http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/f3d9e2ed1923dbb1490f2af81d1590de.PDF 01ae515a544dfaca3bb75136cd3f8ed8 PDF Text Text M '^.1 -''''.•.'^X'i•;-' v'.:;"•:"; iv:7K.s»d-s =bM •- -'':•':• .' -rkr ak.-'•.--;- v OiLf, UHS AND IliUNII WAItK DKTMCr • AR-CIO . . - .-c- . l.... . .. . - .V 'W'ir SE4E^iRERS SmUSRS AT urn SESSION (k:4 ••'rnk-: rfYjlwfefefe 'J." Congressman Richard Gephardt Lane Kirkland AFL-CIO President -J.- ki ' • //. Volume 51, Number 3 I--..-: I'.. . March 1i :2CD onoc. -t>o ciooza COURT TO HEAR SlU DRUG SUIT M GOOD SHIPPING SEEN FOR LAKES SlU MEDICAL UNIT SAVES BIG BUCKS WAR MEMORIAL TO HONOR SEAMEN </)</) m<o o-Ha; "• o \! • ; . •Hco»-<c_r~ mO(/) o O-H o </i2ro I •J. I- -»{/>?3 • >—(I—< F--':. I • • •.•: t- ... ;'•- Senator John Breaux Major General John Piatak j|||Tf| Executive Board memtwi f 1/ bars heard representa­ tives of labor, government and the military speak on the impor­ tance of a strong and healthy American merchant marine. Working over a two-day session, board members developed a se­ ries of proposals to present to Congress and the administration. (See story on page 3.) -A. 5W'i;rt SlU WEST CIMSr HSHERMEN CATOI GUOIT TUNA r?. '-:; '-VJ:- . i' • .. 'r*-/. zn •-I •• J..;, ' .i- O OO 'rk I o </> OJ 00 >ir- ^ m -< on OJ kk' o PAlo^ •t'' PAGi20 • V-M: PAGES '1. -1 r.. . FkF i,-.' ' ON THE CARIBBEAN RUN . ••'•' I-yv',. -y; f .J- m. t. -k 'i,'" * ••', iV's SlU-affiliated fisiiennen on the West Coast are catdung giant tuna. The fish are dght to 20 times iaigor than nmmal, we«|iii^ 800 pounds or more. Pictured ahove with one d^the hi^ fish is the crew oi the Af/V Afargarvt F. They are Skq^m* Antonio b^rande, Salvatore D'Orio, Saivatore Sanflqppo, Saivatore Terram^ra, Tommy Manzdia, GiuseHie Orlando and Antonio Ce&hi. (See story on page 6.) Sea-Land ChaUenger arrives in Port Elizabeth. (See story on page 10.) y' "'yy ,• :-• •' "-F InhimatioH on i '-n •TV.' \i,i yawa'v:; '• si. • iti. �SOFUtmS LOG •':t- • • • •••••• • ^/•' -•."' . •' -•^.'i•'•••5' •"'• '• V'^v 'f. 3 .r ' ff President's Repert t was most encouraging to observe the strong expressions of support / for revitalization of the American maritime industry that emerged from the executive board meeting of the AFL-CIO's Maritime Trades Department a few weeks ago. The well-attended sessions were informa­ tive and productive, with a range of issues being addressed that are of concern to American workers generally, as well as those of prime importance to the shipping industry. Two experienced and exceptionally knowledgeable national figures. Senator John Breaux (D-La.) and Congressman Richard Gephardt CDMo.), spoke on the issues affecting American well-being and stressed the importance of an adequate U.S. shipping capability to the national security. And a new member of the House Merchant Marine Commit­ tee, Congressman Frank Pallone, was impressive in relating how he intended to help inform and educate his constituents to the need for an effective maritime policy. Among the many reports and position papers acted on, considerable interest was shown in a presentation on the legal fight being waged by the SIU against the government's plan to institute a costly drug testing program for American seamen. It was made clear that the SIU's principal interest in attacking the plan in court stemmed from its concern over invasion of privacy rights of all seafarers. Additionally, the program discriminates against U.S.-flag ships because foreign seamen sailing ves­ sels into American ports are not subject to the provisions in any way. Besides seafaring and shipbuilding workers, the MTD board members present represented a broad spectrum of American union members: steel, automotive, airlines, railroad, government as well as the manufacturing and service fields. Since it was first established under charter from the American Federa­ tion of Labor in 1946 by Harry Lundeberg, Paul Hall and representatives of the International Longshoremen's Association, the Federation of Grain Millers, the Radio Officers Union, and the Masters, Mates and Pilots Association, the Department has built a fine record of support for the maritime and the other workers whose unions are affiliated with it. All signs indicate that the MTD will intensify its commitment to the interests of its member organizations and the trade union movement generally. Tightening-up Process B^n These are times to tighten up and increase the efficiency of the union machinery in every way possible. With foreign shipping competition getting tougher and no sign as yet that our government is conscious of the plight of the American-flag industry, we've got to sharpen our ability to wage intelligent efforts to bring about a change. We've already embarked on a program to do just that, and initial reports indicate that we're on the right road. We also have instituted a number of changes in the union's structure in order to assure that all of our operations and functions are carried out with maximum efficiency. This has resulted in streamlining of procedures and in communications throughout the organization. All these moves are calculated to make this union as responsive as possi­ ble to the needs of the membership. Other changes and improvements will be made as they are deemed necessary. There are no better union memberships than the SIU's, and its representatives are determined that the security of Seafarers and their families are well served. The Seafarers LOG Response to the changes in the appearance of the Seafarers LOG since it appeared in its revised format has been very favorable. The changes were made to make the stories and other material easier to read, more attractive and better organized. As with every other facet of the union's operations, improvement of the LOG will be a continuing objective. Support for Eastern Machinists The SIU has joined the AFL-CIO in support of International Associ­ ation of Machinists now on strike against Eastern Air Lines. The strike is being honored by the pilots and flight attendants. Both the I AM and ALPA, the pilots' union, are fellow members of the MTD. The machin­ ists say this strike is not about wages—at issue is whether management has the right to dismantle a healthy union company to transfer assets to a non-union operation. SIU members and representatives are and will be part of the united union effort to save the jobs of Eastern employees. SIU SdMusUp h 14: fHe lhw The deadline for scbolandiips for seafhrers and their children is April 14. There are seven sdioiarsiiips available. Fm* fkirther informatifMi cwntact the onion hall or write to the Seafarers Welfare Plan, Schoiarship Program, 5201 Auth Way, Cartip Springs, MD 20246. The Buffalo (American Steamship), a mid-sized self-unloader, is crewed by SIU Great Lakes seamen. Vessels like the Buffalo, with their ability to navigate all kinds of waterways, are the backbone of the Great Lakes fleet. GOOD YEAR SEEN FOR lAKES JOBS ^ LGONAC . . . Every availiMable piece of SlU-contracted equipment that could float was used last year on the Great Lakes, as Lakes seamen found their best job opportunities in five years. Iron ore, coal and stone ship­ ments all showed increases over 1987. The nine SlU-contracted companies all worked at near 100 percent capacity from July until mid-December. Ore shipments totaled almost 68 million tons, up 10 percent from 1987. Coal shipments were up 7.3 percent to 40.5 million tons and stone totaled 27.8 mil­ lion tons, a jump of 6.6 percent^ "We expect the same or better this year," said Algonac Port Agent Byron Kelley. He said that any SIU Lakes member who wanted a job last year found one. The Great Lakes season came to an official close Jan. 17 when the Sault St. Marie, Mich, locks were closed. Shipping on the Lakes usually remains shut down until early April, when ships begin to fitout for another season. But Kelley said some shipping could resume as soon as early March, as utilities begin to stockpile coal. New Contracts The 1989 season will be busy in more ways than one. While SIU members should be enjoying Volume 51, Number 3 another year of increased job se­ curity, SIU officials will be working hard on dozens of new contracts. The Bob-Lo passenger boats contract is currently in negotia­ tions and all the Great Lakes in­ land contracts must be ham­ mered out. In addition, the SIU's Lakeswide contract with the Great Lakes Association of Maritime Operators is subject to negotia­ tion this year. That pact covers all the jobs on the large Great Lakes ships. Earliest Fitout in 20 Years The SIU Great Lakes fleet will begin its earliest fitout in two decades this month. A few Lakes ships began their fitouts March 1. The rest are expected to be sailing by the end of the month. There are predictions that the 1989 sailing season will top last year's, which was the best sea­ son on the Lakes in five years. Last year any SIU Lakes mem- ' ber who wanted a job, found work. The demand for durable goods has been on the upswing for the past two years. That demand has required increased steel produc­ tion. The Lakes vessels are the main form of transportation in delivering the coal, iron ore and stone used in the steel making process. March 1989 he LOG (ISSN 0166-2047) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 fAuth'Union; Way; Camp Springs, Maryland 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSC Prince Georges, Maryland 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the LOG, 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, Maryland 20746. President, Michael Sacco; Secretary-Treasurer, Joe DiGlorgio; Executive Vice President, Joe Sacco; Vice lYesident Collective Bargaining, Angus "Red" Campbell; Vice President Atlantic Coast, Jack Caffey; Vice President Gulf Coast, Thomas Glidewell; Vice President West Coast, George McCartney; Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters, John Fay; Vice President Government Services, Roy Mercer. Communications Department Director, Jessica Smith; Editor, Charles Svenson; Managing Editor, Mike Hall; Associate Editors, Max Hall and Deborah Greene; Design Consultant, Dennis Goris. -• ,i �MARCH, 1989 MTD URGES PROMPT AOIOM TO ROISTER AMERICAN-flAG MERCHUIT MARINE xpressing concern over the dangerous state of the nation's private maritime industry, members of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD) urged Congress fandboard the administration to adopt legislation aimed at bolstering the U.S.-flag fleet to protect the nation's economic and national security interests. The MTD executive board, representing 43 national Congressman Frank Pallone (D-NJ), a new member of the House Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries, says he'll support a strong U.S.-flag merchant marine. unions and more than eight. million workers in maritime and related fields, heard speakers from Congress, the military and labor during the two-day session held in February prior to the AFL-CIO's Executive Council meetings. /S" Sacco stresses union cooperation George Becker, vice president—admin' istration of the United Steeiworkers of America, speaks on revitalizing the American steel industry. Transportation Communications Union vice president Jack Otero thanks MTD executive board members for their sup­ port of his election as vice chairman for voter registration of the Democratic National Committee. MTD vice president, and International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 25 business manager, William F. Zenga reports on the dreeing indus­ try. With the board acting on is­ sues of concern to MTD affili­ ates representing manufacturing, shipbuilding, service, govern­ ment and maritime sectors, MTD President Mike Sacco, who also heads the SIU, noted that "we get together to discuss mutual problems and how we can help one another, how we can coop­ erate as fellow trade unionists." Lane Kirkland, president of the AFL-CIO and a former member of the U.S. merchant marine, spoke of our national economic and security interests. Kirkland said, "A nation of fewer than 400 merchant vessels cannot secure its future as a world trading power. And be­ cause more than 90 percent of men and material needed to sus­ tain a war effort would still have to be carried onboard ships, such a nation certainly cannot adequately protect the security of the free world." Breaux Wants New Policy Senator John Breaux (D-La.), chairman of the Senate Subcom­ mittee on the Merchant Marine, told the MTD executive board that the time was now to pro­ mote and enact a vigorous na­ tional maritime policy. The de­ fense build-up over the Reagan years had completely overlooked the merchant marine and its de­ cline must be turned around, said Breaux. Addressing the need for fair trade. Congressman Richard Gep­ hardt (D-Mo.) outlined his legis­ lative package to promote Ameri­ can industry and produce good paying jobs for American work­ ers. "The truth behind the glossy headlines of low inflation and low unemployment is that American workers are suffering through wage stagnation and wage de­ cline. It must be our goal to get wages up and improve the stan­ dard of living for all Americans," Gephardt said. Freshman Congressman Frank Pallone (D-NJ), a new member MTD western area executive board member and International Association of machinists vice president Justin Ostro (left) and Gene Upshaw, president of the National Football League Players Association, follow the proceedings. of the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee, pledged to educate his electorate on the importance of a strong domestic merchant marine as part of the campaign to rebuild the U.S.-flag fleet. MTD vicepresident William F. Zenga thanked Congressman Pallone for being such a good friend to the dredging industry. Further advocacy for a strong fourth arm of defense came 1"' Transportation Command (TRANSCOM). General Piatak told the MTD executive board, "Defense transportation is es­ sential to U.S. national strategy because it provides a credible deterrent to war as well as the safety net for national emergen­ cies. .. General says transportation capability essential for peace m• 1\'- v J '-•f. Michael Sacco, MTD president, wel­ comes board members. from Major General John Piatak, director of Plans and Resources of the United States Military Noting the Bush-Quayle Cam­ paign's promise to "restoring the United States maritime industry in the interests of economic and national security," MTD board members urged immediate congressional and administration action to reverse the industry's backslide. The MTD executive board called for: expanding the Jones Act to incontinued on page 4 MTD eastern area executive board member and president of the Seafarers International Union of Canada Roman Gralewicz (r^ht) and Jean Ingrao, MTD execu­ tive secretary-treasurer review a policy statement. • '0 '"vK •M: ..•S; • 'iir I": -A:. , •;«: • • • �• • '• -'• • r •• MID URGES ^CnON ON Vf^; u.s.ntn continued from page 3 - -WiS: v/'-' 'r">- liP •:\i 'v", V '• ''> -•v!'^S,,:i'' '• -^^ ..V ;=' ?>.V[ 'r- ."'V-. *• -"WJI).!;? • dude all work within the na­ tion's 200 mile Exclusive Eco­ nomic Zone, • enforcing existing cargo pref­ erence laws, • requiring foreign cruise ships operating out of U.S. ports to use domestic crews and to per­ form repairs and shipbuilding in U.S. yards and • negotiating bilateral access to cargo movements, reserving a substantial share of U.S. trade for U.S.-flag carriers. tion of the American textile and steel industries. Board members also urged that the National La­ bor Relations Board once again becorhe the neutral government agency which allows for peaceful resolution of disputes involving employers and their employees. The MTD executive board asked Congress to expand unpaid leave time for employees with young families. Jean Ingrao, MTD executive secretary-treasurer, provided board members with a report of the department's activity over the past year and announced changes in the make-up of the executive board. Ingrao told the board that they face many chal- - 'V''' ' Ray McKay, president of the Marine Engineers Beneficial Association District 2 (left) with Joe DiGiorgio, Seafarers International Union secretary-treasurer. of the AFL-CIO's Committee on Political Education and Robert McGlotten, director of legislation spoke on how labor's political lobbying operation could help put working people's concerns back on the top of the legislative agenda. ^"v!, ••'iv •'• '•/•- Owen Bieber, president of the United Automobile Workers, speaks on the importance of a fair atul neutral Na­ tional Labor Relations Board. A sound energy policy, en­ couraging national production for national consumption was advo­ cated by the MTD executive board. Today domestic oil pro­ duction is down and continuing to fall, the board said, cailling on Congress and the administration to extend the export ban on North Slope Alaska oil, thereby ensuring domestic oil for U.S. markets. The board also urged explora­ tion and development of the oil fields located in the y^rctic Na­ tional Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) in order to meet continuing U.S. consumption when the North Slope oil tapers off. MTD board members called for legislative initiatives designed to increase fair trade and protec- samm m President of National Marine Engi­ neers' Beneficial Association C.E. (Gene) DeFries (left) and Air Line Pi­ lots Association president Captain Henry A. Duffy listen to the speakers. lenges, particularly in the areas of trade and protection of work­ ers' rights. "Unless the Admin­ istration does a complete turna­ round, we are going to see new assaults on the rights of working people to exercise their rights and we're going to see a further expansion of unfair trade prac­ tices," she said. Stanley Brand, former general counsel of the House of Repre­ sentatives, addressed the board members. Brand is the attorney in the lawsuit jointly filed by the SIU and the Transportation In­ stitute against the government's drug testing regulations affecting maritime workers.' Brand told the meeting that through the drug testing regula­ tions, government had intruded into the most private affairs of working men and women. Brand said, "The Reagan-Bush admin- John J. Barry, president of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (left), Alfred K. Whitehead, president of the International Association of Fire Fighters and Jacob F. West, president of the International Association of Bridge, Stmctural and Ornamental Iron Worlurs during the board meeting. International Longshoremen's Associa­ tion president John M. Bowers listens to the NLRB policy statement discus­ sion. istration has run on and pro­ moted the idea that government ought to get off the backs of its citizens ... this program piits the government in our bath­ rooms—a breach of the Reagan administration's promise to lessen government intrusiveness." Julius Isaacson, president of the Inter­ national Union of Allied, Novelty and Production Workers, asks union mem­ bers to follow a "Buy American Made Products" policy. Julius Isaacson, president of the International Union of Al­ lied, Novelty and Production Workers called on all MTD ex­ ecutive board members to "urge American sports teams to wear and use American made prod­ ucts." Thanking board members for their support of his successful candidacy for vice chairman of voter registration for the Demo­ cratic National Committee, Jack Otero, vice-president of the Transportation Communication Union, pledged to use his new position to further the interests of working people. AFL-CIO Economic Research Department Director Rudy Os­ wald and Bert Seidman, director of Occupational Safety, Health and Social Security, addressed the delegates on the effects of eight years of Reagan economic policies. John Perkins, director James Hatfield, president of the Glass, Molders, Pottery, Plastics and Allied Workers International Union intro­ duces MTD statement mourning the loss of Frank Drozak. Dr. John Calhoun Wells, pres­ ident of the Gray Labor/Manage­ ment Institute in Beaumont, Texas, spoke on the future of unions and collective bargaining. "Companies must realize that unions are partners in growth, productivity and change. The ad­ versarial relationship of the past must make way for cooperation between unions and employers in the future," he said. Stanley Brand, attorney of the law firm Brarul ami Lowell, explains why the shipping industry is united in its oppo­ sition to the new drug testing regula­ tions. Addressing the issue of health and safety concerns on the job, Donald Elisburg, executive di­ rector of the Occupational Health Legal Rights Foundation, said unions can play an impor­ tant role in helping workers pro­ tect themselves before or after exposure to toxic materials where they work. �C-\h MARCH, 1989 • ••--- -'•:7fa.-—'j-; '--'J-">^t;;'!.;•-:;,_i^l-V:'A---rs SUNUWARY OF MTD ACTIONS Franis Drozafc Mourned the loss of a friend and leader. Frank Drozak, who served as MTD president until his death in 1988, provided steadfast leadership during the maritime industry's darkest and most difficult years. A Maritime Policy Urged the administration and Congress to commence immedi­ ately the task of developing pro­ grams that will bring about ex­ pansion for all segments of the industry. Expressed willingness to develop a broad coalition nec­ essary to secure adoption of a beneficial maritime policy. Commitment to the Jones Act Urged that the Jones Act be , strengthened and extended to re­ alize a U.S.-flag fleet capable of serving the nation's defense and economic interests. Waivers and other attacks to weaken the Act were condemned. The Jones Act should be broadened to include all work completed within the United States Exclusive Eco­ nomic Zone. Cargo Preference Enforcement Called upon Congress to under­ take steps which will bring about maximum U.S.-flag participation in existing cargo reservation pro­ grams. Ui^ed increasing the law's scope to include 5ll goods moved by or at the government's request. ''•r'y''>.-.""'^'..>--.v: Foreign-Flag Cruise Ships Called for enactment of legisla­ tion that will place the American cruise industry on an equal com­ petitive level with its foreign competition. The government must assist in the development of a healthy U.S.-flag industry in the United States, particularly to meet troop transport capabilities in the event of a nation^ defense emergency. Export Ban on Alaska Oil Recognizing the benefits of a plentiful domestic supply of oil, the board called for extension of export restrictions covering crude oil produced in Alaska's North Sytope. •l.'fri • DCyeldpinem of Oil In ANWR Urged exploration and develop­ ment of oil reserves contained in a small portion of the Arctic Na­ tional Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). By extending the export ban on North Slope oil and by develop­ ing ANWR oil, the United States sends a clear message to OPEC that the 1970 shortages will not be relived. Great Lakes Developniimt Federal funding and an acceler­ ated construction schedule was urged for the building of a new 1,000-foot Soo lock. Asked for immediate authorization and funding for dredging of the St. Mary's River connecting Lake Superior with Lake Huron. Maritime Out of GATT Talks The General Agreement on Tar­ iffs and Trade (GATT) has in­ cluded maritime services on its agenda. Reiterated its opposition to maritime being part of GATT approved international regula­ tions, citing the danger inclusion in the talks would pose to sub­ sidy programs, loan guarantees, cargo reservation and cabotage laws. MSC Procurement Policies Called for congressional and administration examination MSC procurement procedures which focus exclusively on obtaining the lowest possible cost without any consideration of the impact that depressed charter hire rates have on the maritime industry. Government must develop mu­ tually beneficial policies between MSC and the industry in order to further our national defense. National Labor Relations Board Called upon the administration to appoint individuals to the NLRB who will act in a fair and neutral manner in order that worklrs rights to join a union, bargain and strike are restored and onCe again protected. Voluntary Restraint Agreements (VRA's) for Steel Supported a five-year extension of VRA's which require 29 na-; tions to hold their steel exports to a negotiated percentage of our domestic consumption. Called for enactment of legislation to assist the steel industry in its ef­ forts to modernize and retrain laid-off workers. John Perkins, Director Cfunniittee on Piditical - Educ^ Robert McGlotten, Director Department of LegMation r •• • • • • • • • •' • racing the disastrous policies of the Reagan Administration, AFLCIO department directors outline a program to turn the country mxiUhd • MTD PHOTO ROUNDUP I, : ' :i •S; • 4- • '' Minimum Vif^ Inc^ Expressed outrage that the mini­ mum wage of $3.35 an hour has not increased since 1981, when over the past eight years it has lost 30 percent of its real value; Called for expeditious enactment of legislation to restore the na­ tional minimum wage to a level of dignity for all minimum wage earners. Protecting Domestic Textiles Recognizing the threat of in­ creased foreign import penetra­ tion in the domestic textile trade, the board called upon Congress and the administration to COOJJerate fully to develop a legisla­ tive package providing relief to the American textile and apparel industry. Social S^urity and Medicare All social security and medicare commitments should be fespected by Congress. Opposed any efforts to tax social security benefits or abolish cost-of-living adjustments. Medicare should be expanded to cover long-term cat­ astrophic health care expenses. Congress was urged to pass leg­ islation prohibiting physicians from charging Medicare patients far in excess of Medicare-ap­ proved rates. CoiUit^d on page 9 Frank Lonardo (left). President of Local 1814 International Longshoremen's Association, Teddy Gleason, president emeritus of the.lLA, Ed Panerello, secrer tary-treasurer of the Maritime Port Council of Greater New Tork and Vicinity, Ed Turner, executive vice president emeritus of the SlU and Gilbert Gauthier, president of the Canadian Marine Officers Union. .V , . ,.r. MM'S ' J', 1 Lenore Miller, president of the Retail, Wholesale Department Store Union. Joe Sacco, executive vice president of the SlU. • \ r 3 - •l • •I Page Groton (left), vice president of the International Brotherhood of Boilermak­ ers, Iron Ship Builders, Blacksmiths, Forgers and Helpers, Bernard Puchalski, president of the Greater Chicago and Vicinity Port Council and Dominic Camevale, administrative assistant to the president of the United Association of the Plumbing attd P^ Fitting Industry of the United States and Canada. Continued on page 9 v' ' • - u '• �SOfARERS 106 S/[/ Wfsr COAST FISHERIAEN CATCH RECORD TUNA #yv-;' X®' •- -•' The Seafarers'' lAig 'fi „,' "Jj- - • . S I'i." 'v: •'"'® iW!0 ff' y- '' '•• '") •; .;•••'•' • y- k-." • • • • ^r.; • U?'- ^ •• il '-•-T, 1'^ ®'-- IUNA fishermen of San Pedro have closed out one of the best fishing years in a long time, thanks to the giant tuna. After a lull of many years, the giant tuna suddenly appeared and no one seems to be able to explain the cause of this phe­ nomenon. The giant tuna, which are eight to 20 times larger than those normally caught in these waters and weighing 800 pounds and more, enabled the San Pedro fishermen to enjoy a dramatic in­ crease in wages. The San Pedro fishermen are members of the Seafarers Inter­ national Union of North America affiliated Fishermen's Union of America. The Fishermen's Union represents fishermen of San Diego and Monterey as well as those in San Pedro. The union was the result of a merger in 1975 of three SIUNA west coast fishing unions including the Seine and Line Fishermen of Monterey, an original 1938 affili­ ate of the international union. Terry Hoinsky, president of the Fishermen's Union, says the union is concerned with the problem arising out of the liabil­ ity insurance crisis which is crip­ pling the industry. She said the union is exploring several possi­ ble methods for bringing about reduction in high premium costs which are discouraging boat owners in the industry. ^ Hoinsky, who is a vice presi­ dent and executive board mem­ ber of the SIUNA, reports that the union has restructured its three ports to improve member­ ship services and is conducting an organizing drive among non­ union boats in San Pedro. The Fishermen's Union, says Hoinsky, has also upgraded the death benefit paid to members in the San Diego region, bringing its level to parity with Monterey and San Diego fishermen. jit 12:01 am, Saturday, March /14 Eastern Air Lines mechan­ ics and ramp operators repre­ sented by the International As­ sociation of Machinists went on strike. Eastern pilots, members of the Air Line Pilots Associa­ tion, and flight attendents from the Transport Workers Union re­ fused to cross the picket line, forcing Eastern to halt opera­ tions. The SIU quickly demon­ strated its support by helping to man picket lines at Eastern hubs. OF THR new rtNiK. 1.raniit. 81» »«•» >. t. SHOP MOVE BLOCKED Trr Tu Sii SM: Mrti Off Vatraiii lfa»Rnii Al P,wi i.f Nr« )i,wk LurnmllaDK Action By r Bank & File: (W T« Igniter Fire ^ ij! AM. MWWIH IWHN-Nl. Ifcn ' {•rkibw r« kmrt. . ' Mi::( urr«i« noi«KTi eiwMw ,. •=* • **' 'Ar.K IIW1WI.T U «>»k 11..\. ^onrt'vvMiii kw: -ri, ^ • lAyplI tlirh fm FmU !sKi|eht m- «• ' " The Seafarers LOG first appeared on February 10,1939 and has been continually publishing for fifty years. The front page of the first issue shown above generally reflected the SlU's intense organizing activities and its battles against communist efforts to control U.S. waterfront unions. After the union was founded on October 15, 1938, and urttil the LOG commenced publication the following February, union members were informed and served through hundreds of bulletins. Terry Hoinsky (right), president of the SWNA-affiliated Fishermen's Union of America, with Augistine Felando, • President of American Tunaboat Own­ ers, at a fisheries conference in Wash­ ington, D.C. asKRN's m KuuuGmm nmm macHiNisTS STRIKI PILOTS REFUSE TO CROSS PICKET LINES 8ROTHKBHOOD Ofik-iol Otgea ci ih« AtUntk- mud GaU SMa.«t> Itthi/niihoaa! Unkm Nuttb Am<*ru*« The Machinists union has done everything in its power to avoid the current strike. In 16 months of bargaining. Eastern management refused to move from its initial wage reduction demands. The. union agreed to binding arbitration which would have meant continual negotia­ tions until an agreement was reached. In addition, the union has solicited President Bush to call a Presidential Emergency Board to make recommendations leading towards a settlement. Action by President Bush would stop the strike. Eastern, on the other hand, refused to agree to binding arbitration and asked the President not to get involved. SIU member Captain ton Flade talks with Eastern pilot and SIU seaman Charles Collins walks with a striking machinist at PhUadelphia's airport. IRVING BROWN DIES: LED EIGHT AGAINST COmiES IN POST-WAR EUROPE RVING Brown, whose anticommunist activities in post­ / war Europe made him a legend­ ary figure in the free trade union movement, died in Paris at the age of 77. The son of a representative of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Brown was bom in New York. After graduating from college in 1932, he became an organizer for the United Au­ tomobile Workers, becoming a national organizer for the AFL in 1940. In 1942 Brown was ap­ pointed as a labor representative to the War Production Board. Brown's major contribution occurred in the 1950s and 1960s when he set up and led cam­ paigns to prevent communist takeovers of European and inter­ national labor organizations. Brown's efforts helped rebuild democratic unions in post-war Europe. During the post-war recon­ struction effort when the United States was delivering Marshall Plan aid cargoes to the democra­ cies, communist-controlled unions attempted to block deliv­ ery from the ships at the water­ front. Brown set up headquarters in Brussels from where he orga­ nized committees of dock and other maritime workers to fight the Communist Party calls seek­ ing to block the American aid program. In that period the World Federation of Trade Unions was controlled by com­ munist-led national labor bodies. In 1949 Brown helped create the International Confederation of Free Trade Unions which broke Irving Brown away from the communist-con­ trolled body. It was during this time that Paul Hall and other representa­ tives of the SIU developed a re­ lationship with Brown. At the time, the SIU of Canada was en­ gaged in a bitter battle to break communist control over Cana­ dian seamen and shipping. Brown was executive director of the African American Labor Center from 1965 until 1973, when he returned to Paris to head the AFL-CIO's European office. He became director of in­ ternational affairs for the AFLCIO in 1982. �wm MARCH, 1989 INFORMATION ON PRE-EMnOYMENT DRUG TESNNG P re-employment drug testing will go into effect June 21, 1989, unless the SIU and Trans­ portation Institute's jointly filed lawsuit halts the government's action. Because the outcome of the lawsuit is unknown and subject to appeal to a higher court, the SIU is currently taking all neces­ sary steps to protect the individ­ ual member's employment rights during the drug testing procedure required by the regulations. Therefore, until there is a rul­ ing that the regulations are in­ valid, all maritime workers, in­ cluding SIU members, must comply with the drug testing rules if they are to be employed on U.S.-flag commercial vessels, deep-sea. Great Lakes and in­ land waters. What follows are questions and answers on the procedure for pre-employment drug testing required by Final Rule: COD 86067, issued Nov. 21, 1988 by the Department of Transportation, United States Coast Guard and which went into effect Dec. 21, 1988. Who is affected by the regu­ Q. lations? ^All individuals employed /lupon U.S.-flag commercial vessels are affected by the regu­ lations. This means licensed and unlicensed alike. The Depart­ ment of Transportation reported in its introduction to the regula­ tions that the drug testing provi­ sions governing maritime indus- try personnel will affect an estimated 120,000 maritime workers serving on all types of commercial vessels. 0 1 When did the pre-employ• ment drug testing regula­ tions go into effect? M The regulations went into #•• effect Dec. 21, 1988. The regulations stated that pre-em­ ployment drug testing was to be put into operation by June 21, 1989. As a result, by June 21, 1989 operators will only be able to crew vessels with individuals who have complied with the drug testing procedures and whose tests are negative. O Hcw will the 90 day regis• tration and shipping system be affected by the drug regula­ tions? M Since drug clearance is now nm required by the government as a condition of employment for maritime workers on U.S.-flag vessels, the individual shipping through the hiring hall must, by federal regulation, show proof of a negative drug test result. The drug test must be taken in ac­ cordance with the procedures outlined in the regulations. Because of the SIU's 90 day system of registration and ship­ ping, drug testing for SIU mem­ bers will become effective tenta­ tively the first week of April. On that date, an individual register- ing in the hiring hall must show proof of a negative drug test re­ sult along with the other re­ quired documents. Thus, every seaman who will be sailing after June 21, 1989 will be in compli­ ance with the regulations. 0. What will the pre-employ­ ment drug tests analyze? M The regulations ask the drug M testing laboratory to test for appearance in the urine speci­ men of the following substances: • Marijuana, • Cocaine, • Opiates, • Phencyclidine (PGP) and • Amphetimines. 0 Beginning tentatively the • first week of April how does a SIU deepsea seaman take a drug test? M Seafarers Welfare Plan Clinnm ics and contracted physi­ cians will serve as collection sites for urine specimens. An SIU member can go to the clinic or contracted physician to pro­ vide a urine specimen for the laboratory. The SWP clinic will not exam­ ine the sample. The clinic will simply function as a collection site, insuring that a member's rights are protected during the collection process. What will the clinic do with »the individual's specimen? M Once the specimen is taken M* at the clinic, the specimen will be sent to the drug testing laboratory. The drug testing laboratory must be certified by the Depart­ ment of Health and Human Services (DHHS). DHHS, in turn, is working with the Na­ tional Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). A laboratory only ob­ tains DHHS certification if it meets the highest standards and has a track record which in­ cludes no errors in testing re­ sults. i'ta, I'— .• , ^ ,1 > What wUi happen to the ur-, Q• ine specimen at the labora­ tory? -It' M The specimen will be subMo mitted to an initial testing. If the result is positive, the spec­ imen will go, through a confirma­ tory testing. 0. What will the laboratory do with the drug test results? M The results of the drug tests #•# will be sent by the labora­ tory to the Medical Review Offi­ cer (MRO). The MRO will re­ view all results. Q. ' y.. After taking the test, what should the seaman do next? Continued on page 8 .jj- Jf; SIU SUIT AGAINST DRUG TESTING NEARS HEARING 7 he United States District Court is expected to consider the SIU's charge that the current drug testing regulations are un­ constitutional within the next couple of months. By filing a motion for summary judgement with the court on Feb. 28, the SIU is keeping the case on a le­ gal fast track. The government is expected to respond to the SIU's action around March 10. The Union anticipates a court hearing date in April. After the court considers the case, a final deci­ sion will be issued. When the United States Coast Guard, a federal agency in the Department of Transportation, introduced sweeping drug testing regulations for the maritime in­ dustry on Nov. 21, 1988, the SIU and the Transportation In­ stitute joined in instituting a suit in federal court to set aside the government-forced procedures. Nonetheless, the Coast Guard's regulations went into effect on Dec. 21, 1988. The SIU maintains that the drug testing regulations trample on fundamental individual con­ stitutional rights. By allowing unwarranted searches and sei­ zures, the fourth amendment is violated. The drug testing law also disregards the fifth amend­ ment protection of an individu­ al's privacy, the Union charges. Representing U.S.-flag compa­ nies engaged in foreign and do­ mestic shipping, the Transporta­ tion Institute charges the Coast Foreign-Flag Ships Not Covered Guard with unnecessarily bur­ dening the U.S.-flag operator with the cost of implementing the drug testing program while allowing foreign-flag vessels, not covered by the regulations, to get away scott free. The costs of implementing the drug testing regulations must be entirely borne by U.S.-flag operators, and are variously estimated from 64 million to 150 million dollars annually. The lawsuit also says the Coast Guard rule "enlists private employers as unwilling foot sol­ diers required at their own ex­ pense to violate their own em­ ployees' rights." The Coast Guard, in issuing the regulations, admitted that the agency could not "specifically identify the use of drugs or alco­ hol as a major causal effect in commercial vessel losses or cas­ ualty damage." Yet the Coast Guard contended that it "is rea­ sonable to assume that because there is a drug problem in soci­ ety, there is also a potential drug problem in the merchant ma­ rine." The Coast Guard to date has failed to provide any statisti­ cal evidence of high drug usage in the maritime industry. Prior to issuing any drug test­ ing regulations affecting maritime workers, the Department of Transportation had promulgated drug testing procedures for land and air transportation workers. Legal battles involving these reg­ ulations have focused on random testing. In a trucking case, the federal district judge issued an injunc­ tion against random testing, stat­ ing that the regulations "lack the requisite element of individual­ ized suspicion." The judge also pointed out that the trucking drug testing regulations "are not supported by particularized relia­ ble findings about rampant drug use." Compared to the drug testing regulations affecting land and air transportation workers, the rule covering the maritime industry is far more extensive. Testing of employees in other transporta­ tion sectors was limited to safety and security related personnel, while in maritime the regulation is directed at "all individuals en­ gaged onboard a vessel." The Nov. 21, 1988 drug testing regulations affecting all seamen employed on U.S.-flag commer­ cial vessels were brought about as part of the Reagan administra­ tion's symbolic "war on drugs." Congess, however, in its Omni­ bus Drug Initiative Act of 1988, specifically refrained from au­ thorizing drug testing for safetysensitive transportation workers. The SIU does not oppose drug testing when handled as part of the collective bargaining process where an individual member's rights can be protected. The Seafarers Addictions Rehabili­ tation Center has been dealing effectively with substance abuse problems without forsaking an individual's constitutional rights. • ,• •••1 '.J •, - ' .;•(! .'v1 ••'•J ;r -••t. • �S^iStSy''^ SOFARERS LOG 8 MEMORUU 7D HONOR SEUREN LOST IN US. WARS 4 prototype of a new memorial which will honor merchant seamen who lost their lives in the defense of their nation was unveiled at a luncheon in Man­ hattan last month. The memor­ ial, which was largely funded through donations by merchant seamen and private organiza­ tions, is scheduled for comple­ tion in 1990. Like the much-publicized Vietnam War Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., this me­ morial is. intended to correct an historical oversight. Forty-four years after the end of World War II and 213 years after the found­ ing of this nation, there is no marker to dignify the burial site of those merchant seamen who lost their lives at sea. In every war since the incep­ tion of this nation, merchant mariners have been in the fore­ front of the fight to preserve American liberty. In the War of Independence, for example, this nation had no Navy: private merchant vessels added greatly to the war effort by engaging the British fleet at sea. The War of 1812 was fought over one issue: the impressment of American seamen by British warships. The private merchant fleet was so important to the economic well-being of the new nation that Americans went to war to defend the concept of freedom of the seas. In recent times, thousands of American seamen lost their lives at sea while manning America's "bridge of ships," which Win- Pictured above is an artist's rendition of the war memorial, which honors merchant mariners who died while defending their country. Ail American seamen who gave their lives, from the War of Independence to modem times, are honored. ston Churchill said turned the tide for the Allies in World War II. But the contributions of those brave men and women were never properly recognized: for 43 years after the war, American seamen were denied veterans' status. The new monument will be lo­ cated at the southern tip of Man­ hattan, south of Pier A, a cityowned Victorian landmark build­ ing on the breakwater extension. The Pier A breakwater was con­ structed nearly 90 years ago and provided a safe landing for the Ellis Island immigrants being fer­ ried over to the isle of Manhat­ tan. The design for the new me­ morial is a result of a competi­ tion held by the Battery Park City Authority. The winner, Marisol Escobar, was chosen out of a field of more than 200 con­ testants. Escobar's winning design re­ creates a moving scene depicting four figures of surviving mariners whose ships were lost; one of the seamen is being saved from the sea by a shipmate. The ship will be made of stainless steel. AFL-CIO President Lane Kirkland, a former officer in the U.S.-flag merchant marine, spoke at the luncheon. SIU Vice President Jack CaflFey repre­ sented the SIU. PRE-IMPIOYMENT DRUG nSnNG QUlSnONS AND ANSWERS continued from page 7 . 4 From the date the test is • taken, within three to seven working days, the seaman can pick up a card from the SWP clinic or contracted physician which will serve as proof of the individual's negative drug test result. The card will indicate the seaman is in compliance with Fi­ nal Rule: CCD 86-067. The MRO will have provided the clinic or designated physician with in­ structions on which individuals should receive the card. The card can then be submit­ ted, along with all other docu­ ments required by law and the shipping rules, at the time of registration at the hall. a How long is the clearance '• card good for? A The clearance card, indicat/!• ing the seaman is in compli­ ance with Final Rule: CCD 86067, is good for a six-month pe­ riod. Q. What does the MRO do with a positive result? M The drug testing regulations .nm reqiiire that a Medical Re­ view Officer evaluate all positive confirmatory tests. Each individ­ ual who tests positive has the right to speak with the MRO by telephone to discuss the test re­ sult. The MRO will personally call the individual. It is very im­ portant that individuals filling out the drug test form include their phone numbers. During the telephone discussion with the MRO, the individual can explain any medical circumstances which may have caused a posi­ tive result. After the discussion, the MRO will make a decision as to the accuracy of the test result. Only the MRO makes this deci­ sion. Neither the Union or the employer is involved in the re­ view of additional medical evi­ dence or deciding whether the result is correct. O lf the confirmatory test is • positive after MRO evalua­ tion, what does the MRO do? M The MRO is required by the regulation to report the pos­ itive test result to the employer or the employer's designated agent. O What does the employer do • with the confirmed positive drug test? The employer is required by • the regulation to report the 4results in writing to the nearest Coast Guard Office in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI). The individual who tested positive shall be denied employment as a crewmember or removed from duties which directly affect the safety of the vessel's navigation or operations as soon as practic­ able and shall be subject to sus­ pension and revocation proceed­ ings against his or her license, certificate of registry or mer­ chant mariner's document. 0 1 If a seaman, boatman or • dredgeman tests positive, how can he or she be reemployed on a U.S.-flag commercial vessel? M An individual who has Jnw tested positive may not be reemployed aboard a vessel until the Medical Review Officer de­ termines that the individual is drug free and that the risk of subsequent use of drugs by that person is sufficiently low to jus­ tify his or her return to work. In addition, the individual must agree to be subject to increased, unannounced testing for a period determined by the MRO of up to sixty (60) months. O ff an individual is interested • in rehabilitation programs, who should be contacted? M The Seafarers Harry Lundenw berg School of Seamanship Addictions Rehabilitation Center (ARC) offers programs for sub­ stance abusers who no longer want to be dependent on drugs or alcohol. To apply for ARC, contact your Union hall or write to SHLSS Addictions Rehabili­ tation Center, Piney Point, Maryland 20674. In addition, re­ habilitation programs are offered in many local communities. 0 What about other kinds of • drug testing? M The regulations require prenw employment testing to be in place by June 21, 1989. The other forms of drug testing re­ quired by the regulations—ran­ dom, periodic, reasotiable-cause and post-casualty (which also in­ cludes testing for alcohol use)— are to be implemented by Dec. 21, 1989. �MUlCHr 1989 9 lytl' MID SiSSION PHOrO ROUND-UP Letters to the Editor continued from page 5 U '^•fl Laundry and Dry Ckaning Interna­ tional Union president Frank Ervolino, who also serves as secretary-treasurer of die Buffalo Port Maritime Council, reads MTD's CATT statement. International Chemical Workers Union president Frank Martino lists MTD's energy policy priorities. Dr. John Calhoun Wells (left), president of the John Gray Institute of Beaumont Texas, Larry Jackson, secretary-treasurer of the American Federation of Grain Millers and Donald Etisburg, adnunistrator of the Occupational Health and Legal Rights Foundation. To the Editor: I need you to do me a big favor. A fellow SIU deepsea member and very good friend of mine, Dan Bradley, passed away this summer in August. Everywhere Dan went he made friends. Dan sailed on both the east coast and west coast and made friends in both places. Dan was liked and loved by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. Dan left behind a beautiful wife and beautiful baby girl, three months old at the time of his departure. So Dan, may your body and soul rest in peace. You will be missed by a lot of people, your wife especially and me. We love you and we will all miss you. Fair sailing on that big ocean in the sky. John C. Cox Book C-1779 Los Angeles, CA Editor's Note: The family of the late brother Daniel Bradley III has asked the LOG that any of his old shipmates who wish to call and talk about Dan to con­ tact the family at 301/725-4699. Brother Bradley died in a traffic accident August 13, 1988. He was 30 years old. He was born in Washington, D.C. and grew up in Laurel, MD. He graduated from the Harry Lundeberg School of Sea­ manship and he made many friends among his union brothers during his sailing years. Surviving are his wife, the for­ mer Nancy Corbitt, and a daugh­ ter, Alaina Clarke Bradley, both of Hampstead, MD, his parents, Muriel and Daniel Bradley, Jr., and a brother, Andrew, all of Laurel, MD, two sisters, Lydia Umlandt of Sevema Park, MD and Sheila Geist of Laurel, MD, and a grandfather. Mason E. Wallace, Sr. of Silver Spring, Md. United Industrial Workers national di­ rector Steve Edney asks a question on the new drug testing regulations. SUMMARY Of MTD ACTIONS continued from page 5 Marine Emissions Called for an amendment to the Clean Air Act to establish uni­ form national standards for ma­ rine emissions. Jaimn Air Lines Japan Air Lines (JAL) was blasted for violating the rights of employees who work in Chica­ go's Nikko Hotel, a JAL-owned operation. Vowed to bring pres­ sure on JAL through contact with U.S. representatives en­ gaged in trade negotiations with Japan. Staten IiMand Navy Base Adopted the Maritime Port Council of New York's resolu­ tion to support the Navy's new surface action group base at Stapleton, Staten Island. FamUy and Medical Leave /Supported legislation which ^dresses the heeds and aspirations of modern American families, such as a congressional proposal for a national leave policy pro­ viding job-protected, unpaid time off to meet parental responsibil­ ities and health conditions. Dan Bradley III and his wife Nancy at the wheel of the family sailboat on the Chesapeake Bay. SIU Scholarship Deadline is April 14 Apply New Occupational pishases Legislation which promotes early detection and treatment of occu­ pational diseases should be en­ acted by Congress. Maritime and National Defense Report A detailed analysis of the mari­ time industry's critical rule in se­ curing a strong national defense was released at the MTD meet­ ing. The report cited the contri­ bution seagoing personnel, ship­ builders, longshoremen and industrial workers would make in the event of a national emer­ gency. The application deadline for scholar­ ships for seafarers and their families is April 14. Four scholarships \ ' •;- fv Vice president emeritus of the Americ&n Federation of Grain Millers Peter Rybka, Mel Pelfry (left), president of the Toledo Port Maritime Council and Richard Mantia, president of the Greater St. Louis Area and Vicinity Port Council. Vice president of the United Food and Commercial Workers Union, Doug Dority. : •T-:'-.; - of $10,000 each are of­ fered to dependents. One $10,000 and two $5,000 scholarships will be awarded to union members. Scholarship awardees will be an­ nounced in May. To receive information on eligibility requirements call 301/899-0675 or write Seafarers Welfare Plan Scholarships, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Maryland 20746. �fc?':- • ^K".'. w r ON THE NEW YORK- - ?rv,, • he Sea-Land Challenger is one of several Lancer class vessels '-^giyysyigSI !Sea-Land acquired from the bankrupt U.S. Lines three years ago. The Challenger recently finished one of its regular runs, San , ; Juan, P.R. to Rio Hana, Dominican Republic to Jacksonville to Port Elizabeth. SlU Patrolman Kermett Mangram met the crew for a payoff, where these pictures were taken. CARIBBEAN RUN •' "" J- t y '' ' •' Vy,. : AB Tuck Beutz has been goii^ to sea for 36 years. The deck delegate on the Challenger nudtes sure the gai^wi^ is secured. ». isa W 't •- . ^ < 'J A' , - < .'J , Jt •.yi-' iSS-Sft-'J ' ^siSiss: . f .'Vyy,.'• With more Bum 70 years of exj^rience •4[|| tunong them, the ChaUenger's steward department knows how to keep a crew well-fed. They are (i. to r.) Chief Steward George Gibbons, Chief Cook Darryl Goggins and Steward Assistant I ^Jose Santiago. m0m iilS^ ^:yas 'y'Bm DEV Jose Rodr^uezgets ready to throw a heaving line. Rodriguez hask , been saUing for 28 years. ^ •r :-kX Vy:gIfys•:'^yy:,"-yy'^y' • ;••••• •; a'.yy^ i.- : •:-yy€iykk:^¥hyyy. -'.. ~-rs ^ Ohfl/ Ralph Gonzalez takes rea^ngs in the et^me room. The San Juan redderU has been going to sea for nine years. , ,t • kIMkM 1f '1 • "- y i-i'.-':" va-v'''V;-,-r;li'5'S , AS-.S'-J :, OEVEIaMo Cruz checks steam and ml vtOres. A ship*s deles^, the New Yorker has been sailing for 14 years. OMU James Sieger, a 15-year deej^ea veteran, cheeks a fuel oU straiiur in the Challenger's ermine room. S Xy- -'/i Jose Santiago, AB Tuck Bentz, New Ymk Patrvhnan Kermett Mai^frath, Basun Roy Williams and DEV Ehdio Cruz. --yy-v' -* ;! - -- �SlU Representative ::':'^'''^§f0r :• y:J.-' r'v •'•••, •5i'- ^ I' ^ •»S-•-Si* ^ |. f® < 4 ' , ' , , • While Chief Cook Frank -^V •- /ho crew's lounge^ Tksy^ ^ K=»53»«l"r" — K.'SSirS- • ': .r:«-.:»SK:-",: a. men VaSty (I-lo'•>^'* •^''•':.':i:Sffe';;P^;tS''''v^r''VS 'i -'}} • . V.<? • �m • V. S0§hren itttemationa/ Union Directory •any fcaadabaig Sdwal at Seammalilii :.#if'5. SnWARDS GRADlUn ADVANCED CUSS r 1 en SIU members successfully completed the Stewards Recertification Course held from January 31 to March 3 at the un­ ion's school in Piney Point. The graduates now join the top-of-theline ranks of union stewards. The stewards completed classes which will enhance their computer and typing skills. The group learned new techniques for menu planning, portion con­ trol and food costs. Microbiol­ ogy and sanitation classes were also part of the course curricu­ lum. Ice carving, a culinary art form, was taught by Executive Chef Romeo Lupinacci. Union education was a top priority for the stewards through meetings with representatives of the various plans, the contract department the political depart­ ment and the LOG, stewards had an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about their union. The stewards also visited Cap­ itol Hill, to track legislation vi­ tally important to the SIU and the maritime industry. The trip included a tour of the Capitol building and an explanation of the legislative process. Executive Chef Lupinacci said of the group, "They have been an excellent class. They are pre­ pared to put out an excellent meal while running an efficient, cost-conscious operation. The recertified stewards are skilled at menu planning and portion control, an important part of a modem-day steward's duties, Lupinacci said. Recert^ed stewards (first row, left to right) Roderick Br^ht, Janet Price, Cyril Spence, Jr., Romeo Lupinacci (executive chef), (second row) Joseph P. Emidy, Pedro SeUan, Peter Schulz, (third row) Nathaniel Thomas, John A. Pratt, Jimmie Russell, D.A. Brown, Robert L. Scott, Sr. Recert^ed stewards brave wind and rain to learn the art of ice carving from executive chef Romeo Lupinacci. Stewards try their hand at ice carving. UFCBOkT OASS COMPUnS COURSE Chris FarreU(left), Dave Cameron ami Ralph Alexander completed the tough lifeboat course tai^ht by instructor Ben Cusic. The course, which lasts two weeks, can be particularly difficult during the late winter months which can be very cold and wet in Piruy Point. At least three hours each day are spent outdoors in the Iceboats doing practical exercises such as rowinglcoxwain training, and davit operations. COOK AND BAKER GRADUATE Shane Preston, a graduate of the Cook and Baker course at SHLSS, proudly Splays the cake he decorated for the Graduatii^ Trainee Class #434. Cook and Baker instructor Bill SeidenStrieker, invites his advanced students to create a specially decorated cake as an extra credit project which is added to the studerOs' final grade. The cake decorating project allows the student to exercise both his creativity and profes­ sional expertise. Mfchael Sacco, President Joseph Sacco, Executive Vice President Joe DiGiorgio, Secretary-Treasurer Angus "Red" Campbell, Vice President of Contracts Jack Calfey, Vice President Thomas Glidewell, Vice President Cieorge McCartney, Vice President John Fay, Vice President Roy A Mercer, Vice President StsvcEAmy, Vice President HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301)899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, Ml 48001 (313)794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (301)327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218)722-4110 ®SlliSSvi HONOLULU 636 Cooke St. Honolulu, HI 96813 (808)523-5434 iiig' HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, PL 32206 (904)353-0987 JERSEYCITV 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 435-9424 p MOBILE • 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 50 Union St. ^ New Bedford, MA 02740 ; (508)997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. g New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 -'mm. NEW YORK 675 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 : PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 g (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT St. Mary's County Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos St. Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 if (809) 725-6960 •gSEATFLE;;;..^': tma 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA^ 121 .. ... g. (206)441-1960 , g,.:. .-i;/-ST. LOUIS -.js i 4581 Gravois Ave. / ,^1^; St. ;Louis, MO 63116 / «ii (314) 752-6500 WILMINGTON ;gg"V 510 N, Broad AvCx Wilmington, CA 90744 : (2i3)549-4O00 Miirr;.g g- .'V I �k;; '• • •, '- •'•'•1.'.' HUROI, 1989 13 Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and Union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by Certified Public Account­ ants every three months, which are to be submitted to the membership by the Secre­ tary-Treasurer. A quarterly finance commit­ tee of rank and file members, elected by the membership, makes examination each quarter of the finances of the Union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Mem­ bers of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and sep­ arate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf. Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agree­ ments. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shtdl equally consist of Union and management represen­ tatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. Your shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by the contracts between the Union and the employ­ ers. Get to know your shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are ported and available in aU 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 employers, notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return recd^ requested. The proper address for this is: Angus "Red" Campbell Chairman, Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way and Britannia Way Prince Georges County Camp Springs, Md. 20746 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. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which you work and live aboard your ship or boat. 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 patrolman or other Union official, in your opinion, fails to pro­ tect your contract rights properly, contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY—THE LOG. The Log has traditionally refrained from publish­ ing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the Union, officer or member. It has also refrained from publish­ ing articles deemed harmful to the Union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September, 1960, meetings in all constitution^ ports. The responsibility for Log policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the Executive Board of the Union. The Executive Board may del­ egate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. WEU KNOWN SEAFARER PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official Union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any memberpay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to Union head­ quarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLI­ GATIONS. Copies of the SIU constitution are available in all Union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its con­ tents. Any time you feel any member or officer is attempting to deprive you of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, then the member so affected should immediately no­ tify headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION—SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workdrs, the preservation and furthering of the American Merchant Marine with im­ proved employment opportunities for sea­ men and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects. SPAD supports and contrib­ utes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contri­ bution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial re­ prisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the Union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, notify the Seafarers Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and re­ fund, if involuntary. Support SPAD to pro­ tect and further your economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts: EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guar­ anteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the Union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no mem­ ber may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex and national or geo­ graphic origin. If any member feels that he is denied the equal rights to which he is entitled, he should notify Union headquar­ ters. If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he has been denied his constitutional right of access to Union records or information, he should immediately notify SIU President Mike Sacco at Headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is 5201 Auth Way and Britannia Way, Prince Georges County, Camp Springs, Md. 20746. SIU HONORS Rl, L KING :f. ••• f ' . A- r-'iii '!• • : - m-ir .-S'. 5- Jr'.- . -A: Retired seafarer Joe Powers, one of the union's legendary old timers, cotrtinues to lead an active life. An avid New York Metsfan, he is pictured second from the left with some friends at the Diamond Club in Shea Stadium. Joe, a long time correspondent of the Settfarers LOG, has also been among its mq/or contributors. In San Francisco, the SIU and other maritime unions nutrched in that city's Martin Luther King Day parade. Pictured above (L-R) SIU Vice President George McCartney, SUP President Paul Dempster, Seafarer Vince Coss and SIU Patrolman Gentry Moore. WW: IV BEUfORU SIU FISHERMEN • -:.,f ^ •'•sV' •" 4 • , SEAFARERS WELFARE PIAN Nona COBAA: CoHtinuation Health Covengu •;t!l • •f you or your dependents lose your eligibility for health care coverage under the f Rules and Regulations of the Seafarers Welfare Plan, you and your dependents . may be eligible to purchase, at a premium. Welfare coverage directly from the Plan. If you find that you have lost your eligibility for Plan coverage, you must notify the Plan office immediately to find out whether or not you or your dependents may elect to continue your benefits under this program. If you want more information concerning this program you can call the membership services office. 1-800-CLAIMS-4 (1-800-252-4674) or write COBRA Program Seafarers Welfare Plan 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, Maryland 20746 SIU fishermen in New Bedford help secure vast quantities of our ruUiori's seafood supply. Pictured above, by the FIV Alem-Mar, are the boat's rrtate, Antonio Pereira (left) and New Bedford SIU Port Agent Henri Francois. NOTE: A detailed article explaining this program appeared in January, February: and March 1989 issues of the "LCXi". You may want to refer to it for future information. ' • s'j .-•••v. ' f 's-- '5 �vipfc'£3%s!nt^i\^«''wacp4i^^ sanmsioe '•'V limN SUfARERS JOIN UNION'S PENSION RANKS .'• r 'he SIU Pension Plan an­ nounced that 11 seafarers became retirees. The mem­ bers, ten from the deepsea division and one from the inland waters, are the union's most recent retirees. HASSIN ALEIDAROOS Hassin Aleidaroos, 55, joined the SIU in December 1965. He re­ ceived his book May 10, 1971 in the port of Baltimore. Brother i Aleidaroos sailed as a FOWT in the engine department, shipping out of the port of New York. Born in Saudi Arabia, Aleida­ roos, formerly of Detroit, Mich., now makes his home in Brook­ lyn, N.Y. GEORGE W. ALEXANDER George W. Alexander, 58, started sailing as a messman with the Marine Cooks and Stewards Union in 1957 and got his SIU book in 1%3 in the port of New York. Bom in Perqui­ mans County, N.C,, Brother Alexander later sailed as an AB, shipping out of the port of Nor­ folk, Va. Alexander makes his home in Elizabeth City, N.C. GRADY K. BROWN Grady K. Brown, 65, joined the SIU July 23, 1947 in the port of New York. He sailed in the engine de­ partment as an OMU, most recently out of the port of Houston. Brother Brown now lives in Bremond, Texas. Dispatchers Report for Inland Waters FEBRUARY l-28i^ 1989 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups . Class A Class B Class C ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT Baltimore l4orjfbIk Mobile JAMES D. McCART James D. McCart, 66, sailed out of the port of San Francisco, where he presently resides. TELESFORO VAZQUEZ Telesforo Vaz­ quez, 60, sailed out of the port of Houston,.Texas as an AB. Brother Vaz­ quez, now re­ sides in Pasa­ dena, Texas. • ' V,. •' Ti\ '' "V '• ' "-•' ' ^- ,i;< .'r 'i', , '• :. : \ inland ii"-' -,J. PAUL E. HOLLOWAY Paul E. Holloway, 63, began sailing in the deck department out of the port of New York in 1964. Born in North Carolina, Brother Holloway will continue to live there in retirement. WILLIAM S. RUDD William S. Rudd, 60, joined the SIU in 1955 and sailed both in­ land and deepsea out of the port of Norfolk, Va. Born in Norfolk, Brother Rudd resides in Virginia Beach, Va. H' •'•'••• 11-••-'&•' .^•' JOSEPH A. GRBAC Joseph A. Grbac, 65, sailed out of the port of Houston since joining the Union in 1951. Brother Grbac continues to live in Houston. JAMES H. MOORE James H. Moore, 59, sailed out of the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Moore, who lives in Las Vegas, Nev., sailed as an AB in the deck department. .'i •/,' if. FRANCIS BUHL Francis Buhl, 62, started sailing in the deck depart­ ment in 1946. His membership book was issued in 1947 in the port of Balti­ more. Bom in Boston, Mass., Brother Buhl lives in Orlando, Fla. He sailed out of the port of Jackonsville, Fla. Totals ' ••, Port STEWARD DEPARTMENT ladelphia Itimore \f Mobile New Orleans iSaii Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Houston Al^nac St. Louis [Piney Point Totals Totals All Departments 80 14 35 23 9 37 157 65 76 •"Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ••"Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. -^0 ••' *--•- 1 *) ROLAND B. MASON Roland B. Ma­ son, 64, sailed as a captain out of the port of Nor­ folk, Va. Brother Mason received his book in 1965 in that port and now makes his home in Chesa­ peake, Va. -I Keep yeur tlaimshOs nmber handy 1-800/CUIIMS-4 0-800/252-4874} answer is a iff. '^1 iUFSSl �HUUKH, 1989 75 Dispatchers Report lot Deep Sea FEBRUARY 1-28, 1989 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs ^•REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C New York Philadelphia Miothfy Membershifi HkeHngs 0«ep 'tf € .r $80, takes. Inland Waters ' -f- PIney Point Monday, April 3 New York Tuesday, April 4 Phlladeipilia Wednesday, April 5 « Baltimore Thursday, April 6 Norfolk Thursday , April 6 Jacksonville Thursday, April 6 |JV < •-* ... • i,. c AlgMMW Friday, April? Houston Monday, April 10 New Orleans Tuesday, April I I Mobile Wednesday, April 12 San Francisco Thursday, April 13 Wilmington Monday, April J? r ••Vy ' V1 Seattle Friday, April 21 '-•••'T San Juan ; Thursday, April 0 St. Louis Friday, April 14 Honolulu Friday, April 14 Duluth Wednesday, April 12 Jersey City Wednesday, April 19 New Bedford Tuesday, April 18 • r.i'/-:; ' '1 mm. ' . Personals Kevin Bertel Please contact Chris Killeen (2nd pumpman. Cities Service Miami), 83 Wetmore Ave. #2, Morristown, N.J. 07960, or call: (201) 292-0155. r": James FelLv Clark Anyone knowing the where­ abouts of James Felix Clark is asked to get in touch with his son, James Felix Clark Jr. You may write him at 4102 Orange Ave., Long Beach, Calif. 90807 or call (213)427-6831. Totals Totals All Departments 657 358 336 482 288 282 161 1,303 572 ' 421 *"Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. **"Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. Shipping in the month of February was down from the month of January. A total of 1,213 jobs were shipped on SllJ-contracted deep sea vessels. Of the 1,213 jobs shipped, 482 jobs or about 40 percent were taken by "A" seniority members. The rest were filled by "B" and "C" seniority people. A total of 161 trip relief jobs were shipped. Since the trip relief program began on April 1, 1982, a total of 9,504 jobs have been shipp^. Hubert Joshua Hale Your niece, Valerie Hall Zack, would like to get in touch with you. Please call her at (919) 4674348 or write her at 11()4 Ralph Dr., Cary, N.C. 27511. Joe Zeloy Please call Dempsy Burleson at (817) 924-6310. • 1 sis. .1' •' ' -v �= 16 - .^^>5;:;.':-^'/::^- 4..': 'W -• v> ; ...' :.... .C. .;—•>: '-i,' r- SEAFARERS LOG '' • '. COBRA: A WAY TO CONTINUt HtALTH COmRAOl I n December of 1988, the Seafarers Welfare Plan sent a letter to all plan participants describing a new program called "COBRA." COBRA allows an employee to purchase health care benefits when he or she becomes ineligible to receive health and welfare from the Plan. This benefit program is part of a law called The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Rehabilitation Act or COBRA. Congress passed COBRA to provide individuals with the opportunity to purchase their health insurance in the event of losing eligibility for benefits under health care plan. The law spells out what events have to happen before a person can buy the health benefits. Participants who lose plan coverage after January /, 1989 will be able to purchase benefit coverage for themselves and their dependents. Under certain circumstances it is also possible for dependents to purchase health plan coverage for themselves. Below is the complete te.xt of the letter. Dear Participant: A new law requires the Seafarers Welfare Plan to give you and your dependents the opportunity to extend your health care coverage in situations where you have lost your eligibility for benefits. These situations are called "qualifying events." This letter will explain how the new law applies to you and yoUr family and how to use this program should you become ineligible for benefits under the Seafarers Welfare Plan. In order to understand the new law, you need to know a few special terms. Please make sure that you and your spouse read this letter carefully so you will be able to take advantage of this program should you need it. Definitions 1. COBRA—The short name for the federal law which gives Plan partici­ pants the right to purchase Welfare Plan coverage. 2. QUALIFYING EVfiNT—A situation which causes the errtployee to lose Welfare Plan coverage because they no longer work for an employer who must make contributions to the Plan on their behalf. A list of qualifying events will be explained on the following pages. 3. ELECTION—An election is your decision to tell the Plan whether you would like to purchase Welfare Plan coverage under the COBRA pro­ gram. 4. COST OF CONTINUING COVERAGE—This is the amount of money you are required to send to the Plan office so your health care coverage will be continued. This payment is like an insurance premium. It is necessary because the employer for whom you worked before the quali­ fying event happened, is no longer required to make contributions on your behalf. > Viniat type of situation is a quaiifving event under COBRA? The next part of this letter will explain what type df situations will allow you to continue your health care coverage under the COBRA program of the Seafarers Welfare Plan. As explained above, these situations are called "qualifying events." When one of these events happens to you, it means that you, your wife or dependent children will lose coverage under the Plan and can elect to continue coverage by purchasing benefits. The "qualifying events" are: 1. Your being fired from your job. You may elect to continue your health benefits if you were fired for any reason unless you were fired for gross misconduct. 2. You were unable to continue to work enough time to be eligible to continue your benefits under the Rules and Regulations of the Plan. 3. Your death, which would entitle your spouse and dependent children to continue coverage. 4. Your divorce, or legal separation from your spouse which would entitle your spouse and dependent child to continue coverage. 5. Your eligibility to receive Medicare benefits. For example, you are age 65 but still actively employed, making the Seafarers Welfare Plan the pro­ vider of your welfare benefit coverage rather than the Medicare program. 6. Your dependent child loses eligibility under the Plan because (I) he or she reaches age 19 or (2) he or she does not fall into the category of dependents under the age of 25 and enrolled in a full time school program leading to a college degree. V-Si'.'•'>••, •' •". • 'V ill®. %{ How will I know if I am eligible to continue welfare plan coverage under the COBRA program? When the Plan receives notice from you or your employer that one of the "qualifying events" listed above has happened, the Plan office will send you a letter with complete instructions about how to continue coverage. In the event of death, divorce, legal separation, receipt of Medicare benefits or when a dependent child is no longer eligible for Welfare Plan coverage, you or your spouse should notify the Plan at the address given at the end of this letter. Your employer will notify the Plan if you are termi­ nated, if your Job with the company has ended, or if your hours have been reduced. If any of the "qualifying events" happens to you, it is also important that you notify the Plan of the change. Since seafaring employees are able to end jobs and get other work without generally notifying the Plan, it is very difficult to determine when a participant will lose his or her eligibility. The Plan is here to serve you, but we need your help. If you have not worked and you know you are ineligible for plan benefits, contact the plan's COBRA department to see if you can elect to continue your welfare benefits under this program. What type of benefifs will I receive if I elect to continue benefits under the COBRA? If you elect to participate in the COBRA program and pay the costs, you will receive the same type and level of benefits as you did before you lost your eligibility. You will receive these benefits as long as you are not already receiving Medicare benefits from the government, or you are not working for another employer who has a medical benefits program. How long will health care coverage through the COBRA program last? The maximum period of time you, your spouse or dependent children will be able to continue health care benefits under the COBRA progam depends, on your "qualifying event." If you lose eligibility because you were fired or laid off from your job or did not work enough time to establish eligibility, your maximum coverage period is 18 months from the date of the event. If you lose your eligibility for any other "qualifying event," the maximum coverage period will be 36 months from the date of the qualifying event. What happens if I have two qualifying events? If you experience two "qualifying events," it is possible to extend your coverage through the COBRA program for up to 36 months instead of 18 months. The time period is measured from the date of the first qualifying event. In order to receive an extension of participation in the COBRA program the following must have happened: 1. Your first "qualifying event" must have been a termination of employ­ ment or a reduction in your days of employment which caused you to lose your eligibility. 2. Your second "qualifying event" must take place while you are receiving Plan benefits which you have purchased through the COBRA program. Your second "qualifying event" must also be (I) the death of your covered spouse; (2) divorce or legal separation; (3) your eligibility for Medicare; (4) your dependent child's loss of eligibility under the Seafar­ ers Welfare Plan because he or she has reached the maximum age for benefit coverage. Can my COBRA coverage end before the 18th or 36th month maximum period? Yes. Your COBRA coverage can end before the maximum period if the following events take place: (1) Your monthly payment to the Plan for the COBRA coverage is not timely. (2) You get another job which has health care benefits for you. Even if those benefits are less complete than those you are receiving from the COBRA coverage, you can no longer receive benefits from the COBRA program. 'i (3) You become entitled to receive Medicare benefits. What is the election period and how does it work? Once again, the "election" is your decision to tell the Plan whether you wish to purchase COBRA benefit coverage in the event you lose Seafarers Welfare Plan coverage. Depending on the "qualifying event," the Plan will send you notice, or you or your family member will send a letter to the Plan. Once the "qualifying event" has happened and the Plan sends you an "election" letter, you and your family will have 60 days to decide whether to purchase benefits through the COBRA program. The election period will end 60 days from: (1) The date you experience your "qualifying event" which caused you to lose eligibility time for benefit coverage from the Seafarers Welfare Plan or (2) the date the Plan tells you that you have a right to participate in the COBRA program, whichever date is later. How much will COBRA coverage cost? The cost of COBRA benefit coverage depends on what level of Plan benefits you were receiving at the time you or your dependents lost eligibility for Seafarers Welfare Plan coverage. Because the cost to participants will vary, you will be notified of the cost to you, or if you are married, for you and your family. After notification of a "qualifying event," the Plan will send you a letter which contains specific information for your situation. This letter will ex­ plain the cost of the COBRA benefit coverage and other important informa­ tion. If you choose to buy benefit coverage through the COBRA program, the first payment you make will cover the cost of your benefits, for the period before your election. After that, you will make a payment once a month. Can my spouse elect to continue health care benefits? Yes. Each family member is entitled to make an election. If you make the election, your spouse and dependent children will be automatically included. If your spouse makes the election it will automatically include dependent children. What if my payment for COBRA coverage is late? If you choose to participate in the COBRA program your first check must be received by the Plan no later than 45 days after you elect to participate in the program. You then must pay a premium every month to keep your COBRA benefits. You do have a 30-day grace period for making late payments. The grace period expires 30 days from the first day of the month during which your coverage is extended. If you do not pay within this grace period you will lose welfare benefit coverage. When will the program start? The COBRA program will be in effect on January I, 1989. If you need more information you can call Membership Services at I-800-CLAIMS-4 (1-800252-4674). You may also write to COBRA Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Maryland 20746. Leo Bon^r Plans Administrator Correction ^ In the January, 1989 issue of the LOG, page 18, the question reading "Can my COBRA coverage end before the 24th or 36th month maximum period?" should have read "Can my COBRA coverage end before the 18th or 36th month maximum period?" . i. ^ • I, • •r; �, j.-- • MARCH, 1989 -• .. • i' Cn LOUIS J. HAGUE, JR., ( Maersk Lines), December 6—Chairman April de Bourgiinuere, Educational Director Michael Martin, Deck Del­ egate Edward C. Kaufman, Steward Delegate John Stoster. Some dis­ puted OT was reported in the deck and steward departments. Denis McGuiness vvas elected ship's treas­ urer. He will try to get an anchor pool going to add to the $38 now in the ship's fund. It was requested that the Huufie be sent booklets about the Union's pension and health and welfare plans, as well as shipping rules and more copies of the LOG. In its report to the Seafar­ ers LOG, the crew writes, "We are proud to announce the first female ship's chairman for Maersk Lines in Diego Garcia. She is April de Bourgiinuere who sails in the steward department out of the port of New Orleans. Fellow brothers and sisters, we have arrived! " Next port; Diego Garcia. GALVESTON BAY (Sea Land Service), January 22—Chairman Paul Butterworth, Secretary Terry Smith, Edu­ cational Director A. Rhymes, Deck Delegate Keith Thompson, Engine Delegate Donald Bush, Steward Del­ egate Fredrick E, Otto, Some dis­ puted OT was reported by the en- • gine department delegate. There is $.'^0 in the ship's movie fund. Sev­ eral suggestions were made to im­ prove life aboard ship. One was to get a microwave oven and a new riig for the crew lounge. Another was to have the 12/4 watch do sanitary again A third was to talk to the captain about having early breakfast when arriving in port and to check with him about the bad timirig in putting out the draws. It was also requested that each crewmember's room have a phone installed. .[In each of these cases, the issue has been addressed and, if not already corrected, is in the process of being so.) Next ports: Charleston, S,C. and Port Everglades, Fla, UBERIY SPIRH (Liberty Maritime Corp,), January 22—Chairman Bob O'Rourke, Secretary Joe L, John­ son. The chief mate is keeper of the video fund which currently has $219. The chairman reports excellent co­ operation by all hands during this voyage. Several problems were noted, however. One was that there are two stowaways from Karachi aboard ship, and the chief mate in­ sists that they work on deck each day. Another was that the captain has said that the company does not use DEUs for docking or undocking, nor does it recognize Martin Luther King Day as a holiday at sea. [In response to these beefs, a dispatch was sent out from headquarters, in­ forming the ship's chairman that a letter has been sent to the company requesting that they advise the cap­ tain that he is in violation of the contract.[ A safety consultant spent several weeks aboard the Liberty Spirit. His lectures and drills on safety and firefighting were interest­ ing and informative.. All hands were urged to apply for upgrading courses at Piney Point. A special vote of thanks was given to Joe L. Johnson and the steward department for a job well done. Next port: Capetown, South Africa. UBERIY WAVE iUhcrxy Maritime Corp.), January 22—Chairman A. Campbell, Secretary R. Kennedy, Deck Delegate W. Pepney, Engine Delegate M. Lawrence, Steward Delegate W. Bloodworth. Some dis­ puted OT was reported in the stew­ ard department. [At payoIT, this was settled by the boarding patrolman as per the three-man steward depart­ ment guide.] The QMED was of the 17 opinion that he did not have to paint and chip. [This, too, was squared away at payoff, with the patrolman clarifying that the QMED is required to do painting in the engine room as per the memo of agreement with Liberty Maritime Corp.] There is $380 in the captain's safe, ear­ marked for the ship's treasury. A question was raised regarding cost of living raises. And it was felt that the crew needs the rules of agree­ ment for Liberty Maritime Corp. [These items were discussed and squared away.) A vote of thanks was given to the steward department which, despite a foul-up in stores, continued to feed the crew through the end of the voyage. OVERSEAS CHICAGO (Maritime Over­ seas), January 29—Chairman Ervin Bronstein, Secretary/Deck Delegate Clyde Kreiss, Educational Director M. Williams, Engine Delegate C. Pickren, Steward Delegate Charles Hall. No beefs of disputed OT re­ ported. The chairman announced there would be a payoff on arrival in Nederland, Texas. He requested each crewmember to do his part in making sure that plastic items are separated from other trash and placed in (he compactor in accord­ ance with the new regulations. He also reminded all hands to help keep the common areas clean. A motion was made by one member to raise the pension according to the cost of Ijving. Another motion was to make Martin Luther King's birthday a Union holiday since it already is with the longshoremen in port. The steward department was given a vote of thanks for a Job well done. cook for the good menus and food preparation. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. $fil-f4WD DfVrtOPflKSea-Land Serv­ ice), January 14—Chairman Roger Pinkham, Secretary L. Ware, Edu­ cational Director Mike Donlon, Deck Delegate James Frost, Engine Delegate Domingo Milla, Steward Delegate Joseph Gibbons. There is one day's wages ifl^dispute in the deck department. The ship's movie fund contains $150. While the chief electrician is on vacation, the money will be turned over to a responsible person for safekeeping. Several sug­ gestions were made. One was to have three entrees on the menu for lunch and dinner. Crewmembers re­ quested the "old fashioned type of prime rib" as an option, .stating, "We prefer the bone with the prime rib." Another was that members would like the old shipping rule of six months to be reconsidered, in­ stead of the new eight-month ship­ ping rule. Crewmembers also re­ quest that the Union grant emergency trips (relief) in cases of death, sickness of close family mem­ bers and official court and govern­ ment business. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-UHD ENDURANCE (Sea Land Serv ice), January 8—Chairman Ted Tolentino. Secretary D. G<iNung, Edu­ cational Director G.Evosivich, Deck Delegate J. Debos, Engine Delegate R. Jones, Steward Delegate Fagalilo Maliga. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. AB Scotty Boatright lost two fingertips by trying to stop a door from the wrong end dur- D.L. McCorvey, Secretary T. Wybo, Educational Director H. Smith, Steward Delegate Adolphus Brown. No beefs or OT reported. Everything is running pretty smoothly onboard the how­ ever, the ship has not received any reports from headquarters in a long time, with the exception of the Sea­ farers LOG. A motion was made an() seconded to rai.se the retirement to $l,0()0 per month plus any cost of living increases. Next port: Port Everglades, Fla. STAR OF TEXAS (Seahawk Manage­ ment), January 29—Chairman Gene Paschal, Secretary H. Jones, Educa­ tional Director G.K. Darney. No beefs or disputed OT reported. The voyage went very well, according to the chairman, who also announced that the ship will pay off Feb. 2, 1989. All eligible members were urged to attend upgrading courses at Piney Point. Also, if any member has a drinking or drug problem, the Union's Addictions Rehabilitation Center can help. A vote of thanks was given to the steward department for a job well done. Next port: Beaumont, Texas. '.'A r.V'" In addition to the minutes pub­ lished above, the SIU received offi­ cial ships minutes from the following conuAoa Minor sa-iAnOi su-uum apiaaa SU-UUm UAVIGATOn su-uum PAOTK su-uum m»na '• MflMliff Digest of Ships Msstings . 4/ fko Mhwing ships minutos m just a sampling of the manp moating nports the SlU foceives Ottih month horn its amunil the woriil. Ships minutos anm^od hy the Union's Contrua UopatUnont, nose issues requiring attention or rosaluthn are addressed hy the Uniott upon nce^t of the slnps minutes. PRESIDENT TAYLOR (under charter to Waterman), December 11—Chair­ man Joe Moore, Secretary Lee de Parlier, Educational Director Lauren Bryant. No beefs or disputed OT re­ ported. The ship delivered a full load of bagged wheat to Ethiopia as part of the famine relief. It was the third such trip for the President Tay­ lor. There is no news yet about the next cargo, if any. The vessel will arrive in Jacksonville, Fla. on the 13th for repairs and payoff. At that time, it was stressed that members go to the Union hall and vote for the election of our Union officials. The educational director noted that there are a number of younger members in this crew and they should be urged to take advantage of the upgrading opportunities at Piney Point. It was requested that those members watching TV in the lounge try to keep the noise level down as watchstanders rooms are in the area. The steward asked the Union to see the company about providing a daily news sheet and sport scores since the Armed Forces Radio Service has gone satellite and no longer broad­ casts shortwave. The deck crew was thanked by the steward delegate for cleaning up the messroom in the morning. And a vote of thanks was returned to the steward and chief ing a heavy roll. The ship had to return to 'Yokohama after being at sea for two days. Scotty held up really well, thanks to the support he received from a lot of the crew. All crewmembers were cautioned to watch out for their safety aboard ship. The bosun urged all eligible Seafarers to consider the opportuni­ ties available at Piney Point to up­ grade their skills. Information on courses and schedules is available in each month's Seafarers LOG. The educational director reported that there is a rumor going around the ship stating that Union members "have lost the one day and a quarter for every day after 3,()()0 in the pen­ sion." [Vice President "Red" • Campbell responded that these ru­ mors are unfounded. There is no change in the rule since it was pro­ posed by the members attending the Crew's Conference in Piney Point in April 1984. The credit of an addi­ tional quarter day applies to all days worked after June 16, 1984, above 3,000 days.) One minute of silence was stood in memory of our de­ parted brothers and sisters. A vote of thanks was given to the steward department for all their hard work. SENATOR (Coordinated Caribbean Transport), January 22—Chairman I'-' WANT TO BE HEARD? " ' '-y /I Send your Letters-to-the-Editor, articles, photographs, cartoons" and questions to the LOG.' • : • Politics is Porkchops Contribute to SPAD .V i %j �CHARLES L. ALDRIDGE MSG Pensioner Charles L. Aldridge, 74, passed away on No­ vember 12, 1988 at the Gardena Memorial Hospital in Los Ange­ les, Calif. Brother Aldridge be­ longed to the Sailors Union of the Pacific and later the Marine Cooks and Stewards. He began sailing in 1951 and retired in March 1978, Seafarer Aldridge is survived by his sister, Rebecca A. Thomas of Los Angeles. W-m ; / '• .I'--' ^ '• •' " • •, i'"' ' ' •• •' '• GERARD ARREDONDO Gerard Arredondo, 31, died Oc­ tober 18, 1988. He joined the SIU in July 1979 in the port of Piney Point, Md. Seaman Arre­ dondo sailed in the steward de­ partment on many Sea-Land ships. Brother Arredondo at­ tended Cook & Baker Classes at SHLSS in Piney Point in No­ vember 1987, MSG Firefighting in December 1987, Sea Lift Op­ erations and Maintenance course in January 1988 and Chief Cook classes in April 1988. Seafarer Arredondo was bom in East Chicago, Ind. and resided in San Pedro, Calif. Surviving is his mother Evelia Arredondo of San Pedro. KATHRYN McFAUL ELDER MCS Pensioner Kathryn McFaul Elder, 87, died December 31, 1988 at Whidbey General Hospi­ tal in Coupeville, Wash. She be­ longed to the Marine Cooks and Stewards Union and retired in March 1969. Yeoman Elder was bom in Wisconsin. She sailed with Oceanic Steamship Lines and Matson. Services were held at Burley Funeral Chapel, Oak Harbor, Wash. She is survived by her son, Hiel Van Campen of Oak Harbor. M- x'V - V-f V • •iSrV'.#::l, • - •-'»- .• JAMES W. GALLOWAY James W. Gallo­ way, 51, died Jaituary 24, 1989. He was born in Winches­ ter, Va. and re­ sided in Berryville, Va. Brother Galloway joined the SIU in September 19M in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck department and last sailed as Quartermaster. He sailed with Puerto Rico Marine Management and Interocean Management. Seaman Galloway served in the U.S. Navy and the Virginia Na­ tional Guard. He is survived by /Hfis widow, Mary Taylor Gallo­ way, and a nephew. Randy Rog­ ers. Funeral Services were held at Omps Funeral Home in Win­ chester. MARVIN G. JOHNSON Pensioner Marvin G. Johnson, 71, died January 23, 1989 at the Presbyterian Medical Center in San Francisco, Calif. Brother Johnson belonged to the Marine Cooks and Stewards Union and he sailed in the steward depart­ ment. He shipped primarily with Matson and retired in June 1978. He served in the U.S. military from 1942 to 1952. Brother John­ son was born in Texas and re­ sided in Hay ward, Calif, for 20 years. Surviving is his widow, Leila Johnson. Funeral services were held at the Thompson Fu­ neral Home, and burial took place at the Valley Home Ceme­ tery in Escalon, Calif. JOSEPH MOUTON Pensioner Joseph Mouton, 79, died January 31, 1989. He joined the SIU in Octo­ ber 1972 in the port of San Francisco. Prior to that time he was a member of the Marine Cooks and Stewards Union. Brother Mouton sailed in the steward department and re­ tired in March 1985. He resided in San Francisco. Brother Mou­ ton was born in Louisiana and served in the U.S. Army from February 1941 to April 1946. Surviving is his sister, Lilian L. Mouton of Greydan, La. RICHARD F. ROBERTS Pensioner Richard F. Roberts, 61, died February 2, 1989. Brother Roberts joined the SIU in October 1947 in the port of Norfolk, Va. and sailed in the deck department. He last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Producer. Brother Roberts served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1945. He was born in Michigan. Sur­ viving is his brother Donald E. Roberts of Three Rivers, Mich. JOHN P. O'TOOLE Pensioner John P. OToole, 69, passed away February 1, 1989 at his home in Baltimore, Md. Brother OToole joined the SIU in April 1953 in the port of Balti­ more. Born in Maryland, Sea­ man OToole sailed in the engine department and retired in 1975. Surviving is his widow, Dorothy L. OToole. Funeral services were held at the George F. Gonce Funeral Home, and burial took place at Glen Haven Me­ morial Park in Glen Bufnie, Md. BILLY RAY SCOTT Billy Ray Scott, 60, died January 2, 1989. He be­ gan sailing in 1953 and joined the SIU in 1964 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Scott sailed in the deck department and served as Ship's Chairman on the vessels. Seadarer Scott attended the Edu­ cation Conference at Piney Point in 1972; completed both the Bo­ sun's Recertificjation course at Piney Point and the MSG Firefighting School at Earle, N.J. in 1976. Bosun Scott was born in Texas and was resident of Cali­ fornia. He is survived by his widow. Donna Jean Scott of Compton, Calif. ISIDORE C. WEISBROT Pensioner Isi­ dore C. "Curly" Weisbrot, 68, passed away De­ cember 8, 1988 at Tulane Uni­ versity Medical Center in New Orleans, La. Brother Weisbrot joined the SIU in September 1955 in the port of New York. He sailed in the steward depart­ ment. After retirement in August 1981, he worked as a volunteer bar-tender at dinners in the SIU hall. Seaman Weisbrot was born in New York and was a resident of New Orleans. Surviving is his brother. Jack Weisbrot of Camarillo, Calif. Inland JOHN O. JOHANSEN Pensioner John O. Johansen, 95, died January 3, 1989 at the Palm Garden Nursing Home in Port St. Lucie, Fla. He joined the In­ land Boatman's Union of the SIU in June 1961 in the port of Philadelphia. Prior to this time Brother Johansen had sailed as a derrick captain for Philadelphia Derrick & Salvage Corp. and Merritt Chapman & Scott Corp. Brother Johansen retired in Feb­ ruary 1963. He was born in Fredrikstad, Norway; became a U.S. citizen and resided in Phila­ delphia. Funeral services were held at Aycock Funeral Home in Jensen Beach, Fla. and burial took place at the All Saints Cemetery in Jensen Beach. Sur­ viving is his daughter, Anne Schwartz of Port St. Lucie, Fla. ARVID VALENTINE KUUN Pensioner Arvid V. Kuun, 81, passed away on September 19, 1988 in Bayside Hospital in Vir­ ginia. Brother Kuun was born in Estonia and made his home in Virginia. He retired as a Captain with Curtis Bay, the company he began working for in 1948. Brother Kuun is buried in the Forest Lawn Cemetery in Nor­ folk, Va. Survivors include his wife, Eleonara Klaus Kuun of Virginia Beach, Va. and daugh­ ter, Aimi Kuun Brown of Flagler Beach, Fla. dan. La., Brother Lege joined the Union in Port Arthur, Texas in 1964. Brother Lege worked in the steward department for Higman and Slade towing compa­ nies. He made Louisiana his home. Surviving Lege are his widow, Margie Lege, and his daughter Linda. JAMES MURRAY Brother James Murray, 83, passed away in late 1988. Brother Murray joined the Rail­ road Marine division of the Union in 1963 when he worked in the deck department of Erie Lackawanna. Born in Liverpool, England, Brother Murray later made New York City his home. He is survived by his wife Jane Murray of New York City. ANTHONY ORLANDO Fisherman Anthony Orlando, 76, died December 12, 1988 in Bev­ erly Hospital, Beverly, Mass. Brother Orlando fished out of the port of Gloucester, Mass. and retired before the merger. Brother Orlando is survived by his wife, Jeannie Orlando of Gloucester. ARIEVISSER Pensioner Arie Visser, 75, passed away in late 1988. Brother Visser was bom in Rot­ terdam and made Baltimore his home. He joined the Union in 1960 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Visser shipped in the steward department. He worked primarily for Harbor Towing and later Interstate Oil. Surviving Brother Visser is his wife, Eliza­ beth Visser. TOLIVER P. WARD Brother Toliver P. Ward, 71, passed away in late 1988. Brother Ward joined the Union in 1964 in the port of St. Louis. He worked in the engine depart­ ment of Inland Tugs Co. and later ACBL. Bom in Spartenburg, S C., Brother Ward made his home in Pearlington, Miss. Prior to joining the SIU, Brother Ward had been a member of MEBA. Surviving Brother Ward are his widow Nona and chil­ dren, Jeren D. Williamson and Donna F. Oman. CHARLES YATES Brother Charles Yates, 64, passed away in late 1988. Brother Yates joined the Union in 1957 in the port of Houston. Brother Yates worked in the deck department of G & H Tow­ ing. Born in Cape Girardeau, Mo., Brother Yates made his home in Houston. Brother Yates also shipped briefly in the SIU Deepsea District in 1950. Correction JOSEPH O. LEGE Joseph O. Lege, 67, passed away in late 1988. Bom in Guey- The January LOG incorrectly spelled the last name of Brother Theodore Macris. �iiV y^'Yi - ---.^-/'V' •'ip - 'T >?•, • ,c ••• -V ' • muatcH, I9S9 Khngmt Mtshf . ..oo Apnl—June 1989 , The following is the current course schedule for April—June 1989 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. ^ The course schedule may change to reflect the membership s and industry s needs. PLEASE NOTE: All members are required to take firefighting when atten^ng SHLSS. QMED—Any Rating Refrigeration Systems, Maint. & Operations Refrigerated Contitoers Advanced Maint Variable Speed DC Drives Welding IMesel Engine Technology Hydraulics Electro-hydraulics Pumproom Maint. & 0|ra All students in the Engine and Steward Sealift Familiarization at the end of their Completion Date Check-In Pate May 15 June 23 Open-ended (Contact Admissions Office for starting date) Able Seaman First Class Pilot (Organiied self study) Radar Refresher/Renewal Radar Recertification Tankerman Lifeboat June 9 May 15 May 12 May 1 June 9 May 29 April 14 April 3 a sepa«.e-course, bu. may b4 «.Ken white Stoworrf Uptn^ Comes All Steward Upgrading Courses are open<nded. Contact the Adnussions Office for Starting dates. All students in the Engine and Steward Departments will have 2 weeks of Sealift FamUiarizatkm at the end of their regular course. ^ Address. Telephone. (Zip Code) (State) I* Completipn Date Com The Adult Education Courses for 1989 will be six weeks in length. High School Equivalency (GED) Adult Basic Education (ABAE) English as a Second Language (ESL) April 3 \ Apn^ i 25 12 The Developmental Studies Class (DVS) will be.offered one week prior to some of the upgrading classes. Developmental Studies (DVS) April 10 April 14 College Piegnm Completion Date Check-In Date Course NoD CPR: • Yes No • No • — — Primary Language Spoken. (Street) (City)' : Departments will have 2 weeks of regular cou^ Date Available for training —_— Date of Birth. Mo-ZDay/Year (Middle) ••id' Check-In Date Firefighting: • Yes Upgruding Appiicution (First) July 7 May 12 June 2 March 31 April 28 June 30 May 12 Do you hold a letter of completion for Lifeboat: • Yes SiAFARiRS HARRY LUNDEBERG SCHOOL OF SEAMANSHIP (Last) June 12 April 3 May 8 March 6 April 4 May 22 April 3 AIBE/ESL Lifeboat Preparatiwi Course April 10 April 28 This Three week course is an Introduction to Lifeboat and is designed to help seafarers prepare themselves for the ""egu^ar Lifeboat course is scheduled immediately after this course. This class will benefit those seafarers who have difficulty reading, seafarers whosb first Jang^ge is not English, and seafarers who have been out of schooljorajongt^^ & Maint. Course. Name. July 7 May 12 Adult Edutation Courses Detk UpgmilHig Crams Course ApH117 April 3 (Area Code) Lakes Member • Deep Sea Member • Pacific • Inland Waters Member • If the following information is not filled out completely your applica­ tion will not be processed. With this application COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourself for the course(s) requested. You must also submit a COPY of the first page of indicating your department and seniority, as well as, a COPY of your clinic card. The Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule until this is received. DATE OF DATE RATING DISCHARGE SHIPPED HELD VESSEL •' 'i.L Book #- Social Security #. Department. Seniority- • Yes Veteran of U.S. Armed Forces: Home Port 1 Am inleresled in the Following Course(s) Checked Below or Indicated Here if Not Listed Endorsement(s) or License(s) Now Held. Are you a graduate of the SHLSS Trainee Program: • No (If yes, fill in below) Trainee Program: From Last grade of school completed. (dates attended) Have you attended any SHLSS Upgrading Courses: • Yes • No (if yes, fill in below) Course(s) Taken. • No — • Yes DATE. SIGNATURE- DECK • AB/Sealift • 1st Class Pilot • Third Mate • Radar Observer Unlimited • Master Inspected Towing Vessel • Towboat Operator Inland • Celestial Navigation • Simulator Course ENGINE • FOWT • QMED—Any Rating • Variable Speed DC Drive Systems (Marine Electronics) • Marine Electrical Maintenance • Pumproom Maintenance & Operation • Refrigeration Systems Maintenance & Operation • Diesel Engine Technology • Assistant Engineer/Chief Engineer Motor Vessel • Original 3rd Engineer Steani or Motor • Refrigerated Containers Advanced Maintenance • Hectro-Hydraulic Systems • Automation • Hydraulics • Marine Electronics Technician STEWARD • Assistant Cook Utility • Cook and Baker • Chief Cook • Chief Steward • Towboat Inland Cook ALL DEPARTMENTS • Welding • Lifeboatman (Must be taken with another course) ADULT EDUCATION DEPARTMENT • Adult Basic Education (ABE) • High School Equivalency Program (GED) • Developmental Studies (DVS) • English as a Second Language (ESL) • ABE/ESL Lifeboat Preparation COLLEGE PROGRAM • Associates in Arts Degree • Certificate Programs No IransporUlioa wW be onlcss yoo prcscnl orisiaal receipts and successfully complete the course. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Seafarers Harry Lundeberg Upgrading Center. Piney Point. MD. 20674 > -- �i»eiyr:isB?.av5:fiaj^aK.'fe: jjtei StAFAKRS LOG Vif-' AURT sui mm SAm mm PIAHS BIG BUCKS 4 crack watchdog unit which monitors medical and hospital bills submitted for care of Sea­ farers and their families is saving the SlU Welfare Plan hundreds of thousands of dollars annually. Thanks to the constant vigi­ lance and expertise of the SIU's medical audit staff, the enor­ mous savings on improper and erroneous billings help to assure the Welfare Plan's continued sol­ vency. Money trimmed from bills in this manner is then avail­ able for proper and legitimate expenses. With hospitalization and medi­ cal expenses reaching all time highs, the SIU's Welfare Plan pays out millions of dollars a year to cover treatment of Sea­ farers and their families. In Jan­ uary of this year, the medical audit staff reviewed close to $500,000 in medical bills of members. As a result of inten­ sive investigation, detective work and battling with hospitals and doctors, the SIU medical audit staff pared $45,000 from the bills that otherwise would have gone through undetected. Dr. Maria Dumlao, who heads the medical audit team, and her two assistants, Mary Warren and Pat Ametti, both nurses, flag ev­ ery bill that looks suspicious or is in the high figures. Then with the benefit of their medical back­ grounds and knowledge, they thoroughly examine every item and intensively check out all facts. A stirring example of how Dr. Dumlao and her staff perform was demonstrated recently when bills were submitted for treat­ ment of an SIU member who was hospitalized with heart problems. ;• 'JJ-'r w''' ' '•'; / r- 'v'"- fm.# ' 4i^ charges. In many cases. Dr. Dumlao says they will negotiate for more acceptable charges. She recommends that SIU members, for their own protec­ tion, especially if they face hos­ pitalization, should check the SIU Welfare Plan booklet to see what is covered and the extent of its benefits. The booklets are available at all SIU halls, or may be obtained by writing to the Administrator, SIU Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Maryland 20746. rouRmam IMis-siii nxusaf isMff/NQNir When the Plans receive a mescal bill the SIU's medical audit staff automatically investigates the charges to make sure the Union and the member are not being overcharged. Above, (L-R), Pat Ametti, Dr. Maria Dumlao and Mary Warren, who comprise the aueUt staff, look over a bill. During the course of his treat­ ment, a pacemaker was inserted in his chest to keep his heart . beating in regular rhythm. When the Seafarers patient was dis­ charged from the hospital, a bill was submitted for hospitaliza­ tion, surgical procedures and the pacemaker. The charge for the pacemaker was listed on the bill at $21,000. The bill, of course, was sub­ ject to the scrutiny of Dr. Dumlao's medical audit team and, not liking what they saw, the team went to work. "Pacemakers," they agreed, "don't cost $21,000." They took a hard look at the other charges. A direct call to the manufac­ turer revealed that the pace­ maker sold for $4,850. Dr. Dum­ lao got on the phone to the hospital and demanded to know 80 IN HOUSE CO-SPONSOR BAN ON ALASKA OIL EXPORT CONGRSSS MOm ON JdASRR on aPORTBRM S lU-backed legislation to indef­ initely extend the ban on the export of Alaskan oil has won more then 80 co-sponsors in the House of Representatives. The SIU is playing a major role in the campaign to keep this valuable cargo and energy re­ source from foreign exploitation. Now, all the oil from Alaska must be transported on U.S.-flag tankers. The SIU is fighting to keep the U.S.-flag requirement. The representatives, from all around the country, are backing the bill (HR 567) which would protect hundreds of SIU jobs on the tankers working in the Alas­ kan oil trade. The oil from the 49th state has saved West Coast consumers bil­ how a $4,850 pacemaker could be billed at $21,000. Moreover, she wouldn't approve payment. As a result of the audit staffs work, the Seafarer's bill was re­ duced by $16,000, a substantial salute to the efforts of Dr. Dum­ lao and Nurses Warren and Arnetti. In 1988, the medical audit unit Was able to reduce the bills sub­ mitted by hospitals and doctors by $358,000. During the four years the audit system has been operating. Dr. Dumlao says they have developed "a good idea of which hospitals are pretty straightforward and the ones you have to watch carefully." Doctors' fees are watched just as closely. In most cases where fees are questioned, the audit team is successful in winning agreement to reductions in the r HE SIU's medical audit unit saves you and the Union Welfare Plan hundreds of thousands of dollars a year. You can do the same, on a smaller scale, and put some money back in your pocket for your efforts. The program is called Self Auditing and it applies to hospital bills under $10,000. Here's how to participate: * Make sure the hospital gives you a daily bill which includes all your charges. * Take a close look at the bill. If you think you are being charged for medi­ cation, treatments or tests you did not receive, contact the Welfare Plan's medical audit staff. * After the medical audit unit contacts the hospital, and the hospital agrees a mistake was made and takes it off the bill, you will receive 25 percent of the savings, up to $500. Monitoring your hospital bills will pay off. Studies show that more than 90 per­ cent of all hospital bills contain some kind of error. The medical audit staff has drawn up some guidelines to use in checking hospi­ tal bills. If you are interested in receiving a copy, contact the Medical Audit Unit, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Maryland 20746. m RIDGE SHIP'S COmmEE lions of dollars at the gas pumps, decreased the nation's reliance on imported oil and preserved a domestic merchant fleet. New Exploration of Oil In a related development, the SIU is backing a bill introduced by Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska) which would allow careful and tightly regulated oil exploration in the Alaska National Wildlife Reserve (ANWR). Exploration of the ANWR would show if there are large and valuable oil reserves there, which could be used to replace North Slope oil, which is ex­ pected to dwindle in the coming years. The administration supports the careful exploration of the ANWR, but some environmental groups, have said they will fight any exploration in the ANWR. In Long Beach, Calif., the big tanker Bay Ridge (Bay Tankers Inc.) paid off after a voyage from Alaska. The Bay Ridge is one of many SlU-crewed tankers which depends on the Alaskan oil run. Pictured above is the Ship's Committee. They are (I. to r.) Deck Delegate Abdul AH, Engine Delegate Alex Stankewiscz, Bosun Terrel Anderson, Steward Delegates Aedulaziz Omar and Jack Spencer and Engine Delegate Angeleo Psomos. � 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 1980-1989 Description An account of the resource Volumes XLII-LI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource March 1989 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES GOOD YEAR SEEN FOR LAKES JOBS MTD URGES PROMPT ACTION TO BOLSTER AMERICAN-FLAG MERCHANT MARINE SUMMARY OF MTD ACTIONS SIU WEST COAST FISHERMAN CATCH RECORD TUNA IRVING BROWN DIES: LED FIGHT AGAINST COMMIES IN POST-WAR EUROPE EASTERN’S BAD MANAGEMENT PROVOKES MACHINISTS STRIKE INFORMATION ON PRE-EMPLOYMENT DRUG TESTING SIU SUIT AGAINST DRUG TESTING NEARS HEARING MEMORIAL TO HONOR SEAMEN LOST IN U.S. WARS FIRST SIU RUN FOR GREEN VALLEY STEWARDS GRADUATE ADVANCED CLASS ALERT SIU UNIT SAVES MEDICAL PLANS BIG BUCKS 80 IN HOUSE CO-SPONSOR BAN ON ALASKA OIL EXPORT 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 3/1/1989 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. 51, No. 3 1989 Periodicals Seafarers Log