no basis whatsoever. The “cost” argument ignores the basic fact that Jones Act vessels must compete every day against foreign ships for customers in the Puerto Rican marketplace; in fact, two-thirds of the vessels serving Puerto Rico are foreign. Even GAO has rejected the so-called “cost” findings. America Has the Jones Act for a Reason. The Jones Act and the American domestic fleet provide economic, national, and homeland security benefits across the United States. The domestic maritime industry contributes to approximately 500,000 American jobs, including jobs in Puerto Rico, and nearly $100 billion in economic impact annually, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers. U.S. military leaders and homeland security officials are among the strongest supporters of the Jones Act because it makes our nation more secure. In addition, the Jones Act reduces massive federal costs that would be necessary if there was no strong American fleet to help monitor the U.S. maritime border, support the domestic commercial shipbuilding industry, and provide a pool of trained mariners that is called on to support America’s sealift capacity requirements. November 2017 �Families meet at the hall on Sept. 30 for an advance briefing on the report. Friends, shipmates and family members of the El Faro crew join together at the hall Oct. 1 for a memorial event. U.S. Coast Guard Releases El Faro Report Two years after the tragic sinking of the SIU-crewed El Faro, the United States Coast Guard released its Report of Investigation into the loss of the vessel and all 33 people aboard. The SIU hall in Jacksonville, Florida, on Sept. 30 hosted a meeting of Coast Guard officials and El Faro family members – a day ahead of the report’s official release. Agency representatives explained the findings of the two-year investigation, as well as the recommendations made by the report. More than 200 people returned to the hall the next day, Oct. 1, for a memorial event on the two-year anniversary of the El Faro’s loss. Elsewhere in Jacksonville that day, the Coast Guard’s Marine Board of Investigation (MBI) issued its report to the public, along with safety recommendations for the industry based on the findings of the investigation. (The full report is linked in an Oct. 3 post in the News section of the SIU website. It is a 199-page, PDF document.) Capt. Jason Neubauer, chairman of the MBI, stated, “The publication of our report is the culmination of an extensive effort to determine the cause and identify actions to prevent future casualties. Our thoughts today are about the 33 mariners lost during the casualty and their loved ones. The personal impact of this tragedy was the driving force in our work.” The MBI collected and analyzed data from the wreck of the El Faro, working closely with the National Transportation Safety Board to ensure they had done an exhaustive discovery of every piece of information. After the salvage of the vessel’s voyage data recorder, the MBI was able to analyze the data and develop a list of recommendations for further actions to improve safety and accountability. The MBI concluded that the primary cause of the casualty was the decision to navigate the El Faro too close to the path of Hurricane Joaquin. The MBI also uncovered evidence of an ineffective safety management system within the operating company, and failures by both the Coast Guard-delegated representative and the Coast Guard itself to provide effective oversight of the vessel’s compliance with safety regulations. The report contains 31 safety recommendations to address issues determined to be contributing factors to the incident, including: Pictured at the Sunday gathering are (from left) SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware, VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and Pastor Robert Green, whose son (Chief Cook LaShawn Rivera) perished in the El Faro sinking. November 2017 n 17 recommendations to strengthen regulations; n Three recommendations to improve competencies for delegated surveyors and Coast Guard marine inspectors; n Three recommendations to improve the efficacy of stability reviews and major modification determinations; n Four recommendations to improve Coast Guard oversight of functions delegated to third party certification organizations; n Three recommendations to improve search and rescue capabilities; and n One recommendation to improve the processing and delivery of weather forecasts. After reviewing the report, along with additional comments that may be provided by the “Parties in Interest,” the Commandant of the Coast Guard will publish a decision outlining the final agency actions that will be taken in response to the recommendations. Rear Adm. John Nadeau, the assistant commandant for prevention policy, will lead the commandant’s efforts in response to the recommendations. “I want to express my deepest condolences to the families of the mariners who were lost in this tragedy,” said Nadeau. “I would like to thank the Marine Board for their exhaustive efforts over the past two years. This has likely been the most transparent Board in Coast Guard history and the evidence uncovered during the investigation has spurred change within the Coast Guard and maritime industry. Going forward, we are committed to ensuring that the Coast Guard learns all we can from this casualty and takes action to improve our marine safety program. Further, I hope that all vessel owners and operators, classification societies, mariners, and other organizations and individuals who have responsibility for maritime safety will review the report and implement changes to improve maritime safety.” The operator, Tote, issued a statement on the release of the findings, stating in part, “The El Faro and its crew were lost on our watch and for this we will be eternally sorry. Nothing we can do will bring back the remarkable crew, but everything we do can work to ensure that those who go to sea, serving us all, are in ever safer environments. The report, which we and so many others, whom we would like to thank, worked relentlessly on, is another piece of this sacred obligation that everyone who works upon the sea must study and embrace. The report details industry practices which need change. We are committed to working with every stakeholder on these comments and recommendations. We remain focused as we have from the start, on caring for the families of those we lost and working daily ashore and at sea to safeguard the lives of all mariners.” Coast Guard personnel review parts of the report with families at the hall on Sept. 30. Seafarers LOG 5 �U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao (photo at left) praises the school as SIU President Michael Sacco looks on. In photo above, Crowley Maritime President/CEO Tom Crowley Jr. says the school needs continued investment to build upon its foundation. School Hosts Energetic Anniversary Event Speakers Cite Paul Hall Center for Half-Century of Excellence The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) formally celebrated its 50th anniversary with a rousing luncheon featuring a new video along with appreciative comments from a powerful array of speakers. U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao delivered keynote remarks at the Sept. 26 gathering in Piney Point, Maryland. SIU President Michael Sacco and Crowley Maritime President and CEO Tom Crowley Jr. also were featured speakers, while Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen emceed the event, which took place in the school’s main dining room. Named in memory of the late SIU President Paul Hall (the school’s founder), the PHC is widely hailed as a successful product of strong labor-management cooperation. The state-of-the-art facility has trained tens of thou- SIU President Michael Sacco recalls the school’s modest beginnings and thanks those who also helped guide it through the early days. 6 Seafarers LOG sands of mariners, both through its renowned apprentice program and via vocational upgrading courses. Chao is no stranger to the school known to most as Piney Point: She made prior appearances while serving as U.S. Secretary of Labor under President George W. Bush. Speaking to an audience that included past and present school officials and staff, attendees to the Seafarers International Union of North America convention, ship operators and other guests, Chao stated, “Paul Hall fought for a better life for Seafarers, a strengthened merchant marine, a stronger labor movement, and better opportunities for young people and minorities. His own experience taught him that better opportunities depend on education and training. This facility continues Paul Hall’s work by providing entry-level and advanced training for Seafarers.” She pointed out that Hall was inducted into the Department of Labor Hall of Fame while she was secretary. Speaking about the U.S. maritime industry as a whole, Chao said it’s important to strengthen it “because of its contributions to America’s prosperity and national security. Merchant mariners ensure the safe and efficient waterborne delivery of commercial cargoes here at home and across the globe. “U.S. mariners are a key factor in our country’s military readiness,” she added. “For the past 240 years, they have transported supplies and equipment during times of conflict to our military forces abroad. They stand ready to fulfill that mission today, and they will be ready to do it tomorrow and always. The Department of Defense still relies on U.S.-flag ships, crewed by American civilian mariners, to move our warfighters, equipment and supplies, whenever and wherever they need to go.” Chao described the school as “a fantastic educational facility. As the daughter of a merchant mariner, I fully appreciate the contributions that merchant mariners make to our country.” She also credited Sacco (a past vice president of the school). “President Sacco has taught me about leadership by his dedication and his devotion to his members – to his rank-and-file,” she said. Crowley, the head of one of the nation’s leading maritime companies and a major employer of SIU members, described the PHC as “a maritime training institution that has had such an impact on the American maritime industry.” He stated, “Our company has made it a priority to work together with labor – to build our business and to treat our people right. We have learned that working together, we can ensure our mutual success. What was built here at the Paul Hall Center is a symbol of that cooperation: mutual investment in our future.” He applauded union and company officials for their foresight and efforts to build school, and marveled that an old torpedo-testing facility “could be transformed into such a resource for our industry.” Crowley continued, “I would like to extend my thanks and that of our industry that’s represented here today to the entire SIU executive board, especially Mike Sacco, (Executive Vice President) Augie Tellez and (SecretaryTreasurer) David Heindel, for the special relationship we’ve enjoyed for the past 50 years of this marvelous school. The entire board of trustees, both union and management, realize that continued investment is needed here in order to build upon the foundation that we have. The school must continue to evolve, offering new and innovative state-of-the-art training, and an atmosphere of excellence and professionalism.” He added, “We appreciate and congratulate the men and women who sail on our ships, with courage and professionalism. They are the backbone of the industry, and to them I say thank you for your dedicated service, and keep safe as you bravely deliver supplies to our sons and daughters who are fighting gallantly to preserve our freedom.” Sacco pointed out that he didn’t have to learn about Continued on next page Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen starts the ceremony. November 2017 �Attendees view the debut of the school’s anniversary video. PHC Celebrates 50th Continued from Page 6 the school’s development from old articles or other secondhand sources, because he was there practically from the beginning, arriving at the then-barren campus in 1968. He joked that he initially wondered if the assignment from Hall was a punishment. Sacco thanked everyone who helped form the school and who pushed it through the initial growing pains. “I’m not going to name names, because I know I’ll miss people, but thank you Paul Hall Center personnel unveiled an ice sculpture (above) saluting the anniversary. As evidenced by the photo below, no Piney Point anniversary is complete without a cake. November 2017 for being there from the beginning, when things were tough,” he said. “What a challenge it was to put this thing together. “I also want to thank the operators,” he said. “Thank you for the support you’ve given us and the confidence you have in us. We’re going to deliver you the best product that’s out there. People going through the school are learning the trade and learning the economics of the business.” He recalled a conversation with Hall many years ago: “Paul said, ‘If we don’t upgrade the quality of our people, if we don’t start training them for the needs of the industry and the challenges we’re going to be facing, we’re out of business.’ I never forgot that.” Sacco underscored the importance of the school’s advisory committee, which includes representatives from labor and management and which also typically features guests from various maritime-related agencies. He pledged to continue working together for the school’s advancement. Sacco concluded, “The school is the future of the SIU and the future of the maritime industry.” Editor’s note: The 13-minute video, produced by Kramer Caswell, is available in the Gallery section of the SIU website and also is posted on the SIU and Seafarers LOG Facebook pages. A commemorative Piney Point edition of the LOG was mailed to SIU halls and ships, and it, too, is posted on the SIU website, both in the News section and in the Paul Hall Center section. Congressman Hoyer Honors Paul Hall Center The Office of Congressman Steny Hoyer (D-Maryland) issued the following news release on September 14. Hoyer’s district includes Piney Point, Maryland. Hoyer Honors 50th Anniversary of the Paul Hall Center For Maritime Training And Education Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) submitted a statement into the Congressional Record honoring the 50th anniversary of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. “I’m proud to congratulate the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education on their 50th anniversary,” said Congressman Hoyer. “As one of the top schools for merchant mariners in the United States, the Center has provided cutting-edge training to tens of thousands of mariners since 1967. The Fifth District is lucky to be home to such an esteemed institution, which has contributed greatly to our local economy and national defense. I join in congratulating the Center on their work over the past fifty years, and I look forward to seeing what the future has in store for this fine institution.” Founded in 1967 by the late Seafarers International Union President Paul Hall, the Center offers more U.S. Coast Guard-approved training courses than any other school in the nation. Below are Congressman Hoyer’s full remarks in the Congressional Record: “Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute on this Floor to the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, which is located in Maryland’s Fifth Congressional District. It is one of the leading schools for merchant mariners in the United States and a major contributor to the development and maintenance of our nation’s proud maritime traditions. “The Paul Hall Center, which was founded in 1967 by late Seafarers International Union President Paul Hall, runs the leading training program for unlicensed U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer merchant mariners in the United (D-Maryland) States today. It offers more U.S. Coast Guard-approved training courses than any other school in the nation and has trained tens of thousands of mariners since its founding. The Paul Hall Center’s apprenticeship program, which is registered with the U.S. Department of Labor, has been praised as one of the most effective apprenticeship programs in the country and was honored as an ‘Innovator and Trailblazer’ by the Labor Department in 2012. Today, the Paul Hall Center provides students a worldclass education, preparing new merchant mariners to take their places on vessels sailing in both foreign and U.S.-flag fleets. “It is critical that our country maintain a merchant marine capable of transporting a large share of the seagoing commerce of the United States. The Paul Hall Center’s programs help ensure a sufficient number of well-trained, highly skilled merchant mariners to crew U.S.-flag vessels both for the privately owned merchant marine and for U.S. government-operated fleets. “To that end, I hope my colleagues will join me in recognizing the significant contributions that the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education has made to our economy, our homeland security, and our national defense through its support of the U.S. Merchant Marine. I hope they will also join me in congratulating the Paul Hall Center on reaching this fiftieth anniversary milestone. I’m proud to represent this wonderful institution in the United States Congress.” Seafarers LOG 7 �t n e v E s t h g i l h g i H 2017 SIUNA Convention ‘Leading the Way’ The Seafarers International Union of North America’s 2017 Quinquennial Convention was an immense success. Held September 26-27 at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) in Piney Point, Maryland, the conference featured a multitude of memorable moments, some of which were captured in the photos on this page and the next six that follow. In the photo at the top, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (left), SIU President Michael Sacco (center) and Apprentice Lucas Vasiliades of PHC Class 828 recite the Pledge of Allegiance during the event’s opening ceremony. In photo above at left, SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez (right) and Acting PHC VP Tommy Orzechowski (left) chat with James Wilkinson of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Posing in the photo at center, above are members of the SIU of Canada Delegation. Pictured (from left) are VP Mike Given, President Jim Given and Diane Given. SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (photo above, at right) makes his way into the PHC Training Recreation Center Hotel for lodging. SIU Asst. VP Bryan Powell (right in photo at left) is checked into the hotel by hotel Manager Howard Thompson. 8 Seafarers LOG November 2017 �The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) Color Guard present the colors during the Pledge of Allegiance portion of opening ceremonies during the 2017 Seafarers International Union of North America Convention. Honoring the flag on the dais (from left) are SIU Legal Counsel Leslie Tarantola, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, SIU President Michael Sacco, Apprentice Lucas Vasiliades of PHC Class 828, Father Paul Nguyen of St. Georges Catholic Church and Paul Hall Center Acting VP Tommy Orzechowski. In photo below, the newly elected SIUNA Officers are sworn in by Legal Counsel Tarantola. November 2017 Seafarers LOG 9 �SIUNA President Michael Sacco (left) and U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao share a laugh at the convention. DOT Secretary Chao, Maritime Administrator Buzby Strongly Reiterate Support for U.S. Merchant Marine U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao and U.S. Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby unequivocally voiced the administration’s backing of American mariners and the U.S.-flag fleet when they addressed the Seafarers International Union of North America convention. Chao delivered the keynote speech Sept. 26 in Piney Point, Maryland, while Buzby was the final speaker the following day. The convention, conducted every five years, took place at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, which also hosted an anniversary event (see coverage on pages 6-7). Chao is familiar with the school, having appeared there in the early 2000s while serving as U.S. Secretary of Labor under President George W. Bush. She has worked with the SIUNA and with union President Michael Sacco even longer, dating back to her days with the Federal Maritime Commission and a previous stint at the DOT. Buzby, too, is no stranger to the union and the school. He served as commanding officer of the U.S. Military Sealift Command from 20092013 and previously visited the Paul Hall Center (in addition to speaking at the 2012 SIUNA convention). Chao opened her remarks by crediting Sacco for his effectiveness. “You are lucky to have him,” she told the delegates and guests. “I’ve always admired him, because from the very start, I saw a true leader who always puts the interest of his membership as the first priority in his life.” She then discussed U.S. relief efforts in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands (in addition to ongoing work in Texas and Florida), and commended the Seafarers and other American mariners who immediately answered the call to assist in the operations. “The department’s goal, even during this emergency, will be to maximize employment of American seafarers and American-flagged vessels in the recovery effort,” Chao said. “So, we will be vigilant about requests for waivers to the Jones Act that are unnecessary to deal with the emergency.” Chao then detailed some of the administration’s efforts to finalize a proposal “to rebuild and revitalize our country’s infrastructure, including ports and waterways. This will be impacting every sector, and including maritime.” In the works is a 10-year program, she explained, that would be expected to generate a trillion dollars in spending. “A key part of the plan is eliminating the unnecessary bureaucratic roadblocks and delays that are holding up the delivery of new infrastructure for years, even decades,” she added. Specifically focusing on the U.S. maritime industry, she cited the importance of the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP). Chao also said, “We want to maximize access to U.S. government-impelled preference cargos. We want to maintain support of the Jones Act, and we want to engage, train and support American mariners…. Strengthening America’s maritime industry is not an afterthought. This industry is vital to America’s wellbeing, security, and prosperity.” She continued, “It’s a matter of jobs, and that matters very much to this president and this administration. This sector provides so much employment that supports hundreds of thousands of families. The maritime industry supports a strong, independent way of life that’s been a vital part of America since its beginning. As a daughter of a merchant mariner, this industry has deep and lasting roots in my career and also in my heart. I know this industry well. I have tremendous respect for the men and women in this industry, and for the leadership that makes sure that this sector remains vibrant and strong.” Buzby described the SIUNA as “a great maritime federation, and I know it pretty well. I have worked closely alongside Mike and (SIU Executive Vice President) Augie (Tellez), not so long ago when I was commander of Military Sealift Command. I respect both of these gentlemen and I respect this organization, and I always look forward to coming back and spending time with you.” He recalled the massive but cooperative undertaking of updating the Civilian Mariner Continued on next page “Strengthening America’s maritime industry is not an afterthought. This industry is vital to America’s wellbeing, security, and prosperity.” – Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao voices her backing of the U.S. Merchant Marine. 10 Seafarers LOG November 2017 �AFL-CIO Official: Labor Movement Up to the Challenge A top official from the AFL-CIO delivered an impassioned speech at the Seafarers International Union of North America (SIUNA) convention, during which she urged those in attendance to continue fighting for workers’ rights. AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler also pledged the federation’s ongoing support for the U.S. Merchant Marine. She spoke at the convention Sept. 27 in Piney Point, Maryland. Shuler began her speech by praising the host facility: the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, which she described as “a crown jewel. You should be very, very proud of it.” She then noted, “I don’t think most people know the depth and breadth of the work that we do in the labor movement, as far as training goes. I heard this statistic a while ago, that the labor movement is the second largest provider of training in the country, behind the U.S. military.” Shuler credited union workers for their ongoing relief efforts in the aftermath of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria. She had recently visited the Houston area, parts of which were devastated by Harvey in late August, and saw rank-and-file members as well as officials and staff out in force, helping the community with little fanfare. “I saw our members were the ones evacuating people to safety, and they were the ones tending to the injured,” she said. “They were restoring power, and providing critical public services right alongside your members in the wake of this disaster.” After mentioning the recent attempts to weaken the Jones Act in the wake of the hurricanes, she said, “We have an eagle eye on the Jones Act at this moment, and the labor movement stands strong in protecting the Jones Act.” Speaking about the tough road for working families, Shuler said, “America is at its best when working people are strong and thriving. And as a labor movement, we Liz Shuler AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer are facing enormous challenges. Employers and politicians are conspiring to hold down wages. Outdated labor laws are making it harder and harder to form a union. Young people are graduating college with mountains of debt....” She said it’s never been easy to fight for workers’ rights, but also asked everyone present to remember why they are a part of the labor movement. “Everyone has a different reason, but here’s what I think,” Shuler said. “I think we do this work because we care about what happens to people – people we love, and people we will never meet. And that is what drives us: the simple idea that every person deserves a fair shot and a fair shake in America. And unions are the single greatest force to make that happen.” After talking about growing up in a union family, Shuler also discussed her long career with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), which included time as an organizer and a rankand-file member. She then spoke about the inequality caused by the labor laws in America. “Inequality is not inevitable,” Shuler declared. “It’s based on the policy choices we make, and the people we elect. So, we can choose to do better in this country. We know that our enemies have made legislation like so-called right-to-work their number one priority, and we know why,” she said, continuing to describe the labor movement as the last remaining source of informing, enabling and mobilizing American workers to vote and stay politically active. Turning to the future, Shuler described the recent internal changes made by the AFL-CIO, in order to better support and provide resources to affiliates. According to Shuler, “We are focusing on three main bodies of work. Mobilizing people, for elections and on issues, and building political independence. The second thing is around legislation, and on advocacy and policy work, so that we can actually rewrite the rules of the economy. And the third area of work that we’re really focusing on is organizing and growth, and being strategic in working with our affiliates who do the organizing.” This focus on growth and the future of the labor movement continued as she spoke about the technologies looming on the horizon that threaten to take away jobs and infringe on workers’ rights. To this end, the federation is launching a new commission on the future of work at their October convention, as well as making recommendations to affiliates on some best practices for using emerging technologies in support of working families. In closing, Shuler offered some statistics: “Polls show ... that the labor movement’s popularity is growing. We’ve had a number of years where it was in decline, but it’s finally starting to move up again – especially among young people. Seventy percent of people under the age of 35 have favorable opinions of unions. Even among conservatives, we are finally starting to trend back up.” She concluded, “Our founders built something incredible. It’s now our job to take the labor movement forward.” Top Transportation Officials Voice Staunch Backing for America’s Mariners Continued from Page 10 Personnel Instruction (CMPI) 610 during his time at MSC. That project not only benefits mariners, he noted, but also reflects how different segments of the industry can and do work well together. “I’m used to working with unions,” Buzby said. “That’s how I worked with them. I’m used to sitting down, rolling up our sleeves and getting things done, and that’s how I intend to go forward and operate as the maritime administrator. I want that same attitude of cooperation and openness in this job as I did at Military Sealift Command.” He applauded U.S. mariners for their response to the recent hurricanes, and then recalled some of his statements from earlier this year when he was being confirmed for the MARAD job. During that process, he made it clear to Congress that the nation relies on the Ready Reserve Force (RRF), among other components of the U.S. Merchant Marine, to “execute its wartime missions, deploying and sustaining our forces overseas.” Pointing out the strong backing he has received from Gen. Darren McDew, the commanding officer of the U.S. Transportation Command, Buzby added, “Mariners of the U.S. Merchant Marine and those RRF ships are really essential assets in our ability to project our forces. I am committed to make sure that both ship-wide and crew-wise, we’re ready to go when needed. “The final priority that I discussed with Congress during my pre-meetings and hearings was strengthening those three pillars of the U.S. flag … to make sure that we keep our U.S. Merchant Marine strong,” he continued. “The Jones Act, Maritime Security Program, and cargo preference are needed to keep our ships under the flag and to keep our mariners working. They are all critical elements that I am going to be defending with my full energy and I know that Secretary Chao feels the same way.” November 2017 He also provided some background information on recent, temporary Jones Act waivers and vowed to stand up for America’s freight cabotage law. Buzby mentioned that the motto on the U.S. Merchant Marine flag reads, “In Peace and War.” He emphasized the critical need to back the industry at all times, and stated that when he talks about maritime, “I’m really talking about the people. We need people to crew these ships and the fact is we don’t presently have enough mariners to sustain our extended military mission overseas. We must take care of our merchant mariners in peacetime, ensuring they’re fully employed, trained and qualified, or we won’t have them in wartime. And that would be a tragedy, because our nation would be stuck.” Buzby wrapped up his speech by sharing his command philosophy, which centers on putting people first, being professional, and being “a good shipmate. When I think of the maritime community, whether it’s the Navy or the merchant marine, I consider us all shipmates,” he said. “That means we take care of each other and we have each other’s backs.” “The Jones Act, Maritime Security Program, and cargo preference are needed to keep our ships under the flag and to keep our mariners working.” – Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby SIUNA President Michael Sacco (right) welcomes Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby to the stage. Seafarers LOG 11 �ITF General Secretary Vows Cabotage Support Cotton Credits SIUNA for Leadership Role in International Efforts The first guest speaker at the Seafarers International Union of North America (SIUNA) convention saluted the union for its effective international leadership and pledged his organization’s continued backing of U.S. and Canadian cabotage laws. International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) General Secretary Steve Cotton delivered an enthusiastic and wide-ranging address to the delegates and guests Sept. 26 at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. “The ITF isn’t a one-way street, and we’ve been investing in and protecting cabotage,” he stated. “We’ve been supporting [Canadian cabotage] and supporting the Jones Act.” The federation in 2015 formed a cabotage task force consisting of eight affiliates along with key ITF maritime representatives. Included on the task force are unions representing the USA, Norway, Nigeria, Canada, Brazil, Australia, Greece and the Philippines. Cotton also saluted the SIU’s current and past leadership, including President Michael Sacco, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, and the late Secretary-Treasurer John Fay. Heindel chairs the ITF’s Seafarers’ Section – a position Fay also held. “The ITF is a global federation, but your union has been leading, first with John and now with Dave,” Cotton said. “You believe in fighting beyond these shores to protect workers’ rights.” Additionally, he commended the SIUNA’s work at home. “This union has been fighting to defend the maritime history of this tremendous country,” Cotton stated. “You’ve been working to defend your rights politically, industrially and persuasively – with common sense and dedication to protect what is a truly maritime nation.” He also pointed to the host facility as symbolizing the foresight and determination of the union’s officials. “When you look at this tremendous establishment, the Paul Hall Center, you recognize the vision of people – and dare I say, people that fought for this union. They fought on the waterfront to carve out a space for this union. “And this union is continuing that mantra of setting an agenda, engaging with the employers, looking after the interests of members,” he continued. “If you look back to the 1930s, when this union rose up at a difficult time for this country, you know that the leaders then and the leaders in between, and the leadership now, and the leadership going into the future have one thing in their hearts and their minds, and that’s defending the rights of workers and primarily Seafarers.” The recent hurricanes were a prevalent topic throughout the convention, and Cotton mentioned that the ITF made a financial contribution specifically for SIUNA relief efforts. He then explained efforts within the federation to facilitate growth and effectiveness among its non-maritime affiliates, with the maritime unions serving as a positive example. “With the affiliates, it’s about building your power and building your influence,” he said. “And I’m very proud that you have supported us all the way through that process. We are looking at the changing face of the global economy and we are developing new strategies….” He said ITF affiliates represent approximately 20 million members across the globe. That number “is important to recognize, because when we talk to governments and when we talk to international organizations, and when we talk to employers, that loud voice of 20 million transport workers is crucial,” he said. Reflecting on the five years since the prior SIUNA convention (Cotton also was a guest speaker in 2012), he mentioned ITF General Secretary Steve Cotton (center) is pictured with SIUNA President Michael Sacco (right) and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel in Piney Point, Maryland. that the ITF has been effective in helping combat maritime piracy, partly by working with the International Maritime Organization and with individual governments. Moreover, he said the SIUNA has been at “the heart of all of our maritime work fighting to stop deregulation, and ensuring that all workers – regardless of their nationality – have sustainable jobs and dignity in their lives. This union reaches across the sectors.” He concluded by encouraging attendees to learn from history. “As I stand here and recognize your 50 years, there’s something about being a unionist that we have to know who went before us, and (know) their struggles, and their fight and belief in protecting the men and women of the transport sectors,” Cotton declared. “It is really a privilege to have your support, but we have to recognize from history the world is changing; we have to respond to the changes in the world; we have to bring all of those determinations of the past with us to the table; we have to engage with the employers; we have to engage with governments; but we have to engage with a thoughtful, longterm strategy. “We must always remember the next day is a challenge, and we must be ready for that challenge.” Guest Speakers Tackle Key Issues Among the guest speakers addressing the SIUNA convention on Sept. 27 were Maritime Trades Dept. Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan (above, left), Senior Political Consultant Terry Turner (above, center), and Union Plus Representative Valerie Cole (above, right). Duncan inspired attendees with recent examples of grassroots wins for working families. Turner provided insights into how maritime labor carries its message to Capitol Hill. Cole reviewed some of the benefits available through Union Plus, a non-profit entity founded by the AFL-CIO. 12 Seafarers LOG November 2017 �Convention Committees Auditing Committee – (Seated from left) Mario Higa, Andrea Gianni, Berit Eriksson, Dawn Taliford, (standing) David Heindel, Chairman Dean Corgey, and Joe Musher. Convention Arrangements & Public Relations Committee – (Seated from left) David Connolly, Chairman Patrice Caron, Anthony Poplawski, (standing) Monte Burgett, Joseph Soresi and Dave Weathers. Credentials Committee – (Seated from left) Mike Given, Chairman Augie Tellez, Archie Ware, (standing) Joe Baselice and Paul Doell. Also on the committee, but not pictured was Michael Murphy. Officers & Affiliates Reports Committee – Ambrose Cucinotta, Nick Celona, Catina Sicoli, Chairman George Tricker and Herb Perez. Also on the committee, but not pictured was Joshua Sanders. International Affairs Committee – (seated from left) Diane Given, Chairwoman Kate Hunt, Gunnar Lundeberg, (standing) Pat Vandegrift and Eugene Irish. Also on the committee, but not pictured was John Clemons. Legislative & Government Agencies Committee – (Seated from left) Michael Lucranz, Chairman Nick Marrone, Karen Horton-Gennette, (standing) Tom Orzechowski, Jim Given and Charles Murdock. Also on the committee, but not pictured was Joseph Gremelsbacker. November 2017 Resolutions Committee – (Seated from left) Bryan Powell, Chairman Kermett Mangram, (standing) Chad Partridge and Christopher Given. Also on the committee, but not pictured were Charles Aubry and Daniel Shea. Seafarers LOG 13 �Convention Speakers “When workers have a union contract, they have a voice. They have security. They have their wages and benefits and working conditions in writing.” - Terry Turner Senior Political Consultant 14 Seafarers LOG Augie Tellez SIU Executive VP Jim Given President, SIU of Canada Paul Doell President, AMO David Heindel SIUNA Sec. - Treasurer Dean Corgey SIUNA VP Michael Sacco, SIUNA President The Honorable Elaine L. Chao U.S. Secretary of Transportation Mark Buzby U.S. Maritime Administrator Delegates & Guests Liz Shuler Secretary-Treasurer AFL-CIO Daniel Duncan Executive Secretary-Treasurer Maritime Trades Department Steve Cotton General Secretary International Transport Workers’ Federation Valarie Cole Union Plus Representative Thomas Orzechowski SIUNA VP Nick Marrone SIUNA VP Kermett Mangram SIUNA VP Joseph Soresi SIUNA VP George Tricker SIUNA VP Gunnar Lundeberg President Sailors’ Union of the Pacific Anthony Poplawski President, MFOW Patrice Caron Executive VP SIU of Canada Dave Connolly SUP VP Kate Hunt UIW National Director Catani Sicoli Secretary-Treasurer SIU of Canada Roman Gralewicz President Emeritus SIU of Canada Mike Given VP, SIU of Canada Maggie Bowen SIU Plans Administrator Eugene Irish UIW VP Herb Perez UIW VP Monte Burgett UIW VP Chad Partridge UIW VP Karen Horton-Gennette SEATU Asst. VP Nick Celona SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware SIU Asst. VP Ambrose Cucinotta SIU Asst. VP Bryan Powell SIU Asst. VP John Hoskins SIU Port Agent Pat Vandegrift SIU Port Agent Joe Baselice SIU Port Agent Tracey Mayhew PHC Training/Regulatory Affairs Liaison Ben Anderson SIU Safety Director Andre MacCray SIU Safety Director Osvaldo Ramos SIU Safety Director Kevin Sykes SIU Safety Director Kevin Marchand SIU Safety Director James Brown SIU Safety Director Amber Akana SIU Safety Director November 2017 November 2017 Kathy Chester SIU Safety Director Seafarers LOG 15 �Current Seafarer, Former Member Publish Books A current SIU member and one former Seafarer recently announced the respective availability of new books they’ve published. SIU Storekeeper/Supply Officer Chris Maye says it took him more than 25 years to write his first book – but he wrapped it up near the end of this summer. Titled “Forced Existence,” Maye’s missive is “a fiction, action adventure,” he notes. It’s available in electronic format via the website barnesandnoble.com. (The site Rafael Alvarez includes a search feature; entering the words “Christopher Maye” or “Forced Existence” will call up the book.) It’s also available online via Nook Books (for which there is a free app). Maye started sailing with the SIU in 1987. At press time for this edition of the LOG, he was working as a storekeeper aboard the USNS Montford Point. Rafael Alvarez, meanwhile, has been a writer for most of his life, including 20 years as a city desk reporter for the Baltimore Sun. The son of a longtime member of the SIU’s inland division, he has published numerous books (in addition to briefly sailing with the union). Alvarez’s most recent manuscript is a fiction collection titled “Basilio Boullosa Stars in the Fountain of Highlandtown,” and it’s available on Amazon. Signed copies may be ordered directly from the author; email him at orlo.leini@gmail.com. EARN YOUR COLLEGE DEGREE THROUGH THE PAUL HALL CENTER ! The Paul Hall Center’s Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship (SHLSS) has partnered with the College of Southern Classes Start October 16, 2017 Maryland (CSM) to offer an Associate of Applied Science degree in Maritime Operations Technology with a concentration in either • Nautical Science (Deck department) -or- • Marine Engineering (Engine dept.) Students must complete a combination of academic general education courses and technical education courses in order to earn • Associate of Applied Science Degree • UA courses apply toward the degree • Fully accredited • Some courses held at SHLSS the degree. Courses completed during the Unlicensed Apprentice program apply toward the • Online classes degree. Students can complete English, Math and • Scholarships available Physics courses at SHLSS. The remaining general education courses can be completed online. The following classes will convene at SHLSS: February 26 – March 16, 2018 English 1011 – Composition and Rhetoric Math 1011 – Math for Technologies For More Information Contact Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School Academic Coordinator Dale Rausch (301) 994-0010 Ext. 5411 -ordrausch@seafarers.org 7 Credit Hours Includes: tuition, textbooks, room and board plus one hour of tutoring following each daily class session Cover of Chris Maye’s book Spotlight on Mariner Health Guard Against Aneurysms Remember that an aneurysm is an enlarged part of the blood vessel. These areas are important to discover quickly because they may become larger and weaker over time. If the area gets very large, it can rupture. This is a serious health event that will affect many individuals in many different ways. Aneurysms may range from lifethreatening to just being found on a routine X- ray. Your doctor may want it treated quickly or he/she may just watch the aneurysm and see what happens over time. Symptoms differ depending on where they are in the body. If an individual has a cerebral aneurysm, that person may experience fatigue, loss of balance, speech problems, double vision, severe headaches, loss of vision, neck and jaw pain Another person may experience abdominal pain or tenderness, hypertension, and signs of shock if it is found to be an abdominal aneurysm. Diagnosis Important, Must be Done Quickly Risk factors for an aneurysm include diabetes, obesity, hypertension, smoking, alcohol abuse, high cholesterol, and increasing age. Atherosclerosis can be the cause of many aneurysms. As we all age, there may come a time when the wall of the artery becomes harmed by plaque. Plaque can cause the arteries to narrow and even cause blockages. The blood 16 Seafarers LOG flow will slow and an aneurysm may occur. Doctors may order an Ultrasound, CT Scan, MRI, lab work, or an Angiogram if they are concerned about any abnormal findings. Some individuals are born with a weakness in the blood vessel that may not show up until later in life-Congenital malformations. Unfortunately, many have had this happen over time due to age, diet, injury, lack of exercise, certain diseases, infections, and basic life style choices. Aneurysms are handled by a team approach. You may need to see a neuro-surgeon, a cardiac doctor, a chest­surgeon, a renal-surgeon, and many others doctors depending on where the aneurysm is located in the body. All treatments are individualized and specific to the type of aneurysm that a person has. If an aneurysm is diagnosed quickly and treated rapidly, that person has a good chance of survival. Again, this depends on the type of aneurysm that person has! The most important things people can do to help prevent aneurysms are to control their blood pressure, sugar levels and weight. Keep active with regular exercise, watch what you eat, and do not smoke! Keep doctor appointments and take medications as prescribed. Stay healthy and happy! Healthy Recipe Stuffed Peppers w/ Ground Turkey 25 Servings 12 1/2 whole bell pepper, cut in half & seeded 1 quart brown rice, cooked 3 1/3 pound ground turkey 1 1/16 cups onion, chopped fine 1 1/16 cups celery, chopped fine 2 teaspoons granulated garlic 2 teaspoons salt 2 teaspoons black pepper 2 2/3 tablespoons parsley, chopped fine 2 whole egg 1 quart tomato sauce n Sauté the onions and celery together for about 7-10 min over medium heat. n Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl. (Not tomato sauce) n Stuff the bell pepper halves with the ground turkey mixture. Place the stuffed pepper in 2” hotel pans equally. Top the peppers with tomato sauce. Bake covered in a 350 degree F oven until 165 degree F internal temp. n Cover with plastic wrap & foil. n Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 239 Calories; 6g Fat (24.1 percent calories from fat); 15g Protein; 31g Carbohydrate; 2g Dietary Fiber; 65mg Cholesterol; 478mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1 1/2 Grain (starch); 1 1/2 Lean Meat; 1 Vegetable; 0 Fat. (Provided by the Paul Hall Center’s Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship) November 2017 �Flooding remains in Carolina, Puerto Rico, Sept. 22, two days after Hurricane Maria struck the territory. (Photo by Sgt. Jose Ahiram Diaz-Ramos, Puerto Rico National Guard) Bosun Abel Vazquez and Chief Cook Joaquim Gonzalez help repair the SIU hall in San Juan. Labor Assists Hurricane Victims Continued from Page 3 we are even better when we find common ground and partner with business and industry on solutions to lift up our communities. This endeavor is entirely about working people helping working people in every way possible. In times of great tragedy, our country comes together, and we are committed to doing our part to assist the people of Puerto Rico.” In what may be considered a bittersweet irony, the SIU temporarily moved into its new hall in Puerto Rico on Oct. 11. It was hardly the debut anyone expected or hoped for – but personnel at the hall also said they realized it was fortunate the building 457 Hillside Street wasn’t severely damaged. SIU headquarters officials said the hall eventually will need more sprucing up, so the initial occupancy is supposed to be short-term. In addition to the Jones Act ships servicing Puerto Rico, SIU members sailed aboard numerous others in anticipation of, and in the aftermath of the three hurricanes. Dating to mid-August, Seafarers crewed up the training ships Kennedy and Empire State, and also mobilized the Harry Martin, Roy Wheat, Obregon, Matej Kocak, Brittin, Cape Diamond, Cape Douglas, Cape Domingo, Cape Edmont, Wright, and Cape Decision. Members of the SIU Government Services Division sailed the hospital ship USNS Comfort to Puerto Rico; it remained stationed there along with the Kennedy and Wright. Previously, the Wright delivered generators and other cargoes to St. Thomas in the USVI. “We’re doing everything we can to make the best of it and take care of the membership and help rebuild,” said SIU Puerto Rico Port Agent Amancio Crespo. “We also need to get the word out that the Jones Act has to be maintained here in Puerto Rico. I can’t believe how many lies have been told against the Jones Act.” Containers for relief donations are moved into place outside the SIU hall in Houston on Oct. 10. The Seafarers-crewed SS Wright delivers generators and other relief supplies to St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, in late September. The SIU hall in Jacksonville, Florida, collects donations for Puerto Rico. This screen grab from CNN shows some of the relief supplies delivered to Puerto Rico by SIUcontracted Crowley Maritime. November 2017 SIU members helped crew up and mobilize the training ship Empire State. Pictured on deck in Florida, preparing to sail to Puerto Rico, are (from left) AB Saleh Mothana, Bosun Magdy Balat, OS Luis Lopez and AB Yancy Cabarrubias. Seafarers LOG 17 �2017 Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Scholarship Program Scholarships totalling $132,000 are available to Seafarers and their dependents looking to continue their education. Allocations for each category will be as follows: Seafarers Scholarships ■ One $20,000 offering for a four-year course of study at an accredited college or university ■ Two scholarships ($6,000 each) for Seafarers interested in pursuing two-year courses of study at a community college or vocational school Dependents Scholarships ■ Five scholarships, each worth $20,000, are being offered to dependents (spouses included) to attend four-year courses of study at accredited colleges or universities. Dependents and spouses of active as well as retired Seafarers may apply. The Cathedral of Learning University of Pittsburgh To take advantage of these opportunities, clip, complete and mail the form below, or visit www.seafarers.org, go to the Member Benefits tab, navigate to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan menu and select Scholarship Booklet (PDF). Although the booklet says 2016, all information is still current for the 2017 SHBP Scholarships. Please send me the 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: ) .......................................................................................................................................... ❏ Self ❏ Dependent Complete and mail form to: Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 11/17 18 Seafarers LOG November 2017 �November & December Membership Meetings Piney Point.............................Monday: November 6, December 4 Algonac...................................Friday: November 10, December 8 Baltimore..............................Thursday: November 9, December 7 Guam.................*Friday: November 24, Thursday: December 21 Honolulu...............................Friday: November 17, December 15 Houston................................Monday, November 13, December 11 Jacksonville..........................Thursday: November 9, December 7 Joliet.................................Thursday: November 16, December 14 Mobile...........................Wednesday: November 15, December 13 New Orleans.......................Tuesday: November 14, December 12 Jersey City.............................Tuesday: November 7, December 5 Norfolk.................................Thursday: November 9, December 7 Oakland............................Thursday: November 16, December 14 Philadelphia......................Wednesday: November 8, December 6 Port Everglades................Thursday: November 16, December 14 San Juan..............................Thursday: November 9, December 7 St. Louis................................Friday: November 17, December 15 Tacoma..................................Friday: November 24, December 22 Wilmington............................Monday: November 20, December 18 *Guam change created by Thanksgiving Day observance. 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 November 2017 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea September 13, 2017 - October 11, 2017 Total Registered All Groups B C Total Shipped A All Groups B C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach A All Groups B Port A Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 22 9 0 18 7 2 1 18 18 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 5 2 1 3 4 2 6 2 2 2 8 7 1 19 10 5 13 5 1 8 30 19 8 3 0 0 2 1 0 0 5 1 0 10 1 8 7 1 3 4 17 3 10 5 7 1 4 2 0 0 20 13 1 49 10 12 31 6 6 16 100 19 41 35 23 13 23 12 3 10 57 38 22 36 14 3 22 15 2 18 56 14 4 4 0 1 7 0 0 0 4 1 2 6 5 0 10 2 4 1 18 7 2 29 13 4 10 10 6 11 33 32 10 24 5 3 16 3 3 8 24 9 3 4 5 1 2 1 0 1 4 7 1 7 2 0 5 2 0 1 4 2 1 3 0 1 5 4 0 1 11 8 1 36 6 4 29 6 1 8 80 19 12 5 1 0 6 1 0 0 5 1 2 17 10 12 20 9 4 10 50 29 12 319 125 71 236 89 37 100 549 249 139 C Engine Department Algonac 4 5 0 2 1 0 0 4 6 0 Anchorage 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 Baltimore 4 1 0 0 4 2 2 5 2 1 Fort Lauderdale 7 6 2 9 4 1 2 15 6 3 Guam 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 Harvey 2 2 0 2 1 0 0 5 5 0 Honolulu 9 6 0 5 3 0 3 25 8 0 Houston 18 9 4 15 5 2 11 32 14 9 Jacksonville 17 15 2 14 7 3 2 34 32 3 Jersey City 10 9 2 12 5 0 8 18 9 3 Joliet 1 1 0 1 3 0 0 4 1 0 Mobile 5 3 0 2 1 1 2 9 5 2 Norfolk 15 13 6 10 7 4 7 24 19 12 Oakland 5 2 1 2 4 1 6 9 7 3 Philadelphia 2 0 0 1 1 0 0 4 3 0 Piney Point 1 0 0 1 2 0 1 1 2 0 Puerto Rico 3 1 0 4 2 0 0 5 6 1 Tacoma 10 6 2 7 4 0 3 34 9 6 St. Louis 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 4 0 1 Wilmington 5 8 2 3 4 3 0 19 16 7 TOTALS 121 87 21 90 60 17 47 253 151 51 Steward Department Algonac 7 4 0 6 2 0 1 5 5 1 Anchorage 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 Baltimore 1 1 0 1 1 0 3 7 0 1 Fort Lauderdale 17 4 1 6 2 1 3 25 5 2 Guam 1 1 0 2 0 0 0 1 1 0 Harvey 5 0 0 2 1 0 2 10 0 1 Honolulu 5 0 0 8 1 0 1 19 1 0 Houston 21 6 1 10 5 0 4 43 9 2 Jacksonville 20 12 2 16 6 2 14 31 15 3 Jersey City 4 2 1 6 2 0 4 14 7 1 Joliet 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 Mobile 5 4 1 4 2 0 3 5 7 1 Norfolk 13 4 1 10 4 2 8 18 12 0 Oakland 14 1 0 8 2 0 7 26 5 1 Philadelphia 2 0 0 3 0 0 1 3 0 1 Piney Point 1 4 0 2 2 0 0 6 3 0 Puerto Rico 0 3 0 1 4 0 1 2 4 0 Tacoma 10 3 0 6 2 1 3 27 4 0 St. Louis 5 0 0 3 0 0 2 3 1 0 Wilmington 17 5 1 14 5 0 9 39 8 0 TOTALS 149 54 8 109 41 6 66 285 89 14 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 0 9 7 3 4 5 0 3 13 10 1 1 3 0 2 2 0 1 1 3 0 1 2 0 1 2 0 0 0 3 0 2 7 0 2 1 0 0 10 13 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 1 1 3 4 0 2 1 0 1 3 6 0 2 4 0 2 2 0 1 8 6 5 11 9 2 7 3 2 9 21 15 0 14 31 3 7 14 1 2 23 63 2 15 10 1 4 3 0 3 29 13 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 18 30 1 11 16 6 1 26 44 0 5 10 0 4 2 3 1 19 22 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 0 2 2 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 3 8 3 6 7 3 2 17 22 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 13 22 3 5 17 5 2 26 43 16 98 150 16 61 77 20 28 202 268 GRAND TOTAL: 605 364 250 451 251 137 233 1,115 691 472 Seafarers LOG 19 �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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by Seafarers in Piney Point, Maryland. Question: What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen the Paul Hall Center undergo over the years? Ernie Frank Bosun/3rd Mate First of all, the place has never looked better. Our new training ship, the Freedom Star, is an upgrade over previous training vessels, and really gives the students an accurate learning environment. The effort that Chef John (Hetmanksi) and (TRC Director) Howard Thompson have put into the kitchens and hotel is really amazing. I’ve never been prouder to be a member Reginald Walker AB That new statue out front is really something. The quality of the instructors has never been better. The gym is modern and high-quality, as well as the modern classrooms. In general, the school is much more visually appealing now than ever before. Jose Bonita QMED The new Crowley building is hard to miss, as well as all of the improvements done to the hotel facilities. I like the new classrooms as well, and all of the improvements in the hotel rooms themselves are really great. John Jewell Chief Cook Physically, there have been a lot of changes to the facility, and all of the improvements are really great. In addition, it feels like the hotel staff and school instructors have really stepped up their game since I started here, and it really shows in the quality of the trainees’ work and the state of the hotel. HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Ali Matari Recertified Steward I like the school very much. The dining areas are much improved, the new front desk looks very nice. I think the school in general looks very new and very clean. Robert Bryson AB Honestly, the whole campus has changed. The El Faro memorial is really nice, and the new modern classrooms are great. They’ve also done a lot of work to the hotel, even since I got here and started upgrading. Pic From The Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 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 SIU members are pictured aboard the GATCO tug Florida at San Juan Harbor in 1977. Standing from left are John Kale, cook; Edward Schaffhauser, AB; and SlU Port Agent Juan Reinosa. Seated from left Pete Popour, AB; Erik H. Eriksen, relief captain; Charles Flowers, chief engineer; and William Brinkley, captain. 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 November 2017 �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 DENNIS BAKER Brother Dennis Baker, 59, donned the union colors in 1970, working for Michigan Tankers Inc. He was a member of the engine department and upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Baker most recently shipped on the Maersk Detroit and resides in Roseville, California. shipped on the CL Austin. Brother Conzo upgraded on multiple occasions at the school in Piney Point, Maryland. He last worked on the Maersk Memphis and resides in Andover, Ohio. JOSEPH CORR Brother Joseph Corr, 57, donned the union colors in 1979, initially working aboard the Cove Leader. A member of the engine department, he upgraded on several occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Corr last shipped on the Elizabeth and now calls Brick Township, New Jersey, home. JOHN BUKOWSKY ROBIN COTTON Brother John Bukowsky, 62, joined the SIU in 1980. He originally sailed with Cove Shipping. The steward department member upgraded on multiple occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Bukowsky’s last vessel was the Integrity. He lives in Stevensville, Maryland. Brother Robin Cotton, 62, began his seafaring career in 1978 aboard the El Paso Southern. He worked as a member of the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center, located in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Cotton last worked for Crowley Towing, and has settled in Springtown, Texas. BARRY CARRANO Brother Barry Carrano, 66, began his seafaring career in 1982, working aboard the Constitution. A member of the deck department, he upgraded multiple times at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Carrano most recently shipped aboard the Alliance Norfolk before settling in Ocala, Florida. DOMINADOR DALMACIO Brother Dominador Dalmacio, 65, joined the union in 2005. A member of the steward department, he initially sailed on the Abby G. Brother Dalmacio’s final vessel was the Dewayne Williams. He resides in Guam. MICHAEL HAMMOCK his seafaring career in 1988, aboard the American Cormorant. A member of the steward department, he upgraded at the Piney Point school in Maryland on several occasions. Brother Jones last shipped on the Pennsylvania. He makes his home in Columbus, Ohio. MARY JONES Sister Mary Jones, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1995. She originally worked on the USNS Pollux. Sister Jones sailed in the steward department, most recently aboard the Paul Buck. She resides in Mobile, Alabama. JACK LAMOTTA Brother Jack Lamotta, 65, started sailing with the union in 1988. He first shipped aboard the USNS Lynch. Brother Lamotta upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1990. A member of the deck department, he most recently worked aboard the Liberty Wave. He calls Euless, Texas, home. GEORGE LEE Brother George Lee, 67, joined the union in 1980. Working in the steward department, he first sailed on a Bay Tankers vessel. Brother Lee upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school before sailing on his final vessel, the Cape Inscription. He makes his home in Los Angeles. ROBERT LERMA Brother Ismael Castillo, 67, joined the SIU in 1983, sailing with Delta Lines. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded in 1996 at the Paul Hall Center in Maryland. Brother Castillo most recently shipped on the Philadelphia Express. He resides in Houston. Brother Michael Hammock, 60, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1974. He was initially employed on the Del Oro. Brother Hammock worked in the steward department. He attended classes on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Hammock’s most recent trip was aboard the APL Coral. He is a resident of Brooklyn, New York. GORDON CHERUP PHILLIP HARMON TIMOTHY MCHALE Brother Gordon Cherup, 66, joined the union in 1970. The deck department member’s first vessel was the Schoellkoff. Brother Cherub upgraded at the Piney Point school on several occasions. He last sailed on the Dewayne Williams, and lives in White Lake, Michigan. Brother Phillip Harmon, 62, donned the union colors in 1979. He first sailed on the LNG Capricorn, and most recently shipped aboard the Flickertail State. Brother Harmon worked in the deck department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. He resides in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. Brother Timothy McHale, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 2001, as a deck department member. He first vessel was the USNS Dahl; his last, the USNS Montford Point. Brother McHale settled in Troy, North Carolina. ISMAEL CASTILLO DANIEL CONZO Brother Daniel Conzo, 65, first sailed with the SIU in 1977. A member of the deck department, he initially November 2017 LONNIE JONES Brother Lonnie Jones, 70, began Brother Robert Lerma, 65, began his seafaring career in 2005. Working in the deck department, his first vessel was the Maersk Alabama. Brother Lerma upgraded multiple times at the maritime training center in Piney Point Maryland. He last shipped aboard the Intrepid and lives in East Glacier, Montana. JACK MOHAMAD Brother Jack Mohamad, 67, began sailing with the SIU in 1990. He first shipped on the Independence, working in the steward depart- ment. Brother Mohamad took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point School and upgraded on multiple occasions. Prior to his retirement, he shipped on the John Paul Bobo. Brother Mohamad resides in Penacook, New Hampshire. MOHAMED YAHIA ABDUL MOHAMED Brother Donald Bishop, 62, started his seafaring career in 1977, initially working for Interstate Oil Transport Company. A member of the deck department; he upgraded on two occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Bishop was last employed by OSG Ship Management and calls Virginia Beach, Virginia, home. Brother Abdul Mohamed, 65, joined the union in 1979. A deck department member, he first sailed on the Overseas Vivian. Brother Mohamed upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1987. He last worked on the Sea-Land Independence and lives in Melvindale, Michigan. LORENZO NUNEZ CACHO Brother Lorenzo Nunez Cacho, 74, started sailing with the SIU in 1994, working on the Independence. Brother Nunez Cacho upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2002. A member of the steward department, he last sailed on the Liberty Sea. He resides in Bronx, New York. TEREZA PADELOPOULOU Sister Tereza Padelopoulou, 72, became a union member in 2007, working aboard the Richard G Matthiesen. She sailed in the steward department and upgraded several times at the Piney Point school. Sister Padelopoulou last shipped on the Liberty, and lives in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. ANTON POPESCU Brother Anton Popescu, 67, became a union member in 1997. He began his career working aboard the USNS Yano, sailing in the engine department. He upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall center. Brother Popescu’s most recent trip was on the USNS Seay. He lives in Honolulu. KENNETH SMITH Brother Kenneth Smith, 73, initially sailed with the SIU in 1986. He worked in the deck department, first sailing aboard the USNS Assurance. Brother Smith’s final vessel was the USNS Heezen. He makes his home in Honolulu. PAUL TITUS Brother Paul Titus, 59, became a union member in 1981. He first worked on the Cove Engineer, as an engine department member. Brother Titus upgraded several times at the Piney Point school before sailing on his last vessel, the Maersk Chicago. He calls Delmar, Maryland, home. Brother Mohamed Yahia, 68, started sailing with the union in 1993. He first shipped on the Independence. Brother Yahia was a deck department member and most recently worked on the North Star. He lives in Tacoma, Washington. INLAND DONALD BISHOP PAUL DIMAURO Brother Paul DiMauro, 66, began his SIU career in 2008. He worked for Crowley Towing & Transportation throughout his career and was a deck department member. Brother DiMauro resides in Orange Park, Florida. CLIFFORD JAMES Brother Clifford James, 63, became a Seafarer in 1973. The engine department member sailed with Dravo Gulf for his entire career. Brother James lives in Jackson, Alabama. JAMES PALMQUIST Brother James Palmquist, 67, began shipping with the union in 2000, initially working on the USNS Effective. He upgraded on multiple occasions at the SIUaffiliated school in Piney Pont, Maryland. Brother Palmquist sailed in the deck department. He most recently shipped with Crowley Towing and Transportation, and resides in San Diego. RUFUS PITTMAN Brother Rufus Pittman, 94, signed on with the SIU in 1963. He began his career working for Graham Transportation. Brother Pittman most recently sailed with McAllister Towing of Virginia. He calls Chesapeake, Virginia, home. NMU EMILIO REYES BATISTA Brother Emilio Reyes Batista, 61, initially sailed with NMU before the merger with SIU in 2001. He upgraded in 2001 at the Piney Point school. Brother Batista calls Catano, Puerto Rico, home. STELLA CALVARY Sister Stella Calvary, 68, began her career with NMU before the 2001 SIU merger. She sailed in the steward department; her most recent trip was aboard the Cape Decision. Sister Calvary lives in North Charleston, South Carolina. Seafarers LOG 21 �Final Departures DEEP SEA CRAIG AMISON Pensioner Craig Amison, 69, passed away August 27. He joined the SIU in 1967. Brother Amison shipped as a member of the deck department. He first sailed on the Petrochem. Brother Amison last worked on the Prestige New York and became a pensioner in 2012. He resided in Harrisburg, Virginia. PATRICIA BALLANCE Pensioner Patricia Ballance, 78, died August 7. A member of the steward department, she first sailed on the Independence. Sister Ballance’s last vessel was the LNG Aries. She became a pensioner in 2004 and lived in Covington, Louisiana. JOHN BURNETT Pensioner John Burnett, 84, passed away July 3. Born in Alabama, he began sailing with Pan Shipping in 1952. Brother Burnett was a member of the engine department and last sailed on the Buyer in 1991. He became a pensioner later that year and settled in his home state, in the city of Summerdale. MARGARITO DEGOLLADO Pensioner Margarito Degollado, 89, died August 16. Brother Degollado’s first trip to sea was with Delta Lines as a deck department member, in 1951. He most recently sailed on the Inspiration and began collecting his pension in 1994. Brother Degollado was a resident of Houston. DAVID FARRIS Pensioner David Farris, 66, passed away June 12. Brother Farris joined the SIU in 1971 and worked as a member of the deck department. He first sailed with G&H Towing and last worked aboard the SL Pride before retiring in 2015. He resided in Santa Fe, Texas. GREGORY HOWARD Brother Gregory Howard, 46, passed away June 21. The California native signed on with the SIU in 1992, when he sailed on the Cape Nome. He last sailed on the Matej Kocak. Brother Howard primarily sailed in the engine department. He resided in Jacksonville, Florida. CHARLES JOHNSON Pensioner Charles Johnson, 90, died August 12. Born in North Carolina, he began his seafaring career in 1951, working aboard the Robin Mowbray. A member of the steward department, he last sailed on the Oakland before going on pension in 1988. Brother Johnson was a resident of San Jose, California. 22 Seafarers LOG NICK KRATSAS Pensioner Nick Kratsas, 71, passed away August 25. He began sailing in 1964, working as a deck department member for Isco Inc. Brother Kratsas last sailed aboard the Mayaguez. He became a pensioner in 1993 and made his home in Baltimore. ROBERT LEWIS Pensioner Robert Lewis, 74, died August 26. He joined the union in 1966, and initially worked aboard the Saphire Sandy. Brother Lewis was a member of the deck department and last sailed on the SL Florida. He retired in 2001 and lived in Lakeland, Florida. CANDIDO LIAL Pensioner Candido Lial, 92, died August 20. Brother Lial embarked on his SIU career in 1953 as an engine department member for Eagle Carriers Inc. He last sailed aboard the Del Oro before collecting his pension in 1989. Brother Lial called Marble Falls, Texas, home. ARMANDO MEDINA Pensioner Armando Medina, 71, passed away July 12. Born in New York, Brother Medina became an SIU member in 1988. He first sailed on the Star of Texas as a deck department member. Brother Medina last worked aboard the Liberty Grace before going on pension in 2010. He resided in Metairie, Louisiana. GEORGE MOXLEY Pensioner George Moxley, 72, died September 4. He joined the union in 1976, working for Crowley Puerto Rico Services. A member of the deck department, Brother Moxley last sailed aboard the Liberty Star. He retired in 2010 and settled in Lihue, Hawaii. FEDERICO RODRIGUEZ Pensioner Federico Rodriguez, 72, died August 8. Brother Rodriguez’s first trip to sea was on the Steel Design in 1973. The Puerto Rico native most recently sailed on the San Juan as a deck department member and began collecting his pension in 2002. Brother Rodriguez continued to live in Puerto Rico, in the city of Caguas. RAY STRENGTH Pensioner Ray Strength, 81, passed away August 20. He signed on with the SIU in 1960, when he sailed on the Fort Hoskins. A member of the deck department, he last sailed on the Senator. Brother Strength settled in his home state of Alabama in the city of Flomaton. EDDY STWAEARD Pensioner Eddy Stwaeard, 71, died August 5. He began his seafaring career in 1979, working aboard the Long Lines. A member of the deck department, he last sailed on the Elizabeth before going on pension in 2016. Brother Stwaeard was a resident of Brooklyn, New York. RAYMOND TORRES Pensioner Raymond Torres, 94, passed away August 6. The New Jersey native’s first trip to sea was aboard the Evelyn, in 1952. As a member of the engine department, Brother Torres last shipped on the Elizabeth. He became a pensioner in 1984 and made his home in Miami. INLAND CHARLES BAKER Pensioner Charles Baker, 75, died September 22. He became a member of the union in 1972, working for Steuart Transportation. Brother Baker was a member of the deck department and last sailed on a Mariner Towing vessel. He retired in 2004 and settled in Ocala, Florida. WALTER BAUER Pensioner Walter Bauer, 90, passed away September 12. He joned the union in 1962 and first sailed with Crescent Towing & Salvage. Working as a deck department member, Brother Bauer remained with the same company until his retirement in 1989. He resided in Waggaman, Louisiana. CLIFTON CHAMPAGNE Brother Clifton Champagne, 62, passed away June 22. He signed on with the SIU in 1973, working with Moran Towing of Texas. A member of the engine department, he concluded his career after working for the same company for the duration of his career. Brother Champagne called Winnie, Texas, home. CHARLES CHISHOLM Pensioner Charles Chisholm, 89, died July 6. Brother Chisholm became a seafarer in 1963. The deck department member sailed with Hvide Martine throughout his career. Brother Chisholm began collecting his pension in 1992 and resided in Port Arthur, Texas. LUIS GONZALEZ Pensioner Luis Gonzalez, 86, passed away August 15. Brother Gonzalez signed on with the SIU in 1976 and sailed with Crowley Puerto Rico Services until his retirement. An engine department member, he began collecting his pension in 1993 and settled in San Juan, Puerto Rico. WILLIAM GUERRIN Pensioner William Guerrin, 86, died August 12. Born in Massachusetts, Brother Guerrin joined the union in 1973. The deck department member first sailed with Gulf Atlantic Transport Company. Before collecting his pension in 1996, he concluded his seafaring career working with Crowing Towing and Transportation. Brother Guerrin resided in Fernandina Beach, Florida. MICHAEL KOSCAK Pensioner Michael Koscak, 72, passed away August 11. Brother Koscak signed on with the SIU in 2006, working as a steward department member for Allied Transportation. He remained with the same company for the duration of his career before going on pension in 2013. The Connecticut native settled in Old Orchard Beach, Maine. HOWARD MCMAHON Pensioner Howard McMahon, 68, died July 5. He joined the union in 1994, working for Westbank Riverboat Services. Brother McMahon was a member of the deck department and sailed with the same company until his retirement in 2010. He resided in Gretna, Louisiana. DAVID TURINSKI Pensioner David Turinski, 63, passed away August 26. He joined the SIU in 2002 and first sailed on the Ameristar East Chicago. The deck department member last shipped aboard the Vision. Brother Turinski went on pension in 2015 and called Holmen, Wisconsin, home. died August 29. Brother Wobbleton initially joined the union in 1964, working for Allied Transportation. He sailed as a member of the steward department, most recently for CG Willis Inc. Brother Wobbleton began collecting pension in 1996 and settled in Moyock, North Carolina. GREAT LAKES STANLEY WASLOWSKI Pensioner Stanley Waslowski, 88, died July 25. Brother Waslowski was born in Pennsylvania and began his seafaring career in 1963, working for American Steamship Company. A deck department member, he last sailed on the St Clair. Brother Waslowski retired in 1993 and settled in Green Bay, Wisconsin. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION SAVINO AVILA Pensioner Savino Avila, 93, passed away July 26. Brother Avila started receiving his pension in 1989. He resided in his home state of California, in the city of San Pablo. EUGENE AYLER Pensioner Eugene Ayler, 77, died September 1. Brother Ayler became a pensioner in 1996. Native to Alabama, he made his home in the city of Mobile. LEWIS BOWEN Pensioner Lewis Bowen, 90, died September 13. Brother Bowen was born in Eastport, Maine. He went on pension in 1968 and called Tampa, Florida, home. FRANCISCO GARCIA Pensioner Francisco Garcia, 94, passed away September 10. Brother Garcia began collecting his pension in 1969. He resided in his native Puerto Rico. Name Age DOD Baldwin, Isaiah Castillo, Rosalio Colon, Eddie Garcia, Angel Corrales, Thomas Lewis, James Martin, Joe Muentes, Ceferino Oxford, Egbert Pagliarini, Francis Radosti, Carlo Rossel, Augusto Tullock, Leo 78 89 90 91 79 71 66 96 86 91 92 97 91 July 31 August 2 July 25 July 21 August 21 August 20 July 25 August 31 July 14 June 29 August 15 August 20 July 18 JOSEPH WOBBLETON Pensioner Joseph Wobbleton, 83, November 2017 �SIU Promotes Industry at ‘Fleet Week’ Event The union took part in this year’s San Francisco Fleet Week proceedings – specifically, by helping host guests aboard the SIU-crewed RRF vessel Cape Horn. Fleet Week, established in 1981, features a wide range of activities aimed at honoring the armed forces and “advancing cooperation and knowledge among civilian- and military-based humanitarian assistance personnel,” according to the association that organizes the event. More information is available at https://fleetweeksf.org/ The photos on this page were taken Oct. 7 aboard the Cape Horn, which is operated by Matson Navigation. SIU Port Agent Nick Marrone II and Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli provided attendees Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli mans the SIU booth. with information about starting a maritime career and also discussed the history and importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Steward/Baker Joseph Hernandez, Port Agent Nick Marrone II Attendees visit the ship Oct. 7 in San Francisco. U.S. Army personnel pose (photo at left) with Port Agent Nick Marrone II (second from left) and Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli (far right). In photo above, guests learn about Ready Reserve Force ships and how they are vital to America’s national security. 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 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: November 2017 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. Conse­q uently, 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 23 �FELLOWSHIP IN WILMINGTON – Seafarers enjoy the monthly barbeque at the SIU hall in Wilmington, California, in September. HONORING VICTIMS – The American Flag is lowered to half-staff aboard the SIU-crewed USNS Algol in memory of victims of the Las Vegas shooting. From left are Bosun Ritche Acuman and AB Damar Shaw, on the ship in San Francisco. A-BOOK IN JERSEY – AB Sylvan Harris (left) receives his A-seniority book from Port Agent Mark von Siegel at the SIU hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. ABOARD TUG RANGER – SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware and Patrolman Adam Bucalo recently serviced this Crowley tug in Jacksonville, Florida. Waiting for stores are Seafarers Dominick Corbitt (left) and Terrance Holmes. 24 Seafarers LOG At Sea and Ashore with the SIU A-BOOK IN OAKLAND – ACU Keith Hall picks up his A-seniority book at the union hall in Oakland, California. He’s pictured with Port Agent Nick Marrone II. FULL BOOK IN CHARM CITY – AB Mark Jones (left) receives his full book from Port Agent John Hoskins. Photo was taken Sept. 25 at the SIU hall in Baltimore. ABOARD MAERSK PEARY – Recertified Steward Tony Spain (left) and Chief Cook Carlton McMiller present two mouthwatering pizzas on the Maersk Line, Limited vessel. ABOARD TUG SENTINEL – Pictured from left aboard the Crowley boat in Jacksonville, Florida, are Chief Mate Leslie O’Hair, Chief Engineer Lazaro Dominguez, AB Gabron Turner, Capt. Paul Stanford, AB James Kayser, Second Mate Charles Brown and AB James Turner. November 2017 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Gap Closing Courses Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Basic Training w/16hr FF December 2 December 8 Basic Training Revalidation November 10 November 10 January 5 January 5 Basic Training/Basic Firefighting January 27 February 2 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation January 6 January 12 Basic/Advanced Firefighting Revalidation January 6 January 12 Leadership and Managerial Skills December 2 December 8 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting February 24 March 2 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Government Vessels December 9 December 15 January 6 January 12 Able Seafarer Deck January 6 February 2 Medical Care Provider December 2 December 8 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Stu- dents will be advised of dates once accepted. Tank Ship Familiarization - DL November 18 November 24 ARPA December 9 December 15 Lifeboat November 18 December 1 December 16 December 29 January 13 January 26 Radar Observer November 25 December 8 Radar Renewal (one day) Tank Ship Familiarization - LG November 11 November 17 December 2 December 8 Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW February 10 March 9 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers December 2 December 15 BAPO February 10 March 9 FOWT January 6 February 2 Junior Engineer February 3 March 30 Marine Electrician January 20 March 16 Machinist November 11 December 1 Pumpman December 2 December 8 Welding November 25 December 15 Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Ops November 18 December 15 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start November 13. Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training w/16hr FF November 25 December 1 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 # and dates attended___________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. November 2017 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, or 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. 11/17 Seafarers LOG 25 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #828 – The following Phase I apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course September 8: Jamel Anders, Bradley Bagwell, Brandon Caruthers, Eshrak El Sami Dewan, Desmon Graham, Kaden Hardt, Daryl Hicks, Joshua Irvine, Jorge Laboriel Lalin, Tresten Porter, Stephen Efrain Robles-Matos, Jamel Smith, Lucas Vasiliades and Thomas Zamora. BT (UP Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities) – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course September 1: Robert Brown, Tricia Bush, Tkeyah Elliot, Raymond Forse, Travis Harris, Solymar Herrera Carreras, Joshua Hinton, Christopher Lanier, Jonathan Luna, Claudia Mauricio-Brice, Sylvester Merritt Jr., Evan Nantista, Jay Perry, Husain Salah, Colin Yee and Shana Zeidenberg. Medical Care Provider – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) enhanced their skills by completing this course September 1: Brandon Albro, Robert Sir Walter Bryson III, Justin Buchart, Jerome Luckett, Bryan Page and George Velez. BAPO – Six upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills in this course August 8. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Maurice Quindel Backey, Luke Leusoga Failauga, Lionel Manuel Felix Lugo, Mark Nover Miranda Lata, Leroy Thomas and Roberto Andres Sabio. Celestial Navigation – Four upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course September 1: J.K. Mansfield Borden, Jason Hardy, Saleh Mohamed Mothana and Sunnil Motley. Class instructor Brian Moore is at the far left. Fast Rescue Boat – Three upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course August 25: Mason Cook, Karl Mayhew III and LBJ Bliss Tanoa. Government Vessels – The following upgraders (photo at left, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course August 18: Nasser Abdulaziz Saed Ahmed, Magdy Hassan Balat, James Dillon, Robert Goldson, Preeyapha Kaisaard, Robert Neff, Darnell O’Hara, Stig Sassie Jr., Jason Springer, LBJ Bliss Tanoa and Abel Vazquez Torres. Class instructor Mark Cates is at the far right. Important Notice To All 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. 26 Seafarers LOG November 2017 �Paul Hall Center Classes Government Vessels – Four Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) completed the enhancement of their skills when they graduated from this course August 11: Larry Jolla, Michael Murner, Steve Parker III and Richard Wythe Jr ECDIS – Two upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course September 1: Ernest Frank III and Frank Kosarick. Joining them to celebrate their achievement is their instructor, Patrick Schoenberger, right. SUA (Government Vessels) – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course August 18: Joseph Barrack, Kenneth Cabrera-Roman, Apalogie CruzLabrador, Cody Herndon, Jaren Daguio Ildefonzo, Partick Medders and Tyesha Monique St. Clair. Mark Cates, their instructor, is at the far right. BT (Basic Firefighting) – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course August 25: Marlon Agulan Battad, Jesus Colomer-Sanchez, Michael Curtis, Joseph Dupre, Jose Antonio Gonzales Del Valle, Hector Arzu Guity, Romalies Jones, Steven Kroner, Antedio Tagnipez Liguid, Anthony McAfee, Benny Antonio Orosco, Juan Francisco Poblete, Pedro Luis Rivera Riestra and Randy Watson. Class instructors Joe Zienda and Matthew Rogers are at the far left and far right, respectively. SUA (Basic Firefighting) – Nine individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed their requirements and graduated from this course August 4: Jennifer Bayne, Luis Gabriel Domenech Cordero, Lisa Hatzky, Ameenah Lynch, Shanel Nixon, Gerald Roulhac, Curtis Snow, Christina Stamps and Seandre Stevens. Joe Zienda, their instructor, is at the far left. BT (Basic Firefighting) – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course August 4: Nestor Espejo Agcaoili, Chelsea Balint, Michael Fitzgibbons, Jape Robin Saturinas Geonzon, Olden Glover, Thomas Morris, Michael Murner and Steve Parker III. Class instructor Joe Zienda is at the far left. Galley Operations – Five steward department Seafarers graduated from this course August 11. Enhancing their skills (above, in alphabetical order) were: Nasser Abdulaziz Saed Ahmed, Howard Brooks Jr., Preeyapha Kaisaard, Romeo Alambat Molina and Constance Mullings. Becky Piacente, their instructor, is at the far left. SUA (Galley Operations) – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course August 11: Joseph Barrack, Kenneth Cabrera-Roman, Heriberto Cortes-Aviles, Apalogie Cruz-Labrador, Cody Herndon, Jaren Daguio Ildefonzo, Patrick Medders and Tyesha Monique St. Clair. Class instructor Becky Piacente is at the far right. November 2017 Seafarers LOG 27 �NOVEMBER F E B R U A R2017 Y 2014 o VOLUME VOLU M E 7 6 79 NNO. O . 11 2 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 26-27 With Seafarers Aboard USNS Seay The vessel is part of the Bob Hope class of large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off ships in the Military Sealift Command fleet. It’s operated by AMSEA and is scheduled to turn over to U.S. Marine Management in the near future. osun John Wells submitted these snapshots of SIU members Baboard the USNS Seay. Bosun John Wells (center) says first-tripper GUDE Micah Ferreira (left) (Piney Point Class 808) is off to a strong start. They’re pictured with AB Damon Zschoche. OS Curtis Burks ABs Ken Tan and Jerry Estenso QMED Emmanuel Adeoti AB Paublito Ramos-Ortiz Recertified Steward Robert Firth, Chief Cook Meili Seegers AB Damon Zschoche � 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 2017 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES HOUSE HEARING REFLECTS STRONG JONES ACT SUPPORT INDUSTRY COMBATS LIES CONCERNING U.S. CABOTAGE LAW CONTRACT AWARDS MEAN ADDITIONAL SIU JOBS UNIONS STEP UP FOR HURRICANE RECOVERY JONES ACT AT CENTER OF POLITICAL STORM FOLLOWING MARIA UIW CONVENTION FOCUSES ON SOLIDARITY, GROWTH U.S. COAST GUARD RELEASES EL FARO REPORT SCHOOL HOSTS ENERGETIC ANNIVERSARY EVENT SPEAKERS CITE PAUL HALL CENTER FOR HALF-CENTURY OF EXCELLENCE CONGRESSMAN HOYER HONORS PAUL HALL CENTER AFL-CIO OFFICIAL: LABOR MOVEMENT UP TO THE CHALLENGE ITF GENERAL SECRETARY VOWS CABOTAGE SUPPORT COTTON CREDITS SIUNA FOR LEADERSHIP ROLE IN INTERNATIONAL EFFORTS CURRENT SEAFARER, FORMER MEMBER PUBLISH BOOKS SIU PROMOTES INDUSTRY AT ‘FLEET WEEK’ EVENT WITH SEAFARERS ABOARD USNS SEAY 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 11/01/2017 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. 79, No. 11 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/b29791067586089f972ab96496f21fb5.pdf 0e20907592bff2b8503012814ad0be8b PDF Text Text OCTOBER F E B R U2017 ARY 2014 NO.. 10 V O L U M EVOLUME 7 6 o 79 NO 2 Seafarers Assist in Texas Recovery Hurricane Harvey Devastates Portions of Lone Star State The SIU stepped up before, during and after a catastrophic storm struck Texas in late August. From moving vessels out of harm’s way to helping restore waterborne commerce, and from assisting fellow Seafarers with free meals to donating relief supplies through the area labor federation, members and officials “have had a great response,” said SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, who’s standing sixth from left in group photo above at right. He particularly praised the efforts of hundreds of SIU boatmen throughout the ordeal, including those pictured directly above. The larger group photo includes members and officials who volunteered to help fellow citizens on Sept. 2. Page 2. New SIU Jobs Aboard Liberty Peace The union recently welcomed new jobs aboard the cargo ship Liberty Peace. A reflagging ceremony had been scheduled for late August in Port Arthur, Texas, but it was postponed due to Hurricane Harvey. Pictured aboard the ship Aug. 26 in Beaumont, Texas, are Bosun Michael Presser, AB Randolph Jemmott, AB Morris Foster, AB Eddie Ebanks, AB Richard Hindson, AB Donald Desir, OMU Paul Klear, Chief Cook Noah Schluder and SA Dennis Cossio. General Dynamics NASSCO Floats Out USNS Williams New jobs for members of the SIU Government Services Division are on the horizon, following the recent float-out of the USNS Hershel “Woody” Williams. Built at union shipyard General Dynamics NASSCO in San Diego, the expeditionary sea base is expected to be complete in the first quarter of 2018. Page 3. (Photo courtesy General Dynamics NASSCO) Pasha Inks Contracts for Two Ships Page 3 Senator Baldwin Honored Page 5 Great Lakes Snapshots Page 20 �President’s Report Editor’s note: Hurricane Irma was expected to hit Puerto Rico and then make landfall in the continental United States around press time for this edition of the Seafarers LOG. Please check the News section of the SIU website for updates. We also routinely post updates on our Facebook and Twitter pages. America Benefits from Cargo Preference Within the maritime industry, we regularly refer to the figurative “threelegged stool” that keeps the American-flag fleet in operation. The components are well-known to many, in title if not necessarily in detail. They are the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, and cargo preference laws. Note that when we talk about cargo preference, we are indeed referring to multiple laws. There is a tendency at times to think of cargo preference exclusively as the Food for Peace program, but there’s more to it. First, though, I have to say that when military leaders, government officials and people from every component of the U.S. maritime industry all agree that a federal program works and benefits the country’s economy and defense, you would think its future is solid. But, for cargo preference, the outlook could depend on the day of the week, or on what particular concern is being debated on Capitol Hill. Despite boasting more than a century of proven results, efforts remain to undermine cargo preference. For those who aren’t closely familiar with the specifics, cargo preference laws require shippers to Michael Sacco use American-crewed, U.S.-flag vessels to move certain government-impelled, ocean-borne cargoes. The three major cargo preference statues are the Military Cargo Preference Act of 1904, which stipulates that 100 percent of military cargoes be shipped on U.S.-flag vessels; Public Resolution 17 (enacted in 1934), which requires all cargo generated by the U.S. Export-Import Bank be moved via U.S.-flag vessels (unless granted a waiver); and Public Law (PL) 480, the 1954 Food for Peace measure. PL-480 calls for a certain percentage of domestically grown agricultural goods and government aid to be transported on American-flag ships. Earlier this year, the person who oversees the movement of all military goods and personnel told a Congressional hearing how important cargo preference is to the armed forces. Gen. Darren McDew, commander of the U.S. Transportation Command, told two subcommittees of the House Armed Services Committee, “There are several pieces of U.S. law that are part of the industrial base and it’s not just one. The Jones Act is probably the anchor for it, but without the Jones Act, without the Maritime Security Program, without cargo preference, our maritime industry is in jeopardy and our ability [to] project the force is in jeopardy.” A month later, the head of the Navy League of the United States responded to a Washington Post editorial against PL-480. In a letter published April 29, Navy League National President Skip Witunski wrote, “Our nation’s cargo preference programs, including the Food for Peace Program, are instrumental to sustaining the U.S. Merchant Marine and maintaining our national defense sealift capability with the attendant billions saved.” PL-480 has faced many attacks in recent years. Despite the fact that Food for Peace has been one of America’s most successful foreign aid programs, and even though it has received strong bipartisan support from president after president and members of Congress, there remain those who want to take the program’s funds and distribute the actual dollars directly to those in need. The previous administration tried this via a pilot program that reduced the percentage of cargo carried by U.S.-flag vessels from 75 percent to 50 percent, while providing foreign governments and non-governmental organizations with money to hand out for aid in affected regions. Predictably, those dollars were distributed with little to no accountability. And, the damage caused to the U.S.-flag fleet has been considerable: the loss of almost 20 ships. PL-480 isn’t the only program affected by funding cuts. Cargo generated by the Ex-Im Bank is way down because the bank has not been able to its job, but that’s a topic that’ll have to wait for another column. Cargo preference laws normally aren’t something you’ll hear discussed on cable news shows or read about in newspapers. But, they are an important component of America’s commercial shipping capability – and they help maintain our manpower pool of reliable, U.S.-citizen mariners. That’s why the SIU will continue fighting to uphold and strengthen these critical laws. Volume 79 Number 10 October 2017 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2017 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. Seafarers gather at the SIU hall in Houston for a meal, as part of the union’s relief efforts. SIU Helps Houston Rebound from Harvey The rain from Hurricane Harvey hadn’t completely stopped before SIU members and officials in Houston mobilized to assist victims of the massive storm that battered large parts of Texas in late August. Teaming up with other trade unionists through the Texas AFL-CIO and the Texas Gulf Coast Area Labor Federation, Seafarers donated and handed out various relief items at the start of what is expected to be a years-long recovery. The SIU hall in Houston – offering meals and other assistance – also became a regular gathering place for members who suffered property damage. “We’ve had a great response,” said SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, who also serves as a commissioner on the Port of Houston Authority. “Special recognition ought to be given to the SIU crews at G&H Towing. When everybody knew the storm was coming, all the guys reported for duty and stayed on the boats. They did their job and sacrificed, even while some of them knew that their own homes were being flooded. But they kept navi- gation safe, and then when the channels reopened, they were there. They fulfilled their duties in an extremely professional manner, under exceptionally difficult circumstances.” Corgey said that while it wasn’t yet possible to identify an exact number of SIU members in the region who’d suffered property damage from the hurricane, “Overall, it doesn’t appear to be as bad as it might have been, but we know we’ve got members who are hurting. We’re doing everything we can to help.” Harvey made landfall along the middle Texas coast on Aug. 25. The Category 4 storm was the first “major” hurricane (as classified by the National Weather Service) to strike south Texas since Celia in 1970, and the first hurricane to hit the state’s coast since Ike in 2008. Harvey dumped more than 50 inches of rain on parts of the state, and left approximately 30 percent of Harris County (which includes Houston) under water. Damages Continued on Page 4 GAO Study Shows Need for Sealift Boost A new study by the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) underscores the need for the United States to further invest in its sealift capacity. The GAO released its report Aug. 22, outlining the need for the Navy’s long-term sealift recapitalization plan in order to protect the continued utility of the Military Sealift Command ships, which provide jobs for numerous SIU members and support the military in several crucial ways. According to the GAO, “This report (1) describes the readiness trends of the surge sealift and combat logistics fleets since 2012, (2) evaluates the extent to which the Navy has plans to address an aging surge sealift fleet, and (3) evaluates the extent to which the Navy has assessed the effects of widely distributed operations on the combat logistics force. GAO analyzed 3 to 5 years of readiness, maintenance, and exercise data, based on available data; visited surge sealift and logistics ships; and interviewed Navy, U.S. Transportation Command, and Maritime Administration officials.” The study found that since 2012, the readiness of the surge fleet has decreased, mission-limiting equipment casualties have increased, and maintenance periods are taking longer than expected. Additionally, the GAO determined that the projected sealift capacity, in millions of square feet, would drop from roughly 11 million in 2017 to 3 million by 2035, and then reduced to zero by 2055 without preventive action. As stated in the study, “Given the fleet’s dependence on the combat logistics force, waiting until 2019 or 2020 to conduct an assessment, as planned, could result in poor investment decisions as the Navy continues to build and modernize its fleet. Furthermore, without assessing the effects of widely distributed operations on logistics force requirements and modifying its force structure plans accordingly, the Navy risks being unprepared to provide required fuel and other supplies.” In order to prevent this, the GAO recommended that the Navy design a comprehensive sealift recapitalization plan, and assess the effects of that plan on the combat logistics force. The Navy concurred with the GAO’s recommendations, stating in their official comments, “In November 2016, the Deputy Secretary of Defense directed the Navy to develop a plan for recapitalizing the surge sealift fleet. As the GAO report notes, that effort is in progress and is being finalized. Navy has coordinated planning options with Office of Secretary of Defense, U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM), and the Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD). The sealift recapitalization strategy that has been developed includes a three-phased plan that extends the service life of select vessels, acquires a limited number of used vessels, and a new construction, common-hulled shipbuilding program.” The Navy continued, stating that the Department of Defense’s proposal for the Fiscal Year 2018 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) requested authorization for the purchase of used ships that, if approved, will begin the recapitalization process. Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG October 2017 �Pasha Hawaii Announces Contract for New Construction The Jones Act fleet will soon grow by two new vessels, thanks to Pasha Hawaii’s latest investment in the Hawaii-mainland trade. On Aug. 23, the SIU-contracted company signed an order with Keppel AmFELS – a Texas-based subsidiary of Keppel Offshore and Marine – for two new, state-of-the-art liquefied natural gas(LNG) fueled containerships which will fly the U.S. flag as part of the Jones Act trade. Construction is already underway on the vessels, with expected deliveries in spring and fall 2020. Each ship will be 774 feet long, with a sailing speed of 23 knots. They’ll each be able to carry 2,525 TEUs. In addition to being fueled by LNG, the hulls of both ships will be optimized using computational fluid dynamics, making them some of the most efficient vessels in the world, according to Pasha Hawaii. “This contract with Keppel allows Pasha Hawaii to continue to move forward in our commitment to providing the best resources possible for our customers and Hawaii’s shipping industry, while minimizing our environmental footprint,” said George Pasha IV, president and CEO of The Pasha Group. “We are proud supporters of the Jones Act and look forward to working with Keppel’s A rendering of Pasha Hawaii’s new LNG containerships being built at Keppel AmFELS in Brownsville, Texas team of highly skilled shipbuilders.” In announcing the contract, Pasha Hawaii noted that when compared to conventional fuels, LNG is a much cleaner alternative fuel for shipping and offers significant environmental benefits, including the reduction of up to 95 percent of sulphur oxides, nearly 100 percent of particulate matter, up to 90 percent of nitrogen oxides, and up to 25 percent of carbon dioxide emissions. Simon Lee, president of Keppel AmFELS, said, “We are pleased to have been chosen to build these two LNG-fueled containerships … for operation in Pasha Hawaii’s fleet. Keppel O&M is at the forefront of designing vessels that run on LNG propulsion systems and has the experience in LNG vessel conversions as well as the expertise in new-build specialized U.S. Navy Launches Expeditionary Sea Base Vessel’s Addition to Fleet Signals Arrival of New Jobs for Government Services Seafarers More jobs for SIU Government Services Division mariners are on the way following the U.S. Navy’s recent launch of the expeditionary sea base (ESB) USNS Hershel “Woody” Williams. The launch, taking place at General Dynamics NASSCO’s shipyard in San Diego on Aug. 19, involved slowly flooding the launching dock with water, until the vessel could float free. Following launch, the ship completed construction and final outfitting before heading into sea trials, with an expected delivery date in early 2018. “We’re making tremendous progress on this ship,” said Capt. Scot Searles, who manages the Navy’s Strategic Sealift and Theater Sealift program. “We’ll begin powering many of the ship’s engines and systems as early as next month as we prepare to get underway for sea trials in the coming months.” The Williams will primarily support aviation mine countermeasure and special operations force missions, the Navy reported. In addition to a flight deck, the ESB has a hangar with two aviation operating spots capable of handling helicopters. It also features “accommodations, work spaces, and ordnance storage for embarked forces; enhanced command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence to support embarked force mission planning and execution; and a reconfigurable mission deck area to store embarked force equipment to include mine sleds and rigid hull inflatable boats,” the Navy noted. General Dynamics NASSCO – a union shipyard – is building the next ESB; the keel-laying was planned for September. The yard already built the SIU-crewed ESBs USNS Montford Point and USNS John Glenn, both of which carry SIU crews. The latter two vessels, operated by Ocean Shipholdings, originally were classified as mobile-landing platforms, abbreviated as MLP. In the past decade, NASSCO has delivered more than 30 oceangoing ships to government and commercial customers, including the world’s first LNG-powered containerships (both crewed by SIU members). vessels. We look forward to building these ships which will have a direct impact on American jobs at our shipyard and suppliers across the country.” Pasha Hawaii is a wholly owned subsidiary of the family-owned global logistics and transportation company The Pasha Group, one of the nation’s leading Jones Act shipping and integrated logistics companies. TOTE Reveals Plans To Establish New U.S. Mainland to Hawaii Service Seafarers-contracted TOTE in mid-August announced that it is planning to establish a new domestic shipping service to Hawaii. The company is working with Philly Shipyard to construct four new, environmentally advanced containerships, custom-built for the trade. In the Aug. 18 news release, TOTE noted, “This week began conversations to secure the new deep-water Kapalama Container Terminal in Honolulu for TOTE, a critical step in making the new service a reality…. For more than 40 years, TOTE and its operating companies have provided dedicated service to Alaska and Puerto Rico. As part of its commitment and stewardship of the communities it serves, the company has invested more than $600 million to convert its ships to run on natural gas, making its fleet the most environmentally friendly in the U.S.” “TOTE is excited to bring our best-in-class service to the people of Hawaii,” said Anthony Chiarello, the company’s president and CEO. “TOTE’s presence on the islands will provide market stability and introduce new environmentally advanced vessels that will greatly benefit the islands.” While specifying that a “commitment for terminal space in Honolulu is needed to move the new venture forward,” the company also said the new vessels would enter service in early 2020 and 2021. “TOTE’s commitment is to provide superior service for our customers as well as the communities we serve, ensuring that goods arrive on time week in and week out,” Chiarello added. “TOTE will bring the same commitment to our Hawaii operations to ensure maritime transportation is industry leading.” The USNS Williams is pictured at the San Diego shipyard in mid-August. (Photo courtesy General Dynamics NASSCO) October 2017 Seafarers LOG 3 �Seafarers Come to Aid of Hurricane Harvey Victims Continued from Page 2 from the storm are projected to cost tens of billions of dollars. The SIU’s Houston hall itself fared remarkably well and did not flood at all. When the newly built facility opened in 2016, first-time visitors often cited its spacious, comfortable interior and ample parking. But potential flooding was a major consideration in the hall’s planning, Corgey said, and while neither he nor the union’s other officials necessarily envisioned something as calamitous as Harvey, they chose a relatively elevated spot for preventive purposes. “The building was also designed and engineered specifically to avoid a catastrophe such as this – to withstand this kind of situation,” Corgey said. The hall was closed for a few days in late August but reopened Aug. 31. A day later, temporary phones were made available for members to call the hall while the regular land lines remained out. Meanwhile, the SIU began working with the state labor federation for formal relief efforts. As noted on the Texas AFLCIO website, “The Texas Workers Relief Fund, a 501(c)(3) charitable fund, overseen by the Texas AFL-CIO, has been established to assist workers and their families in their time of need. Funds are provided to help stabilize situations when issues occur such as natural disasters. While we cannot make anyone whole, the Texas Workers Relief Fund sends a message of solidarity and the knowledge that working people affected by this disaster are supported by Brothers and Sisters across the nation.” Donations may be made online or by mail (the SIU has made a contribution). The website for the relief fund is: http://www.texasaflcio.org/donate/ As further noted on the website, anyone who wants to send a check should make it payable to: Texas Workers Relief Fund Memo: Hurricane Harvey And send to: Texas AFL-CIO P.O. Box 12727 Austin, TX 78711 Seafarers in need of assistance are encouraged to contact the SIU’s Houston hall. Moreover, the Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center (NMC) on Aug. 31 posted instructions for replacing mariner credentials lost due to Harvey. That information is available in an Aug. 31 post in the News section of the SIU website. Mariners also may email the NMC at IASKNMC@uscg. mil or call them at 1-888-IASKNMC (1888-427-5662). Involved from the Start Corgey pointed out that members from the union’s deep-sea division also pitched in before the hurricane arrived. Seafarers crewed up a number of vessels in the region and sailed them out of harm’s way. Then, in early September, SIU members helped crew up two government-owned training vessels that were slated for mobilization to Texas. Those ships – the Kennedy and the Empire State – were expected to serve as housing for Federal Emergency Management Agency personnel and others involved in relief operations. “From the start, this has been one of the smoothest emergency responses that I’ve seen,” Corgey observed. “Our industry doesn’t really get the recognition others get, but the SIU has been deeply involved in this whole operation. I’m proud of our members and really proud of the whole port community here – the Coast Guard, the tug companies, the port authority, the longshoremen. We’ve made sure we got the port shut down at the right time and then got it back up and running as soon as possible. The flow of commerce here is critical to the whole country.” Starting in the back row, from left: SIU VP Dean Corgey, Houston Police Officers Union President Ray Hunt, SIU Asst. VP Mike Russo and (front) Vincent Russo drop off relief supplies at police union headquarters on Aug. 29. He added that SIU boatmen overcame exceptionally challenging navigation issues when assisting vessels in and out of port. G&H Towing, which operates more than 30 SIU-crewed boats, has been especially active, he said. “This is an opportune time for the general public to learn that trucks and airplanes have their roles, but it takes maritime traffic to maintain our economy,” Corgey concluded. “I just can’t say enough about the job our members have done.” Benefits Conferences Continue in Jersey, Norfolk The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) wrapped up the first segment of a series of informational conferences late last month. The most recent gatherings took place Aug. 28 at the SIU hall in Jersey City, New Jersey, and Aug. 30 at the hall in Norfolk, Virginia. The conferences are scheduled to resume later this year, as follows: Dec. 11 in Tacoma, Washington; Dec. 12 in Wilmington, California; and Dec. 13 in Oakland, California. As previously reported, conferences also have already taken place at the halls in New Orleans; Houston; Jacksonville, Florida; and in Piney Point, Maryland. Designed to educate rank-and-filemembers as well as union employees, the conferences focus on various Sea- farers Plans. Conference goals include making enrollees aware of benefits available to them under each plan. Special emphasis is placed on points that plan participants may not know about. Thus far, the meetings have featured remarks by SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel; Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen; Sea- farers Plans Benefits Director Teresa Zelko; and CIGNA Representative Melissa Smith. Plans officials point out that conferences specifically for SIU members will commence at 10:30 a.m. at each location and continue until approximately noon. The events are open to members, pensioners and their families. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (photo above) speaks during the meeting in New Jersey. Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen is seated next to him. In photo at right, members attend the conference in Jersey City, New Jersey. 4 Seafarers LOG October 2017 �Senator Baldwin Named 2017 Great Lakes Legislator of Year The Great Lakes Maritime Task Force (GLMTF) has named U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisconsin) the 2017 Great Lakes Legislator of the Year. The award is presented annually to a legislator who has helped advance waterborne commerce on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway. This year’s award ceremony took place Aug. 22 at Bay Shipbuilding Company in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. “Senator Baldwin’s first term in the Senate has been remarkable for her understanding of and commitment to shipping on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway,” said Brian D. Krus, president of the task force. “Her grasp of the issues, and more importantly, her response to the challenges facing shipping on the fourth sea coast has been instrumental in moving several projects forward.” The GLMTF is the largest coalition to ever speak for the Great Lakes shipping community. Its members include the SIU and other unions, maritime businesses, port associations and others. Krus, who also serves as the senior national assistant vice president of the SIUNA-affiliated American Maritime Of- ficers, praised Baldwin’s efforts to build another heavy icebreaker for the Great Lakes. “In 2016, she added $2 million to begin the design of the icebreaker to the Department of Homeland Security’s appropriations bill. This year she has added $5 million to the Coast Guard Authorization Act to further design of the new icebreaker,” he noted. “Having adequate U.S. Coast Guard icebreaking resources on the Great Lakes is key to the system meeting the needs of commerce,” said James H.I. Weakley, first vice president of the GLMTF. “The ice season begins in early December and can extend well into April.” Weakley, who is also president of the Lake Carriers’ Association, noted that recent winters were so severe that cargoes were delayed or outright canceled because the Coast Guard did not have enough icebreakers, which cost the nation nearly 6,000 jobs and $1.1 billion in economic activity. “Superior, Green Bay and Milwaukee are among the leading international ports on the Great Lakes,” said John D. Baker, second vice president of the GLMTF and Richard Trumka President, AFL-CIO New AFL-CIO Report: Majority Think Unions Key To More Benefits on the Job A new Labor Day report unveiled Aug. 30 by the AFL-CIO shows that working people are working more and taking fewer vacation days. The report is based on findings from a national survey conducted for the federation by the polling firm Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research, and was produced in collaboration with the Economic Policy Institute and the Labor Project for Working Families. While 78 percent of workers say they have the day off on Labor Day, more than a quarter of those people expected to do some work, and more than half of those working will not receive overtime benefits. More than half of Americans surveyed said they were working more holidays and weekends than ever, and 43 percent said they brought work home at least one night a week. Union members are more likely to receive Labor Day off and overtime pay compared with their nonunion counterparts. Sixty-six percent of union members receive overtime pay on Labor Day, compared with 38 percent of unrepresented members. Women, often the primary caregivers in their families, are less likely than men to report access to paid time off – 68 percent compared to 74 percent. The majority of American workers credit labor unions for many of the benefits they receive. “Union workers empowered by the freedom to negotiate with employers do better on every single economic benchmark,” said AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka. “Union workers earn substantially more money, union contracts help achieve equal pay and protection from discrimination, union workplaces are safer, and union workers have better access to health care and a pension.” Additionally, 72 percent of those surveyed said they thought unions were either very or somewhat responsible for working people having paid time off on Labor Day and other holidays. Fifty-four percent of workers would join a union tomorrow if given the option. This includes 41 percent of Republicans surveyed. Respondents also expressed major concern that weakening unions could hurt workers’ benefits in the future. October 2017 president emeritus of the ILA’s Great Lakes District Council. “The cargoes longshoremen load and unload in those ports support hundreds of jobs in Wisconsin. The Lakes/Seaway system has the capacity to handle more cargo, so there are more jobs to be had if our national policies promote waterborne commerce. Tammy Baldwin understands that and is always looking to advance shipping on our fourth sea coast.” Baldwin is the fourth legislator from Wisconsin to receive the award, along with Sen. Ron Johnson (R), Rep. David R. Obey (D) and Rep. Mark Green (R). Founded in 1992, the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force promotes domestic and international shipping on the Great Lakes. It’s 79 members are drawn 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. Its goals include ensuring Lakes dredging is adequately funded; construction of a second Poesized lock at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan; protecting the Jones Act and other U.S. U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisconsin) maritime cabotage laws and regulations; maximizing the Lakes overseas trade via the St. Lawrence Seaway; and expanding short sea shipping on the Lakes. Great Lakes Towing Adds New Tug Cleveland To SIU Contracted-Fleet SIU members and officials were on hand Aug. 1 in Cleveland to help formally welcome the Seafarers-crewed tugboat by the same name (Cleveland). The state-of-theart harbor tug, billed as the first domestically constructed tugboat specifically built to comply with new U.S. Coast Guard Subchapter M regulations, joined the Great Lakes Towing fleet earlier in the summer. The group photo below features (from left) SIU St. Louis Port Agent Chad Partridge, Algonac Port Agent Todd Brdak, AB Tim McKenna and Asst. VP Bryan Powell. The other two photos (respectively) show the christening and the boat’s first harbor assist, the latter of which happened in midJuly. Seafarers LOG 5 �OVER THE MOON FOR THIS PHOTO – SIU members’ commitment to safety is eclipsed only by their proclivity for submitting quality photos to the Seafarers LOG. Here is one such image, received from the Ocean Shipholdings-operated USNS John Glenn. Observing the historic eclipse Aug. 21 from the port bridge wing while the vessel was docked in Long Beach, California, are (from left) 2M Andrew Wellman, 3AE Curtis Van Wormer, SK Jason Devine, SA Esmeralda Cueto and Steward/ Baker Evelyn Tayag. CROWLEY TUG DEPLOYED – SIU-contracted Crowley Marine Services in late August announced its deployment of the Seafarers-crewed tugboat Veteran to Los Angeles/Long Beach, California, “to provide enhanced docking safety for all vessels, including large petroleum tank vessels with deep drafts greater than 65 feet calling on Long Beach Berth 121.” ABOARD SEATTLE – In this Aug. 25 snapshot, Navy Sailors conduct cargohandling operations aboard the SIUcrewed MV Seattle at U.S. Naval Base Guam. The Seattle is operated by JM Ship LLC. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communications Specialist Benjamin A. Lewis) At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD CAPE ISABEL – Members of the reduced operating status crews from both the Cape Inscription and Cape Isabel are pictured aboard the latter vessel in southern California. Standing left to right in the larger group photo at left above are SA Domiciano Nonato, Oiler Victor Martinez, AB Lloyd La Beach, Bosun Anthony Pace, AB Jake Mitchell and Patrolman Gordon Godel. The three people in the photo at center above are (from left) Pace, Mitchell and Patrolman Mike Bell. Both ships are operated by Ocean Duchess Inc. ABOARD HORIZON ENTERPRISE – Standing left to right in photo at right above are Bosun George Khan and AB Fadhl Said. The other photo shows ABs Said and Romeo Escalera splicing line aboard the Sunrise Operations ship. SEAFARING FAMILY – Pictured recently at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center are (from left) Recertified Bosun Ron Paradise and Recertified Steward Dana Paradise. The brothers came by their career choice honestly: Their late father is Recertified Bosun Leo Paradise, who sailed with the union for more than 40 years. 6 Seafarers LOG GRASSROOTS ACTION – Patrolman Adam Bucalo (second from right) recently was sworn in as a central labor council delegate in Jacksonville, Florida. Florida AFL-CIO President Mike Williams is at right, administering the oath. October 2017 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD OVERSEAS LONG BEACH – Bosun John Cedeno (in the chair in photo at left) submitted these snapshots from the OSG ship in Beaumont, Texas, weeks before Hurricane Harvey’s arrival. Pictured from left to right in photo at right are STOSs Will Jordan and Jose Garcia, while the remaining pic features AB Mohammed Haruna. BOOKS GALORE IN JACKSONVILLE – Getting sworn in for their full B-books at the union hall are (photo at left above, from left) SA Patricia Placek and FOWT Donell Criswell (that’s Patrolman Joseph Koncul at right). In the other photo, AB Jonathan Rivera-Rodriguez (left) proudly displays his newly acquired A-seniority book. With him is Patrolman Adam Bucalo. SAILING FOR PACER GOOSE – As reported in last month’s LOG, the SIU-crewed Maersk Peary and Ocean Giant earlier this year deployed in support of Operation Pacer Goose, the annual resupply mission to Thule Air Base in Greenland. The Watermanoperated Ocean Giant is pictured in the background of the photo at the lower right, waiting to go to the dock with a Canadian icebreaker, while the Maersk Peary (operated by Maersk Line, Limited) is shown at the lower left. Pictured from left in photo at the immediate right are Chief Cook Carlton McMiller and Recertified Steward Tony Spain, getting ready to dish up fresh roast suckling pig. The photo at the far right shows AB Fortunato Ranario and Pumpman Virgilio Demegillo. October 2017 Seafarers LOG 7 �Connect and Save with AT&T Wireless 15% Savings on the Monthly Service Charge of Qualified Plans* Receive a 20% Discount on Select Accessories** Exclusive Wireless Savings, Just for Union Members *15% ON THE MONTHLY SERVICE CHARGE of QUALIFIED WIRELESS PLANS: Available only to current members of qualified AFL-CIO member unions, other authorized individuals associated with eligible unions and other sponsoring organizations with a qualifying agreement. Must provide acceptable proof of union membership such as a membership card from your local union, a pay stub showing dues deduction or the Union Plus Member Discount Card and subscribe to service under an individual account for which the member is personally liable. Offer contingent upon in-store verification of union member status. Discount subject to agreement between Union Privilege and AT&T and may be interrupted, changed or discontinued without notice. Discount applies only to recurring monthly service charge of qualified voice and data plans, not overages. Not available with unlimited voice or unlimited data plans. For Family Talk, applies only to primary line. For all Mobile Share plans, applies only to monthly plan charge of plans with 1GB or more, not to additional monthly device access charges. Additional restrictions apply. May take up to 2 bill cycles after eligibility confirmed and will not apply to prior charges. Applied after application of any available credit. May not be combined with other service discounts. Visit unionplus.org/att or contact AT&T at 866-499-8008 for details. Learn more at unionplus.org/att 8 Seafarers LOG 10/17 October 2017 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings USNS VADM K.R. WHEELER (Tote), May 25 – Chairman Samuel Thatcher, Secretary Steve Parker. Chairman discussed plans to draft letter to headquarters regarding unresolved issues among crew. He also reported resignation among members due to shortage in steward department. Secretary thanked steward department for assistance. Educational director advised members to go to Piney Point. Treasurer reported funds from shirt and hat sales. No beefs or disputed OT reported. LIBERTY (Tote), June 25 – Chairman Jerrold Foke, Secretary Lloyd Ingram, Deck Delegate James May, Steward Delegate Juan Vega. Chairman reported misunderstanding regarding ratings has been resolved following dialogue between patrolman, bosun and company. Secretary reported safe trip and quick turnaround in Europe. Overtime sheet procedures discussed to ensure members receive time to check over vouchers before signing. Steward delegate reported an ending of a good trip and anticipation of New Jersey port. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members were reminded to get the necessary 125 days this year in order to upgrade. Steward department commended for tremendous job with fine meals. Members have minor complaints about mattresses. Next Port: Halifax, Virginia. ALLIANCE ST. LOUIS (Maersk Line, Limited), June 28 – Chairman Nicholas Smithling, Secretary Jane Altieri, Educational Director Matthew Dutillo, Deck Delegate Adiawor Otumfo, Engine Delegate Alvin Surrency, Steward Delegate Shelby Curtis. Under old business, crew discussed need for new ice machines, washer and dryers to accommodate crew and climate of ship’s route. Chairman reported a difficult voyage but noted the crew held together and made the best of the trip. Educational director reminded members to keep track of their documents and to upgrade at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Electrician commended for a great job fixing issues on board. Next Port: Freeport, Texas. HONOR (Tote), July 9 – Chairman Nathaniel Leary, Secretary Carlos Olascoaga. Members encouraged to keep upgrading. Steward department thanked for doing a great job cooking and cleaning. Secretary reminded crew to clean rooms before leaving the ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. 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. Seafarers Support Our Troops YORKTWON EXPRESS (Crowley), July 30 – Chairman Nathaniel Sherrill, Secretary Michael McDermott, Educational Director James Demouy, Deck Delegate Clifford Carroll, Engine Delegate Daniels Boye. President’s report and other highlights of Seafarers LOG read. Education director reminded members to keep up to date with documents and to take advantage of portal. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members suggested modification to Seafarers Pension Plan. JEAN ANNE (Tote) July 30 – Chairman Thomas Johnson, Secretary Ismael Garayua, Educational Director Joseph Letang. Crew discussed what they described as the demanding frequency of physicals. Chairman advised members to read president’s report and mentioned the importance of donating to SPAD. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade and to keep documents up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members suggested increasing pension and decreasing time required to qualify for retirement. MAERSK IOWA (Maersk Line, Limited), July 30 – Chairman Egidio Ferreira, Educational Director Eufemiano Gomes. Crew expressed lack of satisfaction with contract. Educational Director advised members to sign up for safety classes with Maersk. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members urged to read Seafarers LOG. Crew requested Wi-Fi and DirecTV. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Crew requested information about standby reliefs. USNS MONTFORD POINT (Ocean Shipholdings), July 12 – Chairman Kenneth Steiner Secretary Cesar Dela Cruz, The Seafarers-crewed USNS Yukon (foreground) conducts a replenishment with the U.S. navy’s guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton in the Arabian Gulf on Sept. 5. According to the Navy, the Princeton “is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of maritime security operations designed to reassure allies and partners and preserve the freedom of navigation and the free flow of commerce in the region.” The Yukon is crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kelsey J. Hockenberger) Educational Director Thomas Jones, Treasurer Christopher Maye. Chairman reported good crew and discussed importance of SPAD. Crew met and said farewells to Guam Port Agent John Hoskins (now based in Baltimore) and welcomed his replacement, Fred Sanchez. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade and keep credentials up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members request more television channels as well as Wi-Fi access, noting the importance of communicating with loved ones. Crew reiterated their welcoming of new port agent and mentioned a new self-publishing author aboard the ship, Christopher Maye. His book is due out soon. ISLA BELLA (Tote), July 9 – Chairman Junior Augustin, Secretary Lauren Oram, Educational Director Lamont Robinson, Deck Delegate Paulin Augustin, Engine Delegate George Velez, Steward Delegate Yoaquin Gonzales DeJesus. Crew requested memory foam mattress covers. Chairman reported safeworking crew. Secretary reminded members to see steward for fresh linens, noting importance of clean rooms for oncoming crew. Company currently running cable to all rooms. Captain starting a ship library, inviting all to donate. Educational director urged everyone to check their documents, aiming to allow six months to renew. He informed members of opportunities for company-paid classes relating to work. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members encouraged to read Seafarers LOG in order to stay informed. They were reminded full editions are posted on SIU website, along with selected articles that may be accessed as stand-alone pieces. Crew seeks clarification pertaining to FMLA requirements. Requests made for internet-accessible computer in lounge as well as a slop chest on board. Members would like an increase in vacation, survivor and pension benefits. Next Port: Jacksonville, Florida. SAFMARINE NGAMI (Maersk Line, Limited), July 9 – Chairman Mathew Bevak, Secretary Lionel Packnett, Educational Director Aleksander Djatschenko, Deck Delegate Andre Skevnick, Engine Delegate David Vega, Steward Delegate Louie Aceridano. Secretary reminded members to upgrade in order to expand opportunities to earn more money. Treasurer discussed additions to lounge including a new DVD player and Xbox game system. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members encouraged to donate to SPAD. New mattresses requested. Spotlight on Mariner Health Aneurysms Could Be Life-Threatening An aneurysm is a localized, blood-filled, balloon-like bulge in the wall of the blood vessel. They can materialize in any blood vessel anywhere in the body and are classified according to where they are located. The most common and life-threatening types of aneurysms are as follows: An abdominal aortic aneurysm occurs when the large blood vessel – the aorta – becomes enlarged and bulges outward. The aorta supplies blood to the abdomen, pelvis, and the legs. Abdominal aortic aneurysms are most often found in men over 60 who have many risk factors for heart disease. These may include high lipid panels, emphysema, family history, high blood pressure that is not controlled, obesity and smoking. Another type of aneurysm is the cerebral aneurysm. This type manifests itself when the wall of a blood vessel in the brain becomes weakened (from injury, heredity or disease) October 2017 and ruptures. The Circle of Willis is an area in the brain that can be particularly affected. The cerebral aneurysm is extraordinarily dangerous and must be treated quickly if rupture is determined to be imminent. The third most common and life-threatening type of aneurysm the thoracic aortic. This type features an abnormal ballooning, or bulging of the portion of the aorta that passes through the chest. The most common factor contributing to this type of aneurysm is atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries. The foregoing trio of aneurysms are lifethreatening and require immediate access to hospitals for treatment. Remember, aneurysms are the result of weakened blood vessel walls and can be triggered by numerous conditions including heredity, disease, or injuries. As an aneurysm increases in size, the risk of it rupturing escalates. Bleeding can occur and death can happen quickly. Healthy Recipe Baked Flounder with Old Bay Seasoning (Servings: 25) Ingredients 6 ¼ pounds flounder fillet, defrosted ¼ cup of old bay seafood seasoning 1/3 cup margarine, melted 1/8 cup fresh parsley, chopped Preparation ■ Place the fish on sheet pans then drain off any water from the pans. ■ Season the fish with the old bay. Place into 2” hotel pans evenly about 9-12 filets to a pan. ■ Drizzle the melted margarine over the tops of the tilapia filets. ■ Bake in a 325-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 15-20 minutes until flaky and internal temp of 145 degrees is reached. ■ Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Nutrition Information: Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 130 Calories; 6g Fat (40.4 percent calories from fat); 19g Protein; trace Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 66mg Cholesterol; 109mg Sodium. Exchanges 2 ½ Lean Meat; 0 Vegetable; ½ Fat. (Provided by the Paul Hall Center’s Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship) Seafarers LOG 9 �Patrolman Warren Asp AB Allan Makiling AB Desta Gebrai SIU team members concentrate on their work. ‘Important to be Part of Community’ SIU Members Again Step Up for Paint Tacoma Beautiful While no one takes their efforts for granted, Tacoma, Washington-area SIU members are as reliable as the calendar when it comes to giving back to their community. Besides individual philanthropic outreach, Seafarers team up twice a year for major projects that have become SIU staples in the Pacific Northwest. One of those missions is named Santa’s Castle, and involves toy donations to U.S. military families. The other is called Paint Tacoma Beautiful – a larger, regional effort to spruce up homes for citizens who otherwise don’t have the means to handle it. This summer marked the eleventh year of SIU participation in Paint Tacoma, as a group of 17 Seafarers painted and repaired a home for area resident Elviera Brown, a senior citizen. They finished the work in August. “The program is great,” said Brown, who complimented the SIU team’s work ethic. “It’s a great help for me, especially since I don’t have the money that’s needed to have the house painted (by contractors). It looks good. I’m happy.” For AB Justin Bowe, one of this year’s volunteers, the value of beautifying Brown’s home went far beyond anything monetary. “I’ve lived in Tacoma almost nine years,” he said, “and I’m getting to the point where, because we’re such itinerant people, service like this helps make your community more of a home, rather than just a place you live between ships. When we finished, I felt like I’d done something important and worthwhile with my vacation time rather than sit around. I think it’s important to get out there and be part of the community.” Recertified Bosun LBJ Tanoa also enjoyed the volunteerism. AB Anwar Alsharif 10 Seafarers LOG “It was a great experience being able to give back and give time to the community,” he stated. “In some ways, it was like working on a ship – you have to do preparation and maintenance. It was a big effort and the homeowner really appreciated it. I think it’s a really positive thing for us to do.” Fellow Recertified Bosun Tar Ahmed echoed those sentiments. “The experience of being out at sea really did help us do this job more efficiently,” he said. “We power-washed it, chipped, cleaned and painted. Seeing the homeowner with a big smile on her face made me feel proud and made me smile in my heart. I’m glad we can do something for others.” Recertified Bosun Darryl Smith heard about this year’s outreach when he stopped at the union hall, and he didn’t hesitate to sign up. “I feel that a few hours out of my life to give a helping hand isn’t too much to ask,” he said. “Everything went smoothly, and we had a good turnout to give that help that was needed.” Port Agent Joe Vincenzo, who originally spearheaded the union’s participation both in Paint Tacoma and (a decade ago) Santa’s Castle, said he particularly appreciated a subtle but noteworthy aspect of this year’s SIU paint gang. Against a backdrop of nationwide tension exacerbated by a fatality during demonstrations in Charlottesville, Virginia, the SIU’s diverse group smoothly showed off not only their handiwork but also their genuine camaraderie. “Each year provides new context and meaning to our outreach,” Vincenzo noted. “For example, when we painted the home of a World War II U.S. Merchant Marine veteran OMU Brandon Tanton QMED Matthew Gilliland AB Justin Bowe AB Jason Bentz Seafarers Brandon Tanton (left) and Tim Kelley help spruce up the home. Recertified Bosun Darryl Smith in 2008, the homeowner himself provided the storyline. “At other times, it’s what’s going on politically or economically that gives additional meaning to our project here in Tacoma,” he continued. “This year, I can’t help but think about the multi-cultural demographic and strong team aspect of our SIU group. I truly wish for the sake of all that is good and fitting in this troubled world of ours that stories like this one could have a wider readership. I think it would inspire others to transcend the pigeonholes that we are all put in from time to time, and help change the way we sometimes see each other. But the tolerance and acceptance that is shown by our membership by and large is uplifting.” Comprising this year’s SIU group were Vincenzo, Tanoa, Bowe, Ahmed, Smith, Patrolman Warren Asp, Safety Director Ben Anderson, Administrative Assistant Brenda Flesner, QMED Matthew Gilliland, OMU Brandon Tanton, AB Allan Makiling, AB Desta Gebrai, AB Robert Calvo, AB Tim Kelley, AB Anwar Alsharif, AB Jason Bentz and GUDE Andrees Ahmed. Together, they logged nearly 100 man-hours, bringing the SIU’s cumulative total hours to nearly 1,500 over the past 11 years. “It’s worth noting that most of our volunteers are at the top of their game and are longtime, rank-and-file members,” Vincenzo pointed out. “Only a handful are just getting started with their seagoing careers and the SIU. It’s also worth mentioning that this was Warren’s first year on point organizing the work parties. He was a bosun in his nearly 15 seagoing years, and he really brought to bear his acumen as lead person on the deck plates. Warren did a great job, as did all of the Tacoma Seafarers.” AB Tim Kelley AB Robert Calvo October 2017 Many of the SIU volunteers are pictured with homeowner Elviera Brown (third from left). Standing left to right are Port Agent Joe Vincenzo, Anwar Alsharif, Brown, Justin Bowe, Jason Bentz, Warren Asp, Darryl Smith, Robert Calvo, Tim Kelley and Brandon Tanton. October 2017 Seafarers LOG 11 �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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 This month’s question was answered by members of the most recent bosun recertification class at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Question: Why did you join the SIU and why have you remained with the union? Roberto T. Flauta I was a foreign-flag merchant mariner earlier in my career. When I immigrated to America, some of my friends walked me into an SIU union hall. I joined without really knowing what the union was about, and it was one of the best things I’ve done in my career. I’ve now been with the SIU for 25 years, and I’ve always felt like my job was secure. Walter D. Ritvalsky I separated from the U.S. Coast Guard around the time the first Gulf War build-up was starting. They were in desperate need for merchant seamen to man the ships, and I answered the call. It has truly been a whirlwind adventure and enabled me to maintain a very stable financial footing in life. Stig Sasse I wound up with the SIU after the merger with the NMU. I stuck around because going to sea is just what I do, and I really enjoy it. JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Hussein Mohamed I would like to start by saying thank you to our union leadership for all their hard work. I’ve been sailing for more than 17 years, and my advice to all SIU members would be to work hard and be responsible. NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 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 Abel Vazquez-Torres I joined the SIU because I needed a change in my life. I remain with the union because I saw the potential of the industry, the benefits of being a member of this union. It’s been amazing, because they didn’t just make a sailor out of me, they made me a professional. Rodney S. Roberson Sr. I am the first and only one of my family to be a member of the U.S. Merchant Marine. I served in the U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps, and this has been the most exciting experience of my career. I’ve met a lot of great people; I’ve traveled and seen many things around the world. The SIU has been good to me and my family over the many years I’ve sailed. I want to say thank you to all those who have given me the opportunity to have a better life. Marc Aaron Marcus After high school, college wasn’t in the cards for me, and the desire to travel was a strong influence in my joining the SIU. The length of time off – as compared to 9-to-5 land jobs – became very attractive later on, and the freedom to try other things ashore if this career didn’t work out, has kept me in this industry. I’ve always been assured of making a decent living with the SIU, ever since I graduated from Piney Point in 1970. Albert Konning Jr. I joined the SIU because I heard all my friends saying good things about the union. I remained and will continue to remain with the SIU because the union did a lot for me during my immigration, and helped me become a U.S. citizen. May God bless the SIU! LBJ Tanoa I’ve been around the world twice on ships. One of my favorite moments of my career was when I started on the Hawaiian cruise ship Independence. I’ve learned a lot from recertified bosuns, and at the same time, we enjoy working with different kinds of members. And that’s why I love the SIU: diversity. Pic From The Past Matson’s converted C-3 freighter SS Hawaiian Merchant sails from San Francisco Bay on Aug. 31, 1958, with 20 containers on deck. The voyage marked the company’s introduction of cargo containerization to the West Coast-Hawaii trade. 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 12 Seafarers LOG October 2017 �No-Fee Passports Become Available for Mariners As reported in a previous edition of the LOG, U.S. citizen seamen working on board a U.S.-flag vessel are eligible to receive a no-fee U.S. passport. The regular fee to obtain a passport is $110. This no-fee passport may only be used for travel related to your job as a merchant mariner on a U.S.-flag vessel. If you travel overseas for personal reasons, you will still need a regular passport. A no-fee passport must be obtained from the Special Issuance Agency. You must submit a letter from your employer, certifying that you are working on board a U.S.-flag vessel; as well as a copy of your merchant mariner credential. These documents, along with the passport application, should be mailed to the following address: U.S. Department of State, Special Issuance Agency, 44132 Mercure Cir, PO Box 1185, Sterling, VA 20166-1185 You should allow five to six weeks to receive your passport, although your employer can request that the passport be expedited if necessary. If you have any questions, you may contact the Special Issuance Agency at 202-485-8200. October & November Membership Meetings Piney Point.............................Monday: October 2, November 6 Algonac...................................Friday: October 6, November 10 Baltimore..............................Thursday: October 5, November 9 Guam.................Thursday: October 19, *Friday: November 24 Honolulu...............................Friday: October 13, November 17 Houston.............*Tuesday: October 10, Monday, November 13 Jacksonville..........................Thursday: October 5, November 9 Joliet.................................Thursday: October 12, November 16 Mobile...........................Wednesday: October 11, November 15 New Orleans.......................Tuesday: October 10, November 14 Jersey City.............................Tuesday: October 3, November 7 Norfolk.................................Thursday: October 5, November 9 Oakland............................Thursday: October 12, November 16 Philadelphia......................Wednesday: October 4, November 8 Port Everglades................Thursday: October 12, November 16 San Juan..............................Thursday: October 5, November 9 St. Louis................................Friday: October 13, November 17 Tacoma..................................Friday: October 20, November 24 Wilmington............................Monday: October 16, November 20 *Houston change created by Columbus Day observance *Guam change created by Thanksgiving Day observance. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m October 2017 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea August 16, 2017 - September 11, 2017 Total Registered Port A All Groups B Total Shipped C A Registered on Beach All Groups B C Trip Reliefs 0 0 1 7 0 5 1 14 9 0 0 6 3 0 1 1 0 2 1 1 52 1 1 0 3 0 1 2 9 10 11 0 2 7 0 1 0 1 12 1 8 70 26 4 14 29 5 12 16 82 69 61 6 25 26 25 3 3 17 64 6 54 547 14 2 5 14 2 2 7 14 29 15 1 3 26 7 7 4 11 16 1 24 204 2 0 1 2 0 4 3 28 17 4 1 8 8 5 0 1 0 10 3 10 112 A All Groups B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 9 1 3 10 1 8 5 39 31 37 2 9 19 5 4 1 10 20 9 14 237 7 1 0 9 1 2 4 9 11 5 1 6 17 4 1 3 5 10 1 7 104 0 1 0 3 0 5 0 14 6 0 0 5 3 1 0 1 0 6 2 1 48 Deck Department 10 4 2 0 3 1 16 3 0 0 6 3 6 5 33 2 29 8 35 5 1 2 3 5 21 10 7 2 2 7 1 1 1 2 17 7 3 1 21 6 217 74 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 0 1 2 7 1 2 5 11 13 12 4 3 12 4 0 0 2 14 1 16 110 3 0 3 4 0 0 0 4 15 2 1 2 9 5 1 2 2 6 1 7 67 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 1 5 0 0 0 0 3 0 3 16 Engine Department 2 2 1 0 2 4 7 1 0 1 4 5 6 2 10 7 12 10 9 3 3 0 3 2 15 9 4 3 2 3 0 3 0 1 9 2 0 0 9 7 98 65 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 1 5 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 14 1 0 0 1 0 1 2 4 10 5 0 3 4 4 2 2 0 4 0 7 50 3 0 1 19 1 6 18 29 33 21 5 10 21 9 2 1 7 34 2 23 245 4 0 5 6 1 2 7 9 16 7 2 4 14 9 3 4 7 8 1 16 125 0 0 3 2 0 1 0 6 2 1 0 1 6 2 0 0 1 5 1 5 36 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 0 2 9 2 4 13 11 16 10 0 1 9 8 3 5 0 15 0 18 128 1 2 0 2 1 1 2 4 6 4 0 1 4 2 0 1 2 3 0 7 43 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 Steward Department 0 2 0 0 2 1 4 1 0 1 3 2 7 0 14 1 10 5 10 4 0 1 2 3 5 6 7 4 1 0 0 0 3 1 5 1 1 0 11 8 85 41 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 1 0 1 9 0 0 0 2 0 2 1 6 4 4 0 1 3 3 1 0 0 4 0 7 38 4 0 5 12 2 9 18 35 25 18 2 4 17 22 6 7 2 29 3 36 256 1 2 0 3 1 1 3 6 10 5 2 2 11 6 0 3 6 3 1 10 76 1 0 1 1 0 1 1 2 3 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 14 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 4 0 2 0 1 2 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 15 5 0 0 4 1 0 7 10 14 10 0 1 10 10 2 4 0 16 0 11 105 8 3 0 6 0 2 3 4 20 5 1 3 21 7 0 3 1 4 1 12 104 4 3 1 5 0 1 4 10 29 12 0 3 25 3 0 2 1 3 0 18 124 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 3 3 2 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 19 3 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 4 4 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 4 0 19 46 13 2 0 8 3 0 9 13 13 22 0 3 26 22 3 3 0 28 0 24 192 12 2 2 9 1 5 2 13 46 9 1 1 28 13 0 3 1 27 1 52 228 GRAND TOTAL: 490 319 177 199 177 1,094 597 390 Entry Department 2 6 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 6 3 5 1 13 2 7 0 0 0 0 2 8 1 7 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 9 0 0 1 6 16 69 416 249 Seafarers LOG 13 �United Seamen’s Service: 75 Years of Dedication to Seafarers Editor’s note: This article was submitted by the United Seamen’s Service, which has an office within the SIU hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. The year was 1942. “Casablanca” was the Oscar-winning film, Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas” was the top song, and the Dow bottomed out at 92. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt announced a national economic policy stabilizing wages, farm prices, and rents, and urged rationing scarce essential commodities. The Second World War raged in both the Atlantic and Pacific, and in the midst of such historic events, the United Seamen’s Service (USS) was born with the mission providing services abroad for American seafarers. Within a short time, we did so at 144 global locations. Now, 75 years later and in light of the technological events that have impacted shipping, vessels and the role of American seafarer along with globalization, our agency continues in fewer locations. But the services provided – nearly 200,000 each year – are still necessary. It was FDR and the maritime unions who felt the urgency to provide assistance to the exhausted, battle-traumatized, wounded and vulnerable merchant seafarers – strangers in unsavory or small, run-down ports far from home where they would stay for weeks on end. Thus, the USS was founded. The founders would never recognize those harbors today: clean, sprawling and run by computers with some ships that if stood on their end, would exceed the height of the Empire State Building. Nevertheless, the USS services are still vital in six strategic locations across the globe. America’s seafarers were the first casualties of World War II. In harm’s way as they manned the vessels that carried supplies to U.S. troops. The U.S. War Shipping Administration recognized a need and developed the idea of the USS, recommended it to FDR and on August 8, 1942 the agency opened its doors around the world. The centers were a home away from home where, as a safe haven, they provided hearty meals, medical attention, hotel-like facilities, recreation and personal amenities among the many services that were available. Rest homes for the convoy-weary and even gift shops for the mariners wanting to bring mementos back home provided additional needed, and desired, services. The war ended and while the needs for more than 100 centers abated, USS services focused on a changing commercial and political world. In 1950, the Korean War outbreak meant that Asian ports were busy and looking to the USS for help in meeting the needs of those seafarers manning vessels carrying supplies and munitions for the military. At the same time, the Italian government offered the agency rent-free space to open a center in Naples, and the USS opened seven facilities in the Middle East to serve the needs there. The Military Sea Transportation Service (MSTS), predecessor to the Navy’s Military Sealift Command, developed a relationship with the USS in 1950 and over the years has rendered invaluable assistance to our agency’s mission. The USS serves all American seafarers who deliver military cargo worldwide. In 1965, our agency opened its first center in Cam Ranh Bay in Vietnam. Many of the USS staff were the last to leave Saigon in 1975, including our present Executive Director, Roger Korner. Throughout our 75-year history, the USS has opened and closed centers as needed; virtually every experienced American seafarer can recall a stop at “the seamen’s center” in a harbor they have visited. The USS is also in the book business, providing reading materials to seafarers. The American Merchant Marine Library Association (AMMLA), founded in 1921, became a USS affiliate in 1973 and has endeavored to make life at sea more enriching and entertaining for the crew by installing sea-going libraries on USNS, Ready Reserve Force, and U.S.-Flag commercial vessels worldwide. In 1970, USS efforts in Congress resulted in a law signed by President Richard Nixon authorizing the Department of Defense to provide USS support “whenever the President finds it necessary in the interest of Mariners utilize a United Seamen’s Service (USS) vehicle to return to their vessel in Japan. Local transportation is one of many services available to seafarers through the USS. United States commitments abroad.” As military conflict goes on, American merchant mariners continue to work to support U.S. forces in the Persian Gulf, Afghanistan and elsewhere. The delivery of services to U.S. prepositioning crews and U.S. Fleet Sailors continues to be a priority for the USS. Our centers in Diego Garcia (a small atoll in the Indian Ocean opened in 1981), Okinawa, Busan, and Bremerhaven work closely with military commands in these locations to meet the needs of all seafarers. Other locations are in Casablanca and Yokohama. Throughout our history, the USS has striven to improve the seafarer’s quality of life by delivering necessary services to mariners from our port centers around the world. Over the years, we have had to adjust our course to keep our programs relevant; with the help of labor, management, and U.S. and allied governments, we have succeeded. In today’s complex transportation system, such cooperation is crucial. Thus, within this context we are writing on behalf of the USS Board of Directors and the seafarers we serve to request your support in maintaining USS services worldwide. Donations to the USS are tax deductible. They may be sent to United Seamen’s Service, 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 or donate through our crowd funding website: www.youcaring.com/ussrising or you may donate through the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC). Our CFC Donor Number is 12086. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel recently noted, “If you have sailed into Bremerhaven, Germany; Casablanca, Morocco; Okinawa and Yokohama, Japan; Busan, Korea; and on the island of Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, these centers are a home away from home for all seafarers. Many mariners have visited USS centers throughout their 75-year history and I am sure have many fond memories of them and their staff. “The USS has been struggling to keep these centers open and needs our help,” he continued. “If you’re in a position to make a donation, in any amount, it would go a long way in assisting this organization to reach their goal in capital funding to maintain these facilities. Please visit their funding website and make your donation today.” 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 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: 14 Seafarers LOG 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. 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 2017 �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 water 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 RAMON BORRERO Brother Ramon Borrero, 51, began sailing with the SIU in 1987. He originally shipped on the LNG Libra. Brother Borrero enhanced his skills often at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. He sailed in the engine department, and his last vessel was the Isla Bella. He lives in Cayey, Puerto Rico. DANA BROOKS Sister Dana Brooks, 58, began her SIU career working on the Lykes Explorer. She sailed in the deck department, most recently on the Ocean Glory. Sister Brooks upgraded on two occasions at the Piney Point school. She resides in New Orleans. JOHN CAPPUCCI Brother John Cappucci, 71, joined the SIU in 2005, working as a member of the deck department. He first sailed aboard the Sagamore. Brother Cappucci upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2011. Before collecting his pension, he last sailed aboard the USNS Mary Sears. He resides in Winthrop, Massachusetts. THOMAS DRIGGERS Brother Thomas Driggers, 68, signed on with the SIU in 1977, working aboard the Over Anchor. He upgraded on several occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. A member of the deck department, Brother Driggers’ last trip was aboard the Green Ridge. He calls Atlantic Beach, Florida, home. available at the Piney Point school. Brother Ellias sailed in the deck department, and his final ship was the Washington Express. He makes his home in Mellen, Wisconsin. ROBERT ELLIS Brother Robert Ellis, 65, donned the union colors in 1978, working for the Virginia Pilot Corporation. The deck department member – a native of Norfolk, Virginia – upgraded multiple times at the Piney Point school. Brother Ellis last sailed aboard the Overseas Los Angeles and now resides in Redmond, Oregon. ODILIO EVORA Brother Odilio Evora, 63, joined the union in 2003. He first shipped aboard the Keystone Texas. Brother Evora attended classes on multiple occasions at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. He worked in the engine department and concluded his career on the Alaskan Frontier. Brother Evora settled in Daytona Beach, Florida. ZDRAVKO KERESTES Brother Zdravko Kerestes, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1991, working as a deck department member. He first sailed aboard the American Cormorant and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Kerestes last worked on the OS Santorini and now makes his home in Croatia. JOSEPH LAINE GHALEB GHALEB ARMY LEAKE Brother Ghaleb Ghaleb 65, began his seafaring career in 1993. He initially sailed aboard the Independence, working in the steward department. Brother Ghaleb’s final ship was the Maunalei. He makes his home in Garden Grove, California. Brother Army Leake, 71 joined the SIU ranks in 2002. He originally worked aboard the Mormac Sun. Brother Leake frequently attended classes at the Paul Hall Center before finishing his career on the Cape Rise. The steward department member calls Virginia Beach, Virginia, home. Brother Israel Edmunds, 71, started sailing with the Seafarers in 2006. He was initially employed on the USNS Bob Hope. Brother Edmunds was born in Halifax, Virginia, and worked in the steward department. He attended classes on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Edmunds’ most recent trip was aboard the Maersk Memphis. He is a resident of Newark, New Jersey. Brother Mark Halberg, 66, started sailing with the SIU in 1990. He first shipped aboard the China Sea. Brother Halberg upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2002. Sailing in the deck department, his final trip to sea was on the Horizon Kodiak. He lives in Bainbridge Island, Washington. October 2017 Brother Barry Harris, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1974. His first ship was the Long Lines; his most recent, the LNG Capricorn. A member of the engine department, he attended classes multiple times at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Harris resides in his home state of Alabama in the city of Mobile. Sister Maria Garcia, 65, became a Seafarer in 2002, sailing in the steward department. She initially shipped on the St. Louis Express. On numerous occasions, Sister Garcia upgraded at the Paul Hall Center. She last sailed aboard the Independence II and calls San Antonio home. MARIA GARCIA MARK HALBERG Brother John Ellias, 61, joined the SIU in 1978, initially working aboard Waterman’s Jefferson. On several occasions, he took advantage of educational opportunities BARRY HARRIS Brother Joseph Laine, 65, began shipping with the union in 1991. He enhanced his skills on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. A member of the deck department, Brother Laine originally worked aboard the Sealift Indian Ocean. Before his retirement, Brother Laine sailed on the Santorini. He lives in Port Charlotte, Florida. ISRAEL EDMUNDS JOHN ELLIAS Halliburton took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Piney Point school. His final trip was on the Horizon Anchorage before settling in Eugene, Oregon. THOMAS HALLIBURTON Brother Thomas Halliburton, 65, became a union member in 2008. He started his career working aboard the Harriette, sailing in the deck department. On several occasions, Brother RUSSELL LOFING Brother Russell Lofing, 65, started sailing with the SIU in 2001. He first shipped aboard the Jack Lummus. The deck department member’s final trip to sea was on the USNS Seay. He resides in Olongapo City, Philippines. ISMAEL PURGANAN Brother Ismael Purganan, 70, became a union member in 1995. He started his career working aboard the Independence. Brother Purganan sailed in the deck department. He took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Purganan’s most recent trip was on the Horizon Kodiak. He lives in Renton, Washington. Point, Maryland. He sailed in the deck department. Prior to his retirement, Brother Malcolm shipped aboard the Detroit Princess. He is a resident of Algonac, Michigan. MOISES RAMOS MARIJAN MASNOV Brother Moises Ramos, 65 signed on with the SIU in 2002. The deck department member’s first vessel was the ITB Jacksonville. Brother Ramos upgraded on multiple occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Prior to his retirement, he shipped aboard the Seabulk Arctic. Brother Ramos lives in Zephyrhills, Florida. Brother Marijan Masnov, 58, started sailing with the union in 1997. Working in the engine department, he initially shipped aboard the Defender. Brother Masnov upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school. He most recently worked on the Vision, and now makes his home in San Pedro, California. DAVID RITCHIE Brother David Ritchie, 71, began shipping with the union in 1998. He originally worked on a Maersk vessel, sailing in the deck department. Brother Ritchie upgraded in 2003 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Prior to his retirement, he sailed aboard the APL Pearl. He is a resident of Braintree, Massachusetts. MARCO RODRIGUEZ Brother Marco Rodriguez, 66, started sailing with the union in 2003. He first shipped on the Atlantic Forrest. Brother Rodriguez was an engine department member and enhanced his skills in both 2004 and 2007 at the Piney Point school. He most recently worked on the Liberty Glory and now lives in Houston. JAMES ROGERS Brother James Rogers, 65, joined the union in 2004. He first shipped aboard the Green Cove. He worked in the engine department and concluded his career on the Mary Sears. Brother Rogers calls Jacksonville, Florida, home. JOE SALCIDO Brother Joe Salcido, 65, started shipping with the SIU in 1988. Initially, he sailed on the Bellatrix, working in the deck department. Brother Salcido last worked aboard the Freedom and now resides in Tampa, Florida. OLIE WEBBER Brother Olie Webber, 72, joined the SIU in 1969. He was an engine department member, and one of his first vessels was the OMI Willamette. Brother Webber upgraded multiple times at the Piney Point school. His final trip was aboard the Horizon Enterprise, and he lives in Pahrump, Nevada. INLAND DAVID MALCOLM Brother David Malcolm, 62, began shipping with the union in 1976. He originally worked with H&M Lake Transport. Brother Malcolm upgraded on several occasions at the maritime training center in Piney RAYMOND MCGUIRE Brother Raymond McGuire, 63, signed on with the SIU in 1977. He was employed with G&H Towing for his entire career, working in the deck department. In 2000, he attended classes at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother McGuire is a resident of Santa Fe, Texas. KENNETH MCLAMB Brother Kenneth McLamb, 65, began his SIU career in 1980. He was originally employed on the Overseas Joyce as a member of the deck department. Brother McLamb enhanced his skills often at the Paul Hall Center. After many years of working in the deep-sea division, Brother McLamb switched to inland sailing. He last worked aboard the Legacy and now resides in Waynesville, North Carolina. GEORGE SADLER Brother George Sadler, 67, started shipping with the SIU in 1973. He was initially employed with Moran Towing of Texas. A member of the deck department, he last sailed on the Liberty. Brother Sadler is a resident of West Newbury, Massachusetts. GREAT LAKES RICHARD SPRINGS Brother Richard Springs, 65, started sailing with the union in 1977. He first shipped on the CL Austin, working in the deck department. Prior to his retirement, Brother Springs worked aboard the Richard J. Reiss. He settled in Cleveland. Seafarers LOG 15 �Final Departures DEEP SEA NICK ALEXANDER Pensioner Nick Alexander, 89, died June 22. He was a deck department member, and one of his first ships in the early 1950s was operated by Seatrain Lines. His final vessel was the Keva Ideal. Brother Alexander began collecting his pension in 1993 and resided in Texas City, Texas. CEASAR BLANCO Pensioner Ceasar Blanco, 91, passed away June 9. He joined the SIU in 1966. Brother Blanco shipped as a member of the steward department. He first sailed on the Vantage Progress. Brother Blanco last worked on the Sea­Land Land Navigator before going on pension in 1994. He was a resident of San Francisco. MANUEL CAMARA Pensioner Manuel Camara, 80, died June 3. A member of the deck department, he first sailed on the Bradford Island in 1978. Brother Camara’s last vessel was the Sea­Land Spirit. He became a pensioner in 2001 and lived in Warren, Rhode IsIsland. BENJAMIN DIMAPASOC Pensioner Benjamin Dimapasoc, 89, passed away May 10. He joined the union in 1969, first sailing aboard the Mobilian. Brother Dimapasoc was a member of the deck department, most recently aboard the Sea­Land Pacer. He went on pension in 1992 and settled in San Francisco. WILLIAM HOLLAND Brother William Holland, 61, died July 14. He joined the union in 1997 and first sailed aboard the USNS Effective. The deck department member last worked on the Vindicator. Brother Holland was a resident of Sebring, Florida. TIMOTHY KOEBEL Pensioner Timothy Koebel, 68, died June 12. His first trip to sea was as a deck department member 16 Seafarers LOG aboard the Monticello in 1979. He most recently worked on the Charleston before going on pension in 2016. Brother Koebel lived in Portland, Oregon. DURELL MCCORVEY Pensioner Durell McCorvey, 89, died June 2. He began his seafaring career in 1951, working on the Nathaniel Silsbee. Brother McCorvey sailed in the deck department, most recently aboard the Ambassador. He went on pension in 1991 and settled in Dade City, Florida. EDWARD MURRAY Pensioner Edward Murray, 74, passed away June 26. He started sailing with the union in 1964. Brother Murray initially sailed on the Potomac, as a member of the engine department. He most recently sailed on the Overseas Ohio before retiring in 2008. He settled in Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey. ALI MUSAID Pensioner Ali Musaid, 62, died July 17. Brother Musaid became an SIU member in 1976. His first trip was aboard Cove Shipping vessel, working in the deck department. Brother Musaid concluded his seafaring career on the Over­ seas Boston. He began collecting his pension in 2016 and resided in Stockton, California. ROGER PHELPS Pensioner Roger Phelps, 67, died June 23. A member of the deck department, he first sailed on the American Falcon in 1993. Brother Phelps began collecting his pension in 2015 after sailing on his last vessel, the Maersk Wiscon­ sin. He resided in Jacksonville, Florida. SAMUEL TORINA Pensioner Samuel Torina, 87, passed away July 4. He joined the union in 1951, first sailing with Waterman Steamship Corporation. Brother Torina was a member of the engine department, most recently aboard the Sea­Land Trader. He went on pension in 1992 and settled in Seattle. INLAND FREDERICK BREIMANN Pensioner Frederick Breimann, 89, died June 20. His first trip to sea was as a deck department member working for New York Cross Harbor Railroad in 1983. Brother Breimann continued to work for the same company until his retirement in 1989. He lived in Waterloo, New York. NORMAN GIFFORD Pensioner Norman Gifford, 76, died June 22. A member of the engine department, he first sailed with Steuart Transportation in 1972. Brother Gifford last worked for McAllister Towing of Baltimore before collecting his pension beginning in 2003. He lived in Rosedale, Maryland. CHARLES MAKI Pensioner Charles Maki, 75, passed away June 6. Upon joining the SIU in 1979, he first sailed on vessels operated by Stc Papa Guy Company. Brother Maki worked in the engine departdepart ment and was a native of New York. Prior to his retirement in 2012, he shipped with Piney Point Transportation. He resided in Easton, Maryland. FRED SERRAHN Pensioner Fred Serrahn, 90, passed away July 9. He joined the SIU in 1951. Brother Serrahn shipped as a member of the deck department. He first vessel was the Federal; his last, the Falcon Princess. Brother Serrahn went on pension in 1991. He was a resident of Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. BENJAMIN WHALEY Pensioner Benjamin Whaley, 72, passed away July 1. He joined the union in 1977, working for Marine Contracting and Towing as a deck department member. Brother Whaley continued to work for the same company until his retirement in 2007. He was a resident of Wadmalaw Island, South Carolina. VAINUU SILI Pensioner Vainuu Sili, 74, died June 1. A member of the steward department, he first sailed on the Santa Maria in 1978. Brother Sili’s last vessel was the Ho­ rizon Navigator. He became a pensioner in 2005 and lived in Ewa Beach, Hawaii. JAMES WILSON Pensioner James Wilson, 80, died June 16. His first trip to sea was as a deck department member for Higman Barge Lines. He last worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation before going on pension in 1999. Brother Wilson lived in Baldwin, Mississippi. GREAT LAKES JOHN ENGLEMAN Pensioner John Engleman, 79, passed away July 2. Joining the SIU in 1963, he first sailed on the Bob­Lo Lo Island Island. Brother Engleman worked in the steward department, last sailing aboard the South­ down Challenger. He went on pension in 2003 and settled in Caseville, Michigan. CHARLES LAMB Pensioner Charles Lamb, 64, passed away June 1. Upon joining the SIU in 1978, he first sailed on the Edison. Brother Lamb worked in the deck department and was a native of Michigan. Prior to his retirement in 2010, he sailed aboard the H Lee White. He continued to reside in Michigan in Rogers City. NMU VERNON HARRIS Pensioner Vernon Harris, 93, passed away July 21. He went on pension in 1993 after working as a member of the deck department. Brother Harris continued to reside in his home state of South Carolina, in Glendale. JACK HUFF Pensioner Jack Huff, 90, died July 16. After working as a member of the deck department, he began collecting his pension in 1968. Brother Huff was born in Ohio and settled in Mobile, Alabama. STEVEN O’ NIEL Pensioner Steven O’ Niel, 96, passed away July 6. He worked in the deck department until his retirement in 1985. Brother O’ Niel resided in his home city, New York. CARLOS ORTIZ Pensioner Carlos Ortiz, 75, died June 29. The Puerto Rico native worked in the deck department before going on pension in 2000. Brother Ortiz lived in Palm Bay, Florida. PETER CAKANIC Pensioner Peter Cakanic, 87, passed away July 7. He worked as a member of the deck department before retiring in 1994. He lived in North Augusta, South Carolina. JOSEPH TAYLOR Pensioner Joseph Taylor, 90, died May 17. He was born in Quakake, Pennsylvania and worked in the deck department. Brother Taylor began collecting his pension in 1968 and settled in Largo, Florida. REINALDO CANTISANI Pensioner Reinaldo Cantisani, 102, died July 22. He shipped as a member of the deck department and went on pension in 1981. Brother Cantisani resided in Costa Brava, Puerto Rico. MIGUEL VASQUEZ RIOS Pensioner Miguel Vasquez Rios, 72, passed away May 21. Born in Puerto Rico, he worked as a memmem ber of the engine department until retiring in 2009. Brother Vasquez Rios resided in Baltimore. LOUIS CLAUDIO Pensioner Louis Claudio, 89, passed away May 7. He worked as a member of the deck department and retired in 1972. Brother Claudio settled in his home state of New York, in the city of Goshen. LARRY GARD Pensioner Larry Gard, 78, died June 30. He retired in 1979 and settled in Shelton, Washington, the same state where he was born. CHARLIE GHOLSON Pensioner Charlie Gholson, 92, passed away July 2. After sailing as deck department member, he went on pension in 1986. Brother Gholson was born in Norfolk, Virginia, and called New York home. Name Alvarez, Leopoldo Aspreas, George Bache, Edward Busto, Enrique Cooper, Charles Engstrom, Fred Frade, John Hernandez, Florencio Hodge, Hilburn Holterman, Joseph Labaczewski, Augustine McBride, Clarence Neeves, Albert Quevedo, Louis Herschell, Radford Rivera, Jorge Shoucair, Rudolph Spooner, Will Stone, David Vaknin, David Valiente, Carlos Age DOD 92 June 10 73 June 16 91 April 12 86 June 19 90 July 14 95 April 10 82 June 20 90 April 19 95 December 20 90 April 16 89 June 29 74 July 1 89 June 4 87 March 26 85 December 17 97 May 8 86 May 19 97 July 23 80 July 14 69 July 4 92 July 20 CLARENCE GIBBY Pensioner Clarence Gibby, 94, died June 10. The Alabama native was a member of the deck department before retiring in 1987. Brother Gibby resided in Mobile, Alabama. October 2017 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start October 16. Galley Operations November 4 December 1 Title of Course Galley Assessment Program (GAP) October 7 November 3 Start Date Date of Completion Date of Completion Safety Upgrading Courses Gap Closing Courses Engineroom Resource Management November 27 December 1 Leadership and Managerial Skills December 2 December 8 Basic Training w/16hr FF October 14 November 25 December 2 October 20 December 1 December 8 Basic Training Revalidation September 22 October 6 October 13 November 10 September 22 October 6 October 13 November 10 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation September 16 September 22 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting October 21 October 27 Government Vessels September 30 December 9 October 6 December 15 Medical Care Provider October 28 December 2 November 3 December 8 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL November 18 November 24 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG November 11 December 2 November 17 December 8 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck October 7 November 3 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Students will be advised of dates once accepted. ARPA December 9 December 15 Crane Familiarization October 21 October 27 ECDIS October 14 October 20 Lifeboat October 21 November 18 December 16 November 3 December 1 December 29 Radar Observer November 25 December 8 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW November 4 December 1 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers December 2 December 15 BAPO November 4 December 1 FOWT October 7 November 3 Junior Engineer October 7 December 1 Machinist November 11 December 1 Pumpman December 2 December 8 Welding October 21 November 25 November 10 December 15 Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Ops October 7 November 18 November 3 December 15 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 # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. October 2017 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, or 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. 10/17 Seafarers LOG 17 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #827 – The following Phase I apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course August 11: Rahsaan Alexander, Erik Andersen, Devon David, Mashrur Islam Dewan, Darren Elder, Thomas Gwynn, Stravon Jordan Jr., Kevin Lueddeke, Jakob Magus, Devon Pullins, Alton Robinson, Shawn Smith and Thomas Tooke. ECDIS – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course July 7: Laurent Almontes Abad, J.K. Mansfield Borden, Jason Hardy, Saleh Mohamed Mothana and Sunnil Motley. Patrick Schoenberger, their instructor, is at the far right. Government Vessels – Fifteen upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course July 28: Kendrick Benton, Carmelo Calderon Santini, Jorrell Davis, William Davis, Vincent Depeola, Noah Difrischia, Dylan Faile, Jape Robin Saturinas Geonzon, Frederick Jackson, Barbara McDonald, Jesus Miguel Mendez Mercado, Daniel Miller, Jon Newman, Noah Schluder and Dany Thibault. Class instructor Stan Beck is at the far right. Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Six upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills in this course July 21. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Chris Badouin, Richard Jones, Ronaldo Jose Quinones Perez, Andre Robinson Sr., George Emanuel Santiago and Martin Warren. UA to FOWT (Motor) – The following individuals (photo at left, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course July 14: John Abernathy, Blake Caviness, Kirk Chambers, Raibonne Charles, Bevan Cottone, Gregory Crowder, Justin D’Angelo, Marquez Antonio Fields, Vincent Freeman, Paul Ianni, Mohamad Mahmoud Kammoun, Paul Klear, Sebastian Krowicki, Dequan Jamal Rivera and Nicholas Tejada. Class instructor Keith Admonson 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. Personal Survival – Twelve upgraders (photo at right, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course July 21: Kristopher Bechtel II, Kendrick Benton, Jorrell Davis, William Davis, Vincent Depeola, Noah Difrischia, Dylan Faile, Frederick Jackson, Barbara McDonald, Jesus Miguel Mendez Mercado, Noah Schluder and Dany Thibault. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 18 Seafarers LOG October 2017 �Paul Hall Center Classes Water Survival – Upgrader Marc Banez (above) completed his requirements and graduated from this course July 14. Basic Shiphandling & Steering Control Systems – Four upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course July 14: J.K. Mansfield Borden, Jason Hardy, Saleh Mohamed Mothana and Sunnil Motley. Class instructor Brian Moore is at the far left. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – The following individuals (photo at left, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course July 28: Rene Alberto Caballero, John Dahlgren, Mark Fleming, Jose Edgardo Garcia Bulnes, Brian Goudy, Victor Israel Jimenez, Reginald Johnson Jr., Thomas McClure Jr., Raul Morales Vargas, William O’Brien, Eugene Perez Jr., Benny Perez, Mark Sidlo, Michael Woollen and Richard Wythe Jr. Class instructors Joe Zienda and Mike Roberts are at the far left and far right, respectively. Tankship Familiarization – Twenty-two upgraders (photo at right, in alphabetical order) finished their requirements and graduated from this course August 18: Abdulaziz Mohamed Nagi Alsinai, Larhode Andrews, Travis Appling, Kevin Combs, Felix Arce Garcia, Jape Robin Saturinas Geonzon, Al Greene, Cynthia Harris, Frederick Jones Jr., Michael Kelly, Rafael Angel Leon Ortiz, Marc Marcus, Ryan Palmer, Scott Reynolds, Marcos Antonio Rivera Baez, Christian Rosado, Harry Schrefer III, Jorge Soler, Daryl Spicer, Gabron Turner, James Walker and Kareem Walters. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Advanced Galley Operations – The following steward department mariners (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course July 14: Todd Gallagher, Marcus Logan, Daniel Miller, Mamie Porter and Albert Sison. October 2017 Certified Chief Cook – Three mariners completed recently modules in this course. Guy Delyea (above, left) finished Module 3 July 14 while Thomas Humphreys III (center) and Simona Evans (right) satisfied their requirements in Module 5 August 11. Seafarers LOG 19 �OCTOBER 2017 VOLUME 79 NO. 10 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 18-19 Bosun Nagi Musaid, AB Kevin Blackman, Port Agent Todd Brdak H. Lee White Seafarers Keep Lakes Cargoes Moving SIU-crewed ships and tugs play key roles on America’s fourth sea coast, otherwise known as the Great Lakes. Those vessels carry (among other cargoes) the raw materials that drive the nation’s economy: iron ore and fluxstone for the steel industry, aggregate and cement for the construction industry, coal for power generation, as well as salt, sand and grain. SIU-crewed harbor tugs help the Lakers get in and out of port. The photos on this page were taken during recent service visits from Lakes-area SIU officials. Chief Cook Mohamed Algalham, SA Maeen Jinah H. Lee White ABs Jeff Davis (left) and Eric Johnson handle a tow line aboard the tug Wyoming Wyoming.. ACU Dave Warner St. Clair Patrolman Vadym Gutara, GUDE Willie Doud St. Clair AB Jeff Davis Tugboat Wyoming Chief Cook Saleh St. Clair AB Eric Johnson Tugboat Wyoming � 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 2017 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU HELPS HOUSTON REBOUND FROM HARVEY GAO STUDY SHOWS NEED FOR SEALIFT BOOST PASHA HAWAII ANNOUNCES CONTRACT FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION U.S. NAVY LAUNCHES EXPEDITIONARY SEA BASE VESSEL’S ADDITION TO FLEET SIGNALS ARRIVAL OF NEW JOBS FOR GOVERNMENT SERVICES SEAFARERS TOTE REVEALS PLANS TO ESTABLISH NEW U.S. MAINLAND TO HAWAII SERVICE BENEFITS CONFERENCES CONTINUE IN JERSEY, NORFOLK SENATOR BALDWIN NAMED 2017 GREAT LAKES LEGISLATOR OF YEAR GREAT LAKES TOWING ADDS NEW TUG CLEVELAND TO SIU CONTRACTED-FLEET NEW AFL-CIO REPORT: MAJORITY THINK UNIONS KEY TO MORE BENEFITS ON THE JOB ‘IMPORTANT TO BE PART OF COMMUNITY’ SIU MEMBERS AGAIN STEP UP FOR PAINT TACOMA BEAUTIFUL UNITED SEAMEN’S SERVICE: 75 YEARS OF DEDICATION TO SEAFARERS SEAFARERS KEEP LAKE CARGOES MOVING 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 10/01/2017 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. 79, No. 10 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/075238ba31b9ae5906bd0fdfa1faad90.pdf 45e67cca7729a29073c0b054550f06b3 PDF Text Text SEPTEMBER 2017 FEBRUAR Y 2014 NO. V O L U M EVOLUME 7 6 o 79 NO . 29 New Jones Act Tanker Delivered American Liberty Signals Jobs for Seafarers Pictured near the site of its construction (Philly Shipyard, a union facility), the modern Jones Act tanker American Liberty is one of the newest additions to the Seafarers-contracted fleet. Page 3. (Photo by John Curdy) Seafarers to the Rescue! The Seafarers-crewed Overseas Texas City recently saved all five people from a capsized boat near Galveston, Texas. The SIU crew included (from left) Steward/Baker Luis Santiago, OS Gamaliel Choh Zuom, GUDE Muafa Musad, Bosun Lonnie Porchea, GUDE Abdulfata Shammam and QEP Pedro Santiago, among others. Page 3. Buzby Takes Helm at MARAD SIU executives were on hand to observe and welcome the swearing-in of Rear Adm. Mark Buzby (U.S. Navy Ret) as the new head of the U.S. Maritime Administration. Formerly the commanding officer of the U.S. Military Sealift Command, Buzby is a longtime backer of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Pictured after the Aug. 14 ceremony in the nation’s capital are (from left) Buzby, SIU President Michael Sacco, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao. and SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez. Page 6. Piney Point Coverage Page 2 Halls Host Benefits Conferences Pages 4-5 Bosuns Graduate Pages 12-14 �SIU Jobs Retained in T-AGS Award President’s Report Ocean Shipholdings to Operate Seven Vessels Half-Century of Growth, Progress As the SIU’s affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, enters its second half-century of operations, I remain proud of the institution’s remarkable advancement. I was there almost from the school’s earliest days. It officially opened in August 1967, but, as has been well-chronicled, Piney Point was more of a construction zone than a maritime school in those initial years. I’m not sure any of us who were there in the late 1960s could have truly, fully envisioned what a first-class, comprehensive, modern training facility Piney Point would become. That includes the campus’ namesake, Paul Hall, the second president of the Seafarers International Union of North America (SIUNA) and the top official of the SIU Atlantic and Gulf Districts starting in 1947. Paul was a visionary who could get things done sometimes by sheer force of will, but he was also smart enough to see how raw our slice of Piney Point was when the property was acquired. I knew him long enough, and worked for him closely Michael Sacco enough, that I’m confident in saying while he wouldn’t have been shocked by the school’s success, he’d have been pleasantly surprised by the high-tech details and refinements. By the way, although Paul is rightly credited for making the school a reality, there’s a closely related part of our history that sometimes gets overlooked. Namely, he also set in motion the founding of three other main SIU training facilities beginning in 1952. These were the forerunners of Piney Point, and they were known as Andrew Furuseth Training Schools, named in memory of the person considered the father of the American maritime labor movement. Furuseth was president of the old International Seamen’s Union, which eventually spawned the SIU. Anyway, the Furuseth schools were located in New York (then the site of SIU headquarters), Mobile, and New Orleans. Paul changed the name in 1965 to the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship – a tip of the Stetson to the first president of the SIUNA, who died in 1957. Two years following the renaming, he consolidated those operations in southern Maryland. Paul would be the first to tell you that the credit for the school’s growth belongs to many, many people. Union and school officials, instructors, staff, students and employer trustees have all played essential roles as the Paul Hall Center became our lifeblood. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to help spearhead some of that progress; I served as the school’s vice president from 1968 to 1979, and I still go there every single day unless I’m travelling. I remain closely involved. During previous anniversaries, we’ve published long articles and timelines and testimonials about the school. We’re trying something different this year, as detailed elsewhere on this page. Sometime after Labor Day, we’re mailing a special edition of the LOG to our ships and union halls. That’ll be a photographic history – representative rather than comprehensive, but a lot of work has gone into it. We’ll also be posting a related video on our website by early October. Meanwhile, if I had to summarize what the school means to our union, I would say it’s one of the keys to our future, and it’s the hub of the ship’s wheel. Although we’re constantly working with the U.S. Coast Guard and others to ease the regulatory burdens on mariners, there will always be training requirements – and I suspect our industry will always be closely regulated. That means there will be an ongoing need for department-specific training as well as general shipboard safety classes for our members from the United States and Canada. Piney Point will be there to deliver that training for the next 50 years and another 50 after that. Our school – the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, which includes the Lundeberg School as well as the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School – is second to none in the world. Visit the campus and you’ll know that’s not hype. Happy anniversary! FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 79 Number 9 o NO. 2 September 2017 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2017 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. 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 SIU members will continue sailing aboard seven oceanographic surveillance ships, following a recent government contract award to Ocean Shipholdings, Inc. (OSI). The new operating agreement includes a series of one-year options and one shorter option that would extend it to mid-April of 2022. It covers the following ves- sels: USNS Maury, USNS Waters, USNS Bruce Heezen, USNS Pathfinder, USNS Bowditch, USNS Henson and USNS Mary Sears. Turnover dates for those vessels (all of which already carry SIU crews) are scheduled to start in mid-September and continue until around mid-January. All SIU jobs are retained under The USNS Pathfinder, pictured late last year in Norfolk, Virginia, will continue to carry an SIU crew. (US Navy photo by Robert Fluegel) the new contract. Also known as T-AGS vessels, the aforementioned ships support worldwide oceanographic programs. According to the U.S. Navy, the vessels “gather data that provides much of the military’s information on the ocean environment. The collected data helps to improve technology in undersea warfare and enemy ship detection. The oceanographic and hydrographic survey ships’ multibeam, wide-angle precision sonar systems make it possible to continuously chart a broad strip of ocean floor. Survey ships have charted three-fourths of the world’s coastlines, making it easier for navigators to find their way along both well-traveled and notso-familiar shipping routes.” The USNS Maury, the newest of the T-AGS ships, is 353 feet long and can sail at 15 knots. It was built at VT Halter Marine and delivered in 2016. The Pathfinder, Bowditch, Henson, Heezen and Mary Sears are 328.5 feet long and can sail at 16 knots. They were constructed at Halter Marine and had delivery dates ranging from 1993-2000. The Waters, 457 feet long, was built at Avondale and can sail at 13 knots. Paul Hall Center Featured in Video The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) is featured in a new, five-minute video produced by the Southeast Maritime and Transportation Center (SMART) in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Labor. In particular, the video focuses on the PHC’s apprentice program, as does an accompanying article on the SMART website. The video is linked in the Gallery section of the SIU website and also may be found on SMART’s YouTube channel. To access it on the SMART website, go to www.maritime-technology.org/ and search for Piney Point. The article cites a “critical need for trained, credentialed mariners.” It describes the PHC apprentice program as consisting of an initial 15 weeks of entry level training (blending classroom and hands-on instruction) in Piney Point, Maryland, followed by at least 90 days of shipboard deployment. Subsequently, students return to the school for follow-up training before shipping out. Regardless of which department A screen shot of the new video shows the training vessel Freedom Star in the foreground. (deck, engine or steward) an individual chooses, all apprentices must take courses covering shipboard emergencies and operations including fire fighting, water survival, first aid, CPR, industrial relations and so- cial responsibilities. For more information about the program and the application process, contact the PHC admissions office at (301) 994-0010 (prompt 2) or email Admissions@seafarers.org LOG Special Edition Salutes School’s Anniversary The union is planning to publish a special issue of the Seafarers LOG celebrating the 50th anniversary of its affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Tentatively scheduled for mailing after Labor Day, this issue will almost entirely consist of photos taken from 1967 to 2017 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. It’ll be mailed to SIU halls and Seafarers-crewed vessels. A PDF version will be posted in the Paul Hall Center section of the SIU website at: http://www.seafarers.org/paulhallcenter/phc.asp Additionally, a video commemorating the anniversary is slated to debut in late September as part of the Seafarers International Union of North America’s (SIUNA) quinquennial convention. Subsequently, that video (approximately 12 minutes long) will be posted in the Gallery section of the SIU website. Although the school and its location aren’t one and the same, the campus is commonly referred to simply as Piney Point. When it opened in 1967, the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship consolidated several SIU-affiliated facilities that had been operating across the country. In 1991, the overall campus was renamed in memory of Paul Hall, the SIUNA’s second president – and the driving force behind the school’s founding. The Paul Hall Center still includes the Lundeberg School as well as the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School. The latter facility, which opened in 1999, is located on nearby property. The logo above will be featured on the cover of the special edition and in a related video. More than 200 photos are included in the commemorative issue. September 2017 �The newly delivered tanker American Liberty, built with union labor, signals new jobs for SIU members. (Photo courtesy Philly Shipyard) Philly Shipyard Delivers Jones Act Tanker Union-Built American Liberty Will Carry SIU Crew The SIU in late July welcomed news of the delivery of a state-of-the-art tanker that will sail in the Jones Act trade. The American Liberty is the third of four 50,000 dwt product tankers built by Philly Shipyard (a union facility) for American Petroleum Tankers (ATP), a Kinder Morgan subsidiary. It’ll be operated by SIU-contracted Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning. “It looks really good,” said AB Jeffrey Beasley, one of the first SIU members to climb the American Liberty’s gangway. “Everything is brand new, clean and well-structured. I’m looking forward to sailing on it.” “We are proud to deliver another quality vessel to American Petroleum Tankers,” remarked Steinar Nerbovik, Philly Shipyard’s president and CEO. “This vessel is delivered on time, the hallmark of great shipbuilding that our customers depend on. As we celebrate this achievement and say farewell to the American Liberty, we wish the crew a safe and successful voyage beyond our shipyard here in Philadelphia.” The 600-foot-long tanker is the twenty-seventh vessel built by Philly Shipyard (formerly named Aker Philadelphia Shipyard). In a news release about the July 27 delivery, the yard noted that the American Liberty’s design “incorporates numerous fuel efficiency features, flexible cargo capability, and the latest regulatory requirements. The vessel has also received LNG Ready Level 1 approval from the Ameri- can Bureau of Shipping (ABS). [It] has a carrying capacity of 14.5 million gallons of crude oil or refined products,” which equates to around 337,000 barrels. The ship can sail at 15 knots. The Jones Act requires that cargo moving between domestic ports be carried on vessels that are crewed, built, flagged and owned American. The nation’s freight cabotage law helps sustain nearly half a million U.S. jobs while contributing billions of dollars to the American economy each year. Overseas Texas City Rescues 5 All five occupants of this capsized boat were brought to safety. (U.S. Coast Guard photo) MSP on Track For Full Funding Through 2018 With the Senate’s proposed Transportation Bill approved, the Maritime Security Program (MSP) is on track to secure the the necessary funding to operate at full strength through 2018. The proposed “FY2018 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act” passed the Senate Appropriations Committee with unanimous support this summer. The House of Representatives passed its version of the Transportation Appropriations bill earlier in the year. Under both versions of the proposed bills, the MSP would be fully funded, receiving $300 million for Fiscal Year 2018. Given that both the House and September 2017 The Brotherhood of the Sea once again came to the fore July 22 near Galveston, Texas, when the SIU-crewed Overseas Texas City rescued five people from a capsized boat. No one was injured. “We got everything ready in no time,” recalled Bosun Lonnie Porchea. “Everybody was in position and everything went smooth. Five in the water, five out of the water. It’s a good thing the mate on watch saw them in time – he saw them bailing water and knew it wouldn’t be long” (until their boat wasn’t habitable). Pumpman Pedro Santiago stated, “The captain ordered the emergency rescue boat down, and within five minutes we had those people aboard. We do drills but this was no drill. People were trying to stay away from the sharks that were smiling at them.” Before the U.S. Coast Guard picked up the boaters, the SIU steward department provided towels and food. The people who were rescued “couldn’t thank us enough, and Senate have passed legislation approving full funding for MSP, it is likely that this level will remain in place in whatever final spending package Congress must approve in September. Funding for fiscal year 2017 ends in October, and Congress must pass a funding package before October 1 to avert a government shutdown. The MSP is a fundamental program to the American maritime industry. It supports the U.S. national economy and makes it possible for our military to project power around the globe. The program provides funding for 60 militarily-useful and commercially viable vessels, which are kept active in international trade, ensuring they remain operational and ready to assist with any military operation if called upon. It also ensures that those vessels remain crewed by skilled American mariners, helping to maintain and grow the domestic mariner pool. Both in peace and in war, the MSP is a cost-effective resource, consistently praised since its inception by nearly every head of the U.S. Transportation Command, the Coast Guard also thanked us,” Santiago added. “If not for the diligence of the crew of the tanker Overseas Texas City, the outcome of today’s events may not have been as successful,” said Coast Guard Petty Officer First Class Chris Rendon. “It is incredibly important that boaters are aware of their surroundings and prepared for emergency situations.” At press time, the agency hadn’t reported what caused the boat to capsize approximately 12 miles from shore. In addition to Porchea and Santiago, the SIU crew on the Overseas Ship Management vessel included Bosun Jose Castillo, AB Robert Duncan, AB Allen Davis, AB Matthew Szczepaniak, OS Gamaliel Choh Zuom, OS Mohamed Gazaly, GUDE Saeed Saleh, GUDE Muafa Musad, GUDE Abdulfata Shammam, Steward/Baker Luis Santiago, Chief Cook Nilsa Manaiza and SA Carlos Bernardez Norales. the Maritime Administration (MARAD) and the Department of Defense, among many others.The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has pointed out that MSP ship crews “are a major source for the DOD surge fleet.” The DOT also described the program as “a vital element of our military’s strategic sealift and global response capability. Without the MSP fleet, the United States would have assured access to very few U.S.-flag commercial vessels to support Department of Defense operations.” In a recent hearing, U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman (R-Virginia), one of the maritime industry’s strongest champions in Congress, said in defense of the MSP fleet: “Our nation cannot presume that a foreign-owned maritime sealift component will be available during times of conflict to deploy into contested waters. Our nation needs U.S. mariners on U.S.-flagged ships.” Wittman is the Chairman of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee.The Senate bill allocates $577.6 million for MARAD, an increase of $55 million above the FY2017 funding level. The version passed by the House, however, reduces MARAD funding to $490.6 million, though MSP remains fully funded at $300 million. House and Senate negotiators will have to work together to develop a compromise funding level for MARAD in whatever spending package emerges before the Oct. 1 deadline. It is not anticipated that the MARAD funding level differences will impact the MSP. As reported in the June edition of the Seafarers LOG, the Transportation Appropriations Bill for Fiscal Year 2017 was approved in May, which funded MARAD and the MSP through September. At that time, MSP funding was increased to $300 million, or $5 million per vessel in the MSP fleet. Military and government leaders have explained that the total cost of the MSP is a tiny fraction of the tens of billions of dollars it would cost the U.S. to replicate the sealift capability, intermodal infrastructure and other support made available to the Department of Defense by private-sector program enrollees. Seafarers LOG 3 �Seafarers Turn Out for Benefits Conferences Meetings Offer Reviews, Detailed Descriptions to Members and Staff Paul Hall Center The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan office last month conducted a series of educational conferences, and more are scheduled. The inaugural session took place Aug. 7 at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. This event was followed by conferences at SIU halls in the ports of New Orleans (Aug. 11), Houston (Aug. 14) and Jacksonville, Florida (Aug. 16). Designed to educate rank-and-file-members as well as union employees, the conferences focused on various Seafarers Plans. Conference goals were to make enrollees aware of benefits available to them under each plan. Special emphasis was placed on points that plan participants may not have known about. Each conference was slightly more than one hour in duration and featured remarks by SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel; Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen; Seafarers Plans Benefits Director Teresa Zelko and CIGNA Representative Melissa Smith. Future benefits conferences, their respective dates and locations are as follows: Aug. 28 - Port of Jersey City, New Jersey; Aug. 30 – Port of Norfolk, Virginia; Dec. 11 – Port of Tacoma, Washington; Dec. 12 – Port of Wilmington, California, and Dec. 13 – Port of Oakland, California. Plans officials pointed out that conferences specifically for SIU members will commence promptly at 10:30 a.m. at each location and continue until approximately noon. The events are open to members, pensioners and their families. Paul Hall Center Port of Houston 4 Seafarers LOG September 2017 �Port of New Orleans SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel addresses members during a benefits conference at the Port of New Orleans. Looking on are Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen (left) ; Seafarers Plans Benefits Director Teresa Zelko (right of Heindel) and CIGNA Representative Melissa Smith (far right). Port of New Orleans Port Of Jacksonville Port Of Jacksonville Notice/Reminder Member Portal Offers Option for Scheduling Clinic Exams SIU members are reminded that they have an online option for placing orders for clinic exam services in addition to services offered at the hiring halls. As previously reported, those services may be ordered through the membersonly portal on the union’s website, www. seafarers.org. The members-only area itself has been available since June 2011 and is free of charge. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plans (SHBP) Administrator Maggie Bowen stated, “You can order exams within 60 days of your current expiration dates, so don’t wait until the last minute. This site also allows ineligible participants to order exams and pay using PayPal.” She added, “If you do not see the exam that you are trying to order, please email shbpmedical@seafarers.org and if you have any other questions please email map@seafarers.org or call 1-800-2524674.” The SHBP started using a new health clinic system, Comprehensive Health Services (CHSi), in early 2013. CHSi features more than 2,000 participating facilities in the contiguous United States, which has made it much easier for Seafarers to find clinics that are closer to home, whether they’re taking annual exams, functional capacity evaluations or interval exams. Using the member portal allows mari- September 2017 ners to order the exams they need as follows: Automated Exams n Annual/MSC Physical Examination – Required no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to the expiration date of the previous exam. n Functional Capacity Evaluation – Required no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to expiration date of previous annual exam. n New Member Physical Exam – This is a one-time requirement and is necessary prior to registration. n U.S. Coast Guard Exam – Required once every two years unless the mariner is upgrading. n Interval Exam – Needed once every six months after annual exam for deep sea members and under several inland contracts. n DOT/U.S. Coast Guard Drug Test (Pre-Employment or Periodic) – Required when renewing documents, returning to work, or when random exception expires. n Benzene Clearance – Mandatory (for Are You Ready to Ship Out? Make sure your documents and paperwork are current: n Merchant mariner credential (MMC) with security endorsements (security awareness and/or vessel personnel with designated security duties, abbreviated as VPDSD, VSO for officers) n MMC indicating completion of Basic Training (formerly BST) (VI/1 and related verbiage) n Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) n Passport n ServSafe Management (chief cook and higher) n ServSafe Food Handler (entry level) n Medical certificate (acquired by pass- ing U.S. Coast Guard physical once every two years and submitting to local REC) n Annual physical exam and interval exam (required once every six months) n Drug test (every six months unless continuously sailing) n If you take prescription drugs, make sure your medications will last longer than the duration of your voyage. If you need early or extended refills, contact the claims department for assistance. Dial 1-800-252-4674 and follow the prompt for prescriptions. mariners sailing on tankers) no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to the expiration date of previous clearance. n Food Handler Certification – Required no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to the expiration date of the mariner’s certification. n Unlicensed Apprentice Physical Exam – This exam is required for those participating in the UA program. Once the admissions department notifies you of acceptance into the UA program, you must work with a local port office. n TB Screening only – Required no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to expiration of existing clearance. The TB screening is included in every Annual/MSC exam, UA exam and New Member exam. Approval Required Exams n Return to Duty Exam – (repatriation, interval illness or injury, etc.) Required upon demand by 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 – Approved as necessary by the SHBP medical department. n ARC Exam – Approval required by Addictions Rehabilitation Center (ARC) and SHBP medical department. Seafarers LOG 5 �Broadmeadow Becomes TRANSCOM Deputy; Buzby Assumes Maritime Administrator Post Two positions of great significance to the American maritime industry recently were filled. In early August, the U.S. Senate confirmed Lt. Gen. John Broadmeadow as the new deputy commander of the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM). Then, on Aug. 14, Rear Adm. Mark Buzby (U.S. Navy, Ret) was sworn in as the top official at the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD). Headquartered at Scott Air Force Base in Illinois, USTRANSCOM oversees eight combatant commands and five related component commands, including the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC). Its commanding officer is Gen. Darren McDew, an outspoken advocate of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Broadmeadow previously served as the commander of Marine Corps Installations Command, and also was the assistant deputy commandant, Installations and Logistics (Facilities), and commanding general, Marine Corps National Capital Region. Previously, he was vice director J4, Joint Staff. Before that assignment, he served as commanding general, Marine Corps Logistics Command from July 2013 to May 2015. A 34-year career Marine, Broadmeadow is the fifteenth deputy commander at USTRANSCOM. In an informal message announcing the confirmation, McDew enthusiastically cited Broadmeadow’s leadership and experience. Meanwhile, Buzby is the new maritime administrator, taking over a Department of Transportation agency tasked with promoting the U.S. Merchant Marine (among other responsibilities involving the American maritime industry). He needed no introduction to the key issues facing maritime; Buzby was MSC’s commanding officer from 2009 until he retired from Naval service in 2013, capping a 34-year Navy career. He had been serving as president of the National Defense PricewaterhouseCoopers Details Inland Maritime’s Economic Impact This is the most recent official photo of Lt. Gen. Broadmeadow, who has since added a third star. Transportation Association (NDTA) since November 2014. Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao spoke at Buzby’s swearing-in ceremony in the nation’s capital. SIU President Michael Sacco and Executive Vice President Augie Tellez attended the gathering. Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, the new maritime administrator, addresses the gathering at his swearing-in ceremony as U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao (standing at right) looks on. (Photo Courtesy of DOT) MV Rena Fails To Pay Mariners, Gets Banned After being alerted by the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has banned a flagof-convenience vessel from Australian ports. The ship, Bahamas-flagged bulk carrier MV Rena, repeatedly failed to pay outstanding wages and maintain a safe workplace for its crew. On June 30, AMSA received a complaint from the ITF, alleging the crew had not been paid their total wages for several months. AMSA conducted a port state control inspection on July 6, when the Greek-owned ship arrived at 6 Seafarers LOG New Study Underscores Jones Act’s Benefits Hay Point in Queensland. Upon completion of the inspection, AMSA reported a number of serious deficiencies with the ship, including: n Failure of the emergency generator to start; n Failure of the lifeboat starting arrangements; n Shortcomings in the safety management system (ISM); and n Failure to pay crew the cash component of their wages, which totaled about $53,000 The safety issues were found to present a clear risk to the crew, the ship and Australia’s marine environment. Failure to pay the crew is a breach of the Maritime Labor Convention 2006, and confirmed what the ITF had originally alleged. The ship was detained due to these failures; it remained at Hay Point for 29 A new report from the highly regarded company PricewaterhouseCoopers concluded that America’s inland maritime industry significantly contributes to the United States economy. Announced in late July by the American Waterways Operators (AWO), the study focused on the tugboat, towboat and barge industry. It was developed jointly by the AWO (whose members include several SIU-contracted companies) and the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD). Specifically, the study explored the industry’s economic contributions to employment, gross domestic product, and taxes at the national and state levels; detailed the types and quantities of vital commodities transported on American waterways; and compared waterborne transport to other modes of freight transport in terms of efficiency, environmental impact and public safety. America’s domestic maritime industry functions under the auspices of the Jones Act. The nation’s freight cabotage law requires that cargo moving between U.S. ports be moved on vessels that are crewed, flagged, built and owned American. Highlights from the PricewaterhouseCoopers study include: n The tugboat, towboat and barge industry supports more than 300,000 jobs nationwide – including 50,000 in the industry itself, 38,000 of which are on board vessels – and has a total annual impact on GDP of $33.8 billion. n The industry annually moves more than 760 million tons of cargo that fuels the American economy, including critical commodities like petroleum, agricultural products, chemicals, coal, and manufactured goods. n One inland dry cargo barge can haul 1,750 tons of dry cargo, the equivalent of 16 bulk rail cars or 70 tractor trailers, with greater fuel efficiency and fewer greenhouse gas emissions. AWO President and CEO Tom Allegretti said, “AWO could not be prouder to unveil this PricewaterhouseCoopers study thoroughly quantifying what the dedicated men and women who make up the tugboat, towboat and barge industry have long known, from decades of firsthand experience: the extent to which maritime freight transport serves as a critical pillar of the American economy. We are especially pleased to have partnered with MARAD to produce this invaluable resource, and we look forward to using it to educate policymakers, the media, and the public about the role this industry plays in fueling our nation’s prosperity.” MARAD Executive Director Joel Szabat stated, “The maritime industry enables the movement of goods and cargo quickly, efficiently, and at low cost between producers and markets along our nation’s waterways. Waterborne commerce opened up our nation to trade and helped transform a fledgling democracy into the economic superpower it is today. Energy-efficient water transport continues to play a pivotal part in our nation’s transportation system and helps make America’s economy more competitive.” The full study (a 109-page PDF file) may be accessed on the AWO website, www.americanwaterways.com days until early August, when AMSA and the vessel’s flag state received evidence that the crew had been paid their outstanding wages. AMSA’s General Manger of Operations, Allan Schwartz, said the shipowner’s negligence gave his organization considerable cause for concern, though he also expressed appreciation to the Bahamas Maritime Authority for taking an active role in resolving the issues. “The failure of the ship operator to ensure that the ship is effectively managed along with the repeated failures of the ISM Code and Maritime Labor Convention, is a clear indication the ship is not being operated to meet applicable minimum standards,” Schwartz said. “The length of time taken to rectify the outstanding issues, particularly in relation to crew welfare, is completely unacceptable.” All vessels operating in Australian waters must comply with the international standards reflected under Australian law. Shipowners must ensure that their vessels are operated and maintained to meet or exceed certain mechanical and safety standards, and that their crews are treated in line with their obligations under the Maritime Labor Convention. Since substandard ships are not welcome in Australian waters, AMSA has banned the MV Rena from all Australian ports for six months, expiring on February 3, 2018. If the ship is detained again by AMSA for serious deficiencies, it may be subject to a further ban of 12 months. A different ship by the same name (a Greek-owned container vessel) made headlines in 2011 when it ran aground in New Zealand. September 2017 �Determined to Succeed Paul Hall Center Apprentice Undaunted by Challenge of Prosthesis Four years after an accident that claimed his right leg, Paul Hall Center Apprentice Tommy Gwynn couldn’t be more matter-of-fact about how he deals with the related challenges. But, that’s been the case since the first days following the mishap in 2013, which happened while Gwynn worked aboard a commercial fishing processor in Alaska. “I didn’t have time to go through the, for lack of a better term, grief and self-pity phase,” said Gwynn, who is 36 years old and uses a prosthesis. “My wife was three-anda-half months pregnant with our first child at the time, and there were lots of doctors – all day, every day.” Fast forward to 2017, and it’s no stretch to say Gwynn isn’t slowed much, if at all, by his handicap. He’s a competitive athlete (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, abbreviated as BJJ) and also enjoys fishing and hiking. He’s done well in the apprentice program at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, since starting phase one in June. Paul Hall Center Assistant Vice President Bart Rogers said Gwynn “took a leadership role in the trainee program and took a lot of time talking to kids about safety. He used his leg as an example.” A U.S. Marine Corps veteran (he served from 19992001), Gwynn has his sights set on the deck department. His initial impressions of the Paul Hall Center are favorable. “No complaints so far,” he stated. “It hasn’t been too bad at all. The best thing I could say to anyone considering applying is to know what you’re getting into, especially if you’re younger. This is a very serious career, and it’s not to be taken lightly from a safety standpoint. Just do what you’re told and what’s expected, and it won’t be difficult.” SIU on Horizon Even before the accident, Gwynn – who lives in Chesapeake, Virginia, with his wife and their two children – began planning to switch to deep-sea shipping. His vessel’s captain in Alaska had mentioned the SIU. “It was an easy decision to make,” Gwynn said, crediting personnel at the SIU hall in Norfolk, Virginia, for helping him with the transition. “I didn’t have trouble passing any of the [exams]. My physical therapist and rehab therapist did a great job of getting me back on my feet as soon as possible.” (He no longer needs physical therapy.) Gwynn wants to sail on breakbulk freighters and containerships, and is interested in “travel and having some port time – just getting out and experiencing different local cultures and things of that nature.” It doesn’t hurt that he’s got full support from his wife. “She grew up in the industry,” Gwynn noted. “Her father is a ship captain in Alaska; she and I met on the ship I used to work on. She understands the life and knows what it’s about. She’s perfectly at ease with me doing what I’m doing, and she understands the end game a little more than most people.” ‘Is What It Is’ No matter how resolute his attitude about physical recovery, there have been, of course, significant trials. “For the most part, it’s been around 90 percent positive,” Gwynn said. “There’s not really too much that I can’t do now that I was able to do before. Running is an exception. “The first two years were a little rough and spotty, just trying to find someone to build a prosthetic that I could walk on,” he continued. “A good, solid, comfortable fit is difficult to come by. But now, most people don’t even know I have a prosthetic leg when I’m wearing pants.” Among those who are aware of his circumstance, Gwynn doesn’t think people treat him differently. “I can’t say I’ve ever had people feel sorry for me or go out of their way to help me because of it,” he stated. “My attitude from the beginning has been, it is what it is. It’s amazing the number of people who find themselves in my situation who either expect special treatment or try to almost deny the whole thing. Those are typically the people I’ve noticed having a hard time dealing with it.” While devoted to his family, Gwynn also has invested lots of time in BJJ, a grappling sport that he studies most days when he’s home. He has competed in a handful of tournaments (“with varying degrees of success”) and is working with others in pushing for the addition of a “para” division among the sport’s governing bodies. In the tournaments, Gwynn competes against “ablebodied people,” he noted. “Adding to the fun factor, I have to take off my prosthetic any time I compete.” Still, as with the apprentice program, BJJ has been a good fit. “I got into it because I knew I wanted to go back to work on board a ship, and I wanted to start rehabbing myself,” he explained. “I figured if I was able to stand up to some form of martial arts training, it would be a good Apprentice Tommy Gwynn plans to sail in the deck department. way to prepare myself for the physical nature of working on board a ship. Plus, I had gained 60 or 70 pounds in two or three years, and I wanted to lose weight and get back in shape. It went from being something to just get in shape to becoming something I absolutely love to do.” Spotlight on Mariner Health Take Steps to Mitigate Migraines According to the American Migraine Association, migraines affect more than 36 million Americans. This is 12 percent of the population. Overall, migraines are a leading cause of outpatient and emergency-room visits. They’re a potentially debilitating nerve disease that affects both sexes. However, women are effected far more often than men. Migraines and other types of headaches, such as tension headaches and sinus headaches, are very painful. There’s usually no exact cause for migraines. Doctors have speculated that smoking, skipping meals, wine, other alcohols, hormonal fluctuations, monosodium glutamate (MSG), and stress may cause them. Migraine symptoms include a pounding headache that can increase with physical activity and straining. The sufferer can also have nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, diarrhea, and light sensitivity. Migraines can drastically affect your daily routine. In some cases, they may keep a person bedridden for days. Migraines can be preceded or accompanied by sensory warning signs called an “aura.” These may include flashes of light, blind spots, zig-zag lines in the visual field, difficulty in concentration and speaking, and tingling in the arms and legs. (Remember, if you have a headache that is very severe, with other neurological signs such as the inability to lift your arms or legs, or if you cannot walk, talk, or smile, get the hospital right away. This could be something much worse than a migraine.) Treatment is aimed at helping the pain and nausea. There is presently no cure for migraines. Doctors are trying to limit the use of narcotics. They are encouraging patients to get enough sleep, try to reduce the stress, drink plenty of water, decrease alcohol intake, avoid certain foods and drinks, and get September 2017 regular exercise. If you think that a migraine may be on the horizon, be prepared. Migraine prevention begins with avoiding the things that can trigger the condition. Once the migraine does start, however, you should have your meds on hand. Migraine sufferers use a variety of things to help stop the pain. These medications and activities may include yoga, acupuncture, meditation, Tylenol, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Excedrin-Migraine, anti-nausea meds, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, Imitrex, antidepressants, beta-blockers, anticonvulsants, Botox, herbs, vitamins, exercise, and sleep. There are many new things being tried to help with migraine pain other than medications, including biofeedback tapes, massages, and aromatherapy. Many have tried a new apparatus called a Cefaly device, with good results. This is a small device that attaches to the forehead like a headband and delivers a pulse to the targeted areas in the brain that are believed to be causing the pain. It uses a palm-size rechargeable battery to deliver the needed pulses. Some people swear that it does help them with their migraine pain. Another new approach involves something called a Daith piercing. It involves the piercing of the innermost cartilage fold of the ear. This is an attempt to simulate acupuncture. Some have had good results with this type of pain relief. This is not a do-ityourself procedure; a qualified acupuncturist should handle it. Making sure that you know what triggers your headache pain and how to treat it can help to eliminate many hours of suffering. As always, seek your medical doctor’s advice in all matters of migraine pain and do whatever follow up is recommended to make you feel better. Health Recipe Chicken Ratatouille Servings: 25 10 pounds chicken breast half without skin, defrosted 1/16 cup kosher salt ½ tablespoon black pepper 1 tablespoon olive oil ½ tablespoon paprika 1 tablespoon granulated garlic 1 cup eggplant, chopped 1 cup zucchini, chopped 1 cup yellow squash, chopped 1 cup onion, chopped ½ quart tomato puree ½ tablespoon rosemary, ground ½ tablespoon thyme, ground ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon pepper, ground 1/3 tablespoon granulated garlic ½ tablespoon granulated sugar 1/16 cup olive oil Fresh parsley, chopped Preparation n In a large container, add the chicken and the seasoning. Marinate for 2 hours. n Grill the chicken on an oiled griddle or grill over med-high heat. Cook the chicken half way through. Place in 2” hotel pans, cover and set aside. n In a large stock pot or steam kettle sauté the ratatouille vegetables until tender. n Add the tomato puree and all the seasonings, cook for about 5-10 minutes on low heat. n Drizzle olive oil on top of the chicken breasts. Bake in a 325 degree Fahrenheit oven for about 15-20 minutes uncovered, until internal temperature of 165 degrees is reached. n Top the chicken breast with the cooked ratatouille. Cover and serve, garnish with fresh parsley. Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 186 Calories; 3g Fat (15% calories from fat); 34g Protein; 4g Carbohydrate; 1g Dietary Fiber; 84mg Cholesterol; 443mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain (Starch); 4 ½ Lean Meat; 1/2 Vegetable; 0 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates. Provided by the Paul Hall Center’s Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship Seafarers LOG 7 �Seafarers Mobilize for ‘Pacer Goose’ SIU crews aboard the M/V Ocean Giant and MT Maersk Peary once again answered the call, supporting the U.S. military on an annual Arctic resupply mission. The Ocean Giant is operated by Waterman, and the Maersk Peary is operated by Maersk Line, Limited. Pacer Goose 2017, the annual resupply mission to Thule Air Base in Greenland, got under way in Virginia on July 13. The Ocean Giant, chartered by the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), began the assignment by spending three days taking on equipment and supplies at Naval Station Norfolk. The vessel was loaded with 100 shipping containers full of supplies, modular buildings and four K-Loads, which are used to load and offload military cargo aircraft. “Ocean Giant is going to deliver the goods needed for the air base to operate,” said Capt. Timothy Arey, the Ocean Giant’s master. “We are going to sail through the ice and the cold to get them what they need and take away the items which are no longer needed at Thule.” Operation Pacer Goose began in 1952, using U.S. Navy combatant ships to transport equipment and materials to the remote military base. The operation accounts for one of the Arctic outpost’s few sources of food, spare parts and other manufactured goods needed each year. Even though the temperature was freezing, summer is the only time of year that the ice is thin enough to break through, added Arey. The Ocean Giant then linked up with the tanker Maersk Peary, which was loaded with fuel for Thule. The two ships followed a Canadian icebreaker through the ice and into the air base’s harbor. After unloading the critical supplies, the ships backloaded all of the base’s solid waste and non-repairable equipment for return to the United States.  Arey pointed out that the Ocean Giant “is a great fit for this mission because it is double hulled to handle the ice and is extremely maneuverable. Additionally, the ship has its own cranes so it can load and offload cargo independently. “Ocean Giant’s merchant marines run lean and mean,” he added. “Because of the size of the crew, our mariners tend to wear a lot of hats. Our crew multi-tasks lots of different jobs which keeps the ship running efficiently…. Merchant mariners have a proud history of service to the United States. During World War II, civilian mariners did their part in support of the war effort and we are very proud to be supporting the military by delivering supplies to Thule. We are really excited about this mission and feel very privileged to be a part of it.” U.S. Navy Sailors look on as the SIU-crewed Ocean Giant prepares to sail. (Photo courtesy of Bill Mesta) SIU-Crewed Prepositioning Ships Take Action in Group Sail Six SIU-crewed, Military Sealift Command (MSC) vessels participated in a multi-ship training exercise, referred to as a group sail, off the coast of Saipan from Aug. 2-3. Taking part in the exercise were the USNS 1st LT Jack Lummus (Operated by Crowley), USNS 2nd LT John P. Bobo, USNS GYSGT Fred W. Stockham, USNS Pililaau, USNS Red Cloud and USNS So- derman, among other vessels in Maritime Prepositioning Ships Squadron Three (MPSRON-3). The Lummus, Bobo and Stockham are operated by Crowley; the Pililaau by American Overseas Marine; and the Red Cloud and Soderman by Patriot. The exercise, used to prepare the prepositioning ships in tactical movement, also saw the MSC vessels working alongside the rest of the MSPRON-3 squadron, training the ships in interoperability with U.S. Navy assets. As described by the Navy, the MPSRON ships executed close quarter turns, torpedo evasion tactics and formation steaming during the exercise, as well as practiced nighttime signal communications and worked with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Two Five for deck landing qualifications. “I am very pleased with how this event was executed. My staff worked very hard with all involved to ensure a crawl, walk, run phasing and the efforts in planning have shown themselves in the results,” said U.S. Navy Capt. Eric Lindfors, who heads up MPSRON-3. “The success was only possible with the inputs we received from the ships’ masters as we were operating with four different classes of ships all about the size of an aircraft carrier. I look forward to the next event and increasing the complexity so that we are better ready to support any call received.” GUDE Monica Coffelt (above) opens a lube oil cooler earlier this year aboard the Lummus. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua Fulton) In the photo at right, SIU-crewed prepositioning ships change formation during an exercise off the coast of Saipan. (Photo courtesy of U.S. Navy) Practice Makes Perfect The aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (top) pulls alongside the Seafarers-crewed dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS William McLean during a practice underway replenishment Aug. 14 in the Atlantic. The McLean is crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Mathew R. Fairchild) 8 Seafarers LOG September 2017 �Hands-On Training in Piney Point Practical training has always been a key part of many curriculums offered at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. These snapshots of upgraders were taken at the school around the start of summer. The Union Plus Scholarship Difference Helping SIU members and their children attend college Union Plus Scholarships help SIU families with the cost of college Awards range from $500 to $4,000 and are available annually to students attending college, trade or graduate schools. The Union Plus Scholarship application is now available. Deadline to apply is January 31, 12pm (noon), Eastern Time 9/17 Learn more at unionplus.org/Scholarship 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 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: September 2017 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 offi- cial 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. Conse­q uently, 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 9 �ABOARD OCEAN CRESCENT – Pictured from left to right aboard the Crowley-operated ship while it was docked at Concord Naval Weapons Station in California are QEE Tomas Merel, Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli, AB Sean Furlanic, Capt. Alan White, Port Agent Nick Marrone II, OMU Omar Espinosa, AB Dominador Diaz and Bosun Richard Hitchcock. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD SEATTLE – Pictured aboard the vessel in Concord, California, are (from left) Port Agent Nick Marrone II, Steward/Baker Troy Smith, QMED Patrick Buckley (seated), AB Thomas Drummond, AB Ryan Drummond and Bosun Ed Majesky. SA Kimberly Dawson is behind the camera. Formerly named BBC Seattle, the vessel is operated by JM Ship LLC. ABOARD ATB COMMITMENT – These photos were taken in early August in Long Beach, California. Pictured aboard the Crowley vessel are Capt. Joel Anderson (above, left), Chief Engineer Piotr Kwiatkowski (above, center), Utility Eugene Narubin (directly above) and Utility Evan Flynn (photo at immediate right) 10 Seafarers LOG September 2017 �ABOARD USNS RED CLOUD IN GUAM – Pictured from left to right on the Patriot-operated vessel are (front) SA Emily Lepley, SA Elena Hoener, Port Agent Fred Sanchez, Steward/Baker Shirley Jenkins, (back) Chief Cook Dennison Dizon and Storekeeper Edwin Coleman. ABOARD MONTFORD POINT – Among those pictured are AB Jon Sunga, AB John Garrett, AB Dhindo Faulve, QEE Thomas Jones, Bosun Ken Steiner, STOS Rodelo Ayaton, SK Chris Maye, QMED Rey Tendido, AB Larry Dizon, CC Aurelio Esperanza, Port Agent John Hoskins, Port Agent Fred Sanchez, Steward Cesar Delacruz, STOS Edmar Guanzon, QMED Mike Gray, Bosun’s Mate Jason Davis, QEP Kenneth Lockhart, SA Ronnie Quess, AB Bruce Ilao, AB Rolando Dinong, STOS Alan Boiser, and DEU Solomon Godwin. The vessel, operated by Ocean Shipholdings, was in Guam when the photo was taken. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD MANUKAI – This photo was taken while the Matson-operated vessel was in Guam. That’s Chief Cook Susano Cortez in front; standing left to right in back are ACU Nasser Hasson, Port Agent Fred Sanchez and Recertified Steward George Monseur. OATH IN JACKSONVILLE – QE4 David Garrett (left) is sworn in for his full book by Patrolman Adam Bucalo at the union hall. WITH SEAFARERS IN CHARM CITY – Pictured in late July aboard the Tote Services-operated MV Freedom in Baltimore are (from left) Patrolman DeCarlo Harris, Recertified Bosun Stephen Herring, Chief Steward Frank Starling and Port Agent John Hoskins. ABOARD APL BELGIUM – Pictured from left are ACU Bernie Igot, Recertified Steward Ali Matari and Chief Cook Tashara Newton. Thanks to Recertified Bosun Gerry Gianan for the photo. WELCOME ASHORE IN WILMINGTON – Longtime inland division member Marijan Masnov (left) picks up his first pension check at the union hall, where he’s congratulated by Port Agent Jeff Turkus. Masnov sailed in the engine department, most recently with Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning. ABOARD MV LIBERTY – Bosun Jerrold Foke took these snapshots aboard the Tote-operated car carrier. Pictured at left, STOS Jose Hercules fashions a new winch cover. In photo above at center, STOS Paul Ebanks scrubs the deck. In the remaining photo, AB Tony Ayala grabs a tool box and rehabs some boat wire. NEW ADDITION – AB Kane Prew (left) is pictured at the SIU hall in Jacksonville, Florida, with his wife, Becky, and their newborn daughter, Willow. The bundle of joy was four weeks old when this snapshot was taken in early June. September 2017 HAWAIIAN PRIDE – The LOG’s commitment to accuracy precludes altering the name board so it reads “Hawaiian Legends,” but please note that all four of these ABs hail from the Aloha State. From left aboard the Alaska Tanker Co. vessel are SIU members Lindsey Austin, Dylan Casuga, Pomaikai Velasquez and Elijah Huff. All are graduates of the Paul Hall Center’s apprentice program. (Thanks to Port Agent Hazel Galbiso for the photo.) Seafarers LOG 11 �Nine Bosuns Ascend Ladder to Recertified Status N ine deck department Seafarers recently achieved the crowning triumphs of their respective upgrading careers when they graduated from the bosun recertification course at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) in Piney Point, Maryland. In recognition of their ascent to the pinnacle of the deck department ladder, each received a certificate Aug. 7 during the union’s membership meeting at the PHC. In keeping with tradition, the graduates – Roberto Flauta, Albert Konning Jr., Marc Marcus, Hussein Mohssen Mohamed, Walter Ritvalsky, Rodney Roberson Sr., Stig Sasse Jr., LBJ Bliss Tanoa and Abel Vazquez Torres – also addressed union officials, fellow upgraders, trainees and guests who attended the meeting. The two-week class features a blend of new and refresher handson training, classroom instruction, meetings with representatives from various union offices, and gatherings with personnel from the Seafarers Plans, among other activities. During their presentations, the bosuns expressed 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 SIUcontracted vessels. They collectively thanked the union leadership for its continued support, and the PHC vocational and hotel staffs for their excellent instruction and accommodations, respectively. the scenes on our behalf,” he said. “And I encourage you to continue to support them in all of their efforts. That includes your continued donations to SPAD because it really works.” Ritvalsky then expressed his gratitude to the school’s instructors and staff for “implementing, running and being at the forefront of new technologies that impact the maritime industry. We have a world-class facility here with state-of-the-art equipment, training aids and up-to-date course materials,” he said. “The staff is very hands-on, warm and courteous. I encourage everyone to take advantage of the school and all it has to offer.” Addressing the trainees, Ritvalsky said, “You only get out what you put in. So, invest in yourself and your future.” He continued by telling all present that knowledge is power. “The more (knowledge) you gain, the more powerful you become,” he said. “Take advantage of all the courses that you can here at the school and move up quickly. “Once you go aboard ship, never hesitate to go to your bosun if you have concerns,” he concluded. “We represent you and are there for you. Always remember, we have all walked in your shoes.” “You are not going to get very far in life based on what you already know,” he said. “You’re going to advance in life by what you’re going to learn and accomplish after you leave here. Once you get out to sea, continue to work hard carry your load and never be afraid to ask questions.” In closing, he told the apprentices that the best leaders are grown from within the organization. “You have been chosen by the current leadership for this opportunity because of your recognized ability to lead your fellow teammates,” he said. “Remember, education does not stop after you graduate from here…. The acquisition of wisdom is a moral duty, not just something you do to advance in life. “Be the leaders you were appointed to be and make your team the best of the best,” he concluded. “We, the few and the proud, we thank you, SIU.” Marc Marcus Ritvalsky was the first to take the podium. A military veteran, he signed on with the union in 1991 and hails from port of Norfolk, Virginia. “I came into the union 26 years ago through the veterans’ program after serving six years in the U.S. Coast Guard,” he said. “Being a part of this brotherhood (the SIU) has given me a sense of belonging, made me an integral part of something bigger than myself and taught me the real meaning of self-worth.” Reflecting on the overall experience of going through the recertification course, Ritvalsky said that spending in-depth, one-on-one time with the union leadership afforded him a working knowledge of what it takes to run the successful organization that the SIU is. “Our union leadership and staff deserve true recognition for the outstanding job they are doing behind Roberson has been going to sea under the SIU banner for some 25 years. He sails from the port of Philadelphia and is a veteran of both the U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps. “I am the first and only member of my family to be a member of the U.S. Merchant Marine,” he told the audience upon taking the podium. “Being a merchant mariner has been the most exciting experience of my career.” Having circumnavigated the globe aboard union-contracted vessels on more than one occasion, Roberson said he has met a lot of interesting people, experienced a variety of cultures and seen many interesting things. “The SIU has been good to me and my family over the many years I have sailed,” he said. “I extend my thanks to all who have given me the opportunity to have a better life. I send a special thanks to our union officials for all of their efforts; especially for keeping the SIU strong and well.” Offering timely advice to the trainees, Roberson told them to study hard while at the school, become accustomed to working with classmates and to learn well the lessons being taught by their instructors. Marcus is a December 1970 graduate of the PHC apprentice program and has since returned to the school several times to upgrade his skills. A native of Baltimore, he currently sails from the Port of Jacksonville, Florida. “I initially returned to the school in order to remain current with the industry’s requirements and to maintain my eligibility to sail,” he said. “The ability to upgrade has always been a benefit and I encourage everyone to take advantage of it as often as possible.” Turning to his bosun recertification training experience, Marcus said it let him see what really goes on behind the scenes of the union’s daily operations. “It was very interesting to realize how all of these intricacies are woven together,” he said. “For example, through our political agenda, we protect existing laws and introduce new legislation in concert with other maritime and labor organizations. “The end result is keeping and creating jobs,” Marcus said. “This is all funded through SPAD, a most important voluntary contribution made through our membership.” Speaking of the PHC, Marcus told the audience: “Our school, with its state-of-the-art training, allows us to be the frontrunners in obtaining these jobs for our membership. It also allows our membership to go as far as they want in the industry – from unlicensed to licensed officers. This is just one example of how one aspect adheres to another…. I thank all the Recertified Bosun Walter Ritvalsky Recertified Bosun Rodney Roberson Sr. Recertified Bosun Marc Markus Walt Ritvalsky 12 Seafarers LOG Rodney Roberson Sr. instructors, the school’s administration and our union officials for all the progress we have made. I thank them all for a job well done.” In closing, Marcus urged his SIU brothers and sisters to stay informed. And while he and his classmates had just completed two weeks of intense training, he said that much of the information he received is also available through other easily accessible sources. Included in his list were the union’s website, the Seafarers LOG and the union’s approachable executives. “I encourage you to take advantage of all of them,” Marcus concluded. “An informed member can only result in a stronger union.” Roberto Flauta Flauta joined the union in 1992 in Honolulu. Born in the Philippines, he currently sails out of the port of Oakland, California. “The union has given me an opportunity to have a successful career,” he said. “It has also helped me to establish a far better life for myself and my family here in America.” Flauta said that thanks to his jobs with the SIU, his kids are making good on all of their ever-growing educational aspirations. “My children are excelling in their education because of my work,” he said. “Because of this job, my children will be taking their first cars to the stars and back.” Flauta said he was impressed with the entire bosun recertification curriculum, especially those portions that addressed member benefits and the contracting process. “The insights I gained on the [Seafarers Plans] and the contracting process were very valuable,” he said. “I can now provide information to my shipmates who have questions about these things.” Regarding SPAD, Flauta urged everyone present to continue making contributions to this very worthwhile fund. “To all members and trainees, I would like to ask you to continue to donate to SPAD,” he said. “Donations keep our jobs and the industry safe.” After advising the rank-and-file members to practice safety in every job-related task and to keep all mariner documents current, he told them to upgrade as often as possible. He closed by thanking union officials for keeping the union going strong. “The recertification class has given me an understanding of the history of the union, the different departments and [various programs] that affect members,” he said. “I now have the tools – including knowledge of contracts – to assist members with whatever they want to know. This has been a very informative experience for me.” Sasse launched his seafaring career when 16 years old. “I’ve been in this industry since 1975. I sailed under the Belgian flag, then with the U.S. Coast Guard, the National Maritime Union and now with the SIU,” he said. “I’ve been around the world several times and will probably do it several more times,” he continued. “I like different cultures and the history of languages…. I’d like to thank SIU President (Mike) Sacco and all those who were involved in making this happen.” Addressing the apprentices, Sasse said, “You young guys, you are our future. Go out there and learn, work hard and take pride in what you do. Be considerate of your shipmates and treat the ship as you would your own home; it is your home while you are there.” He then addressed rank-and-file members regarding the importance of political activity. “I ask you to help our officials by donating to SPAD,” he said, “so they can do their jobs to keep us strong and secure.” Sasse surrendered the podium with a final piece of advice for his brothers and sisters: “If you think you have a problem with alcohol or drugs, you probably do,” he said. “Jack Gallagher has a good program going on at the Addictions Rehabilitation Center (ARC). Let it be your decision to get help, not the Coast Guard’s.” Albert Konning Recertified Bosun Rodney Roberson Sr. (second from left) shares insights with Phase III apprentices aboard the PHC training vessel Freedom Star. Listening in and awaiting his turn to engage the trainees is Recertified Bosun Roberto Tremor Flauta (left.) Sasse is home-ported in Houston, the same location where he initially signed on with the union in 2001. Konning joined the SIU in Houston, his current home port. “I have been a part of this union since 2002,” he told his brothers and sisters. “I have been sailing for 30 years or more starting in 1978. I have sailed around the world … to the west, east, north, South Africa, Europe, the Far East and Asia.” Originally from Ghana, Konning said he is deeply indebted to the union because it “has helped me to become a citizen of the United States.” He then turned his attention to the PHC staff. “My thanks go to the union instructors and staff at the school for all of their hard work,” he said. “They did a great job during my recertification training and I learned a lot about leadership, union education, recruiting, manpower, U.S. Coast Guard regulations, claims, social responsibilities, drug and alcohol awareness, vacation records and SIU contracts. “The entire experience made me a better mariner by providing me a greater understanding of what I am doing,” he continued. “I can now explain things to my crew and answer any questions they put before me.” Turning to the apprentices, Konning advised them to study hard and learn from their instructors. “And Recertified Bosun Roberto Tremor Flauta Recertified Bosun Stig Sasse Jr. Recertified Bosun Albert Konning Jr. Stig Sasse Jr. September 2017 September 2017 when you get out to sea, work hard, carry your load and never be afraid to ask questions.” Before departing the podium, he encouraged all rank-and file members to upgrade their skills often and do their part to help protect union jobs by donating to SPAD. Vazquez Torres joined the SIU in 2001 in San Juan, Puerto Rico, his home port. He has upgraded his skills on four previous occasions at the PHC. “Being at the school (for bosun recertification training) has been an eye-opening experience for me,” Vazquez Torres said. “I learned a great deal about medical plans, pensions and the money purchase plan. These new insights will enable me to help keep my shipmates informed.” He then thanked “President Sacco, other union officials, staff members and everyone else involved in this great organization for making this day possible. I also want to thank (Port Agent) Amancio Crespo for his trust in me when I first shipped as a bosun a few years back,” he continued. “For that trust, I will always be grateful.” In similar fashion, he acknowledged union officials from the port of Houston for an extremely memorable role they played in his career. “They really came to my rescue a few years ago when shipping was really slow in Puerto Rico,” he said. “I flew to Houston to get work and those guys really treated me like I was family. I will never forget that.” Vazquez Torres then expressed his gratitude for the union’s new hall in Puerto Rico. “I again thank the leadership as well as others who were involved in the acquisition of our new union hall in Puerto Rico” he said. “It really does mean a lot to Recertified Bosun Abel Vazquez Torres Recertified Bosun Hussein Mohssen Mohamed Recertified Bosun LBJ Bliss Tanoa Abel Vazquez Torres Continued on next page Seafarers LOG 13 �Deck Department Members Realize Career Aspirations Continued from Page 13 all of us. There are still a few details to finalize but soon the new hall will be up and running.” Directing his attention to the apprentices, he said: “To all the young guys, let me tell you to work hard, always give 100 percent and don’t allow anyone to turn you around. There are no limits on how far you can go aside from those limits that you place on yourself.” In closing, Vazquez Torres stated, “Life for me as a mariner once was like a roller coaster: up and down. But thanks to the SIU, that has all changed. Everything now is moving forward. Once again, thanks to the SIU. You guys have made me more than just a sailor; you made me a professional.” Hussein Mohssen Mohamed Mohamed signed on with the union in 1999 in Honolulu. He currently sails out of Wilmington, Calif. “I found the bosun recertification course interesting and enjoyable,” he said. “The knowledge I gained will enable me to teach younger members how the union works.” Focusing on the positive impact that being a Seafarer has had on him, Mohamed said, “The SIU has afforded me the opportunity to have a good life for myself and my family. I have now been sailing for 17 years. I would also like to say thank you to our union leadership for all the hard work they do in keeping and protecting our jobs and this industry.” To the trainees, Mohammed offered: “My advice to you guys is to keep working hard, be responsible, keep a good attitude and upgrade your skills often.” In closing, he told the rank-and-file membership to keep their dues current and donate to SPAD as often as possible. LBJ Bliss Tanoa Tanoa was the final recertified bosun to speak. He started his career with the union in 1991 in Honolulu. He upgraded his skills in 1993 and 1998 at the PHC and in 2001 in Barbers Point, Hawaii. After extending his gratitude to the union’s executives and Seafarers Appeals Board for accepting his application to be a member of the recer- Recertified Bosuns Stig Sasse Jr. (second from right) and Abel Vazquez Torres (second from left) provide some hands-on training to Phase III apprentices aboard the PHC training vessel Freedom Star. tification class, he sent a shout-out to PHC officials. “I want to compliment the vice president, staff members and the Piney Point port agent for the awesome job they have done keeping our school top notch – the best in this country as well as overseas,” he said. “I made a promise and a commitment to my family and friends – past and present – who are now retired members of the deck, engine and steward departments aboard SIUcontacted vessels,” Tanoa continued. That promise, he added was that someday, he’d become an SIU recertified bosun. “Here I am today,” he said, “a member of the PHC recertified bosun class of 2017.” He then pointed out that he believes he is the first Samoan-born mariner from the Pacific Islands to earn bosun recertification status in the union’s history. As a result of being a member the union and achieving bosun recertification status, Tanoa said, “I have secured the American dream and a good future for my kids and family. And that’s why I want to thank SIU President Sacco and past presidents for the fair shake in life that I have had with the SIU during the past 26 years.” Turning to the trainees, he said, “My advice to our apprentice class is to take advantage of this opportunity to build a solid foundation and a better future for you and your family. Take advantage of the academic programs that we offer here and keep upgrading to better your skills for the challenges that lie ahead. “Our SIU motto is Strength in Unity,” he continued. “We are members of every race and religion. We speak every language; we’re every gender, sexual orientation and gender identity. And we were all born right here in the SIU, and we are one. Our diversity is our strength.” Addressing his fellow recertified bosuns, Tanoa suggested that each of them now knows the way forward and their collective responsibilities. “Our duty is to continue to be the eyes and ears for our union aboard ships,” he said. “We must advocate and protect the new and young union members and defend our collective bargaining rights.” In closing, he told all present that the devil never sleeps. “We have opponents out there who are bold, wellfunded and willing to fight,” he said. “I say bring it on. Brothers and sisters, we have the best executive board in SIU history to fight this battle all the time and we all must support them. “Remember, Strength in Unity and Unity is Our Strength.” At the conclusion of the meeting, union officials joined the nine recertified bosuns and members of the families for this photo. 14 Seafarers LOG September 2017 �September & October Membership Meetings Piney Point..........*Tuesday: September 5, Monday: October 2 Algonac....................................Friday: September 8, October 6 Baltimore.............................Thursday: September 7, October 5 Guam...............................Thursday: September 21, October 19 Honolulu...............................Friday: September 15, October 13 Houston.............Monday: September 11, *Tuesday: October 10 Jacksonville..........................Thursday: September 7, October 5 Joliet.................................Thursday: September 14, October 12 Mobile...........................Wednesday: September 13, October 11 New Orleans.......................Tuesday: September 12, October 10 Jersey City.............................Tuesday: September 5, October 3 Norfolk.................................Thursday: September 7, October 5 Oakland............................Thursday: September 14, October 12 Philadelphia......................Wednesday: September 6, October 4 Port Everglades................Thursday: September 14, October 12 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea July 16, 2017 - August 15, 2017 Tacoma.................................Friday: September 22, October 20 Wilmington...........................Monday: September 18, October 16 * Piney Point change due to Labor Day *Houston change created by Columbus Day observance. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m Personal Mark Lance Retired SIU member Mark Lance would like to hear from his old shipmates. He may be contacted at mtalance@sbcglobal.net or (530) 781-4639. Correction In the August LOG, the story about longtime SIU member Vern Poulsen listed an incorrect date of death. Brother Poulsen passed away May 30. ATTENTION SEAFARERS! Contribute To SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation) September 2017 Total Shipped All Groups A B Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 20 13 2 21 14 1 5 25 13 3 4 1 1 2 0 2 1 5 1 0 11 7 4 2 2 2 2 14 7 2 27 15 6 12 15 4 3 35 11 5 5 0 0 4 0 0 0 7 2 0 9 1 6 12 0 2 5 12 3 5 10 6 0 7 5 3 4 16 9 2 45 9 19 50 6 8 21 83 7 29 34 16 13 27 12 10 20 64 35 17 30 12 3 30 17 4 18 68 21 6 5 2 1 2 3 0 0 6 2 1 15 1 5 5 4 1 2 24 3 11 16 19 6 10 16 7 8 31 17 6 21 7 2 11 3 2 6 28 7 4 2 5 0 4 3 0 1 2 8 1 3 0 1 1 2 1 2 5 2 0 4 5 1 4 6 1 4 11 7 0 43 9 5 27 5 3 7 57 17 6 0 2 1 1 4 0 0 3 1 2 32 15 1 30 7 3 11 60 19 11 336 145 82 262 124 54 120 556 192 116 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 4 1 4 1 0 2 1 7 3 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 4 2 2 1 1 1 1 6 3 10 3 2 5 2 3 5 18 4 4 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 5 3 0 1 1 0 1 8 5 1 8 3 0 4 0 1 2 20 9 0 18 8 3 12 7 1 6 30 15 5 23 14 4 15 11 1 11 41 14 3 13 7 0 7 3 0 2 20 8 0 3 1 0 3 0 0 0 3 1 0 6 2 2 5 4 1 3 9 3 3 16 16 5 10 11 4 10 22 17 4 5 8 2 11 3 2 4 9 7 2 3 3 0 2 2 0 1 7 1 0 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 1 5 0 5 6 1 3 0 0 0 7 10 1 17 5 3 12 11 1 5 32 4 1 2 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 11 5 4 12 2 1 4 20 16 6 150 95 34 106 60 18 56 256 130 36 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 1 1 0 0 3 1 1 5 3 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 1 1 4 0 0 0 6 1 1 5 1 1 11 0 2 4 9 2 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 5 2 1 5 0 0 2 7 3 1 10 0 0 3 1 0 1 17 2 1 24 2 3 15 2 0 7 40 9 2 12 6 1 11 7 1 7 25 10 2 14 4 0 5 2 0 3 22 5 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 3 0 4 4 0 2 2 0 2 6 4 1 12 12 3 15 7 3 5 12 14 2 22 5 1 20 2 2 6 21 6 3 1 0 1 7 0 1 4 3 0 1 5 2 0 4 0 0 1 4 4 0 2 3 2 4 3 2 5 5 7 0 16 1 2 14 1 1 4 21 2 2 2 1 0 4 0 0 1 5 1 0 20 8 3 14 2 1 3 34 9 2 164 56 19 139 34 14 56 244 86 19 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 3 15 10 0 11 6 4 4 19 9 0 1 2 0 0 3 0 0 2 2 1 0 4 1 0 1 0 0 0 3 0 6 7 0 2 4 0 1 7 8 0 3 2 0 1 0 0 0 2 2 0 1 6 1 1 2 0 0 1 6 0 4 3 2 2 4 0 1 13 7 2 12 7 3 12 5 2 7 12 15 7 13 37 1 11 21 2 5 21 68 2 16 12 1 3 6 0 4 29 15 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 2 3 0 11 19 0 6 24 3 1 25 32 2 15 11 1 12 2 2 4 21 17 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 5 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 3 9 7 4 7 9 3 5 27 25 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 15 20 3 8 19 1 11 24 36 22 122 150 17 76 109 23 43 207 251 GRAND TOTAL: 672 418 285 524 294 195 255 1,099 615 422 C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C San Juan..............................Thursday: September 7, October 5 St. Louis................................Friday: September 15, October 13 Total Registered A All Groups B C Seafarers LOG 15 �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 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by SIU members at the union hall in New Orleans. Question: What are some things you enjoy doing in your free time? Lamar Parker QMED I’ve made enough money through my career with the SIU to invest and get involved in real estate. It’s my passion, and a great way to prepare for your retirement. Thanks to the cost-saving advantages of attending classes at the Paul Hall Center – and having my health care paid for by the union – I’ve been able to really plan ahead. John Hale Steward/Baker When I’m on a ship, it’s all work for me. We work long hours, so I don’t usually do much in my spare time. Off work, it’s taking care of my family, working around the house and cutting the grass. Santos Antonio AB In my free time, I’m at the gym. Whether I’m on board a vessel or at home, I’m constantly trying to stay in shape. It’s important to stay fit as a mariner. Walter Laux Wiper I’m busy all the time, but usually just chores like cutting the grass and that sort of thing. I do like to watch soccer on TV when I can, since I’m too old to play soccer anymore. Jeremie Brooks AB On the ship, I’m working out and lifting weights in my spare time. When I’m off, I’m riding my motorcycle. I take cross-country trips, meeting up with other riders everywhere I go. When you’re on a ship for four or five months, and then off for four or five months, you get opportunities to travel that most people don’t have. Stella Whitley GUDE I like to go to the gym, but mostly I play video games in my free time. When I’m on a ship, I’ll read books, and at home I like to go fishing, but it’s mostly Madden and a few first-person shooters for me. Pic From The Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 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 According to the original caption, this snapshot was taken on Aug. 8, 1941. It’s a view looking north above what was described as a “small boat harbor” in Piney Point, Maryland. Piney Point, of course, would become the home of the SIU-affiliated Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in 1967. The overall campus (located to the east of where this photo was taken) in 1991 was renamed the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. 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 2017 �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, 60, began sailing with the SIU in 1981. He originally shipped on the Santa Mariana. The deck department member upgraded on multiple occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Ahmed’s last vessel was the Maersk Chicago. He lives in Ponchatoula, Louisiana. RYVER ALEXANDER Sister Ryver Alexander, 65, first donned the SIU colors in 2005, working on the Wa­ ters. A member of the steward department, she enhanced her skills often at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. Sister Alexander last worked on the Ohio. She calls Sunrise, Florida, home. GARY BARTLETT Brother Gary Bartlett, 65, started shipping with the Seafarers in 2002. He first sailed as an engine department member on the Equality State. He most recently sailed aboard the De­ pendable. Brother Bartlett is a resident of Gig Harbor, Washington. GERALD BOLLINGER Brother Gerald Bollinger, 67, donned the union colors in 1969. He first sailed with Erie Navigation, and most recently shipped aboard the St John. Brother Bollinger worked in the engine department and resides in Erie, Pennsylvania. JAMES CHESHIRE Brother James Cheshire, 71, joined the union in 1995. He first sailed with OSG Ship Management, working as a deck department member. In 1997, Brother Cheshire attended classes at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. He concluded his career on the Overseas Joyce and resides in Stuart, Florida. JOAN ELLIS Sister Joan Ellis, 65, became a Seafarer in 1989. The deck department member initially sailed on the LNG Leo. Sister Ellis upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1998. She last shipped aboard the LNG Capricorn and lives in Kingston, New York. September 2017 PHILIP FULMER VELLY MARQUEZ Brother Philip Fulmer, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1998. He originally worked on the Baldomero Lopez. Brother Fulmer took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Piney Point school and upgraded in 2010. He sailed in the deck department and his most recent ship was the Jack Lummus. Brother Fulmer resides in Marietta, Ohio. Brother Velly Marquez, 63, began shipping with the union in 2003, initially working on the Chesapeake Bay. He upgraded twice at the SIUaffiliated school in Piney Pont, Maryland. Brother Marquez worked in the deck department. He most recently shipped aboard the Alliance Norfolk and resides in Kissimmee, Florida. ANDREW GREENWOOD Brother Andrew Greenwood, 65, started sailing with the union in 1973. He first shipped aboard the John Tyler. Brother Greenwood attended classes on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. As a member of the engine department, he most recently worked aboard the Horizon Consumer. He now calls Sumner, Washington, home. JOHN HABIB Brother John Habib, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1978, as a deck department member. He first worked on the Philadelphia. Brother Habib upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 2004. He most recently sailed on the Horizon Reliance. Born in Syria, he is now settled in Wilmington, California. JOHNNY MORRIS Brother Johnny Morris, 61, started sailing with the SIU in 2001. He first shipped on the Overseas Wash­ ington, and upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2010. A deck department member, Brother Morris last worked on the Mary Sears. He is a resident of Las Vegas. JAMES OLING Brother James Oling, 65, became a union member in 1999. He started his career working aboard the John Paul Bobo. Brother Oling sailed in the engine department. On several occasions, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Oling’s most recent trip was on the Burns Harbor. He settled in Oak Forest, Illinois. HECTOR PILGRIM Sister Janet Jourdan, 67, began sailing with the SIU in 2003. She first shipped with Marine Personnel and Provisioning, working in the steward department. Sister Jourdan took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point School and upgraded in 2004. Prior to her retirement, she shipped on the Cap­ tain David Lyon. The New Orleans native now resides in Katy, Texas. Brother Hector Pilgrim, 65, signed on with the SIU in 2003. He first sailed on the Maersk Maine in the deck department. Brother Pilgrim upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2002 before concluding his career on the Liberator. He resides in Brooklyn, New York. WALTER LOVELESS PETER POREE Brother Walter Loveless, 65, became a union member in 1969. He initially sailed on the Columbia Rose, working in the deck department. Brother Loveless upgraded at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, in 1999 and 2006. He most recently shipped on the Algol and lives in Destrehan, Louisiana. Brother Peter Poree, 67, joined the SIU in 1990. He initially sailed aboard the Silas Bent, working in the deck department. He took advantage of training opportunities at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, and upgraded in 2001. After his final trip on the Cal­ vin P. Titus, Brother Poree settled in Aitkin, Minnesota. JANET JOURDAN JESSE MANARD Brother Jesse Manard, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1976. A member of the engine department, he originally worked for CLM Enterprises. Brother Manard upgraded at the Piney Point School in 1984 and 2001. He last sailed on the Horizon Reli­ ance and now resides in Las Vegas. JIMMIE SCHECK Brother Jimmie Scheck, 60, signed on with the union in 1977. The St. Louis native initially worked aboard the Zapata Courier. He was a deck department member and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center in Maryland. Brother Engle upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1975 and 1978. He last sailed with Mariner Towing and is a resident of Egg Harbor, New Jersey. Scheck’s final vessel was the Ocean Freedom. He lives in Dickinson, Texas. ALLEN VAN BUREN Brother Allen Van Buren, 66, joined the SIU in 1976. He initially worked with the Empire Transport Company as a member of the steward department. On several occasions, Brother Van Buren took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center. He last sailed on the Alli­ ance Norfolk and calls Jacksonville, Florida, home. LAWRENCE ZEPEDA Brother Lawrence Zepeda, 64, signed on with the union in 1971. He first shipped aboard the Trans Idaho as a member of the deck department. Brother Zepeda upgraded often at the Piney Point School. His last vessel was the Overseas Houston and he makes his home in Galveston, Texas. LOUIS ZIZZO Brother Louis Zizzo, 66, donned the SIU colors in 1973. He started his career working on the Ohio as a deck department member. Brother Zizzo enhanced his skills on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center in Maryland. He calls Temecula, California, home. GREAT LAKES HERBERT SCHILLER Brother Herbert Schiller, 60, began his SIU career in 1988. He was originally employed on the EM Ford. Brother Schiller enhanced his skills at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, in 2007. He last worked aboard the Alpena and was a member of the deck department. Brother Schiller resides in Alpena, Michigan. INLAND PAUL DIMAURO Brother Paul DiMauro, 66, began his SIU career in 2008. He worked for Crowley Towing & Transportation throughout his career and was a member of the steward department. Brother DiMauro resides in Orange Park, Florida. THOMAS ENGLE Brother Thomas Engle, 62, joined the SIU ranks in 1975. He was initially employed with Steuart Transportation Company as a member of the engine department. Brother LAWRENCE ISENHART Brother Lawrence Isenhart, 63, joined the SIU in 1973. He first worked for Allied Transportation in the engine department. Brother Isenhart was last employed with Penn Maritime Inc. He lives in Stonewall, North Carolina. RANDOL ISLES Brother Randol Isles, 71, joined the union in 2001, working for Penn Maritime. Brother Isles was a deck department member and enhanced his skills in 2006 at the Piney Point school. After being employed with the same company during his entire seafaring career, he settled in Ingleside, Texas. STEPHEN JEAN Brother Stephen Jean, 62, started sailing with the union in 1991. He shipped with Tampa Bay Pilots as a steward department member for the duration of his SIU career. Brother Jean resides in St. Petersburg, Florida. LON PINER Brother Lon Piner, 63, joined the union in 2001. Initially working for Penn Maritime, he was a member of the engine department. Brother Piner upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center in Maryland. He concluded his career on the Re­ solve and now calls Smyrna, North Carolina, home. GREGORY ROCHELEAU Brother Gregory Rocheleau, 62, started shipping with the SIU in 1976. Initially, he sailed with Hvide Marine, working in the deck department. Brother Rocheleau last worked aboard the Detroit Princess and resides in Shelby Township, Michigan. BILLY WILLIAMS Brother Billy Williams, 63, signed on with the union in 1975. The Virginia native initially worked for McAllister Towing of Virginia. He was an engine department member and upgraded often at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Concluding his career with Moran Towing, Brother Williams settled in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA DENNIS BROWN Pensioner Dennis Brown, 74, passed away April 10. He became a union member in 1969. Brother Brown’s first trip was aboard the Maury. He finished his career working on the Tacoma. Brother Brown began collecting his pension in 2007. The deck department member called Redlands, California, home. MARCELINO BULANTE Pensioner Marcelino Bulante, 86, passed away May 24. Brother Bulante signed on with the SIU in 1977, working aboard the Long Lines. He sailed in the deck department and last shipped on the Pacer. Brother Bulante began collecting his pension in 1996 and settled in San Pablo, California. GENE BUTSON Pensioner Gene Butson, 66, died April 4. A member of the deck department, he first sailed on the Silas Bent in 1996. Born in Cleveland, Brother Butson last worked aboard the Alaskan Leg­ end before going on pension in 2016. He resided in Twentynine Palms, California. WALTER CAGLE Pensioner Walter Cagle, 74, passed away March 24. Born in Paris, he joined the SIU in 1997. Brother Cagle shipped as a member of the deck department. He first worked aboard the Kane. Before retiring in 2014, he shipped on the Westward Venture. Brother Cagle made his home in Kingman, Arizona. RAYMOND DEVINE Pensioner Raymond Devine, 92, died May 12. He became a Seafarer in 1951. Brother Devine was a member of the steward department, initially sailing aboard the Quartett. He last worked for Cove Shipping before collecting his pension beginning in 1982. WILLIAM HOLLAND Brother William Holland, 61, died July 14. He joined the union in 1997 and first sailed aboard the USNS Effective. The deck department member last worked on the Vindicator. Brother Holland was a resident of Sebring, Florida. 18 Seafarers LOG PAUL KING Pensioner Paul King, 86, passed away April 28. He signed on with the SIU in 1956; one of his first ships was operated by Waterman. A member of the deck department, Brother King last worked aboard the Charger before going on pension in 1992. He lived in Winona, Mississippi. JESSE LEWIS Pensioner Jesse Lewis, 87, died April 22. Brother Lewis signed on with the SIU in 1951, initially sailing aboard the John B. Water­ man. He worked in the deck department and was a native of North Carolina. Prior to Brother Lewis’ retirement in 1980, he sailed aboard the Santa Magdelena. He was a resident of Everett, Washington. GUILLERMO O’NEILL Pensioner Guillermo O’Neill, 80, died May 20. Brother Guillermo joined the union in 1958 and was a member of the deck department. His first ship was the Steel Artisan; his last, the Elizabeth. Brother Guillermo went on pension in 1995 and resided in Newark, New Jersey. WILLIAM PARKER Pensioner William Parker, 69, passed away April 24. He started shipping with the Seafarers in 1966. Brother Parker initially worked on the Steel Flyer. He sailed in the engine department, last sailing aboard the John Paul Bobo. He became a pensioner in 2012 and lived in Chesapeake, Virginia. ISABELO QUANICO Pensioner Isabelo Quanico, 94, died May 8. He joined the SIU in 1951. Born in the Philippines, Brother Quanico was a member of the steward department. He last worked on the Overseas Val­ dez before going on Pension in 1985. Brother Quanico made his home in Daly City, California. DIOGENES SANTOS Pensioner Diogenes Santos, 85, passed away May 23. Initially, he worked on the Producer, as a member of the engine department. He last sailed aboard the Green Island before retiring in 2002. Brother Santos was a resident of Metairie, Louisiana. JAMES TANNER Pensioner James Tanner, 89, died April 22. Brother Tanner joined the union in 1951, working on the Del Sud. He shipped as a member of the deck department. Before going on pension in 1987, Brother Tanner last sailed on the Producer. He settled in his home state of Alabama in the city of Evergreen. LOTHAR WICK Pensioner Lothar Wick, 66, died May 12. He became a member of the SIU in 1985, working aboard the Independence. Sailing in the engine department, Brother Wick last worked on the Global Sentinel. He went on pension in 2013 and resided in Piney Point, Maryland. PACIFIC MARINE MUNG HOW Pensioner Mung How, 92, passed away April 27. Born in Hawaii, he signed on with the union in 1978. Brother How was a member of the steward department and first worked with States Steamship Company. Before retiring in 1987, he last sailed aboard the Manukai. He lived in San Francisco. GLOUCESTER FISHERMAN SALVATORE AIELLO Pensioner Salvatore Aiello, 92, died April 6. Brother Aiello was born in Massachusetts and was a member of the steward department. He began collecting his pension in 1987 and continued to live in his home state in the city of Gloucester. INLAND CHARLES CRAFFORD Pensioner Charles Crafford, 89, passed away April 26. A member of the steward department, he first sailed with Delta Lines in 1953. Brother Crafford last worked aboard a Moran Towing of Virginia boat before becoming a pensioner in 1987. He lived in Suffolk, Virginia. WEBSTER DUBROC Pensioner Webster Dubroc, 78, died May 13. He became a member of the SIU in 1976. Brother Dubroc sailed in the steward department, and worked for Cres- cent Towing and Salvage his entire career before going on pension in 2002. He resided in Saucier, Mississippi. EDWARD FORTNER Pensioner Edward Fortner, 89, passed away April 14. He joined the union in 1962, sailing in the steward department for Dixie Carriers. Brother Fortner last worked for Sheridan Transportation before going on pension in 1995. He settled in Slidell, Louisiana. SHERWOOD LEWIS Brother Sherwood Lewis, 80, died April 21. He joined the SIU in 1975, working for Express Marine. Brother Lewis was a steward department member and last sailed with OSG Ship Management before going on pension in 2008. He resided in Beaufort, North Carolina. NOEL LOPEZ Brother Noel Lopez, 65, passed away April 8. A member of the deck department, he first sailed with Crowley Puerto Rico Services. Brother Lopez last worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation before going on pension in 2013. He was a resident of Aguada, Puerto Rico. NORTON WHITE Pensioner Norton White, 98, died April 5. He signed on with the SIU in 1977, working as a deck department member for Marine Contracting and Towing. Brother White continued to work for the same company for the entirety of his career before becoming a pensioner in 1983. He called Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, home. GREAT LAKES DAVID BARBER Pensioner David Barber, 65, passed away April 27. He joined the union in 1969, work- ing initially on the American Seaocean. Brother Barber, a member of the deck department, last sailed on the Buffalo before settling in Suttons Bay, Michigan. CLIFFORD TALLEY Pensioner Clifford Talley, 89, died April 17. He started sailing with the union in 1972. Brother Talley initially sailed on the JS Mor­ row as a member of the deck department. The Georgia native most recently worked aboard the William Roesch. He retired in 1993 and settled in Lakeland, Florida. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION WILLIAM DONOWA Pensioner William Donowa, 91, passed away May 2. He worked as a member of the deck department before retiring in 1968. He lived in Las Cruces, New Mexico. VICTOR RODRIGUEZ Pensioner Victor Rodriguez, 89, died April 14. He shipped as a member of the deck department and went on pension in 1987. Brother Rodriguez resided in Orlando, Florida. AURELIO TORRES Pensioner Aurelio Torres, 98, passed away May 15. He worked as a member of the deck department and retired in 1985. Brother Torres settled in his native Lares, Puerto Rico. Name Henry Beckford William Blake Thomas Balcom Gordon De Cambra Alex Fuller Amado Garcia Albert Green Michael Halpin Alexander Harrell Rudolph Johnson Nick Kalorin Norman Keating Leo Kratz Muriel Martin Rafael Pierluisse Raul Rodriguez Joseph Royals Vicente Sanquiche Ghaleb Saleh Jose Vieira Kenneth Westbrook Elbert Williams Age DOD 73 May 8 88 April 12 85 May 13 94 April 23 91 March 21 91 April 3 84 April 2 81 March 14 87 April 13 73 May 9 87 April 3 91 March 11 87 February 12 92 March 13 89 April 21 94 April 24 91 May 27 88 April 4 78 April 22 91 April 10 90 April 18 93 April 1 September 2017 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings USNS MENDONCA (AMSEA), May 2 – Chairman Roberto Flores Monge, Secretary Verleshia Robinson. Secretary reported resolution to old business regarding pension policies. Chairman discussed concern with hazard-pay issue. Anticipated resolution to follow per conversation with Houston port agent. Secretary encouraged crew to upgrade at the reconstructed Paul Hall School, noting new and improved living accommodations. She expressed gratitude for the union, mentioning the importance of SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation). Steward delegate mentioned ongoing effort to provide healthful menus. No beefs or disputed OT reported by department delegates. Members requested new mattresses via conference call to company. BENAVIDEZ (AMSEA), May 12 – Chairman John Mendez, Secretary Dorray Saberon, Educational Director Todd Williams, Deck Delegate Eddie Thomas, Steward Delegate Penny Taylor. Chairman reported good trip and expressed gratitude to steward department for a job well done. Secretary praised chief cook, declaring food was enjoyed by all. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade at the Piney Point school and stressed importance of keeping documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested timely relays, noting consequential fees otherwise. They asked about weekly overtime format and requested email access for all members. Crew responded quickly to a small fire during early morning hours mid-ocean. They quickly and professionally put out the fire, avoiding injury and damage to ship. Next Port: Seattle. AMERICAN FREEDOM (Intrepid), May 7 – Chairman Joshua Mensah, Secretary Stephen Avallone, Educational Director Felix Garcia, Deck Delegate Brandon Albro, Engine Delegate Benjamin Stanley, Steward Delegate David Dingman. Seafarers LOG report read by chairman. Educational director advised members to upgrade whenever possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew suggested increasing pension benefits. Members requested power strips for rooms and enzyme-based cleaner for engine department. Vote of thanks given to steward department. OVERSEAS LOS ANGELES (OSG), May 14 – Chairman Teodulfo Alanano, Secretary Glenn Toledo, Educational Director Criseldo Espinosa. Chairman advised crew to check dates of documents and to contribute to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation). He reminded everyone to change linens before next crew arrives and thanked them for good housekeeping. Educational September 2017 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 Midnight Sun Chief Cook Sal Ahmed submitted these photos from the Independence Day cookout aboard Tote’s Midnight Sun. Vessel master Capt. Daniel Severino – also known as Captain Cook – “gave us a break for this holiday by stepping up in the galley,” Ahmed reported. “He did all the meats, from cutting and marinating and grilling, as he’s done on previous holidays. He did a great job as always; he has a love of cooking.” Ahmed also offered kudos to the rest of his fellow mariners and to SIU officials “for working to provide us a great opportunity to be here as merchant mariners. This is a happy ship!” A few additional photos from the cookout are posted on the Seafarers LOG Facebook page (facebook.com/siulog) Some of the deck gang SA Jonathan Borroto and Chief Steward Eric Manley director encouraged members to upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members suggested additional day during 60-day relief in order to file for vacation. Steward department thanked for a job well done. Next Port: Los Angeles. ST LOUIS EXPRESS (Marine Personnel and Provisioning) June 5 – Chairman Matthew Sagay, Secretary Sean Richard, Educational Director Barry Knowles. Chairman reiterated importance of keeping documents current. Secretary reminded members taking medicine to make sure they have enough on hand for their trip. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed new contract, expressing interest in what they deem a more competitive vacation day count. Members would like pension plan to be examined. PHILADELPHIA EXPRESS (Crowley), June 14 – Chairman Jose Jimenea, Secretary Kenneth Whitfield, Deck Delegate James Armer, Engine Delegate Phillip Niles, Steward Delegate Bernard Butts. Chairman thanked crew for being safe. He urged members to stay up to date on documents and to go through proper channels should a problem arise. Chief Cook Sal Ahmed, AB John Coleman Discussions regarding payoff as well as pension requirement information planned to take place in Houston. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade their skills at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President Mike Sacco commended by crew for a great job keeping the union strong. Members requested updated TVs in their rooms. Steward department thanked for good food. Crew expressed desire for increase in vacation days, optional direct deposit for draws and lowering of required retirement age. Next Port: Houston. OVERSEAS CHINOOK (OSG), June 17 – Chairman Donaldo Clotter, Secretary Jack Hart, Educational Director Rickey Yancey, Engine Delegate Teodocio Ruiz. Members reviewed old minutes and the well-received new contract. Chairman thanked crew for being safe. He warned of dangers during hot weather, advising everyone to drink plenty of water and take breaks as needed. Members were thanked for good housekeeping. Educational director reminded crew to check documents and to upgrade at the school for better jobs and better pay. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Engine Proof that Red Sox fans and Tigers fans can coexist: That’s Capt. Severino on the left, with AB Gamal Muflahi. delegate gave thanks to the union and headquarters for new jobs and new contracts. Members requested union to look into payment procedures. USNS MENDONCA (AMSEA), June 20 – Chairman Stephen Roell, Secretary Verleshia Robinson. Bosun reminded members of proper chain of command on FOS trips and deadlines for submitting beef reports. Chairman to seek information about SIU jobs remaining on current vessel. Secretary reported new SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation) donations forwarded following encouraging meeting in May. No beefs or disputed OT reported. HORIZON KODIAK (Matson), June 25 – Chairman Christopher Pompel, Secretary Lovie Perez, Educational Director Donald Williams. Chairman touched base on 2017-2022 contract, noting no word as of yet for hard copy. He went over union member rights. Chairman encouraged members to contribute to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation), further strengthening the Jones Act. Secretary informed crew of newly available direct deposit option via online SIU portal. Educational director urged members to upgrade often at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clean ship and good food reported from first-time crew member. Requests made for medical cards to no longer use Social Security number as identification number. Members expressed interest for both shipping board and registration availability online. They also suggested times for job calls. Next Port: Tacoma, Washington. TEXAS (Crowley), June 26 – Chairman Burkley Cooper, Secretary Richard Jones, Educational Director Furman Watson, Deck Delegate Stones Cooper, Engine Delegate Flavio Suazo, Steward Delegate Jermaine Robinson. Chairman discussed upcoming contract changes. He announced payoff date, scheduled July 1 in Tampa, Florida. Steward department thanked for great food. Members were advised to keep rooms clean. Secretary thanked crew for keeping mess hall orderly. Educational director reminded members to make sure documents were current and to upgrade at the school as often as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested clarification for job duties and job titles. Next Port: Tampa. Seafarers LOG 19 �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, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. 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 Gap Closing Courses Engineroom Resource Management November 27 December 1 Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Welding September 30 October 20 October 21 November 10 November 25 December 15 Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Ops October 7 November 3 November 18 December 15 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start September 11. Chief Steward September 23 November 17 Leadership and Managerial Skills December 2 December 8 Galley Operations September 9 October 6 Deck Department Upgrading Courses November 4 December 1 Able Seafarer Deck October 7 November 3 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Stu- dents will be advised of dates once accepted. ARPA September 30 October 6 December 9 December 15 Crane Familiarization October 21 October 27 ECDIS October 14 October 20 Fast Rescue Boat September 16 September 22 Lifeboat September 23 October 6 October 21 November 3 November 18 December 1 December 16 December 29 Radar Observer September 16 September 29 November 25 December 8 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW November 4 December 1 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers December 2 Galley Assessment Program (GAP) October 7 November 3 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training w/16hr FF October 14 October 20 November 25 December 1 December 2 December 8 Basic Training Revalidation September 22 September 22 October 6 October 6 October 13 October 13 November 10 November 10 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation September 16 September 22 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting October 21 October 27 Government Vessels September 30 October 6 December 9 December 15 Medical Care Provider October 28 November 3 December 2 December 8 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL November 18 November 24 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG November 11 November 17 December 2 December 8 December 15 BAPO November 4 December 1 FOWT October 7 November 3 Junior Engineer October 7 December 1 Machinist November 11 December 1 Marine Refer Tech September 30 November 10 Pumpman September 30 October 6 December 2 December 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 # and dates attended___________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this applica­ tion, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG 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 stu­ dents, who are otherwise qualified, or 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. 9/17 September 2017 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #826 – The following Phase I apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course July 14: Mason Cook, Carlos Omar DiazTorres, John Hafner, Luzern Hawkins, Alphonso Johnson Jr., Sherman Kennon Jr., Justin Krainis, Montel MacKey, Dante Moyer, Camonte Terrell, Chauncey Wilkerson, Kevin Willis and Philip Zulueta. Tank Ship Familiarization DL/LG – The following Phase III apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course July 7: Dalrick Fleming, Joseph Franta, Tyler Gardner, Raymond Green, Dustin Harrison, Abby Lacombe, Joseph Reilly and Jerald Welcome. Each plans to work in the deck department aboard American-flag vessels once they fulfill all of their training requirements. UA to AS-D – Nine individuals completed this course July 14. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Alexander Ayers, Todd Colabella, Benjamin Dorries, Kevin Hampton, Ian Jervi Juanillo, Nicholas Kragh, Andrew Mendoza, Phillip Nichols and Alicia Plunkett. Class instructor Welton Grooms is at the far left in the back row. Tank Ship Familiarization DL/LG – Eleven Phase III apprentices completed this course July 7. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: George Beaufils, David Bussey, Charles Collins III, David Cornelius, Marsalis Dawson, Jeffrey Hamer, Deidra Hunter, Bryan Moreira, Thomas Nelson Jr., Samuel Parkinson and Benjamin Thuringer. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the engine department aboard American-flag vessels. Government Vessels – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course June 30: Johnathan Brown Jr., Keith Carswell, Maurice Hyde, Marques Johnson, Mike Kifle, Jared Latta, Joseph Lebeau, Mustafa Abdul Malik, Robert Ott, Sean Outlaw, Jayson Ray and Trevor Walker. Leadership & Management Skills – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course June 16: James Copeland, William Dodd, Edward Mateo Galbis, Oscar Emilio Garcia, Clive Steward, Daniel Tapley, Alexandra Tittsworth, Cody Walthall and Richard Wright. (Note: Not all are pictured.) September 2017 Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Six upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills in this course July 21. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Chris Badouin, Richard Jones, Ronaldo Jose Quinones Perez, Andre Robinson Sr., George Emanuel Santiago and Martin Warren. Engine Room Resource Management – Six upgraders completed this course June 9. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: William Dodd, Edward Mateo Galbis, Oscar Emilio Garcia, Clive Steward, Alexandra Tittsworth and Richard Wright. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Medical Care Provider – The following upgraders improved their skills by completing this course June 23. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Joel Bell Jr., Anjwar Brooks, Keith Carswell, Eric Dukett, Ann Mensch, Steven Miller and Lawrence Todd Jr. Class instructor Mike Roberts is at the far left. Tank Ship Familiarization DL/LG – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course June 16: Rasheen Malik Breathwaite, Johnathan Brown Jr., Marcus Brown, Troy Davis, Tyrone Ellis, Marvin Fabrizius, Mark Fitzgerald, Antonio Miguel Gutierrez, Rene Gregorio Hallasgo, Joseph Lebeau, Johnnie Owens Jr., Ricky Rivera-Martinez, John Telles and Kennard Young. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Small Arms (M-14) – Four Seafarers enhanced their skills by completing this course June 22. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: David James, Mustafa Abdul Malik, Eric Mose and Wallace William. Class instructors Matthew Rogers and John Thomas are at the far left and far right, respectively. Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Seventeen upgraders finished this course June 23. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Xavier Mercado Alfaro, Jose Calixto Canales, Oscar Agustin Cordero, Allen Davis, Michael Eaton, Braulio Auguis Ente Jr., Oliver Luc Especa, Scott Fuller, Joel Harris, Josue Luis Iglesia Jr., Enchantress Charmaine Johnson, Marques Johnson, Demarkus Antoine McNabb, Starling Jerydie Priester, La’sonia Randolph, Jayson Ray and Terrance Shinn. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Basic Training Upgraders (Basic Firefighting) – The following upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills in this course June 16. Graduating (photo at left, in alphabetical order) were: Efren Panganiban Aguirre, Gertrudis Flores Arzu, Abraham Andres Dominguez, Braulio Auguis Ente Jr., Scott Fuller, Robert Greenwood, Calvin Griffith, Josue Luis Iglesia Jr., Marques Johnson, Lorraine Keelen, Daniel Lind, Mustafa Abdul Malik, Abdelhak Moutmir, Constance Mullings, Tadeo O’Brien, Amanda Fedelina Suncin, Joselito Madriaga Vicente and Wilbert Wood Jr. Class instructor Mike Roberts is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Important Notice To All 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. Combined Basic & Advanced Firefighting – Fourteen individuals finished this course June 16. Graduating (photo at left, in alphabetical order) were: Joel Bell Jr., Anjwar Brooks, Dominique Calvy, Keith Carswell, Allen Davis, David Garrett, Michael Hunnicutt, Enchantress Johnson, Ann Mensch, Jayson Ray, Charles Searfass, Terrance Shinn, Lawrence Todd Jr. and Sean Wilson. 22 Seafarers LOG September 2017 �Paul Hall Center Classes Basic Training Upgraders (Basic Firefighting) – The following Seafarers (photo at left, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course June 23: Christopher Baker, Elizabeth Byrd, Paul Conway, Christian Cruz, Mark Fitzgerald, Rene Fuentes Jr., Jeromy Furnas, Marco Tulio Guevara, Matthew Jesmer, Gizelle Jones, Alan Squier and Robert Wright Jr. Class instructors Gary Joy and Mark Cates are at the far left and far right, respectively. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Basic Training (Advanced Firefighting Revalidation) – Ten upgraders finished this course June 30. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ahmed Ibrahim Abolela, Xavier Mercado Alfaro, Timothy Dorn, Patrick Dowling, Eric Dukett, Christopher Farmer, Alonzo Griswell, Scott Hanson, Walter Ritvalsky and Robert Shaver. Their instructor, John Thomas, is at the far right. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Upgrader William Sculley III (above, left) graduated from this course June 30. Joining him during the celebration of his accomplishment is Mike Roberts, his instructor. Seward Department Courses – Three members of the steward department recently improved their skills by completing courses. Tania Ramirez-Diego (above, left) and Martin Warren (center) graduated from modules in the Certified Chief Cook course June 16 and June 30, respectively, while Delmis David (right) on June 16 graduated from the galley ops course. Galley Operations – The following steward department upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course June 16: Edgardo Astua, Elijah Boson, Jorge Luis Camacho-Borrero, Zoe Felton, Jowaiian Kaeo Cruz Labrador, Laura McBroom, Steven Miller, John Panuelos and Brittany Steward. September 2017 Basic Firefighting (Upgrader) – Seafarer Ouida Fields (above, right) completed the enhancement of her skills in this course when she graduated June 9. Joining Fields to celebrate the achievement is her instructor, Joe Zienda. Serve Safe (Management Level) – Three upgraders completed their requirements in this course June 9. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Constance Mullings, Troy Smith and Amanda Fedelina Suncin. Seafarers LOG 23 �SEPTEMBER F E B R U A R Y 2017 2014 o VOLUME VOLU M E 7 6 79 NNO. O . 92 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 SIU-Crewed Ships Go ‘Skin-to-Skin’ Exercises Help Hone Skills for Military Support Operations The expeditionary transfer dock USNS Montford Point (T-ESD 1, in the foreground) approaches large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off ship USNS Soderman (T-AKR 317) during a sea basing exercise near Saipan. (Photo courtesy U.S. Navy) T he SIU-crewed USNS Montford Point, in conjunction with three other Seafarers-crewed ships, recently performed a series of “skin-to-skin” operations near Saipan, in support of the U.S. Navy’s Maritime Prepositioning Squadron Three (MPSRON-3). The Montford Point, an expeditionary transfer dock operated by Ocean Shipholdings Inc., rehearsed the transfer of equipment and cargo with the USNS Soderman, USNS Red Cloud, and USNS Stockham. The Soderman and Red Cloud are operated by Patriot, and the Stockham is operated by Crowley. “Skin-to-skin operations are game-changers when it comes to supporting the Marine Corps and other expeditionary forces with greater flexibility at sea,” said Paul Grgas, deputy director of operations for the Military Sealift Command Far East. “Expeditionary transfer docks like Montford Point can operate off shore and augment ship to shore movements during amphibious operations.” The operation, which included other positioning drills with the vessels of MPSRON-3, took place over 17 days in June. Skin-to-skin operations occur when two ships connect at sea allowing specialized vessels like the Montford Point to operate as a floating pier for simulated offload operations. In recapping the exercise, the Navy noted that skin-to-skin drills build proficiency for ships like the Montford Point to operate at sea for a sustained period and transfer large cargo from prepositioning ships for use by forces ashore and afloat. MPSRON 3, operating in the western Pacific, maintains tactical control of the 12 ships (including other SIU-crewed vessels) carrying afloat prepositioned U.S. military cargo for the U.S. Marine Corps, the U.S. Army, and the U.S. Air Force. According to the Navy, the squadron’s mission is to enable force from the sea by providing swift and effective transportation of vital equipment and supplies for designated operations. The USNS Red Cloud (lighter hull) and the USNS Montford Point (above and in two photos below) conduct skin-to-skin operations off the coast of Saipan, Mariana Islands. (Photos courtesy U.S. Navy) � 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 2017 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU JOBS RETAINED IN T-AGS AWARD OCEAN SHIPHOLDINGS TO OPERATE SEVEN VESSELS PAUL HALL CENTER FEATURED IN VIDEO LOG SPECIAL ADDITION SALUTES SCHOOL’S ANNIVERSARY PHILLY SHIPYARD DELIVERS JONES ACT TANKER UNION-BUILT AMERICAN LIBERTY WILL CARRY SIU CREW OVERSEAS TEXAS CITY RESCUES 5 MSP ON TRACK FOR FULL FUNDING THROUGH 2018 SEAFARERS TURN OUT FOR BENEFITS CONFERENCES MEETINGS OFFER REVIEWS, DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS TO MEMBERS AND STAFF MEMBER PORTAL OFFERS OPTION FOR SCHEDULING CLINIC EXAMS BROADMEADOW BECOMES TRANSCOM DEPUTY; BUZBY ASSUMES MARITIME ADMINISTRATOR POST MV RENA FAILS TO PAY MARINERS, GETS BANNED DETERMINED TO SUCCEED PAUL HALL CENTER APPRENTICE UNDAUNTED BY CHALLENGE OF PROSTHESIS SEAFARERS MOBILIZE FOR ‘PACER GOOSE’ SIU-CREWED PREPOSITIONING SHIPS TAKE ACTION IN GROUP SAIL NINE BOSUNS ASCEND LADDER TO RECERTIFIED STATUS SIU-CREWED SHIPS GO ‘SKIN-TO-SKIN’ 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 09/01/2017 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. 79, No. 9