http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/2e02c35df2b656ac3f3c58f6b0c076b4.PDF 96a51408cfe39652c7a82c990bf4c5d1 PDF Text Text SEAFARERS '^9:X0G April 28, 1967 OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION • ATLANTIC, GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS DISTRICT • AFL-CIO for Stronger Facts for Union Members —Centerfold SiU Lakes District Blocks Engine Manning Cut Attempt Page 3 The Story of Navigation vrr^Oidesr^ Sciences ^ Page 15 Bipartisan Support Crows For Strong Ship Legislation Page 3 SLU Baltimore Tugmen Win Contract Gains, Strike Ends Page 3 �I Pace Two AprU 28, 1967 SEAFARERS LOG Twice-Postponed Senate Hearings to Resume Boyd Slated to Present Government Maritime Policy at May I Hearing WASHINGTON—Senate hearings probing future Government policy toward the American mer­ chant marine, which opened on April 12, are to be resumed on May 1 because of the failure of Transportation Secretary Alan S. Boyd to appear at the April 12 meeting as expected. Boyd was scheduled to disclose at that ^ meeting what policy the Admin­ time hearings, which were orig­ new martime policy, of "dodging istration has in mind for the inally slated to begin in March, and weaving" when asked when future of the maritime industry. Members of the Senate Com­ merce Committee's Subcommittee on Merchant Marine and Fish­ eries expressed extreme disap­ pointment at Boyd's failure to appear as scheduled. Another Administration witness who was scheduled to appear but didn't, was Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara, who was expected to continue his pleas for Con­ gressional approval of his Fast Deployment Logistic Ship con­ cept, which has already been rejected by the Senate, and to which numerous members of the House have already expressed strong opposition. Actually, this is the second postponement of the Senate mari­ but were postponed at the request of the Administration. Various members of the Sen­ ate subcommittee expressed irrita­ tion at the failure of Boyd and McNamara to appear at the most recent hearings. Senator E. L. Bartiett (D-Alaska), subcommit­ tee chairman, declared "We can afford to wait no longer," because the American merchant marine "is sinking fast" in the absence of any firm Government maritime policy to guide its future. Senator Daniel Brewster (DMd.) accused Acting Secretary of Commerce Alexander B. Trow­ bridge, who did appear at the hearings but would not offer any indications of what the Adminis­ tration has in mind regarding a MSTU Wins Representation On 2 Interior Dept. Vessels HONOLULU—The crews of two vessels operated under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Commercial Fisheries of the Depart­ ment of the Interior in the Hawaii area have come under the banner of the SIUNA-affiliated Military ^ Sea Transport Union. areas. Preparations for negotiations The MSTU won formal and with the employer on a basic exclusive recognition as the repre­ agreement covering these items is sentative of crewmen aboard the vessels Townsend Cromwell and already under way, MSTU Ad­ Charles H. Gilbert after the crew- visor-Representative Roy "Buck" members indicated their desire to Mercer announced, and the actual negotiations are expected to begin be represented by the MSTU. MSTU Secretary-Treasurer Jo- in the near future. The employer •seph J. Leal officially welcomed in this case is the Bureau of Com­ the new members into the Union mercial Fisheries, which presently at the April 7 membership meet­ sets the salary rates and conditions ing in San Francisco and outlined of employment of the two vessels. When the negotiations get un­ the benefits of Union representa­ tion in terms of negotiations with der way, the rank and file mem­ the employer for wages, hours, bers of the Union negotiating working conditions and other committee will include Cromwell and Gilbert crewmembers Harold W. Kamauu, Raymong Fujiwara, Gordon N. Williamson, Donald L. SEAFARERS|^LOG Moffatt, Shisuro Seki, and Greg­ ory K. Naluelua Jr. April 28. 1967 • Vol. XXIX, No. 9 MSTU representatives on the Official Publication of the negotiating committee will in­ Seafarers International Union clude Francis Militante, MSTU of North America, Honolulu Representative; Emil Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District, Lee, Marine Cooks and Stewards AFL-CIO Honolulu Port Agent; and Wil­ Executive Board liam Berger, Sailors Union of the PAUL HALL, President Pacific Honolulu Port Agent—all CAL TANNER EARL SHEPARD Exec. Vice-Pree. Vice-President of whom took part in the orga­ AL KERR LINDSEY WILLIAMS nization of the vessels and in ob­ Sec.-Treas. Vice-President taining the required number of ROBERT MATTHGYVS Vice-Preeident pledge cards—and Roy Mercer, HERBERT BRAND MSTU Advisor- Representative Director of Organizing and Publications and David McClung, MSTU At­ Managing Editor torney. MIKE POLLACK The new contract will cover all Aeeietant Editor NATHAN SKYER Staff Writers the employees on the two vessels, with the exception of the Master, PETER WEILL PETBt WEISS and will cover the performance of ED RUBBNSTBIN HARRY WITTSCHEN their varied duties, which include assisting with fishing operations in Pibllilisd tlwNkly at 810 Rhsdi lilind Annis N.E.. Waihlnitsn, D. C. 20018 by ths Snfaraddition to other regular duties •rs iRtsrastlsnal Unlsn, Atlanlie, Gsir, Lakes both at sea and ashore. aai iRlaad Waten Olstrlct, AFL-CIO, 875 Faartfe Anaie, Brsotlya, N.V. 11232. Tel. The Townsend Cromwell is a mraalRfb 9-8600. Setand class fsstaie fald 600-gross-ton vessel, 158 feet long at Washlnitaa, 0. C. with a 33 foot beam, powered by PiSriASTErf ATTEHTIOH: Forai 3579 cards sbtald be sent ta Scafann Internatlcnal an 800 horsepower diesel and is Ualaa, Atlaatlc, Oalf, Lakes and Inland Waters Olstrlat AFL-Cli, 875 Faarth Annnc, Brackbased in Honolulu. The Charles lya, N.r. 112S2. H. Gilbert, which also operates out of Honolulu, is 200 gross tons, the policy would be ready and what it would contain. Boyd's appearance at the hear­ ings is of the utmost importance because in spite of the fact that Congress last year refused to transfer the Maritime Adminis­ tration into Boyd's Department of Transportation and kept it instead in the Department of Commerce, President Johnson has seen fit to have Boyd formulate the Admin­ istration's new maritime policy. Sharp Criticism When it became known that the Administration witnesses would not appear at the April 12 hearing to outline the Adminis­ tration's maritime policy. Senator Brewster expressed .sharp criticism of the Administration for what he termed its "abdication of re­ sponsibility for the American merchant marine." "We were promised a policy last year," Brewster noted. "We were promised a policy in Janu­ ary. We were told the final policy would be forthcoming in March, and then we postponed hearings to April to allow Mr. Boyd to put the finishing touches on his proposals. Now we are told that it will be May before we have any concrete policy forthcoming." Ostrich Approach The Johnson administration has adopted an ostrich approach to this .situation, Brewster continued, burying its head in the sand hoping the problem would go away. But maritime's problem will not just disappear, he assured the Senate. "We will fall farther and farther behind," in maritime, "unless steps are taken soon to halt the decline." Senator Warren Magnuson (DWash.), Chairman of the full Sen­ ate Commerce Committee, testi­ fied at the subcommittee hearings and called for a minimum con­ struction program of 50 ships a year in American shipyards. Magnuson called on the Depart­ ments of State and Defense to concretely help the American-flag fleet, noting "a total disregard on the part of Administration after Administration of any responsi­ bility or statutory duty to imple­ ment and administer existing law in the martime field." In actuality, although the Ad­ ministration has not yet officially released its proposed maritime program, some of its maritime recommendations have been "leaked" unofficially. Even be­ fore the April 12 hearing, Senator Brewster indicated that he was informed of what some of the proposals would be and expressed alarm at what the Administration was recommending. "We want to adopt a policy that will breathe new life into our merchant marine—not one that will kill it," Brewster stated. To adopt the Administration policy now would be "an absolute, un­ mitigated disaster," he declared. n Report of International President A'- by Paul Hall In reflecting back on some of the disappointing results of the national elections of 1966, one cannot help but wonder just how many emi­ nently qualified candidates sympathetic to the ever-increasing needs of working men and women in this country were unwittingly defeated by the same people they probably would have sought to help. Despite the concerted efforts of the AFL-CIO's Committee on Po iitical Education and our own Seafarers' Political Action Department, it is all too apparent that in some sections of the country union mem­ bers stayed away from the polls in droves. This fact is even more dis­ tressing when wc realize the small vote margin by wbich some antilabor hopefuls were elected on both state and federal levels. In areas where a mere 50 or a 100 thousand-odd votes, out of perhaps a million or more not cast at all, could have tipped the .scales in favor of a more liberal candidate, this could often be avoided. All the careful planning of COPE and .SPAD is for naught if union members don't vote. All the elaborate machinery for education on political matters—forums, literature pointing up the issues important to or detrimental to the labor movement, lectures on labor history and the role of organized labor in our .society is to no avail whatsoever if those who hear it and read it fail to make use of it and exercLse their right to go to the polls on election day and vote. Election day, 1966, with its heavy toll in liberal candidates defeated and legislators unseated is past history. There is nothing we can do about it but take a lesson from it as we look ahead to the even more important presidential year of 1968. There is no question that the biggest single problem faced by unions in the area of political education is the education of its younger members. Over the next five years more than 25 million young adults will be­ come eligible to vote for the first time. A good proportion of those millions will be union members. None will have any recollection of the depression, the new deal era of Franklin Roosevelt, the Second World War, or the bitter struggle for collective bargaining rights. Most of them, thanks largely to economic and social advances gained by unions during tbeir lifetimes, will have no personal memory of hard times at all. This last is a blessing; living proof of what organized labor has done and will continue to do for the American working man. But these efforts can never be relaxed and the labor movement must see to it that our younger members are fully informed and able to continue the battle. Like anything else, this requires basic knowledge of the fundamentals and the history of the labor movement. With this objective in view, our own Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, which trains young men aspiring a career at sea, includes courses on Union Hi.story in its curriculum. The students come out with a working knowledge of the union and what it means as well as practical knowl­ edge of the jobs they are to perform aboard ship. In addition daily membership forums are held which include among the topics the history of the SlU and the trade union movement. Young people quite naturally tend to take what they have and what comes their way pretty much for granted. They have to be reminded that all the benefit.'^ they enjoy as a matter of course were not always there but were won, point by point and step by step, through long, hardfought union battles over the decades. A clear understanding of this gradual proce.ss is esoecially important today when we must be con­ stantly on guard against the reactionary elements which are springing up on all sides in attempts to dilute the effectiveness of the labor move­ ment in the United States. }• it' 1/ t I 5IU Warns of Poisoned Whiskey I Being Peddledin Viet Nm Ports i SAIGON—Peter Drewes, SIU International Representative II for the Far East, has issued an urgent warning that all crew members on vessels in the Far East exercise extreme caution in the use and purchase of alcholic beverages in Southeast . Asian ports—particularly in Saigon. The warning applies to bottles bearing familiar stateside 11 labels as well as to local brands, Drewes said, and unauthorized civilians offering "bargain prices" should be avoided. Drewes made his statement following the deaths in Saigon recently of two seaman who succumbed in U.S. Army Field Hospitals after drinking poisoned whiskey purchased ashore. Analysis by army chemists of the whiskey which claimed the men's lives found it to contain wood alcohol and cherrywood. Drewes pointed out that the black market operation in the Saigon area is widespread and suggested that the safest pro­ cedure would be for seamen to refrain from buying packaged whiskey at all. Complaints have also been received about a beer known as "Beer N. 33," he added. The SIU representative said "unauthorized persons" are either adulterating legitimate whiskey and beer or are using empty bottles to market their own lethal concoctions. The liquor that proved fatal to the two seamen, for example, was contained in bottles bearing the labels of well-known American brands. I •fit if �Mfll April 28, 1967 SEAFARERS J ? Democratic^ GOP Congressmen Speak Out * ii Baltimore Tug Strike Ends, ii SlU Tugmen Win New Gains ;i BALTIMORE—Members of the SIU Inland Boatmen's Union in the Port of Baltimore voted overwhelmingly to ratify a new contract negotiated with three tugboat companies, successfully end­ ing a 26-week strike against the Curtis Bay Towing, Baltimore from Monday through Friday for Towage and Baker-Whiteley 10 crews and four days work for three crews in the Monday through Towing companies. In a new three-year contract, Friday period. Baker-Whiteley the SIU Baltimore tugboatmen guarantees five days work for five won substantial gains in wages, crews and four days for three working conditions, job security, crews, also in the Monday through welfare, vacations, paid holidays Friday period. Baltimore Towage and other benefits. The Union agreed to five-day and three-day also negotiated a scale of work guarantees for its two crews re­ spectively in the same period. The guarantees. The new agreement provides for Curtis Bay repair shop personnel a better than 16 percent wage in­ also won a Monday through Fri­ crease over a three-year period day five-day work guarantee. Un­ and is retroactive to Sept. 30, der the previous contract', the tug1966, the date when the old con­ boatmen had no work guarantees at all. tract expired. The Union also won two days Basic hourly pay rates, through Dec. 14, 1967, were upped to off with pay for any crewmember $2.71 for deckhands, $2.88 for who has a death in the immediate firemen, $2.95 for mates, $3.27 family. The new agreement also con­ for engineers and $3.28 for cap­ tains a new overtime pay clause, tains. calling for triple time for any Pay scales will increase by five crewmember required to turn to percent again on Dec. 15, 1967, between midnight and 2 A.M., and another five percent on Dec. 15, 1968, with the basic hourly and triple time after twelve hours rate going to $2.99 for deckhands, of work if a job is commenced $3.17 for firemen, $3.26 for mates, after the twelfth hour. $3.60 for engineers and $3.17 for The SIU Inland Boatmen's Un­ captains. ion contract also won a tightened seniority clause, promotion and Increased Holidays Other gains negotiated by the transfer rights. All lay-offs and Union include an additional three promotions are now subject to paid holidays to 12 per year, high­ grievance procedure machinery er welfare and pension payments and an arbitration procedure has and new work guarantees. Curtis been established to deal with griev­ Bay guaranteed five days work ances on seniority classifications. Page Three LOG I Solid Bi-Partisan Support Grows For Strong Maritime Legislation WASHINGTON—Senate minority leader Everett M. Dirksen (R-Ill.) has called for an immediate action program by the Government to halt the continuing decline of the American-flag merchant fleet. would actually lead to the loss of Addressing several hundred vessels have an average age of 42 years, while the U.S. tanker thousands of jobs in the United delegates representing labor, fleet has an average age of 15 States. government and industry in at­ years. Another leading Republican tendance at a recent day-long "We have the oldest tanker legislator. Representative Thomas seminar sponsored by the AFL- fleet anywhere in the world," he M. Pelly (R-Wash.) also criticized CIO Maritime Trades Depart­ said, "even though we need tank- ! the Administration for refusing ment, Senator Dirksen was highly ers because we have a tremendous to implement and to properly critical of the Government's fail­ investment abroad in many coun­ administer the letter and spirit of ure to develop a constructive tries and becau.se we have to sup­ U.S. shipping laws. maritime policy. ply Navy ships everywhere." 50 Ships A Year In addition, he vigorously at­ "The United States should have tacked maritime proposals put a merchant fleet that befits the Speaking before a weekly mid­ forth by the Administration in wealth and standards of this coun­ day meeting of the MTD, Pelly, recent months, including the sug­ try." he continued. "Our mer­ who is a member of the House gestion to allow the building of chant marine has got to be ade­ Merchant Marine Committee, American vessels in foreign yards. quate for all purposes and certain­ called for a construction program Registration of American ves­ ly we cannot depend upon ships of 50 ships a year in U.S. ship­ sels under "runaway flags" and registered under foreign flag.s. but yards. the establishment of an the "effective control" concept must depend only upon ourselves, independent Maritime Adminis­ also came under sharp criticism our own flag, our ships and our tration. and passage of legislation from the Senator. calling for Congressional authori­ sailors." Noting that the United States Senator Dirksen al.so dismissed zation of funds for maritime pro­ today ranks fourteenth in ship­ charges that the maritime subsidy grams. • building among the fifteen major program is too costly. He pointed "In no event should we accept maritime nations, and seventh in out that an investment in a strong anything less than a program of the percentage of active shipping merchant fleet is "the kind of 50 new ships a year for five years tonnage. Dirksen decried the fact investment of public funds that to be constructed in American that a nation "so wealthy, so large adds up to jobs." This is in con­ shipyards by American labor," and with a gross national product trast with proposals for building Pelly declared. of $750 billion a year," ranks so U.S. ships in foreign yards, which (Continued on page 6) far down the ladder in the mari­ time world. Loss of Income In attacking proposals by Transportation Secretary Alan S. Boyd that American ships be built in foreign shipyards, Dirksen dis­ missed the supposed cost savings to the nation through such a procedure, pointing out that for­ eign shipyard workers not only spend their wages at home but do not pay any income taxes to the Treasury of the United States. Dirksen rapped American op­ erators of runaway-flag vessels on the same grounds, charging that those shipowners who have regis­ tered their ships in Liberia, Pan­ ama and other foreign countries also fail to pay their fair share of taxes on their profits to the United States Treasury. In calling for a new and con­ structive program for maritime, the Senator pointed to the serious d:cline of our maritime capability that has already taken place. He noted that the U.S. Great Lakes House Group Clears Bill to Give Congress Voice in MARAD Funds WASHINGTON—Proposed legislation that would require an­ nual authorization by the House Merchant Marine Committee of funds slated for the Maritime Administration for vessel construc­ tion and operating subsidies, re­ search, and other activities, has of the American-flag merchant been cleared by the Committee fleet — a decline brought about largely by many years of bureau­ and will be presented to the full cratic neglect of U.S. maritime House for action. needs—a neglect often reflected TTie Committee approved the in the totally inadequate sums bill (H.R. 158) with only minor DETROIT—A three-man arbitration board has upheld the which are annually allocated for changes designed to clarify its stand taken by the SIU Great Lakes District against an attempt ship construction and moderni­ purpose. Committee approval of by the Reiss Steamship Company to eliminate several oiler's jobs zation of the merchant fleet. the measure followed extended aboard the John A. Kling and ^ Maritime Neglected unle.ss they receive penalty pay hearings during which witnesses the Raymond Reiss. for such duties. In addition, the representing maritime labor and The bill would, by requiring The favorable decision of the engineers will not perform any management in all segments of Congress to authorize such funds impartial arbitrators supported the of the oilers' duties except for the industry voiced their solid ap­ each year, give legislators a voice Union's contention that the com­ the purpose of instruction. proval of the bill's objectives. in the formulation and funding pany could not eliminate any jobs The measure was introduced of maritime policies and pro­ The arbitrators' decision also through unilateral action without demanded the retention of the into the House as an outgrowth grams, which until now have been first engaging in negotiations with of increasing concern by legisla­ handled almost exclusively by night porter aboard the John A. the Union as spelled out in the Kling. tors over the continuing decline government agency bureaucrats contract. who have shamefully neglected The Union won a similar dis­ the needs of maritime. SIU Pres. Hall Addresses Community Services Conference pute last year over Coast Guard In approving the measure and issuance of a temporary manning sending it to the full House for certificate to the vessel Diamond action, the Committee noted; Alkali calling for one Q.M.E.D. "Enactment of this bill would (Qualified Member of the Engine place the Maritime Administra­ Departnient) to serve in place of tion on a basis comparable to that three oilers on watch and two now in effect with regard to prin­ wipers on day work. The Coast cipal activities of the Department Guard subsequently re-evaluated of Defense, the U.S. Coast Guard, the certificate. the .Atomic Energy Commission, As a result of the arbitrators' the National Astronautics and findings in the dispute with Reiss Space Administration, and other Steamship, three oilers aboard major programs within the execu­ each vessel in question will con­ tive branch." tinue to perform routine oilers' The purpose of the legislation, duties as spelled out in the Un­ it said, was to make it possible ion's agreement with the com­ for the Committee to "exercise pany. The oilers will remain on and maintain its legislative re­ watch, four on and eight off, and sponsibility over our maritime will receive penalty pay in addi­ policies and programs . . ." tion to regular wages when they To do this effectively, the Com­ perform wipers' work. mittee said, "we must review such Wipers' duties aboard these SIU President Paul Hall, who is also a Vice-President of the AFL-CIO, addressed the opening session policies and programs annually vessels include sanitary work, of the recent AFL-CIO National Conference on Community Services. Over 500 delegates to the New and make specific legislative au­ chipping and painting, sougeeing, York City meeting heard Hall (inset, lower right), call for new measures to improve the availability thorization for the use of appro­ carrying stores, etc. Oilers will priated funds . . ." and quality of medical care in the United States. For complete story of the Conference, see page 4. not be required to do this work SIU Great Lakes District Blocks Engine Dept Crew Cat Attempt �April 28, 1967 SEAFARERS LOG Page Four AFL-CIO Community Services Conference Meets AFL-CIO Calls tor Improvements In Nations Health Care Servires The Atlantic Coast by Earl (Bull) Shepard, Vice-President, Atlantic Coast Area The sad fact recently reported by the Maritime Administration that the U.S. has more "effective control" of shipping tonnage NEW YORK—Representatives from labor and government speaking at the Twelfth Annual under runaway flags than under the American flag is a pathetic AFL-CIO National Conference on Community Services held here last week, focused on the health comment. The DcTense Department alleges to have "effective care available to the American worker. They found health services wanting and called for imcontrol" over these runaway ships, but it does not alter in the provements in quality and quanti­ slightest the shabbiness of a situa­ ty. that it works not only for -the with full-time community service tion which allows certain Ameri­ runs. Art. who last shipped on SIU President Paul Hall, who elderly but will lead to a national workers heard reports from pro­ can shipowners to duck the re­ the Commander, sails in the Black is also an AFL-CIO vice-presi­ health program for all." fessional experts in health services sponsibilities of" being Americans. Gang. Dave is a Deck Depart­ dent. told the .500 delegates at the Arthur E. Hess, deputy com­ and attended workshop sessions. They avoid taxes, gel around la­ ment man. opening session at the Hotel Com­ missioner of social security, re­ Norfolk bor laws and deprive their fellow modore that the same labor move­ ported that the medicare program citizens of honest work at fair .Shipping has been good here ment which pioneered in furnish­ is "working well" in its first nine wages. Let's hope that something the last couple of weeks and the ing health clinics and welfare months but many leading medical is soon done to curb this inequi­ outlook continues favorable. We benefits for union members and men found serious flaws in its table practice. have had two payoffs, one ship which helped gain the passage by effcctivene.s.s. signing on and five vessels in Congress of Medicare, can put New York Sabin Honored transit. its opinion-forming machinery Albert Nash and Thomas Julian Wilson has just reregis­ The five-day conference ended WASHINGTON—Preparations into gear to improve health care. Trainor are both back from vaca­ with the annual Murray-Green tered at the hall and is ready to are already underway for the "It is appropriate and timely to tions and looking for a Vietnam go. He has been enjoying a long Award dinner at which AFI -CIO 1967 AFL-CIO Union Industries recall that recently the AFL-CIO Vice President Joseph A. Bcirne Show, to be held this year from run. Al was last Chief Cook on vacation following a one-year tour called on Congress to improve and the Citadel Victory and Tom was in Vietnam on a tug boat. expand the areas of health care," presented labor's chief award for May 19 to May 24 at the Phoenix, an AB abotird the Albion Victory. distinguished community service After some fishing at Cape HatArizona, Veterans Memorial Coli­ Hall said. to Dr. Albert B. Sabin. developer Looking for any run at all is teras. Oiler Ezckiel Daniels is seum. In his address. President Hall registered again and hopes to ship TTie annual Union Industries 27-year veteran Angelo Meglio. pinoointed mental illness as the of the Sabin vaccine for immuni­ zation against poliomyelitis. out .soon. Show is designed to familiarize His last berth was as Chief Elec­ nation's number one health prob­ The conference theme, "toward Joseph Cash, a 23-year union the American Public with the trician on the Afoundria. lem. He reminded the delegates improving our community health veteran, had to get off the Poloquality products and services pro­ that at least one out of every 1 2 Frank LaRo.sa, last off the mac to go into the hospital for a Americans is now being hospi­ services." was stre.ssed not only by duced by American trade union Robin Hood is looking for a Stew­ Hall and Perlis but also by AFL- workers, enjoying the benefits and checkup. Joe sails as a Bosun. talized for mental illness at some­ art Dept. slot on a coast-wise run. time during his life and that one- CIO Vice Presidents David Sulli­ security of union representation Boston Also looking for a short trip is half of the hospital beds in the van and Paul Jennings. Sullivan and free collective bargaining. -Shipping has been on the slow .Fohii Likness. He was last on the As in previous years, the country are occupied bv the men­ is president of the Building .Serv­ bell here this period but we are Robin Kirk for four and a-half ice Employes. Jennings of the SlUNA will participate in the tally ill. hopeful it will pick up in the com­ months as AB but hopes to ship "By providing early diagnosis Electrical, Radio & Machine show with a display of the goods ing two weeks. as Bosun this time. and early treatment on an out­ Workers. Beirne heads the Com­ and services produced by the SIU Joseph Thoma.s, 25 years in the patient basis through community munications Workers and also is and affiliated unions. Representa­ SIU, has had a brief rest and now chairman of the AFL-CIO Com­ tives of SlUNA affiliates will be mental health centers." President is waiting for a European run. munity Services Committee. on hand to greet visitors to the Hall said, "this frightful toll can Joe's last job was on the Platte Delegates from most AFL-CIO display. be substantially reduced." as AB. unions and major central bodies Other displays this year will Hal! added that "The increas­ Two other 25-year men around include a demonstration by the ing concern over the problem of the hall lately were Robert Frazer Glass Blowers Association of the mental health care is rapidly steer­ and Joseoh Presbong who both ancient art of glass blowing, in ing organized labor toward un­ '^ail as ABs. addition *o the raffling-off of a ion-negotiated mental health pro­ \ / Bob, last on the Robin Kirk, 14-foot fiber glass motorboat grams as part of their general will grab the first job put on the Ketchum Shaw donated by the GBBA. welfare plans." board but Joe is planning to spend Lucky ticket-holders to the In the keynote address of the AFL-CIO President George some time at home with his family Philadelphia show will also be the recipients of conference. Leo Perlis. director of Meany has appointed Thomas an all union-made electric kitchen, after his trip to India on the After being in drydock for a AFL-CIO Community Services, W. ( Teddy) Gleason, president of Potomac. spell. Oscar 0/.er is fit for duty as well as numerous small electri­ spelled out the need for a "com­ the International Longshoremen's cal appliances and TV sets don­ and ready to go again. Oscar was Puerto Rico prehensive program of quality Association, to represent the Fed­ ated by the International Brother­ last on the Columbia and sails in health care for all, whether the We are sorry to report that pen­ eration as a fraternal delegate to hood of Electrical Workers. the Engine Department. .AMA likes it or not." He said sioner Juan Leiba died recently. the Vietnamese Confederation of Drawings will be held daily for the conference was organized to Many of his Seafarer friends paid William Smith is registered and bring current facts and problems Labor's fifth national convention other items as well, and live fash­ their last respects at the funeral to be held in Saigon from April ion shows will be held daily for waiting for a Deck Department to light, soecifically these: services. 20 through Aprif 23, 1967. As the ladies, under the sponsorship berth. His last job was as Bosun Enrique Rosado has come • Mental Health, "perhaps the President Meany's personal rep­ of the United Textile Workers on the Pctrochem. home to the island after several nation's No. I problem." resentative, Glea.son will deliver .Art Shaw and Dave Ketchum weeks at the U.S.P.H.S. hospital Union and the International • Alcoholism, one of the "top a message to the CVT convention Ladies' Garment Workers' Union. are watching the board for coal in Staten Island. four problems in a country with delegates and carry the fraternal Long-time Seafarer Rafael more than 5 million alcoholics" greetings of the American labor Vidal, now president of the needing treatment. Congressmen Visit SIU Engineers School movement. U.T.M. (Stevedores Union), drops • The effective implementa­ Gleason, who is also a viceby the hall regularly to say hello tion of the medicare program "so president of the Maritime Trades to the boys on the beach. Department and chairman of its Baltimore legislative committee, has made three missions to Saigon at the Shipping has been good this request of the Agency for Inter­ period and prospects for the com­ national Development of the U.S. ing two weeks look good. Department of .State to help speed We have re-crewed the Bethtex, up the flow of goods through Viet the Oceanic Victory and the Yorki The rapid expansion of the |i Nam's overtaxed port system in mar and expect the Baltimore will i Soviet merchant fleet, which || support of the war effort and the crew up shortly. i tripled in size between 1958 || civil economy. Four ships paid off, five signed I and 1966 and is expected to || Following his reports and rec­ on and nine were in transit. The grow by another 4 million i| ommendations. Gleason arranged Alamar, Losmar, Yorkmar, Ohio, tons by 1970, was outlined refor a team of ILA dock special­ Maine, Seatrain Wa.shington and cently at a news conference if ists to accompany him on his sec­ the Oregon are laid up. held in Moscow by the Soviet |i ond trip to Saigon to implement George Schmidt, whose last Merchant Marine Minister |: the "know-how" in eliminating trip was to India, is now waiting Viktor G. Bakayev. the port congestions. His third for a pineapple run to Hawaii. A The Soviet merchant fleet ii mission provided additional im­ 20-year union member, George has grown from 735 vessels || proved methods for handling port ships as an AB. Members of the Subcommittee on Education & Training of the House of 3.3 million deadweight tons g operations and eliminating con­ Another 20-year man, Joe Sny­ Merchant Marine & Fisheries Committee visited the Joint SlU-MEBA in 1958 to 1,300 vessels of § gestion on land areas in the move­ der, wants a Far East run to Japan District 2 School of Marine Engineering during a recent tour of 9.4 million tons last year, ^ ment of cargo. or Vietnam. He was last on the SIU Headquarters in New York. Standing (l-r) are: Cong. John M. Bakayev announced. ^ Gleason will be accompanied Alice Brown in the Deck Depot. Murphy (D-N.Y.); Capt. King, MARAD Atlantic Coast Director; The fleet will be expanded g to Viet Nam by George P. DeTom Yahlonsky, last aboard the Capt. John Everett, Committee Staff; Cong. William D. Hathaway § to a tonnage of 13.1 million g laney. Special Adviser to the .Sec­ Alcoa Explorer as Bosun, is (D-Me.); Cong. Thomas Downing (D-Va.): Earl Shopard, SIU Vice Pres­ retary of State and Coordinator by 1970, he predicted. watching the board for any long of Internal Labor Affairs. ident; Ronald Spencer, School Director. Students are seated at desk. run. Union Industries Show Slated May 19 to 24 Gleason of ILA Represents AFL-CIO Before Viet Labor o Red Merchant Fleet Tripled Since 1958, I Still Growing Fast v. �April 28> 1967 SEAFARERS Page Five LOG Resolutions Cover Maritime issues The Gulf Coast by LIndsey Williams, Vice-President, Gulf Area The Twelfth Annual Convention of the Louisiana AFL-CIO met at Baton Rouge recently and passed many resolutions per­ taining to maritime and other issues of importance to labor. The SIU was well represented at the meeting, as was the Greater New Orleans and Vicinity Maritime Council. The complete story of the Convention is carried else- ^ where in this issue of the LOG. oiler to get enough sea time in that Representatives of the Interna­ slot to sit for his engineer's license. tional Longshoremen's Associa­ Houston tion and the New Orleans Steam­ Shipping has picked up here in ship A.ssociation were on hand for Houston during the past period the recent dedication of the new and the situation looks good for Waterfront Employment Center in the immediate future. New Orleans. The new $750,000 C. Sawyer, who just completed facility is designed to provide pro­ his first trip as AB after complet­ tection from the elements for the ing his upgrading training, is back city's longshoremen during the twice-daily shape-ups, which were in Houston looking for a South previously held out-of-doors. The American run. J. R. Moncrief had a very short stay in port facility was financed by the New Orleans Steamship Association in recently. He came in to look accord with the collective bargain­ at the board and decided to ship ing agreement between the Asso­ out the same day aboard the Canciation and Locals 1418 and 1419 tigny. Seafarer J. Olivier is recu­ perating in the hospital following of the ILA. an unfortunate auto accident and New Orleans we're all rooting for a quick re­ Native New Orleanian James covery. Adalre is looking for a berth Mobile aboard a Delta Line ship. Adaire Oldtimer William C. Sellers is likes to .sail Delta and has spent a registered here and waiting for a great deal of sea time aboard the deck department slot to show up Del Mundo, on which he held down an AB slot. The next Delta on the board. Sellers recently .ship that hits the board will prob­ made a couple of fast trips to the ably have him aboard for its next Far East and Vietnam as bosun aboard the Andrew Jackson. trip. George Bales, who last sailed Seafarer Dick Grew is a native aboard the Del Aires as deck of Tampa but does most of his maintenance, is also looking for a sailing from New Orleans. Right suitable deck job. now he's looking for a good stew­ We also nave some engine de­ ard department billet and will take partment oldtimers here between the first such job that comes along. ships right now and ready to ship His last voyage was aboard the out. Jack Groen last sailed to Alcoa Ranger as a messman. Vietnam aboard the Minot Vic­ AB Jame.s Christian's last ship tory and is waiting for an outwardwas the Hastings. Christian has a bound slot. Daniel Brownnon has preference for the North Euro­ his FED again after an illness and pean run, but admits that he is raring to go anywhere on any­ doesn't particularly enjoy weath­ thing. ering the North Atlantic gales in A nice chief cook's slot is on the the wintertime. A native of Mem­ mind of Seafarer James Naylor. phis, Christian has been sailing out Just off the Fort Hoskins, Naylor, of New Orleans for many years. who has been an SIU member Seafarer Frank Hickox prefers since the Union's inception, wants heading south when hfe goes to to ship out again as soon as he sea, and South America is his can. The same goes for Claude usual destination. His latest trip Hollings, whose last ship was the was as oiler aboard the Finn Vic­ Alcoa Commander on which he tory. Hickox usually sails as elec­ trician, but has taken to sailing as sailed as night cook and baker. Twelfth Annua! Louisiana AFL-CiO Convention Meets in State Capitol BATON ROUGE, La.—A wide variety of maritime and general labor issues on both the state and national levels were acted upon by delegates to the recent Twelfth Annual Convention of the Louisiana AFL-CIO, which met here on April 10-13. In all, 339 organizations were represented at the four-day meeting by the 914 regular delegates and 153 representatives of 81 international unions. Also on hand were well over 3,500 guests. .Speakers included Louisiana AFL-CIO President Victor Bussie; Louisiana Governor John J. McKeithen; Senator Russel B. Long; and Representative Hale Boggs, among others. Seafarers International Union representatives to the session in­ cluded SIU vice-president Lindsey Williams and New Orleans port agent Buck Stephens. Several resolutions of impor­ tance to the American maritime industry were adopted at the meet­ ing. These included resolutions: • Supporting pending legisla­ tion designed to help revitalize the Discussing resolutions to be voted upon at the 12th Annual Con­ U.S. merchant marine, including vention of the Louisiana AFL-CIO are (clockwise from lower left): an independent Maritime Admin­ Larry Roberts Sr. of Boilermakers Local 37: Victor Bussie, Louisiana istration, modernization of the do­ State AFL-CIO President: SIU Vice-President Lindsey Williams* mestic fleet. Congressional au­ Morty Kressner of the SIU: and Charles Richardson, MEBA District 2. thorization for Maritme Adminis­ tration funds, denying U.S. car­ • Voicing strong opposition to goes to foreign-built ships. Fed­ consumer education and protec­ tion. and placed full support be­ the issuance by many states of tax eral support for nuclear-powered hind the pending Truth-in-Lend- exempt industrial bonds as a lure merchant ship development. for industrial plants — many of • Opposing any foreign build­ ing legislation. • Urging passage of the Situs which are relocating in an attempt ing of American-flag ships. Picketing bill now pending in the to avoid long-standing contracts • Opposing a move by some House. with unions in other areas. international .shipping interests to remove licensed radio officers from some ocean going vessels. • Callmg for modernization of the U.S. naval establishment to bring about a more powerful U.S. naval fleet and more effective col­ lective bargaining in U.S. naval shipyards. Six More Veteran Seafarers Join Growing Pension Roster Other Actions On other issues. Convention delegates adopted resolutions: • Calling for a step-up in the pace of the War on Poverty. • Urging passage of longneeded increases in Social Secu­ rity benefits to the nation's elderly. • Calling for more effective Dierklng Champion Tug men's Hockey Team Sponsored by SIU Inland Boatmen's Union Great Lakes Tug and Dredge Region, the "Tugmen's Hockey Team" (above), was champion of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan's City League Bantam Division Playoffs. Front row (1-r) are: D. Gallagher, T. Carlson, D. Craven, G. Payment, D. Keiper, J. Stack, S. Sad­ ler, M. Beatty, R. Atkins, and S. Perry. Back row includes: J. Ruelle, coach M. Streeter, H. Law­ rence, S. Bata, R. Kaunisto, G. Sullivan, B. Waggoner, Manager F. Zimmerman, and IBU rep. J. Bernard. Turkington Mohat Austria Six Seafarers have been added to the growing SIU pension list recently. The lastest addition to the pension ranks include Herbert Dierking, John Turkington, Ghee Mohat, Ray Austria. Walter Coleman and Kenneth Hayes. Herbert Dierking joined the SIU in the port of New York and sailed in the deck dept. He was born in New Jersey and lives in Staten Island, N. Y., with his wife, Edna. Dierking was last employed on tugboats operated by the B cS: O Railroad in New York City. John Turkington sailed as oiler and joined the SIU in the port of Hayes New York. A native of New Jer­ sey, he now lives in New Orleans. Turkington's last ship was the Seamar. Manila, the Philippines, Austria Chec Mohat joined the SIU in last sailed on the Iberville. the port of New York. A native Walter Coleman joined the SIU of the Philippines. Mohat sailed in Mobile and sailed as a cook. as AB and bosun. He lives in Seafarer Coleman lives in Mobile Bellville, New Jersey, with his with his wife Ella Mae. Cole.nan wife, Mary. His last ship was the last sailed on the Carroll Victory. Cuba Victory. Kenneth Hayes sailed as a stew­ Ray Austria sailed as chief cook ard and joined the union in Se­ and baker. He joined the SIU in attle, where he lives with his wife, Wilmington, Calif., where he lives Mae. A native of Australia, Hayes with his wife, Connie. Born in last sailed on the Belgium Victory. �Page Six April 28, 1967 SEAFARERS LOG Refutes McNamara Charges April 8 to April 21, 1967 MA Report Cites Marltlme's Contributions to Viet Sealift DECK DEPARTMENT TOTAL REGISTERED Port Boston New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Jacksonville Tampa Mobile New Orleans Houston Wilmington San Francisco .... Seattle Totals WASHINGTON—The 1966 Annual Report, released recently by the Maritime Administration, totally refutes statements made by Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara to the effect that American commercial shipping ^ companies are not doing their Nearly one-half of the entire utmost to aid the U.S. Govern­ U.S.-flag tramp ship fleet is en­ ment's Vietnam sealift because gaged in meeting Vietnam mili­ they are more interested in profits tary supply requirements the re­ port points out. The report than in aiding their nation. The report makes clear the showed that on July 1, 1966, 136 manner in which their full sup­ privately-owned ships were under port of U.S. Vietnam sealift needs charter to the military, 111 of which were operated by unsubsiis placing immense financial and economic strain on American dized companies. Port commercial shipping companies. The reactivation of over 100 Boston The report shows that because ships from the Reserve Fleet to New York ... of their full commitment to the supplement the existing AmericanPhiladelphia . Baltimore ... Vietnam sealift, these companies: flag merchant fleet capacity cost Norfolk • Have lost net revenues of the Government about $49 mil­ Jacksonville .. about $32 million. lion in reactivation costs, the re­ Tampa Mobile • Have lost some 3.5 million port notes. New Orleans . measurement tons of commercial It further points out that despite Houston cargoes. Wilmington .. plans for increased services and • Have lost over 200 commer­ new ships, the competitive stand­ San Francisco Seattle cial sailings because of their ing of the U.S. merchant marine Totals chartering of vessels to carry sup­ in the world continued to decline, plies to Vietnam. and the share of U.S. cargo car­ • Have not been able to carry ried by U.S. ships continued to the 50 percent of Governmentsponsored agricultural exports to be "distressingly low." Port Even the liners on regular runs, which they are entitled by law. Boston • Have not been able to carry which had increased their par­ New York Philadelphia their legal share of Inter-Ameri­ ticipation somewhat in 1964, de­ Baltimore can Development Bank-sponsored clined again in 1965, the report Norfolk cargoes. said. Jacksonville THE INQUIRIKG SEAFARER Question: When you have a va­ cation, how do you like to spend your time? Steve Edelman: I enjoy travel­ ing on my vacation. I particularly enjoy the Scandi­ navian countries and would like to see them again. I hope to visit the West Indies soon. I've been to Cen­ tral America and now I'm looking forward, to seeing .some countries in South America. I don't find that sailing makes me lose interest in traveling. Juan Morales: I like to relax, take it easy and visit my old friends. I can usuI'iP ally find some old buddies at the un­ ion hall. Some times I go to De­ troit. a city I like very much. I try to see some things I haven't seen be­ fore. Wherever I go, travel is a great educational experience. Tampa Mobile New Orleans Houston Wilmington San Francisco Seattle totals All Groups Class A Class B 2 6 27 65 1 8 40 9 8 11 8 3 4 2 8 6 40 23 26 34 16 6 25 46 23 29 161 315 TOTAL SHIPPED Class A Class B Class C 1 1 1 41 30 19 3 3 5 33 13 2 6 4 3 5 4 13 3 2 5 16 11 1 22 26 7 28 18 15 2 5 15 33 25 .53 21 20 24 214 162 163 REGISTERED on BEACH Class A Class B 16 3 221 73 29 7 102 39 19 19 16 3 9 6 78 14 139 61 165 102 40 2 50 4 36 2 920 335 ENGINE DEPARTMENT TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B 0 1 35 37 4 4 13 20 7 4 2 7 1 1 17 7 30 43 23 34 8 7 16 61 18 12 166 246 TOTAL SHIPPED AU Class A Class B Class C 0 1 3 30 33 36 4 6 11 20 6 23 6 2 2 5 6 8 1 0 4 14 2 6 7 25 35 12 22 19 20 3 4 73 19 33 23 9 19 192 160 200 REGISTERED on BEACH All Groups Class A Class B 0 3 90 149 26 17 39 57 24 16 6 3 3 2 19 29 91 55 83 84 24 2 42 55 19 2 380 .560 STEWARD DEPARTMENT TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B 1 1 36 12 7 3 28 7 2 11 4 0 1 1 9 3 38 17 16 13 12 0 34 13 18 6 206 87 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 1 0 2 27 13 23 3 3 11 20 15 4 1 6 5 3 1 16 0 0 0 11 8 1 33 28 9 14 12 11 4 1 10 20 13 82 17 9 33 154 109 207 REGISTERED on BEACH All Groups Class A Class B 3 2 155 37 7 6 58 34 14 25 10 0 7 3 43 11 114 74 113 73 20 6 4 4 15 2 563 277 i®' I i 1 Strong Maritime Legislation Gets Solid Bi-Partisan Support (Continued from page 3) of subsidized lines and the major I maritime laborHe noted that Congress was oil companies while it destroys Robert E. Mayer suggested that becoming increasingly impatient the unsubsidized fleets," McKay funds desired by Transportation at having to wait more than two warned. .Secretary Boyd to upgrade the years for President Johnson's Praising maritime labor's deter­ re.serve fleet would be better spent promised "new policy for the mined fight to revitalize the Amer­ on new construction. The addi­ Larry Wyatt: I find that I lose merchant marine." He also sug­ ican maritime industry. Congress­ tional funds alone could boost — — interest in travel, so when I have gested that about half of the $2 man Wilson warned his listeners annual subsidized ship construc­ a vacation, I gen­ billion being sought by the De­ against falling for the Govern­ tion to 25 or 30 new vessels, he Gregory Bass: I like to catch erally visit my fense Department for the con­ ment's policy of "divide and con­ estimated. up on what's been going on around friends in other struction of Fast Deployment quer" with regard to maritime. Joseph Kahn attacked many of the union hall, Logistic Ships would be better "This is particularly true today, parts of the coun­ Boyd's proposals and offered a meet old pals I try or go home to spent on upgrading the regular when some segments of maritime six-point alternative approach to haven't seen for management are .so hungry to aid maritime. Kahn demanded Baltimore. On merchant fleet. awhile and relax "These funds alone would be protect their own special inter­ that foreign built ships continue one recent vaca­ and enjoy myself. tion, I spent the sufficient to start us on correcting ests, that they are willing to en­ to be barred from U.S. domestic I find that after time going to the our current block obsolescence danger the future of the entire trades and also called for; elimi­ sailing for a few industry," Wilson said. "I'm talk­ nation of third flag carriers from SIU Lifeboat problem," he said. years I've seen Speakers at other MTD meet­ ing ahout those segments of man­ most places, but I .School to get my lifeboat ticket. ings in Washington included Ma­ agement that are willing to sell hauling government-generated cargoes; forbidding MSTS from still enjoy travel­ rine Engineers Beneficial Associ­ out—on the question of maritime using foreign-flag tonnage; estab­ ing on my vacation. ation District 2 President Ray­ independence—on the question of lishment of tax exempt construc­ mond T. McKay; Congressman building abroad—on the question tion reserves for non-subsidized Charles H. Wilson (D-Calif.); of an adequate merchant fleet— operators; a requirement that one em Waddell: I just like to re­ Robert Slaughter: I stay home Western Shipbuilding Association just to protect their own sub­ half of licensed oil imports move lax and take it easy on my vaca­ with my wife. She's expecting a President Robert E. Mayer; Jo­ sidies," he continued. on American-flag tankers; a firm tions. In the win­ baby and I like to seph Kahn, chairman of the Wilson indicated his belief that injunction against any foreign ter, I sometimes be home when I board of SlU-contracted Seatrain "the road to maritime supremacy building of U.S. ships. go to a ski resort. can. Sometimes, I Lines and Hudson Waterways; still lies in the direction of com­ Representative Edwards lashed I also enjoy tak­ I go up to the lakes and Congressman Jack Edwards plete independence for the Mari­ out strongly against the Adminis­ ing little trips up­ area of Maine to (R-Ala.), member of the House time Administration," and pre­ tration's recent decision to lay up state. Mostly, I Merchant Marine Committee. visit my mother. dicted strong Congressional sup­ the nuclear ship Savannah, charg­ like to take in a I don't really feel McKay also attacked Trans­ port for pending legislation call­ ing that "it does not seem like real good restau­ like traveling portation Boyd's proposals to ing for the creation of an inde­ rant and visit much when I get build American ships abroad. To pendent MARAD annual Con­ good economy on the part of the some theatres. home from a voy­ allow the foreign building that gressional authorization for the Executive Branch of the Govern­ You miss them after a very long age. I prefer to catch up with my Boyd proposed would "benefit maritime industry, and other pro­ ment to take this action," Ed­ family and friends. only the interests of a handful posed legislation supported by ward noted. trip at sea. �mm April 28, 1967 EmployerWage-HourChiseling On Rise, Labor Dept. Reports WASHINGTON—Complaints of employer violations of the Fair Labor Standards Act increased substantially in February and March, the first two months of the higher minimum wages and broader cover­ age provided by the 1966 amendment to the act, the Labor Dept. has reported. Complaints filed in February were up 36 percent over the filings for the same month of 1966—from 1,885 to 2,572. March complaints rose 48 percent—from 2,216 in 1966 to 3,275 this year. For the two months, the increase was from 4,101 complaints to 5,847 for an over-all rise of 43 percent. The rising number of complaints coincides with a nationwide drive by the AFL-CIO for full enforcement of the law. In a letter to federation central bodies, AFL-CIO President George Meany pointed out that the Labor Dept. "has never had enough in­ spectors to do the job" and "it is up to us to help." He called on every central body to set up a wage-hour enforcement committee, offer its services to all workers especially the unorganized, help them bring their complaints to wage-hour investigators and press for prompt action, keep tabs on the outcome of all cases, and be alert to unnecessary compromises that give the worker only a portion of the wages due him. The 1966 FLSA amendments, effective last Feb. 1, gave protection to 9 million additional workers for the first time and provided higher minimums at stated intervals for 41.4 million workers in 1.9 million U.S. business establishments. Newly covered workers must be paid at least $1 an hour and 1.5 times their regular rate of pay for more than 44 hours of work a week, unless specifically exempted. Next Feb. 1 the minimum rises to $1.15 an hour, with overtime pay required after 42 hours of work a week. Thereafter it goes up 15 cents a year until farm workers reach $1.30 and other workers $1.60. Workers covered by the law before Feb. 1 now must be paid at least $1.40 an hour, plus overtime for work beyond 40 hours a week. Their minimum will rise to $1.60 an hour beginning Feb. 1, 1968. Some 11 million workers still are not protected by the law. These include most workers, domestics, and those in firms with annual sales of less than $250,000. The inclusion of state school and hospital employees has been chal­ lenged in court tests brought by Maryland and other states. The AFI-CIO asked a three-judge panel of the U.S. District Court in Baltimore to throw out Maryland's suit, designed to prevent enforce­ ment of federal standards as they apply to state and city employees. Twenty-three other states joined Maryland in its attack on the 1966 amendments. The AFL-CIO brief noted that the courts have repeatedly held that regulation of wages and hours may be applied to so-called "local" employers, including retail and service industries. The brief also cited a declaration of policy in the wage-hour law holding that "labor con­ ditions detrimental" to minimum standards "necessary for health, effi­ ciency and general well-being" may spread and perpetuate such con­ ditions in several states and lead to "labor disputes burdening and obstructing commerce. Vincente T. Ximenes of Albu­ querque, N. M., deputy director of the Agency for International De­ velopment mission in Panama, has been appointed by President John­ son to one of two vacancies on the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Ximenes won the Distinguished Flying Cross while serving in the Army Air Force, was a research economist and in­ structor at the University of New Mexico, served on the Democratic National Committee staff and joined the AID in 1965 as a mem­ ber of its Ecuador mission. The Painters named William A. Duval of San Jose, Calif., as di­ rector of apprentice training, suc­ ceeding the late Carl Griffin. Du­ val has been a teacher of trade training and faculty member at San Jose City College. He served also as secretary of his union's statewide apprenticeship and train­ ing committee, and consultant for the California State Division of Apprenticeship Standards. The AFL-CIO has published a second volume of determinations by the impartial umpires under the federation's intecnal disputes plan covering the years 1964-65. An earlier volume covered the Page Seven SEAFARERS LOG years 1962-63. An index digest to the texts of the determinations for all four years accompanies the new volume. The material has been published for the use and information of AFL-CIO affili­ ates. Copies of the 1964-65 vol­ ume and the index digest are avail­ able from the AFL-CIO Pamphlet Division at $5 per set. The vol­ umes will not be sold separately. However, there are some copies of the texts of the 1962-63 decisions still available at $2.50 per copy. <|>- The President's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped has just issued a "Guide to the National Parks and Monuments for Handicapped Tourists"—a di­ rectory of 200 tourist attractions in the national park system. The book tells whether parks and mon­ uments are accessible to those who have difficulty in walking. It tells those in wheelchairs whether they can expect steps, narrow door­ ways, inaccessible toilets and other barriers. Cardiac patients, and those affected by high altitudes, are given elevations and trail grades. Single free copies are available from the President's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped, Washington, D. C. 20210. "A Brand New Ball Game"! ''A Moral Obligation" It has been said that once its time has come, no force on earth can prevent an idea from being bom. It appears that the same could be said for the organization of the nation's farm workers. Their time has come. The recpnt trail-blazing agreement between till AFL-CIO United Farm Workers Union and the giant DiGiorgio Corp. in California is perhaps the best proof of this contention. For years, DiGiorgio was the implacable foe of the organization of its farm worker employees. Wealthy, powerful, enjoying the SI pport of local and national government on many levels, the company successfully block­ ed every attempt of its employees to organize and improve their condition through collec­ tive bargaining. The same opposition to the organization of farm workers held true for other growers, big and small, all across the nation. But the workers persisted through the years, and now, one by one, the growers are caving in. Farm workers are winning the Consensus! Bi-partisan Congressional support is grow­ ing rapidly for maritime labor's campaign to rescue the American merchant marine from the alarming deterioration brought about by years of official neglect by the Government. Senators and Representatives on both sides of the political fence are stating, in increasingly unequivocable terms, their dis­ appointment with the Administration's fail­ ure to formulate and present its long-awaited "new policy toward maritime." More and more Congressmen of both political parties are expressing their alarm at the danger to which the continuing deterioration of the American merchant fjget is exposing the na­ tion, and the apparent inability of those human dignity and decent wages and work­ ing conditions that have been denied them for so long. Some important victories have already been won. Many more will be won in the near future. The time has come for the American farm worker to take his rightful place in our society, and no force on earth can now stop him. AFL-CIO Director of Organization Wil­ liam L. Kircher stated the issue very clearly recently, when he noted that there is a "moral obligation upon all of us" to help redress the long-standing grievances of these people who have contributed so much to the health, welfare, and prosperity of this nation, yet have gotten almost nothing in return. Perhaps this is why the time has now come for the emancipation of the farm worker. The moral obligation of every man, woman and child in the United States has grown so great toward them that they can no longer be denied. Government administrators responsible for maintaining a strong American merchant marine to come up with a realistic program to achieve that end. Among the maritime proposals now enjoy­ ing bi-partisan support in both houses of Congress are the establishment of an inde­ pendent Maritime Administration, Congres­ sional authorization of maritime funds, and a vastly increased merchant ship construc­ tion program. The battle for a revitalized Americanflag merchant marine has been a long, hard one, and is by no means yet over. But the tide of support is growing daily and now is the time when we must redouble our efforts and see this fight through to victory. �1 Facfs Union Members Should Know m Why Labor Supports A Stronger Social Security Program I IfM- Sir f 11;.'';.'. ^k: W' H;5- ^J^HE stronger Social Security program pending be•* jore the Congress is of major importance to all American citizens. The AFL-CIO is spearheading the campaign for Congressional enactment of these proposals for in­ creased benefits. The trade union effort is aimed at arousing the interest and support of the citizenry in every community throughout the United States. Labor's campaign to enlist community interest and support in stronger Social Security u kicked off last month in a series of highly successful rallies in major U. S. cities. The new concept of Social Security is designed to help not only the ever-increasing number of senior citi­ zens in the U.S. but qualified younger persons as well. Workers in the prime of life who become totally disabled will be provided for. Widows and children under 18 will receive much needed financial aid for subsistence and education if the wage earner dies. Existing benefits to retirees will be increased, thus lessening the burden shared by many adult children of the aged. Medical care will be extended. The advantages are wide and varied. Union members should bear in mind that the bene­ fits under the federal Social Security system are in addi­ tion to those that they enjoy under their various union welfare and pension plans. To help our readers understand what the proposed stronger Social Security bill will do for them, the SEA­ FARERS LOG is reprinting on the.se pages a series of questions and answers prepared by the AFL-CIO So­ cial Security Department. rt \m. »i-„i I'S I Q: The papers say the President is asking for an "average" 20 percent increase in Social Security pen­ sions. Who would actually get how much? A; Every retirement benefit would be raised at least 15 percent. The biggest proportionate increases would go to the 2.5 million retirees who now get only the minimum of $44 a month ($66 for a couple). These minimums would become $70 and $105. Also, the minimums for retirees who were covered for 25 years or more of their working lives would rise to $100 for an individual and $ 150 for a couple. The special benefits for persons 72 or older who never qualified for Social Security pensions—a provi­ sion adopted along with medicare in 1965—would be $50 rather than $35 a month ($75 instead of $52.50 for a couple). And another 200,000 persons would be added to the 900,000 eligible for such benefits. For other pensioners—the vast majority—the basic increase would be 15 percent. Unless you're in one of the categories listed above, that's what you'd get. Q. Can you tell me In simple terms—not in a lot of tables—how much we're going to pay for this? A: Let's just look at the next three years. You are now paying 4.4 percent in Social Security taxes on everything you earn, up to $6,600 a year. Under the present law, the rate will go up to 4.9 percent in 1969. The new proposals would raise your tax rate to 5 percent (instead of 4.9 percent) in 1969. But before that—next year, in 1968—it would increase the earn­ ings base to $7,800. This would only affect those who earn more than $6,600 a year. It would mean that they would have Social Security taxes deducted for more pay periods, until their earnings exceed $7,800. In 1970, the earnings base would be raised again, to $9,000. In the same way, this would affect only those earning more than $7,800. So much for the big picture. Now for the dollars and cents. Let's say you earn $3.50 an hour—$7,000 a year. In 1968, the President's proposals would cost you an extra $17.60. If you still earn $7,000 in 1969, the higher tax rate will add another $42. But $35 of this is already sched­ uled; only $7 would be added by the proposed improve­ ments. So by 1969, then, you would pay $59.60 more on a $7,000 income than you're paying this year—slightly over $1 a week. But more than half ($35) is coming anyway. The improvements would cost you only $24.60, less than 500 a week. Here's how to estimate your own added taxes: If you make less than $6,600 a year, you'll pay 600 more on each $100 you earn, beginning in 1969—a maximum of $39.60 a year. That's the bottom. If you make more'than $9,000 a year, you'll pay $52.80 more in 1968; $99.60 more in 1969 and $159.60 more in 1970. That's the top. Remember that most of this tax increase is already written into law. The new bill would amount to only 100 on each $ 100 of earnings. (The President's proposals include tax rate and earn­ ings-base projections as far ahead as 1989. But since the Social Security System will undoubtedly be re­ examined and revised long before then, these long-range figures are not really relevant.) Bear in mind that you're not just paying for a retire­ ment program. You're paying for a Social Security package that includes many other benefits. Q: You mention "other benefits" in the package. Like what? A: To start with, there's medicare for the aged. That's part of the package. And as most Americans came to realize during the campaign for medicare, it provides financial protection for the young by meeting the medical costs of the old. (The President proposes to extend medicare benefits to those who are drawing disability payments under Social Security or the Rail­ road Retirement Act, even though they're under 65— about 1.5 million persons, all told. He also suggests some other improvements. But the proposed changes can easily be absorbed by the higher wage base. Next, there's the disability insurance mentioned above. Social security benefits are payable to all those covered by the system, regardless of age, if they are totally unable to work for a year or more; a lifetime income if catastrophe strikes. And there are family allowances. A worker who was disabled at an early age could draw as much as $78,000 to support his family, even at present benefit rates. Then there's protection for your survivors, often overlooked. A lump-sum death benefit, and monthly payments to your widow and dependent children. That's Social Security in the best sense of the word, and it's part of the package, too. A widow with two small chil­ dren could collect more than $65,000—again, at pres­ ent levels. Many youngsters have had a chance to finish school and go to-college because Social Security pro- vided a basic income for their fatherless family. Too little is said about this immensely important aspect of Social Security. Very few young husbands are able to provide against their own sudden death. They are paying the day-to-day costs, buying and furnishing a house, immersed in current problems. Yet the young are also mortal. Social Security prevents a tragedy for one from becoming a disaster for all. Q: Even so, it looks to me like I'll be paying 5 percent of everything I earn, by any reasonable esti­ mate, no matter how much my wages go up. Couldn't I bqy myself just as much protection from a private insurance company for that kind of money? A: No. A number of right-wing columnists, and many honest but uninformed persons, are spreading this story, but it just isn't so. Let's try to put the facts in focus. A young man of (say) 25, just entering the work­ force, could not buy, for the amount he pays in Social Security taxes, a private annuity policy that would pay . as much as the present Social Security retirement bene­ fit 40 years later. This will continue to be true, for as taxes rise, so will benefits. This young man could buy a private policy that would pay about 25 percent more than present Social Security • retirement benefits IF he could add the employer's equal tax payment to his own. That's a very big IF, and it's not the only one. To maintain his private policy, the young man would need to have 40 uninterrupted years of earnings high enough to pay the premiums. Social Security, in 0<tntrast, absorbs periods of layoff, unemployment and wage . cuts. A worker can earn maximum benefits over a 10year period. But that's only part of the story. • The private policy would set a fixed, dollar benefit payable on maturity; Social Security benefits have gone ' up periodically in the past and are sure to rise in the future. • The private policy would cover retirement income only, except for some insurance provision in the event of death. It would not include (at this price) any dis­ ability coverage, much less medicare. Except for a flat life insurance pajmient, it would offer nothing to survi­ vors, as described above. This kind of protection could not be bought at any price, much less twice a worker's Social Security tax. To cite only one reason. Social Security (unlike private insurance companies) does not need to show a profit, and pays its executives by government rather than by executive-suite standards. There are other considerations: • As a practical matter, how would a worker latch . on to the money the employer now pays in Social Security taxes on his behalf? • How many young workers would actually set' aside -the equivalent of Social Security taxes if left to their own devices? The second point is perhaps the most persuasive. Social Security came into being during the Great De­ pression, which followed a period of great prosperity. Many of the elderly who most desperately needed oldage pensions in the depression had, during the previous decade, ample or even excessive incomes, from which , they could theoretically have made themselves secure for life. Vast numbers thought they had done exactly that, but they were undone by a collapse of the private " economy which few thought possible. Social Security draws on the resources of the whole community—workers and employers alike—to make sure that, in the public interest and for the benefit of all, every employed person has a measure of security in his old age, or in the event of his untimely death or disability. This not only protects the improvident and the unlucky; it protects the prudent against unfore­ seeable disasters. No private insurance can do that. Q: Sure, benefits will increase over the years. So will the "premiums"— the taxes we pay. You can see that from this year's proposals. Why don't we just put in a cost-of-living escalator on Social Security benefits—to keep them on a par with prices? A: There is nothing wrong with the principle of an escalator arrangement if it is properly applied. But an escalator should not be used as a way of keeping in­ adequate benefits in the same place. The AFL-CIO believes that basic benefits should be raised by 50 per­ cent quite apart from escalator provisions. Also, an escalator clause should take into considera­ tion living standards as well as living costs. If the gen­ eral standard of American life rises, aside from prices, that of retirees and other Social Security beneficiaries should rise as well. This doesn't rule out an escalator right now—as long . as it's agreed that basic increases are also needed. Q: But let's say I'm 35 or 40 years away from retireiiienL I'll pay the money aU those years, hut I won't get any more benefits than somebody who only paid 10 years at the same rate. Is that fair? A: In one sense, no; in another sense, yes. Let's look. The proposals now before Congress would set a spe­ cial, hi^er minimum benefit for retirees who had paid Social Security taxes for 25 years or more. That's a first attempt to meet the problem. However, if you're lucky enough to live to 65, and to have earned the maximum tax base for all those years, you shouldn't really resent it. You might have bought a rlife insurance policy at 25 or 30, and paid the premiums over the same period. You would be happy to reach 65, but you would lose the game. You would have won— in dollar terms—if you had died 20 years earlier. Every insurance system is based on averages and probabilities, including Social Security. There is no way of guaranteeing that every player will get back more than he put in, or even as much. But your chances are infinitely greater under Social Security. First, you are only putting up half your bet; the em­ ployer is matching you. Second, there are more ways you can win. If you live to 65 you have the pension. If you die earlier you have the death benefit and survivors' support. If you're disabled before 65, or sick afterwards, you also collect. Sure, in any kind of insurance program, public or private, some will pay more than they collect. But the odds are better with Social Security. Q: Just the same, H seems to me that the big thing these days is the <dd folks—medicare, bigger retire­ ment checks and all that I'm not against helping die old people, hut aren't we going a little too far? A: No, we're not; even from the standpoint of the very young, if they took a good, clear look at the facts. Congress was made aware of the urgency of President Johnson's bill to increase social security payments by the enthusiastic rallies sponsored by the AFL-CIO throughout the nation. Here, SlU President Paul Hall addresses a large crowd in the New Orleans SlU hall. Sure, Social Security has generally been discussed in terms of the old folks, and some young people may be fed up with it. But actually, it's a young people's pro­ gram, too. Let's start with the young and move up. Suppose one of the old folks gets sick. You'd be right there with all the help you could give, even though it killed you—and it might have, financially, until a couple of years ago. Not anymore, thanks to medicare. You might be stuck with the deductible but you'll get off easy. That's Social Security. Or you're driving home late one night and some nut with hot wheels knocks you into the branches. If you're just crippled, Social Security will keep you and your hopes alive; if you're dead. Social Security will take care of your wife and kids. But let's say you get old—and we all do. Inevitably you get the word—sorry about that, old boy, but you've had it. The pay checks stop right there. You'll join a great big club, in which there are mighty few millionaires. The average single member has a Social Security income of less than $1,000 a year; the average couple, about $1,700. Do you think that's "too far"? Do you think an in­ crease of 15 percent or 20 percent—or even 50 percent —would be "too far"? Would you like to live on this kind of income? Q; I'm not all that worried. My folks have a union pension plan and so do I. Don't most people have something else besides Social Security to protect them? A: No. If you do, and your folks do, you belong to a very fortunate minority. Only 15 percent of those presently retired have any sort of private pension income. The other 85 percent depend on Social Security alone. True, the figures will change for the better. About 30 percent of the present labor force is covered by some sort of private pension arrangement. In another 15 or 20 years, this will show up in the pension statistics. But that will still leave 70 percent with nothing but Social Security. Besides, most of the private pension plans aren't all that plush. Those in the highly-organized, high-wage, highly-profitable industries pay substantial benefits. Many others do not. The plain fact is that the great majority of retirees have no income except Social Security, and—because Social Security benefits are too low—very many of them are desperately poor. Pensions have been raised only twice since 1954. The 1958 increase did not even restore the buying power lost since 1954. The 1958 in­ crease did not even restore the buying power lost since 1954; and the 1965 increase did not even restore the buying power lost since 1958. The two raises left re­ tirees worse off than they had been a decade earlier. Younger workers may not feel like shedding tears for the aged, but consider just one statistic. About a third of the aged don't have a telephone, because they can't afford it. How would you like that, come 65? Q: But this tax thing still hugs me. Under the in­ come tax, the more you make, the higher rate you pay. But everybody pays the same rate on Social Security, even the millionaires. Do you think that's right? A: No, it's not—^but it's not as unfair as it sounds. The benefit formulas are arranged to pay more, in pro­ portion, to those vrith the lowest earnings. So while the lower-paid are taxed proportionately more when they're working, they get a bigger break when they col­ lect. Also, the higher wage base will bring in more money from the better-paid, which will help a little. However, you still have a point. The present setup dates back to the Great Depression, when there was an urgent need to provide some sort of income to the aged, ri^t away. No matter what kind of insurance system 1 U 1;%'*^^"''- - was set «p, they wouldn't have anything much in the way of credits; so everyone else paid a little more to make up the actuarial difference. This may seem pretty peculiar to later generations, raised in an affluent society. But 30 years ago, younger workers were more than willing to pay more than their share so that the elderly would have a chance to live out"their lives in dignity and independence. By now, of course, this problem is mostly behind us, but the debt remains. And so eventually the Social Se­ curity system should be enriched by a contribution from the general revenues of the federal government, which are collected more nearly according to the ability to pay. But that's down the road a bit. Meanwhile, the system as it stands gives you the nation's best chance to come out a winner. And the odds will get better as time goes on. Q; Let's look down the road a little farther. There's going to he a push for higger pensions, for ex­ panded medicare—maybe covering everyone—and all the rest. Who's going to pay for that? A: To a great degree, you are. Let's not make any bones about that. You want a secure old age, not lavish, but with enough money to live decently. It has to be paid for, one way or another; partly, perhaps, with a company pension plan (using money you might otherwise have had in wages) and through Social Security (half paid for by a tax on employers—money you would be unlikely to get otherwise). You want some kind of protection against the un­ expected—death, disability, chronic illness—for your­ self and those you're responsible for. Only Social Security can do that job for the aged, and it does it better than anything you can buy anywhere else for anything close to the price. Yes, Social Security is going to get bigger. It's going to get more expensive. It's going to annoy you as you pay your share. But where could you get a better buy? Q: But seriously—where will it all end? A: We in the AFL-CIO hope it won't end until the Social Security concept in the United States catches up with and surpasses the rest of the world. Of all the free, western nations—the lands of our forefathers, the creators of our national culture—we are the most laggard in social welfare, in caring for the aged, the ill and the deprived. In part this is because we Americans set so high a price on personal self-sufficiency and freedom of op­ portunity; "any boy can become President" and all that. Yet the concept of adequate social welfare does not conflict with the American ideal, but rather comple­ ments it. "Any boy can become President" if he has a fair chance. In today's society this mean< adequate food, adequate housing and adequate education. This chance must be open to the children of the poor widow and the young offspring of the retiree. If West Germany can spend 17 percent of its gross national product; Belgium, 14.4 percent; Britain, 11 percent; Ireland, 8.9 percent, for social welfare, surely the United States can do better than 7 percent. In cold fact we Americans not only do poorly by the indigent, the aged and the ill; we do poorly in protect­ ing the young against the burden of the old. This is not just faulty in principle but short-sighted in practice. For all our sakes, let us do better �Page Ten SEAFARERS LOG High Court Upholds Building Unions' Position In Prefahrication Dispute WASHINGTON—The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that strikes to enforce contract clauses that forbid employers from bringing prefabricated materials onto the job site are not prohibited by the "secondary boycott" and "hot cargo" amendments to the National Labor Relations Act. In two 5-to-4 decisions, the high court upheld the legal right clauses barring the use of prefab­ workers' dispute is with their own of labor unions to block auto­ ricated materials, the decision was employer and not with the sub­ contractor. mation of members' jobs and said of particular importance. key Taft-Hartley and LandrumThe court also held that the The legality of these "work Griffin amendments to the NLRA preservation agreements" has been prefabricated materials are not were not meant to deny workers upheld by the National Labor "hot cargo," which is generally the right to strike to prevent em­ Relations Board and they have defined as material produced by ployers from subcontracting work prevented the use of pre-finished companies in dispute with their to outside companies that would materials that would abolish on- own workers or by non-union use machines to do the work. the-job work traditionally done by shops. Decision Reversed Reading the majority opinion. hand. Justice William J. Brennan, Jr., The majority opinions centered Certain lower courts, however, said: "Before we say that Con­ have held that such provisions on the carpenters' contract in gress meant to strike from work­ were "hot cargo" clauses outlawed which the employers promised no ers' hands the economic weapons under the 1959 Landrum-Griffin carpenter would be required to traditionally used against their .Act which amended the national work on prefabricated materials. employers' efforts to abolish their labor law to prohibit pacts to Three contractors subsequently jobs, that meaning should plainly "cease ffem handling the products inherited a job calling for pre­ appear." of any other employer." In some fabricated doors and ordered 3,other cases, strikes to enforce 600 of them. The carpenters re­ The two cases decided involved these provisions have been held fused to hang the doors, the doors a contract between Carpenters to be "secondary boycotts" pro­ were sent back, and the door Union and a group of contrac­ tors in Philadelphia and an agree­ hibited in 1947 by the Taft-Hart­ manufacturer claimed it had been the victim of a "hot cargo" con­ ment in Houston between the ley Act. Asbestos Workers and heating In its definitive decision of tract. The U.S. Court of Appeals contractors. April 17, the Supreme Court held sided with the door manufacturer For the building construction that a strike to enforce a work and the higher body reversed that industry, where unions have al­ pre.servation agreement is not a decision. ways bargained for contract secondary boycott because the In the Houston asbestos case, the Supreme Court affirmed the decision of a lower court which upheld a contract provision under which workers refused to use pre­ fabricated material for placing insulation around pipes. Chief Justice Earl Warren and Justices Abe Fortas, Byron White by Frank Drozak, West Coast Representative and John M. Harlan concurred California AFL-CIO leader Thomas L. Pitts has recently warned with Brennan in the majority labor union members against Governor Ronald Reagan's most rulings. Dissenting were Justices Potter Stewart, Hugo Black, Wil­ recent ideas on labor relations. liam O. Douglas and Tom C. "The Reagan administration's legislative proposals to police Clark. internal union affairs," Pitts said, "clearly represents the attempt of a state government dominated by conservative business interests Brown in San Francisco, Pete to make mince meat of the trade Prevas is back in our area after union movement in California." an absence of almost two years. Following time out for a few San Francisco weeks vacation with his family Shipping continues to boom in here, Pete will be ready for an­ the port of San Francisco with other AB's job. the demand for AB's, oilers and FWT's particularly strong. WASHINGTON — Ship safety Seattle Paying off and signing on dur­ Shipping activity has been ex­ measures approved by the latest ing the last period were the Fenn cellent here during the last two International Convention for the Victory, Margaret Brown, Dela­ weeks and ail indications are that Safety of Life at Sea have been' unanimously ratified by the United ware, Pan Oceanic Faith, Minot it will continue that way. States Senate. Victory and the Ocean Wave. Eighty-eight attending Senators The Waiter Rice, Seatrain voted to pass the amendments Texas, Iberville and American following hearings before a Sen­ Victory were all in transit. ate Foreign Relations subcom­ Brother C. Ayer came out mittee. from Baltimore to catch the sec­ The amendments were prompt­ ond electrician's job on the Paned by two fires at sea that cost oceanic Faith. Also in from a total loss of 100 lives. One fire Baltimore was R. Kelly to make was aboard the Yarmouth Castle a Vietnam trip as FWT on the Harrison Slusser Fred Morris. in 1965 and the other aboard the Viking Princess in 1966. Wilmington The Cosmos Mariner, Anchor­ All nations which signed the Following two very good weeks age and Santore paid off and 1960 SOLAS Convention articles for shipping, the outlook for the signed on during the last period. will be bound by the new stipu­ coming period continues bright. The Rice Victory also crewed up. lations once they have been rati­ There are plenty of jobs for In transit were the Inger, Port- fied by two-thirds of the total FOWT's and plenty of slots are mar and Seattle. nations concerned. available for AB's and Cooks. Last aboard the Steel Seafarer Even if the amendments are Seven ships were in transit dur­ as Chief Electrician, Brother Wil­ not adopted internationally, all ing the past period and we had liam Slusser says he had a fine passenger ships plying in or out one pay off. trip but wanted to get off to spend of United States ports will, as a result of a Congressional measure Jim Rivers, one of our local some time with his family. Also taking a little rest after a passed just last year, be required pensioners, dropped by the hall to say hello to the boys and made good trip as Baker on the West­ to follow essentially the same re­ quirements. a contribution to the Maritime ern Hunter is M. W. Badger. Brother G. Harrison is waiting The Congressional law goes into Defense League. Jim says the League is something he is very for a year-long run on the first effect November 2, 1968, unless tanker to go. He last sailed as an the SOLAS amendments are en­ proud to be a part of. acted first. oiler on the Oceanic Wave. After paying off the Margaret The Pacific Coast Senate Ratifies SOLAS Ship Safety Ruling m. April 28, 1967 The Great Lakes by Fr«l Fam«i,S«cfrt«ry.TrMturtf,Qr»at Lakt The SIU Great Lakes District recently signed a contract with the Cement Transit Company, a subsidiary of Medusa Cement Corp., covering the company's cement carrier Medusa Challenger. The vessel, formerly the Alex. D. Chisholm, has been converted to a self-unloader with automated fire-hold and unloading equip­ ment. The ship will operate out of 5> also made a 50 day trip this Charlevoix, Michigan and service the ports of Chicago, Detroit and winter. Frankfort Toledo. The company expects to The Arthur K. Atkinson is now add two more vessels by 1970. We are still negotiating with in the Manitowoc Shipyard for its the Checker Cab Company in annual marine inspection. The Detroit. Contract talks are moving Grand Rapids has been leased slowly, and there is a possibility and is being operated by the Ann that we might have to call a strike Arbor Railroad Company for the in order to reach an agreement be­ next couple of months. When an cause the company refuses to re­ AB enters the hall he can pick the cognize the union shop and there company he wants to work for is no agreement on monetary mat­ and often he can pick the boat as ters as yet. Union negotiators are well. Detroit continuing their efforts however, Shipping in Detroit is still in hopes of reaching an agree­ booming and the shippmg board ment. is loaded with jobs. It looks like Chicago another great season. SIU organizers contacted PickWe just completed final nego­ ands-Mather, Interlake Steamship tiations with Roen Steamship Company crews at fitout and re­ Company, covering the crane ceived a gratifying welcome from operators aboard the barge Mar­ many of the men contacted. This quis Roen. The crane operators company will operate 15 vessels received an increase of 79 cents this season and pledge cards have per hour on the hourly rate, and been put aboard all vessels. In an additional 15 cents per hour Sturgeon Bay was the P-M ship on the crane rate. The company E. G. Grace, in Manitowoc the also agreed to pay the crane rate Frank Armstrong, in Milwaukee for handling hatches and beams, the Robert Hobson and the Walt­ which was not considered as part er Watson. Unfortunately the of the loading or unloading oper­ Frank Armstrong sailed one day ation in prior years. In all, this before our arrival in Manitowoc, was one of the highest increases but the reception from the other ever gained for seamen on the three vessels was very good in Great Lakes. "The crane operators the agent's opinion. will also be covered under the Most important, and mentioned SIU health,* welfare, and pension by these non-union sailors, was our plans. pension, hospital and welfare pro­ Ships up to 105 feet wide will gram—particularly the pension be able to go through the new program. Many of the P-M sailors Poe Lock when it opens in the have been asking our organizers Spring of 1968, the U.S. Army about the new Great Lakes Dis­ Corps of Engineers announced trict vacation plan and how it recently. The new lock will be one works. They were amazed to find of four on the American side of that a sailor does not have to sail the St. Marys River. on the same ship all season, or even with the same company in order to qualify for vacation bene­ fits. In addition, we have recently installed a diagnostic clinic in Sturgeon Bay and Alpena. They are most happy with the fact that while they are out on the Lakes STURGEON BAY—The latest working our contracted vessels, addition to the growing number their families will be taken care of. of SIU clinics has begun serving Seafarers and their families in Cleveland Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. The The first SIU ship to leave the clinic is located at the Dorchester winter fleet here was the Otto and Beck Clinic, 1715 Rhode Reiss, followed very shortly after­ ksland. ward by the J. Morrow and Frank The facility will provide free Taplin. It was a tight squeeze diagnostic service to the many crewing them up, but we made it SIU Great Lakes District mem­ with style. Any rated man who bers, SIU Great Lakes Tug and comes in the door goes out as fast Dredgemen and SIU Inland Boat­ as he wants to—registered and men's Union members in the area shipped at the same time. With the as well as to their dependents. winter fleet gone, this port has SIU clinic facilities are already settled down to what we hope will available to Seafarers and their be a normal season. families in the Great Lakes ports Duluth of Buffalo, Duluth, Saulte Ste. Shipping officially opened in the Marie, Toledo, Superior, Wis., port of Duluth with the arrival Melvindale, and Alpina, Mich., of the J. C. Miller, Gartland and Cleveland. Steamship. Don. Piper, fireman, The system of SIU clinics was just returned from the West begun in 1957 with the opening Coast where he made a trip last­ of the first facility in New York. ing 50 days. Don says it was a Other union clinics are located in good trip and he will take another Boston, Philadelphia, Baltimore, during the coming winter. Dave Norfolk, Tampa, San Juan, Ponce, Jones, FOW, also returned from New Orleans, San Francisco, the West Coast recently where he Seattle, and San Pedro, Calif. New SIU Chm Facility Opens In Sturgeon Bay �April 28, 1967 Page Eleven SEAFARERS LOG Seatrain Delaware On the San Juan Run Jack Kennedy, ship's delegate on the Del Norte (Delta), reported that Watt Bloodworth, a wiper, was hospitalized in Santos, Brazil. "Bloodworth was given $50 from the ship's fund," after suffering "bad steam burns," Kennedy reported. Also hospitalized were Paul Stanley, wiper, and Bob Pitcher, who was hurt in ^ an accident A happy new addition has been totals SI2. Ridgeway said Sea­ ashore. Both men added to the Alcoa Voyager (Al­ farers were reminded to take care also received coa) according of the washing machine, turn it donations from to Meeting Secre­ off after using it and turn in their the ship's fund. tary D. B.Jordan. linen at the port of payoff. No "A big vote of A new coffee urn beefs or disputed overtime were thanks was given has been obtained reported. Kennedy for a job for crewmembers well done," Meet­ who want to make ing Chairman tea, cocoa, and of Ship's delegate Luke Ciamboli Andrew A. McCloskey reported. course, coffee. M. complimented the Seafarers on the Bill Kaiser, treasurer, stated that P. Cox, Meeting Jordan Meridian Victory after donations and deductions Chairman, writes (Waterman) for the ships fund totaled 98.86, while that parts have been received for the fine coopera­ Maurice Kramer, movie director, the repairing of the washing ma­ tion they showed reported that the movie fund is chine. B. B. Butler has been elec­ during the recent now up to $595.85. Seafarer Her- ted ships delegate. The payoff will voyage. No combe in New Orleans after a trip ble Mueller moved that the dona­ plainTs. everything that included stops in England tion for the movie fund be set went smoothly. E. and Germany. back to $2 instead of $4. Bosun M. Villapol, meet­ Nick Pizzuto reported that the ing secretary, re­ deck department will finish paint­ "AH delegates jobs are in ex­ ported. The ship's ing the steward department rooms perienced hands and we should fund has $9.60. Fireman Tom during the next voyage. Michel have a smooth Harris made a motion to extend trip." according a vote of thanks to the Steward Vigo was elected delegate for the to word from the department and Ciamboli for the waiters and messmen. All dele­ Hastings (Water­ fine work they turned in. The crewgates reported that there were no man). Meeting was all in favor of this. Villapol major problems. Chairman Glen reports. The ship made stops in Vinson said no Newport. Coos Bay and Westport. beefs have been in Oregon, before hittina Seattle. Meeting Chairman Matthew reported and the Guidera, who doubles as ships del­ Vinson ^ 8°"'^ egate, reported one with some Prompt and courteous serxice that the captain oldtimers to teach the young Sea­ on the part of the pantryman and said he would pui farers some tricks. Meeting Secre­ messman aboard out a draw for the tary J. E. Wells writes that Torster the Fan wood crew when the Forsberg was elected ship's dele­ (Waterman), Lynn Victory gate. The ship is on the Japanese earned them a (Victory) arrives run with stops in Yokohama and vote of thanks at port, "if for Okinawa. from the crew. any reason the Meeting Chair­ ^ payoff is delayed." Strauss man Robert Kyle All crew members Crewmembers aboard the An­ reports. A request "who want Masters certificates drew Jackson (Waterman) gave a was made for a Smith should see the Chief Mate," vote of thanks to new grill for the Guidera told the crew. Harold all the delegates galley and a pump on the washing for the outstandStrauss, Meeting Secretary, in­ niachine. Ship's delegate. H. Smith i n g job they forms the Log that Seafarers said that some unfinished painting turned in. Meet­ were requested to make sugges­ will be completed when the vessel ing Chairman W. tions for safety repairs. Strauss C. Sellers reports. is in port. Meeting Secretary John wrote that two men were taken off According to Tilley wrote that Seafarers should the ship for medical attention in Meeting Secretary remember to let delegates handle Okinawa. Some disputed overtime H. G. Ridgeway, problems that arise, since other Sellers but no beefs, department dele­ the ship's treasury wavs cause confusion. gates report. A discussion was held about transferring drinking water directly from the evaporator to Lifeboat Class No, 174 Ups Anchor the portable water tank. Logs and mail are arriving regularly. <1> Bosun C. Gomez (left) and AB Mike Sovick, who is the Ship's Delegate, discuss the day's work over morning coffee. The pictures were taken by Seafarer Paul Schneider. Chief Cook Carlos Diaz (left) and Third Cook Ed Tresnick are preparing dinner in galley as container ship, a con­ verted tanker, slips out of home port of Edgewater, N. J. Family History of Going to Sea Makes Seafarer's Job Choke Easy "1 guess you have to be different to go to sea," says Robert "Chris" Christensen, a second-generation SIU man. His father, the late William Christensen, who sailed practically all his life, was an early member of the ^ sailing with the SIU in 1958, SIU. William Christensen began grows his chin foliage while out sailing as a small boy in his native at sea. "I keep it for a year or Norway, where he sailed on fish­ so, then I start a new one," he ing boats. When he grew older he explained. Asked by the LOG if sailed with the Norwegian mer­ he has had any trouble about the chant fleet. Emigrating to the beard aboard ship, he replied that United States, he settled in Bell- the only trouble he has received mo'-e, N.Y. and began sailing with is a "dirty look" from a ship's officer every once in a while. (he SIU. Although he usually includes a Bellmore, where Chris was raised, is near Long Island's south mustache in his hirsute produc­ shore. He can't remember when tions, this year's model has his father began taking him along dropped the upper lip decoration. on deep-sea fishing trips, and "Everybody calls me Abraham when he began to develop his love Lincoln now," he says. Brother Christensen, 30, who of the sea and ships. Chris's sails as an AB, has just returned hobby is still deep-sea fishing, and from Vietnam. He has been in he often spends a busman's holi­ day off the shore of Long Island, practically every major port in or on boats off the east Florida the world, and has no preferred coast, near Jacksonville, where he runs. Single, he will go anywhere, as long as he thinks there will be makes his home. The seafaring tradition runs some action. strong in Chris's family. His un­ cle, Helga Borrensen, is a tugboat captain. In spite of his family's sea­ Checks for wages due Sea­ going tradition, Chris started his farers listed below are being working life as a construction car­ held by Robin Line at Two penter, practicing a trade that Broadway, New York, N. Y. Scandinavian families have devel­ Contact the company directly oped into a fine art. if your name appears; Then, seeking something more John A. Hamot, John A. adventurous, he enlisted in the Vogel, Loren IV. Brown, Army Airborne. He found jump­ Glenn Martin Ross, Angelo ing out of airplanes to his liking. Palumbo, Nent Williams, Os­ "I joined the Airborne for the car Lee, Alvin Smith, John same reason I went to sea," T. Keegan, Robert Lopez, Brother Christensen told the LOG. Martin G. WUt, E. W. Bartol, "I guess I wear a beard for the Jr., Ernest S. Walker, Charles same reason," he continued. "You A. Fussel, Chris A. Markris, just have to be a little different and J. Engebretson, to enjoy life." Chris, who began MONEY DUE Launch service is excellent on the Belgium Victory (Isthmian), according to Meeting Secretary Ken Hayes. De­ partment dele­ gates report that the food aboard the ship is excel­ lent. Lots of ov­ ertime, a fine crew and a TV Gates in good condi­ tion has made the voyage a pleas­ ant one, according to Harold Middleton, meeting chairman. A mo­ tion by C. Gates was accepted, giving a vote of thanks to the Cap­ tain, Chief Mate and Chief En­ gineer for their cooperation and prompt attention to all shipboard matters. Crew members were re­ quested to return all books to the library as soon as they are finished reading them. This latest group of graduates of the SlU's Lifeboat School in eludes some newcomers into the ranks of the union as well as some old timers. Seated (l-r) are: Albert Leight, Alyondrino Velozquez, Leonard Pellettiere and Pedro Gallegos. Standing are: Instruc­ tor K. C. McGregor, Glaus Ahmels, Patrck Sullivan and Instruc­ tor Ami Bjornsson. The grads now hold C.G. lifeboat tickets. �^3: Despite Success In Shew Business He Returns To First Love—The Sou On Tuesday, April 4, Seafarer William M. Brunning began a voyage toward a long-cherished dream—combining his talents as a superb cook and a fine Country and Western entertainer. On that day, Brother Brunning, who in the old days used to be known to his fellow Seafarers as "Bill, the singing cook,"' re­ turned to the sea for the first during the following decade, play­ there. One thing led to another, time since the early 1950's. ing together with such Country and eventually they married. After many years as a successful Country and Western entertainer. Bill shipped out again. At 9 o'clock that morn­ ing he reported to Isthmian's New York office in lower Manhattan. Later that day he flew to San Fran­ cisco, en route to Honolulu, to serve as Chief Cook Brunning aboard the Longlines. a cable ship. Bill was born 49 years ago in Savannah, Ga. Growing up in that Southern coastal city, he was exposed to the two traditions that became a way of life for him— the sea and Country music. In 1939, at the age of 22, Brother Brunning went to sea and joined the SIU. His first two trips were made in the black gang, as a Wiper. The next couple of voyages were spent working topside as an OS. TTien Bill tried the Steward Department, sailing as a Messman. "I really liked it in the galley," he says, and worked his way up in the Steward Department. He now holds the ratings of Chief Steward and Chief Cook. Although he had heard the country style music all his life, it was not until he had been going to sea for three years that Brother Brunning began playing the guitar and singing. He bought a guitar in 1941 and took it aboard ship "just to pass the time." He soon mastered the instru­ ment and began entertaining his shipmates. Within a few years, many of them were telling him "Bill, you really ought to turn professional." In the early 1950's he took his buddies' advice. "My first break," Bill told the LOG, "came in 1951, when I played in a Grand Ol' Opry road show in Indianapolis, with Ernest Tubb." The Grand or Opry is the grand old institu­ tion of Country and Western mu­ sic. Brother Brunning was to appear on the Grand Ol' Opry many times April 28, 1967 SEAFARERS LOG Page Twelve and Western greats as Ernest Tubb, Fern Young, "Grandpa" Jones and Wander Jackson. "I still have many friends at the Opry in Nashville," Brother Brunning told the LOG. Nashville. Tenn., is the Country and Western capi­ tal of America, and the Grand Ol' Opry's national broadcasts, as well as that of many other shows, orig­ inate there. Just as he had done while in the galley. Bill worked his way up in the entertainmnt field. After ten years of success as an individ­ ual entertainer, he organized a band. The Western band, begun in 1961, consisted of eight pieces: lead guitar, rhythm guitar, bass fiddle, accordion, drums, piano, and two girl vocalists. One of the eirls sang traditional Country and Western music. The other singer specialized in the folk style that was then just beginning to take the country's young music audi­ ences by storm. Bill, not one to miss out on a trend, realized that the addition of a folk singer to his ensemble would give it a wider audience. He was proven correct. The couple make their home in Burlington, Vt., Barbara's home­ town. They have a two-and-ahalf-year-old son, William, Jr. Bill and his' band continued to travel the country. "We rode in style," he says. They traveled in a bus that began its career in 1960 with Greyhound. Bill had bought the bus, and converted part of the rear into living quarters for him.self. Hit Parade Song Besides presenting its regular three-hour show in name clubs, theaters, school houses and hos­ pitals, the band began to make records. In 1964, about a year after his marriage. Bill recorded "Have You Ever Been Lonely," and "Someday." The lyrics Bill wrote for "Have You Ever Been Lonely" reflected his feelings about being away from Barbara, he says. The song, with "Some­ day" on its flip side, became a best seller. It made the Country and Western hit parade and was on juke boxes throughout the country. In spite of being able to obtain bookings throughout the country A Lot of Laughs Bill, himself, was the lead male and his recording successes. Bill singer, and sometimes doubled on came to the realization that he the guitar and the bass fiddle as wasn't able to put away very well. TTie catalog of Bill's talents much money for his family. He seems endless; his group developed explained that he had to pay an comedy routines as a break be­ average of $35 daily expenses for tween numbers, and he was the each member of his band and his funny man. As a comedian, going driver, had to lay out money for by the name of "Butterball," he elaborate Western costumes, main­ says "we got a lot of laughs and tain and fuel his bus, and pay an average recording fee of $500 for made a lot of people happy." all his records, most of which, of The most significant milestone course, did not become overnight in his career. Brother Brunning smashes. So he decided to break says, was 1963. It was in that up the band and go into radio. year that he met and married his Bill presided over Country and wire. Barbara. As he tells the Western shows as a disc jockey story of how they met: "I was and master of ceremonies in Prov­ playing New Haven, Conn. After idence, R. L; Charleston, S. C.; the show a lovely girl asked for Gainesville, Fla.; Jacksonville, my autograph." Barbara was Fla.; and finally the big time, working as a waitress in New Wheeling, W. Va., second only to Haven. Bill found out where she Nashville as a center of Country worked and went to the restau­ rant. When he got there, he says, and Western music. Still, show he was too shy to sit in her sec­ business did not provide the secu­ tion. She .spotted him, however, rity that Bill and his family felt and asked him what he was doing they should have, and he didn't see Barbara and Little Bill for months at a time. Double-Play Duo So, a few months ago, Barbara and Bill had a heart to heart talk about the family's future. "With her help," he told the LOG, "I de­ cided to go back to my real profe.ssion." Bill recalled how, dur­ ing the first few months of his marriage, when they lived in New Haven, he could see ships while driving down the Connecticut Turnpike. "I became homesick for the sea every time I saw them," he says. "My wife is for my going to sea a hundred per cent," Brother Brunning says, adding, "she is helping me save for the future." The SlU's Welfare Services Division rapped out a double recently "I know by having a good union when it issued two Seafarers' first pension checks at one time. I'll have enough to send my son to Chee Mohat (left) sailed in the Deck Department and holds a college. I'll go to sea as long as I Bosun's endorsement. His last trip was on the Viet Nam run. Wil­ am able. I'm going to try to give liam Woeras (right) has been sailing, in the Engine Department, the boys the best food and the best since 1946. He came into the Union during the bitter Isthmian entertainment I can . . . just me organizing campaign. Al Bernstein, Welfare Director, sits in center. and my guitar." FINAL DEPARTURES Gordon Ray, 64: Brother Ray died March 8, at the USPHS Hospital, Balti­ more, from a heart ailment. Born in Indiana, he resided in New Orleans. An AB, he sailed on SIU ships for over 20 years. Ray joined t he union in Tampa, Fla. His last ship was the Barre Victory. Surviving is his sister, Mary Smyrk of Cockeysville, Md. Burial was in Loudon Park Cemetery, Baltimore. Charles Babick, 45: Brother Babick died while at sea on the San Francisco, Feb. 17, when he was stricken with a heart attack. Babick sailed as AB and bosun. He joined the SIU in the port of Balti­ more. Born in Pennsylvania, he resided in Johnstown, Pa. His last ship was the Los Angeles. Surviv­ ing is his sister, Mildred Maser of Johnstown. <1> Sam Petroff, 56: A coronary oc­ clusion claimed the life of Seafarer Petroff, March 3, at Hamot Hospi­ tal, Erie, Pa. Bom in Pennsylvania, he was a resident of Erie. Joined the SIU in the port of Detroit, sailed as an AB in the SIU's Great Lakes Di.strict. He is .survived by his wife, Virginia. Burial was in St. John the Divine Cemetery, Harborcreek Township, Erie County. Lawrence Kile, 63: Brother Kile died at St. Mary's Hospital on March 4, in Port Arthur, Texas. He sailed in the Engine room and joined the SIU in Port Arthur, Texas. A native of Gueydan, La., Kile lived in Sa. bine Pass, Texas. He sailed on tugs operated by the D. M. Picton Co. Seafarer Kile is survived by his wife, Irene. He was buried in Greenlawn Mem­ orial Park, Port Arthur, Texas. Oscar Seara, 55: Brother Seara died in New York City on March 18. Born in Tampa, Florida, he sailed in the Steward depart­ ment as a cook. Seara joined the union in New York City, where he resided with his wife, Isabel. His last vessel was the Ezra Sensibar. Burial was in Municipal Cemetery, Tampa. Marcus Medina, 53: Seafarer Medina died at his home in New York City on March 11, after a heart ailment. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Medina shipped as an oiler in the Engine depart­ ment and last sailed on the Suz­ anne. He joined the SIU in the port of New York in 1942. He was on SIU pension at the time of death. Surviving is his wife, Carlina Medina. Burial was in St. Raymond's Cemetery, Bronx. Edward HIU, 67: Death claimed Seafarer Hill on March 7, in the USPHS Hospital, Galveston, Texas, following an ill­ ness. Brother Hill joined the union in 1938 in the port of Mobile. Born in Texas, he had been a resi­ dent of Galveston. He sailed in the Deck department and was qualified to ship as bosun. He was on SIU pension at the time of death. He is survived by his wife, Lois. Burial was in Gal­ veston Memorial Park, Hitchcock, Texas. In Final Tribute "The American flag was lifted, and the body of J. E. Parks sank beneath the waves that had been his home for so many years. It was a saddened group of men that carefully folded the flag, as they mourned the loss of an admired shipmate." This is how Wil­ liam F. Phillips, Ship's Delegate aboard the Achilles (Newport Tanker) described the burial at sea of the ship's Bosun. Brother "Ed" Parks. S3, was stricken by a sudden heart attack on March 9, �April 28, 1967 On fnhk^r Disaster Page Thirteen SEAFARERS LOG ' . Cne of the AFL-00 aiffiH; atsd uniotis ill the vanguard of ^ aOhieving social justice in this eountry is the United Farm Workers, headed by Cesar Cha­ vez. In my opinion, Mr. Cha~ vez is one of the great men of our time, a man of deep cour­ age, insight and fortitude. it was my privilege to hear Mr. Chavez speak recently. He described bis union's struggle to organize those outside the pale of the nation's power struggle. Mr. Chavez sees it as his mis­ sion to spearhead the organiza­ tion of those outside the orga­ nized sector of the economy by unionizing his fellow SpanishAmericans whose labor brings food to our tables. Though their employers and exploiters are not numbered among the few hundred giant firms who pretty much control the nation's industrial output, they have powerful friends in the govern­ ment and are powers to be reck­ oned with. And he went on to say that he was gratified at the response among college students and oth­ er liberals in California who helped the United Farm work. ers when things looked biea|cest. These students hit the picket lihes \yith the farm workers, he • saidl • . Maybe, Mr. Baker^ aren't as bad as they sCem to you, Michael Sinfms ToTbiEdif^n Your feature article on "The Torrtey Canyon Disaster" thor­ oughly examined the infinitely complex international mari­ time, legal, conservation and economic problems implicit in the huge ship's tragic mishap. xf You accurately chronicled j the maze of multiple responsi­ bilities in the case, made pos­ sible by today's increasingly complex maritime situation. T 'quote: "American owned, in­ corporated In Bermuda, regis­ tered in Liberia, crewed by Ital­ ians, chartered to a British firm, insured by British and Ameri­ can companies, she was wrecked in international waters ^nd her drifting cargo will undoubtedly bring about liability claims from France and England at least," I know that these facts add up to one thing to those of us who are familiar with the cur­ rent unfortunate state of the American Merchaint Marine—r the Torrey Canyon was a run­ away-flag operation, American in name only. Though the supertanker made headlines and received feature television coverage around the world as' an American-ship when she r^ii aj^ound on Seven Stones Reef"last tnonth, actu­ ally there was nothing very American about her. Like other vessels under run- . away^ag-operation, the Torrey Canyon pays no taxes to the United States, paj^ substahdard' To The Editor wages to her crew, is not sub­ ject to ri^d U.S; Safety stand­ ards, and is part of the huge : i^gndsdtp^ American-owned, foreign-flag fleet that has/ieprived U.S. flag­ ships xrf their hair share of for­ TplhcEjiitoK . eign comnterce. / . * " , ^ Senator Magpuson's statO-;: Many people are outrlgcd at r meht to the Senate OSeafarers ; the extensive publicity given to Log, April 14, 1967) coni^rr)^ ? the tanker as ap American shipi ing the "deploraWe" state of the . and it 1r Obvious to mO tha^ U.S, merchant marine was one ^ there bas^ baen a gross hiisrep-*; of the most lucid: ^analys^-.^;? J resicmtatipn in television ^rid ^ ^4 the* situation I have read in- a;; coverage of this event;1 % ;>-l<mg timfe. ^• 1 ' Lvimbdef lf^y^^ Pitting this ' the article oit the h Soviet's opepiftg^^ i^ Students Aiding ~ .O'^icoastyMse,. saa:- 0nte ;•to^.'wcw^:,;, WrmWdrim^ Svide shipping, "albng t^^ rapidly-expattduig Soviet To '^he Editor: vvaS intentlqnal;^; ' I recently read, an article by. Whether not it was intfeatiqnr^ 3 |ooO Iny |a^ c^fluntnis^f aU it certainly should drive I Russieli'^^er of Thf iSlewfprk;,homeNthe point thaC;;aS Senator ';in; whit^the'; unmerci-;;: l^aghuspti watned fihe iiatiori, I foily today^ coliege sttt-; the deterioratipri of our met-. dents uhthinkihgly suppprtr chagt raarltte ^oscs a ''grave ' |mg the status quo and jinthlnkdanger" and art "irnmediate pnsdy^toparipgihe^ 'Jlhrhattb-thd-welbh^ |sei|ne hi^ fcitfeen of thetJnitcd States.''^ , "Two^ ^ears ago President 4, He said the press has magniJohnson promised the nation a |fled;itodeirt.-p new maritinie program," Sehalyitalspejafrssui^^ timeout toi' Magnusdti pmitided usVand ^ " minority aref' ;:'^',nation W-:stBl^wai^^ J Others who nhdeiy , ""' «iiftrhp';saida«ne^ •'qpsyelledelic:- ;;-itati4-tli^:yote:pf ••'flievtpetehani:; fleet in the nation's economy^ the Senator called for theimM^:dlate implementation,.of a flhef LETT: '/hfcfast;:eii^ , • advanced U.S.-flag vessels built ; ,m American shipyards'and ^ Seafarer to Climb Upgrading Ladder With Aid of SiU Engineers Program Brother Salvatore Aquia Jr.'s dream of climbing the upgrading ladder within the American Mer­ chant Marine is coming true—thanks to the SIU-MEBA District 2 Engineering School. Salvatore has followed the sea with a single-minded devotion. He enlisted in the Navy after his graduation from high school. Kastina encouraged him. "let's try portunity the SIU has given me serving most of his four years it." "So with Tony's help." he to advance myself ... I think in the service as a Machinist's relates. "I made out the applica­ everyone should take advantage Mate Second Class. For a short tion and sent it to headquarters of it." time he tried a shore job, working in New York." Brother Aquia, who came to the as a clerk for the federal govern­ Eight days later Brother Aquia's United States from Italy 14 years ment's Social Security ofFice in telephone rang. It was SIU head­ ago. says "I go to sea because I Woodlawn. Md. But he realized quarters calling to tell him he had come from a seafaring family, and this was not his cup of tea, .and been accepted by its Engineering in my family it's a tradition that soon found him­ School. Brother Aquia is now at­ you follow in your father's foot­ self back in the tending the Engineering School steps." Engine Room, and hopes to graduate in about "My grandfather." Brother this time not with two months and obtain his Third Aquia explains, "owned a fleet of Navy, but with Assistant Engineer's license. "As fishing boats in Sicily. My dad the SIU. Brother far as the school goes."' he says, used to go to sea with his father's Aquia has been "it's great. The teachers are the boats." The catch was mostly an­ sailing with the he.st in the country—very intelli­ chovies and some tuna. They were SIU for four gent and very patient." primitive vessels, he relates, driven years now. Aqula As for the future. Brother by wind and sail, and when there The moment Aquia said that "someday I hope was no wind, by the sweat of men that changed the course of his life to return to school to upgrade my­ rowing at oars. came a few months ago in Saigon, self up the next rung to Second "I love going to sea . . . its hewhen Brother Aquia picked up Assistant Engineer and, the Lord come part of me." says Brother a copy of the LOG and saw the willing, to return again to go up Aquia. 27. He is single and lives pictures of two friends and for­ "more rungs on the ladder." with his family in Baltimore. He mer shipmates—Freddie Fleisch"I certainly appreciate the op­ has a married sister and a brother. man and Clinton Webb—who had won their Second Assistant Engi­ neers' endorsements after attend­ ing the SIU-MEBA District 2 school. At the time Brother Aquia was sailing as an FWT aboard the Alcoa Mariner (Alcoa). He was on his second trip on the Lurdes Filippetti, horn Feb­ 8. 1967. to the Jackie W. Potters. ship and had been aboard seven ruary 5. 1967. to the Luis A. Wilmington. N.C. months. Filippettis, Baltimore. Maryland. "Right then and there," he re­ lates, "I made up my mind I'd Francis D. Hemilright, horn apply for the school as soon as Eduardo Rode, horn February February 20. 1967, to the Francis I got Stateside. When 1 saw my 23, 1967, to the Howard Rodes. D. Hemilrights. Manteo. N.C. buddies in the LOG. he says, I Houston, Texas. had faith that I would do it too." ^ •Anthony Amendolia, horn Jan­ When Brother Aquia got back Felicia Weeks, horn February 19, uary 30. 1967. to the Anthony to his hometown, he got cold feet again, but he had already spoken 1967. to the Hubert G. Weeks. Amendolias. Bayonne, New Jer­ sey. to Baltimore Patrolman Tony Foley. Alabama. Kastina. "Come on," Patrolman Jorge Soto, horn July 12. 1966. Vincent Paul Lawsin, horn to the Jorge C. Sotos, Brooklyn. March I. 1967, to the Vincente A. ACHILLES (A. L. Burbank), March 19 Chairman. Bob Porter; Secretary, New York. Lawsins. Seattle. Washington. N. F. Hatfield. Ship's delegate reported that everything is running smoothly. —— One man was returned to the U.S. for hospitalization. $22.00 in ship's fund. Iris Todd, horn September-12. 1966. to the Ray E. Todds. Col­ HASTINGS (Waterman), March 18— Chairman. Glen E. Vinson ; Secretary, lins, Mississippi. J. E. Weils. Brother Torster Forsherg SIU ARRIVALS <1- was elected to serve as ship's delegate. Discussion held about water being ra­ tioned, otherwise no beefs were reported by department delegates. <1> Mark Stalnaker, horn February 25, 1967. to the Owen R. Stalnakers, Toledo, Ohio. — ^3> — ;0 ,:^o£ .Snj' Stacia Pedersen, horn February 3, 1967, to the Otto Pedersens. Pass Christian, Mississippi. <1> MEETIN<M DEL SUD (Delta). March IS—Chair­ man, W. Fol.se; Secretary, C. Lanier. Brother W. Pittman was elected to serve as new ship's delegate. No beefs reported by department delegates. SEA SCOPE (Alpine), March 8—Chair­ man, Joseph L. Dier: Secretary, Joseph L. Dier. Brother R. Shcppard was elected to serve as new ship's delegate. Few hours disputed OT in each department otherwise everything is running smooth­ ly, Crew members would like to he informetl iihout new Alpine contract. OCEAN ANNA (Maritime Overseas), February 22—Chairman, M. C. Cooper; Secretary, C. J. Nail. One man missed ship in Houston. Brother N. D. Matthey was elected to serve as ship's delegate. Vote of thanks was extended to the resigning ship's delegate. Brother F. A. Pehler, for a job well done. BELGIUM VICTORY (Isthirjan). March 12—-Chairman, Harold N. Middleton ; Secretary. Ken Hayes. $22.00 in ship's fund. Vote of thanks was ex­ tended to the Chief Mate. Chief Engineer and the Master for their cooperation and prompt attention to any questions. The steward department was also given a vote of thanks for their fine food. Ship's delegate reported that cooperation is good in all departments. Darren Lloyd, horn February 22, 1967, to the Dennis D. Lloyds, Boyce, Virginia. Timothy Potter, horn February Clarence Olein Please contact your brother. M. J. Olein. 532 South Lincoln. Denver. Colorado, as soon as possible. <1> Rudolph R. Cefaratti Please contact your mother as soon as possible about your in­ come tax forms, which you forgot to sign before you shipped out. Tell her where you want them forwarded. I I I Brooklyn, N. Y. 11232 I 1 would like to receive the SEAFARERS LOG—please put my I I name on your mailing list, (print information) I I NAAAE . i.•,,.» »> • • , .• k •.••••• • « « I 'STREET"'ADC^ESS • ,».«, ;«> •,-» • «,»•- I J CITY • •••;, STATE, ZIP. ,,,,. I Editor, SEAFARERS LOG, 675 Fourth Ave., TO AVOID DUPUCATION; If yoo ar« an oW subscriber an^ have a change 'icrfiacWteiKi; -pleMe- giye - Wiftir^toiW^ �Page Fourteen SEAFARERS V. k i; t: I > V'!: 11-- Wi:' Schedule of Membership Meetings SIU-AGLIWD Meetings New Orleans May 16—2;30 p.m. Mobile May 17—2:30 p.m. Wilmington . May 22—2:00 p.m. San bYancisco May 24—2:00 p.m. Seattle May 26—2:00 p.m. New York May 8—2:30 p.m. Philadelphia .May 9—2:30 p.m. Baltimore May 10—2:30 p.m. Detroit May 12—2:30 p.m. Houston .... May 22—2:30 p.m. Mobile May 17—7:00 p.m. New York . . May 8—7:00 p.m. Philadelphia .May 9—7:00p.m. Baltimore . . .May 10—7:00 p.m. i:Houston . . . May 22—7:00 p.m. Great Lakes SIU Meetings Detroit May 15—2:00 p.m. Alpena May IS—7:00 p.m. Buffalo May 15—7:00 p.m. Chicago . . . .May 15—7:00 p.m. Cleveland . . . May 15—7:00 p.m. Duluth May 15—7:00 p.m. Frankfort . . .May 15—7:00 p.m. SIU A+lan+ic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters Inland Boatmen's Union United Industrial Workers Great Lakes Tug and Dredge Region Chicago . . . .May 16—7:30 p.m. tSault Ste. Marie May 18—7:30 p.m. Buffalo May 17—7:30 p.m. Duluth May 19—7:30 p.m. Cleveland . . . May 19—7:30 p.m. Toledo May 19—7:30 p.m. Detroit May 15—7:30 p.m. Milwaukee . . May 15—7:30 p.m. SIU Inland Boatmen's Union New Orleans May 16—5:00 p.m. Mobile May 17—5:00 p.m. Philadelphia . May 9—5:00 p.m. Baltimore (licensed and unlicensed) May 10—5:00 p.m. Norfolk . . . .May 11—5:00 p.m. Houston .... May 22—5:00 p.m. DIRECTOltYof UNION HALLS SECRETARY TREASURER Al Kerr .. .675 HEADQUARTERS t Meeting held at Labor Temple, Sault St. Marie, Mirh. • Meeting held at Labor Temple, New­ port News. t Meeting held at Galveston wharves. Ave. Bilyii HY 9 66C0 127 River St. EL 4-3616 BALTIMORE, MD. 1216 E. B.illiinore St. EA 7-4900 .177 Stale St. Rl 2 0140 BOSTON, Mass. ,. 735 Washington St. TL 3 9259 BUFFALO, N.Y. . CHICAGO, III. 9383 Elving Ave. SA I 0733 CLEVELAND, Ohio 1420 W. 25th St. MA I 54S0 0225 W. .lofterson A-*.-. VI 3 4741 DETROIT, Mich. . DULUTH, Minn. .312 W. 2nd St. RA 2 4110 P.O. Box 287 415 Main St. EL 7 2441 FRANKFORT, Mich. S804 Canal St WA 8 320/ HOUSTON, Tex. JACKSONVILLE, Fla. 2608 Pea.I St. EL 3 0987 99 Montgomery St. LIE 3 0104 JERSEY CITY, N.J. I Ala. South NEW ORLEANS, La. United Industrial Workers New Orleans May 16—7:00 p.m. 4lh ALPENA, Mich. . MOBILE, m LONGVIEW VICTORY (Victory Car­ riers), March 5—Chairman, Don Bartlett; Secretary, Milke Mulroone. Ship's delegate reported that most of the re­ pairs have been taken care of. Every­ thing is running smoothly with no bcef.s. $19.38 in ship's fund. Brother Don Bartlett was re-elected to serve as ship's delegate. ROBIN KIRK (Moore-McCormic), March 5—Chairman, Robin Hutchins; Secretary, Everett Perry. $22.66 in ship's fund. Few hours dispute OT in deck and engine departments. Ship's delegate to ascertain why travel pay is not put on payroll for tax deduction. Ship's delegate reported that all is going well with no beefs. MERRIHAC (Merrimac Transport), March 5—Chairman, Joseph Stanton; Secretary, Nicholas Hatgimbioe. One wiper was transferred to the steward department due to the fact that the DIOEST of SIU MEETINOS VICE PRESIDENTS Earl Shepard LIndsey Williams Robert Matthews Railway Marine Region Philadelphia May 16—10 a.m. & 8 p.m. Baltimore May 17—10 a.m. & 8 p.m. •Norfolk May 18—10 a.m. & 8 p.m. Jersey City May 15—10 a.m. & 8 p.m. ROBIN GRAY (Robin), Mnrcb I Chairman, L. Gillian; Secretary, A. Ferrara. ^roe disputed OT in deck and en­ gine department to be taken up with boarding patrolman. Vote of thanks to the steward department for a job well done. PRESIDENT Paul Hall EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Gal Tanner Lawrence St. HE 2 1754 630 -lactson Ave. Tel. 529 7546 115 3rd St, Tel. 622-1892 NORFOLK, Va. PHILADELPHIA, Pa. 2604 S. 4th St. DE 6 3818 PORT ARTHUR, Tex. . 1348 Seventh St. SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. 350 Freemonl St. DO 2 4401 SANTURCE. P.R. . 1313 Fernantiez Juncos Stop 20 Tel. 724 2848 SEAHLE, Wash. 2505 First Avenue MA 3-4334 ST. LOUIS. Mo. 805 Del Mar CE-l-1434 TAMPA, Fla. 312 Harrison St Tel. 229 2788 WILMINGTON, Calif. YOKOHAMA, Japan 505 N Marine Ave 834-2528 Iseya BMg . Room 801 12 Ka.gan Oori-Nakaku 204971 Errt. 281 April 28, 1967 LOG steward deparment was short three men. Two men were hospltalired In France. Repair Ibt made up and will be turned in. AMERIGO (Crest Overseas), November 21—Chairman, John Hoggie: Secretary, Clarence A. Collins. No be^s reported by department delegates. Brother John Hoggie was elected to serve as ship'js delegate. It was requested that lights be installed port side and starboard side and corners midship house main deck. Vote of thanks was extended to the steward department for a job well done. BRIGHAM VICTORY (States Marine). March 17 — Chairman, W. R. Layton; Secretary, W. T. Langford. Plenty of beefa^ in engine department to be taken up with boarding patrolman. Motion made to write to headquarters asking that a new drinking fountain be put aboard as the present one is out of order most of the time and the chief engineer has con­ sistently refused to do anytbng about it. Discussion about crew putting in for' subsbtence if there s no cold water in the tropes. This should be put in con, tract. Vote of thanks to the steward ' department for a Job well done during the breakdown of the galley blower, ! 'AlIERIGO'- (Creep Overseas), 'Mar«ai 5—Cliairman, John Hoggie, ^retary, William Schneider. No beefs and no dis­ puted OT reported by department dele­ gates. There will be further discussions on draws (U.S. currency), prevention of venereal disease, and meal and lodging allowances. Motion made to expedite rev. tirement plan for SIU members. Plan should include 20 years service with 7 months sea time in a year, counting as a full year towards the total 20 years. Payment of $300.00 per man per month. Motion made to increase knowledge of first trippers from the Union school by incorporating classes on contract, con­ stitution, job responsibiltiee and Union hstory. INGER (Reynolds Metals), March 12— Chairman, Santos Garcia; Secretary, none. The ship's delegate told the cwptain that the crew wanted to be paid off on the day of arrival Instead of hav­ ing to wait until the next day. Sq)me disputed OT reported in deck department. Crew would like all the diluted OT to be settled before payoff. Vote of thanks to the steward and the entire depart­ ment. DEL MONTR (Delta). F^uary 28— 2 Chairman, A. C. CampMdl; Secretary, A. G. ShpeneA. Ship's deUnatltd reperted runntni smootl^ that everything b running with no beefs and no dbputed OT. Brother George C. Hoffman resigned as shp's delegste and Brother A. fiudlmae was elected to serve in bis place. Vote of thanks extended to Brother Hoffman. $2.00 In ship's fund. MERIDIAN VICTORY (Waterman March 6 — Chairman, Luke Clamboll . SecreUry, E. M. Villapol. $9.60 in ship's fund. No beefs and no dbputed OT re­ ported by department delegates. Vote of thanks to the ship's delegate, BrotherLuke A. Ciamboli, and to the steward department for jobs well done. STEEL ARCHITECT (Isthmbn), February 12—Chairman, Roy R. Thomas: SecreUry. James E. Ostrom. $104.26 in ship's fund. No beefs and no dbputed OT reported by department delegates. Motion made to have American money for draws instead of travelers checks. VENORE (Venore), February 19 — Chairman, Stanley J. Hutchinson; Secre­ tary, A. Lesnansky. No beefs and no db­ puted OT reported by department dele­ gates. YELLOWSTONE (Rio Grande Trans­ port), February 9 — Chairman, J. M. Davis; Secretary, J. H Roberta. No beefs report^ by department delegates. Vote of thanks extended to the .steward' de­ partment for the good food. WESTERN CLIPPER (Western Ag­ ency), February 12—Chairman, Fred Gen­ try; Secretary, S. Escobar. $21.36 in ship's fund. Dbputed OT in steward department. Brother C. Goidts was elected tx> serve as ship's delegate. DELAWARE (Bulk Transport), Febru­ ary 13—Cbairmon, Calvin D. Morrb; Secretary. L. P. Hagmann. Some dfaput^ OT in deck department. Motion made that any member with 16 years sea time on SIU ships be Able to retire. whether dbabled or regardless of the amount of hb income after retirement. Further, would apprecbte further com­ ments by other brothers in the LOG. ROBIN SHERWOOD (Robin), Febru­ ary 6—Chairman, E!dgar J. Buhrman; Secretaty, Gilbert M. Wright. Some dis­ puted OT in steward department. Broth­ er Henry Swartz was elected to serve as new ship's delegate. Vote of thanks to the steward d^urtment for a Job wdl done. MANHATTAN (Hudson Waterways), February 18—Chairman, William Pad­ gett; Secretary. Clyde Kent. Some db­ puted OT concerning restriction to the ship at both Vbakapatnam and Madras, India, to be settled by the patrolman at payoff. Motion was made that each man submit hb restriction to the ship O'T on hb own respective overtime sheet. Ship's delegate reported that the Captain praised the crew, especially the steward department, for making it a smooth trip, and the excellent preparation of food. The crew also extended a vote of thanks to the steward department for a job well done. ALCOA VOYXGER (Alcoa), March 18 —Chairman, M. P. Cox; Secretary, D. B. JordoT>. No beefs were reported by Fwtlhent delegates^. Brother- B^ B.'Buti ler w<x« elected to serve as new ship's delegate. Matter of four nights lodging in New Orleans while men were chipping and welding after 8 P.M., to be taken up with the Captain. ROBIN GOODFELLOW (Moore-McCormackl, February 3—Chairman, W. M. Hand; Secretary, ^omas W. Faulkner. Brother Faulkner was elected to serve as ship's delegate. $61.00 in ship's fund. Some disputed OT in deck department. Crew were asked to be neat and clean in pantry and messhall, and to keep natives out of messhsll, laundry and passageways. CAPE CATOCHi~ainit«d Maritime), February 22—Chairmsn, M.-Poole; Se^ retary, E. O'Neil. Ship's delate' re­ ported that everything. is in g(K)d order with no beefs. PENN SAILOR (Penn Shipping), March 19—Chairman, T. Weems; Secre­ tary, Wm. X- Pittman. Vote of. thanks was extended to the ship's delegate who In turn thanked the crew for Oieir as­ sistance. Some disputed OT in dedc department.- Ship should be fumigated for roaches.' Dbeuasion about installing' air-coiiditioitem in meeshalb. DO NOT BUY Seafarers and their families are urged to support a consumer boy­ cott by trade unionists against various companies whose products are produced under non-union conditions, or which are "unfair to labor." (This listing carries the name of the AFL-CIO unions in­ volved. and will be amended from time to time.) Sears, Roebuck Company Retail stores & products (Retail Clerks) Stitzcl-Wcller Distilleries "Old Fitzgerald," "Old Elk" "Cabin Still," W. L. Weller Bourbon whiskeys (Distillery Workers) Kingsport Press "World Book," "Childcraft" (Printing Pressmen) (Typographers. Bookbinders) (Machinists, Stereotypers) Jamestown Sterling Corp. (United Furniture Workers) White Furniture Co. (United Furniture Workers of America) (If Gciiesco Shoe Mfg. Co. Work Shoes . . . Sentry, Cedar Chest, Statler Men's Shoes . . . Jarman, Johnson & Murphy, Crestworth, (Boot and Shoe Workers' Union) (tf Baltimore Luggage Co. Lady Baltimore, Amelia Earhart Starlite luggage Starflite luggage (International Leather Goods, Plastics and Novelty Workers Union) (tf "HIS" brand men's clothes Kaynee Boyswear, Judy Bond blouses, Hanes Knitwear, Randa Ties, Boss Gloves, Richmaa Brothers and Sewell Suits, Wing Shirts (Amalgamated Clothing Workers of America) (tf FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes snd Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and Union finances. The constitution requires a detailed CPA audit every three months by a rank and file auditing committee elected by the membership. All Union records are available at SIU headquarters in Brooklyn. 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 altematea. All expenditures and disbursements of trust fun^ 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. Your shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by the contracts between the Union and the shipowners. Get to know your shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all Union halls. If you feel there has been any violation of your shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the Union and the shipowners, notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this b: Ebrl Shepard, Chairman, Seafarers Appeals Board 17 Battery Place, Suite 1930, New York 4, N. Y. Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to you at all times, either by writing directly to the Union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copiea of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which you work and live aboard ship. Know your contract rights, as well as your obligations, such as filing for OT on the proper sheets and In the proper manner. If, at any time, any SIU imtrolman or other Union official, in your opinion, fails to protect your contract rights prop­ erly, contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY—SEAFARERS LOG. The LOG bos traditionally refrained from pnblbhing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the Union officer or member. It has also refrained from publbhing articles deemed harmfnl to the Union or its collective membership. Thb establbhed policy has been reaffirmed by memberahip action at the September, 1960, meetings in all .mnsUtutional ports. The responsibility for LOG policy b vested in an editorial board which consists of the Executive Board of the Union. The feecutive Bjmrd may delegate, from among Ha ranks, one individual to carry out thb rcaponaiblllty. 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 efreumstanees 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 officbl receipt, but feels that he should not have been required to make such payment, thb should immediately be reported to headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. The SIU publishes every six months in the SEAFARERS LOG a verbatim copy of its constitution. In addition, copies are available in all Union balls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contenU. Any time you feel any member or officer b attempting to deprive you of any constitutional right or obli­ gation by any methods such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, then the member so affected ahould immediately notify headquarters. RETIRED SEAFARERS. Old-tima SIU members drawing disability-pension bene­ fits have always been encouraged to continue their union activities, including attend­ ance at membership meetings. And Ilk# all other SIU members at these Union meet­ ings, they are encouraged to take an active role in all rank-and-file functions, in­ cluding service on rank-and-file eommltteea. Because these oldtimers cannot take shipboard employment, the membership has reaffirmed the long-standing Union pol­ icy of allowing them to retain their good standing through the waiving of their dues. EQUAL RIGHTS. All Ssafarera are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These righu are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the Union has negotiated with the employers. ConseQuently, no Seafarer may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he b denied the equal rights to which he is entiUed, he should notify besdquartars. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATIONS. One of the basic rigfau of Seafarers b the right to pursue legblative and political objectivea which wUI serve the best interests of themselves, their famUias and their Union. To uehleve these objectives, the Seafareia Political AeUvity Donation was aatablbhed. DoiuUons to SPAD are entirely voluntary and eonatltnte the funds through which lei^Utive and political activities are conducted for the benefit of the memberahlp and the Union. If at any time a Seafarer facb that av of the abova righta have bean viaUt^, or that he has bean danM hb conaUtatlaiial right of accaaa to UBIOB rsmrda or informatbn, ha should immsdbtaly astlfy SHJ Prcsidsat Paul BaU at haadqMrtara by eartMsd maU, ratom receipt reqaeatad. R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. Camels, Winston, Tempo, Brandon, Cavalier and Salem cigarettes (Tobacco Workers International Union) Peavy Paper Mill Products (United Papermakers and Paperworkers Union) (t' Comet Rice Mills Co. products (Internationa] Union of United Brewery, Flour, Cereal, Soft Drinks and Distillery Workers) <1> Antonio Perelli Minetti & Sons Ambassador, Eleven Cellars Red Rooster, Greystone, Guasti, Calwa, F. I., Tribuno Vcimouth, Aristocrat, Vlctw Hugo, A. R. Morrow Wines and Bnndks. (National Farm Workers Association) �5^ April 28, 1967 SEAFARERS Page Fifteen LOG Navigation... The binnacle is a mainstay to the modern man on the bridge. The instrument incorporates a magnetic steering compass and a self-contained lamp for use in staying on course at night. The sextant is demonstrated by SlU Deck Officers School student George Fargo. The instrument, devfi veloped about 200 years ago, determines latitude and longitude by measuring distances and altitudes. NAVIGATION IS CERTAINLY THE OLDEST of the sciences since it began in its most primative form when the first man set his eye on a familiar object and homed in on that object; This was landnavigation. The earliest form of marine navigation almost surely was born with man's first discovery of a body of water, his observation that some objects tioat, and the further realization that certain larger objects—a log or a tree branch—would support his weight in the water. With the first attempt to guide such a floating object in a desired direction, marine navigation be­ gan. Since navigation is the process of directing the movements of a craft from one point to another, its beginnings involved mostly a form, of piloting and dead reckoning. Piloting grew as man became familiar with landmarks around hin) and used them as guides as he moved from place to place. Dead reckoning was the natural outgrowth of this as the primative traveler became bold enough to venture farther from his landmarks and attempt to predict more distant future positions. There is no actual record of the accomplishments of these first mariners but all historians agree that they must also have used the sun and the stars as aids in fixing.their positions almost from the begin­ ning. Navigation as practiced^ by them was more art than the science it has become through perhaps 8,000 years of new discoveries and refinements. It is commonly thought today that navigation wouldn't be possible without the charts, compasses and ofiier instruments on which the modem navi­ gator relies so heavily. Generally forgotten is the fact that many of the great voyages of history which made known a large portion of the world were made without some or most of these present-day essentials. Although details are lacking, it is known that long voyages by sea were successfully completed thou­ sands of years before the birth of Christ. It is be­ lieved that at least some of our own American In­ dians ori^nally reached Nmth America by sea as eariy as 2200 BC, There is strong evidence to sup­ port the view that they were part of a general exodus from southwestern Asia at about that time. Also of significance is the fact that virtually every land found by the. great Europeiui explmers was already in­ habited when they arrived. Down throui^ the scores of centuries many great voyages have been recorded whidh had litfie or no navtgalioiial importance; Evm Moah's In Ae mily slight interest in thte reiveci; hh me rj-'A!'.;: ark was (if » 4dve m 1^^ tand. Hbwm Ofolpipttt and khowle^ used di^ fittM of does clearly illustrate periodic developments in navi­ gation which must have occurred earlier. That a people unaccustomed to the sea might make a single great voyage without 'Tiavigational contributions of note is not surprising. It is more difficult to understand why great seafaring peoples like the Norsemen and the Polynesians left only conflicting traditions concerning their navigational methods. It may be that they left few written ac­ counts of any kind, but the reputed length of the voyages they made would indicate more sophisti­ cated navigational procedure than their records show. Possibly they just developed their powers of percep­ tion to such a degree that their navigation was similar to that of fishes or birds add therefore a highly advanced art unique to themselves. One of the first well-recorded voyages was that of a Greek astronomer and navigator, Pytheas of Massalia, sometime between 350 and 300 BC. Pytheas wrote his own observations as he sailed from a Mediterranean port first to England, Scot­ land and Thule, and then on to explore the fiords of Norway and the rivers of northwest Germany. This voyage of Pytheas, and others of his time, had significance for two reasons. First, they were made without the compasses, sextants, chronometers and electronic devices commonplace today. Second­ ly, they proved that there must have been a fair store of knowledge available on the use of celestial bodies for purposes of navigation. Also, Pytheas may not have had the Periplus of Scyiaz—the earliest known sailing directions — but he probably had similar information. And if there were sailing direc­ tions, there might have been sonie sort of charts even though no record of them exists. With or without sailing directions or charts, Pytheas and his contemporaries knew direction by day or night-if the sky was clear, and could judge fairly well by wind and sea when it was overcast. They could also estimate dis|ance. The sand glass was known to the ancients for measuring time and speed could be figured by counting the strokes of the oars. We don't know today how many miles was meant when thbse mariners judged distances by "a day's sail" or "two day's sail" but they definitely knew what their ships could do. During the etuly centuries of the Christian era, recorded progress in navigatitm was stow; during the Dark Ages it ail but stepped. But by the time Peidihand Magellan sailed around the world in 1519,, lira voyage illustrated the advances whidi had been inade in navigation during the 1800 years" foUtMij^PydMas. Magellan carried with him on his journey such equipment as sea charts, a terrestrial globe, quad­ rants, compasses, magnetic needles, hour glasses and other timepieces, and a log to be towed astern for determining speed. He also had astronomer Ruy Faleiro's instructions for the use of the astrolabe and cross-staff, considered the best available at the time. Thus 16th century navigators had charts, sailing directions, means of estimating speed and instru­ ments to determine latitude. The greatest remain­ ing obstacle to be overcome was an accurate means of determining longitude and this was not done until some 200 years later with the advent of the chronometer. Modem Navigation The dawn of what might be called modern navi­ gation came with the three Pacific voyages between 1768 and 1779 made by James Cook of the Royal Navy. Aided by the full backing of Britain's scien­ tific establishment. Cook's expedition was the first to undertake detailed explorations at sea with benefit of equipment, techniques and knowledge that could be considered modern. On his first trip. Cook was able to determine longitude by the tedious lunar distance method with an astronomical clock and a watch borrowed from the Astronomer Royal. By the time he made his second voyage, the first chronometers were being produced and Cook was provided with four of them. These, along with the instruments he already had, enabled Cook to navi­ gate with a precision undreamed of by Pytheas or Magellan. The advanced equipment on today's most modern ships serves to exemplify the fact that navigation has become nearly an exact science. Now each deck officer has a sextant with which he can make more accurate observations than Cook could. The end result of hundreds of years of experi­ mentation, today's reliable chronometers determine easily the precise time of each observation. The latest gyro compasses indicate true north no matter what variation or deviation there may be. Modem almanacs and charts allow instant calculations to a greater degree of accuracy than needed. Through" electronics, radio time signals and weather reports and quick reference to chronometers to avoid foul weather, and by use of loran (long range navigation) the navigator can fix the exact position of his ship a thousand and more miles from transmitting sta­ tions. �SEAFARERS^'i-LOG Vol. XXIX No. 9 OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION • ATLANTIC, GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS DISTRICT • AFL-CIO «• Steel Worker Pays Off Seafarers on the Isthmian ship, Steel Worker arrived in New York for a payoff at Erie Basin on April 12. The Steel Worker completed a 3 {4 month voyage to the Far East and crewmembers reported that things went smoothly in typical SIU style. Beefs and dilutes were at a minimum and many crewmembers expressed the desire to ship on the Steel Worker again. After a brief stay at Erie Basin to pick up cargo and sign on a new crew, the Steel Worker departed for a trip to Viet Nam. IcIs;-: 1)', . Leo Bonser, who sailed in the deck department, leaves the vessel with his gear after picking up his pay. Leo enjoyed the trip to Far East. Seafarers George Bush (left) and Pete Thompson were relaxing in foc'sle when LOG photographer took this picture. Both men sailed in the engine department. Pete is a 19-year veteran while George Bush is newcomer to the union. Patrolman Ed Mooney (second from right) explains a contract provision to L. Gersen of Engine dept. Patrolman E. B. McAuley, Seafarers Hugo Fuentes and A. Modesto are at left. The ship's long trip added up to a good payoff. r:' is-'r • SJi \B K!'! I .rl;/' i:; P: Dick Hannon (left) and J. C. Harris can testify that there's seldom a dull moment for the steward department, even dur­ ing a payoff. Seafarers don't lose their appetite when they aren't working hard at sea. Hugo Fuentes of steward dept. helps prepare evening meal for Seafarers. Crewmembers agreed the food was top-notch quality. Chief Cook J. C. Harris prepares hamburger dinner while his fellow Seafarers wait for the payoff at Erie Basin. J. C. is SIU veteran. '"Ij' I 1''^"' == Cal James (standing) discusses the trip with Mike Sacco. Cal. who ships for 18 years and was bosun during the voyage. He patrolmen E. B. McAuley (left) and comes from Virginia, has sailed SIU joined the Union in New York City. Seafarers look happy as they reap rewards of a long trip. Left to right; B. Waddell, J. Scott, L. Bonser, R. Rodriguez, Geo. Bush. Dick Hall, Mike Sacco and E. B. McAuley, seated at the table, are SIU patrolmen. � 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 1960-1969 Description An account of the resource Volumes XXII-XXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource April 28, 1967 Description An account of the resource Headlines: BOYD SLATED TO PRESENT GOVERNMENT MARITIME POLICY AT MAY 1 HEARING SOLID BI-PARTISAN SUPPORT GROWS FOR STRONG MARITIME LEGISLATION AFL-CIO CALLS FOR IMPROVEMENTS IN NATION’S HEALTH CARE SERVICES TWELFTH ANNUAL LOUISIANA AFL-CIO CONVENTION MEETS IN STATE CAPITOL HIGH COURT UPHOLDS BUILDING UNIONS’ POSITIONS IN PREFABRICATION DISPUTE DESPITE SUCCESS IN SHOW BUSINESS HE RETURNS TO FIRST LOVE – THE SEA SEAFARER TO CLIMB UPGRADING LADDER WITH AID OF SIU ENGINEERS PROGRAM NAVIGATION – OLDEST SCIENCE STEEL WORKER PAYS OFF Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 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 04/28/1967 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. XXIX, No. 9 1967 Periodicals Seafarers Log