http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/b2165c5460988458a1cf43ed0477ff5a.pdf 29baa35e62a47d59991ad068d77cf856 PDF Text Text Volume 63, Number 1 January 2001 ... Patriot Sails! U.S. Lines Christens Rejlagged Cruise Ship Paul Hall Center Announces 2001 Course Schedule The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, -Md., has set its upgrading schedule for the first half of this year. The school features comprehensive, Coast Guard-approved STCW courses, academic support and much more. It also boasts world-class facilities for fire fighting (top photo) and simulator training (at right). Pages 11-14. The SIU-crewed ms Patriot (inset) entered service last month, offering cruises around the Hawaiian Islands. Seafarers (above) welcomed aboard passengers and other guests for the christening Dec. 8. The ship recently underwent a major refurbishment, following its acquisition by United States Lines. Page 3. SIU Gov't Services Ships Aid USS Cole's Transport ITF, SIU Support Gulf Coast Crews Three vessels crewed by members of the SIU's Government Services Division recently provided operational support as the USS Cole was transported back to the United States. The SIU ships involved in the mission were (from left) the USNS Walter S. Diehl, the USNS Spica and the USNS Catawba. Page 4. Union Takes Big Strides in Y2K -------------1'age24 SIU members and officials, representatives of the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) and other backers turned out Dec. 7 for a rally in New Orleans supporting Gulf Coast mariners aboard offshore service vessels and tugboats who are trying to secure union representation. Page 2. AMSEA to Operate Soderman, Wheat l'age4 �ITF Backs·Gulf Mariners President's Report Union Wiii Benefit Offshore Supply Boat Crews If ever a group of mariners needed union representation, the offshore crews sailing in the Gulf of Mexico oil patch are the ones. For many mariners aboard offshore supply vessels and tugboats, working conditions are downright frightening. According to firsthand accounts from mariners and organizers all along the Gulf, crews routinely work beyond the hours allowed by the U.S. Coast Guard. As a result, they often suffer from an unsafe lack of rest that jeopardizes their efficiency. Wages for work on these kinds of vessels are too low, and the benefits the boat companies offer are substandard. For instance, they don't provide for full Michael Sacco health coverage or a decent retirement plan. The mariners have little or no voice in the workplace. They're afraid to report safety or labor violations to the Coast Guard because they believe they'll be fired. As previously reported in this newspaper, the SIU and four other U.S. maritime unions, with assistance from the AFL-CIO, are working together to assist oil patch mariners seeking a voice on the job. The campaign began about two years ago, and in recent months it has intensified and gained strong support from overseas unions belonging to the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF). The fight of Gulf mariners to get a union has been a tough fight and it figures to drag on for quite a while. On paper, Americans have the legally protected right to form a union-without interference from management. Reality says something different. It has become common for companies to ride roughshod over employees who so much as consider joining a union. With little fear of immediate punishment, management bullies its workers and tramples their right to secure union representation. The oil patch mariners face that kind of fight. Gulf boat companies have illegally fired union supporters and forced mariners to attend "captive audience" meetings on board their vessels (a one-sided presentation made by management). They have wasted company funds on union-busting consultants, and they further have disrespected their employees' right to freedom of association by preventing contact with union representatives. In particularly vicious cases, management has tried to turn local law enforcement and port officials against pro-union mariners and our union representatives (even though they hadn't violated any laws). Although the crews face some obstacles that are outright unjust, I believe they will prevail- and they'll win union representation. They have strong support, not only from U.S. unions and the AFL-CIO, but also from other seafaring unions around the globe and their federation, thdTF. That particularly was evident last fall during a worldwide, simultaneous protest concerning the illegal firings of workers who support unionization for Gulf mariners. And it showed again last month in New Orleans, when ITF officials pledged their support. The Gulf crews can take inspiration from a pair of tremendously difficult- but ultimately successful- maritime campaigns. Namely, the ones at E.N. Bisso and Avondale. Bisso crews in 1994 voted to join the SIU, despite a campaign waged by the New Orleans-based company not to do so. They held firm in their desire for union representation even as Bisso spent the next two years in court, unsuccessfully appealing election results. Since then, Bisso management and the union bargaining committees have negotiated two contracts that Bisso crew members have ratified (in 1997 and 2000). Those crews have more say in their jobs than ever before, and they've made respectable gains in wages and benefits. As reported on page 5 of this issue, workers at Avondale last month approved their first union contract. The employees voted to go union in 1993, yet were stalled by Avondale until Litton Industries purchased the shipyard last year. It's not fair that the workers at Bisso and Avondale had to wait so long for their union representation and contracts, but they held firm and now they have something to build on. And it doesn't always take so long to get a contract, once management realizes a partnership can be formed among workers, their union and the company. At McDermott Shipyard, for example, where the work force builds offshore oil rigs and platforms, employees voted last August for union representation. They approved their first contract, which featured sizeable wage increases and other gains, in late November. It's not fair that the oil patch mariners' rights are being abused by the companies, but they have an opportunity to do something about it. They also have backing from the labor movement, not just here but from many other parts of the world. The offshore mariners deserve union representation. I believe it will benefit not only them, but also their employers, because workers who have a voice on the job are more productive. At minimum, the crews at least deserve the chance to decide without their employers interfering. Volume 63, Number 1 SIU Shows Support at New Orleans Rally; Heindel Elected Seafarers Section Vice Chair Gulf Coast mariners aboard offshore service vessels and tugboats who are trying to secure union representation recently received support from the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF). ITF officials took part in a Dec. 7 demonstration in New Orleans in behalf of the mariners. The federation- to which the SIU is affiliated-also passed a resolution supporting the Gulf organizing effort. SIU members and officials participated in the event, which included more than 200 supporters. Together, they expressed backing for the mariners as well as the group known as Offshore Mariners United (OMU), which is a federation of five U.S. maritime unions (the SIU; American Maritime Officers; Masters, Mates & Pilots; Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association; and National Maritime Union) assisting those who seek a voice in the workplace. Local politicians and community representatives also participated. The demonstration took place outside a convention center Showing their support for Gulf Coast mariners during the Dec. 7 rally in New Orleans are (from left) SIU President Michael Sacco, AB Richard Grissom and Chief Cook John Hale. where officials from offshore boat companies were meeting. Speaking to rally participants, SIU President Michael Sacco described the need for "a partnership between the companies and the mariners and their unions. A partnership that brings stability to the industry, job security to the mariners, and a steady and trained workforce to the companies. "It's a partnership that works in other parts of the maritime industry. It's a partnership that will work for Gulf mariners, for their families and for the companies!" ITF General Secretary David Cockroft said the Gulf companies which are fighting to deny their employees' right to choose union representation "represent a serious abrogation of human and worker rights. They violate not only American laws but the conventions of the International Labor Organization." He pointed out that two of the companies involved in the OMU campaign- Trico Marine and Tidewater- have unionized workforces in other countries, but have taken vehemently anti-union stances in the Gulf. Continued on page 5 SIU Election Results To Be Announced Voting has been completed and results of the election of officers for the Seafarers International Union's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District will be announced, in accordance with the SIU constitution, upon completion of the work of the tallying committee. Results of balloting on the five proposed constitutional amendments also will be announced. Special membership meetings were conducted late last month in union halls listed in the SIU constitution to elect delegates for a rank-and-file tallying committee. That committee, including two members from each of the union's constitutional ports, will tabulate results of the election, which started Nov. l in all SIU halls and ended Dec. 30. The February issue of the Seafarers LOG will carry the results of the election. The ballot included candidates seeking the posts of president, executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, six vice presidents, six assistant vice presidents, two headquarters representatives and 10 port agents (for a total of 27 positions). Individuals elected in this round of balloting will serve a four-year term lasting from 2001 through 2004. The ballot also included the five proposed constitutional amendments. Seafarers who were eligible to vote in the election were full book members in good standing, according to the union's constitution. Members had the opportunity to vote either in person at one of the 21 union halls around the country and overseas or via absentee ballot. Chief Cook Thomas Milovich (top photo) and Chief Steward Manuel Faria secure their respective ballots at the SIU hall in New Bedford, Mass. Addressing Working Families' Issues January 2001 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 8990675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998 and at additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Au th Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editor, Jim Guthrie; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Copyright © 200 l Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOS Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all SIU SIU VP Atlantic Coast Jack Caffey (left) addresses the crowd at an early-November rally in behalf of Hillary Rodham Clinton (center), who subsequently won her election as a U.S. senator representing New York. Pictured at right is New York Senator Charles Schumer. More than 1,500 trade unionists and other supporters attended the Nov. 2 rally on Long Island, where Clinton spoke about key issues faced by America's working families. hiring halts will be closed Monday, Feb. 19 forthe observance of the Presidents' Day holiday (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. January 2001 �New Beginning for U.S. Cruise Industry Patriot Christened With the new year comes a new way of cruising- American style. The ms Patriot, flying the U.S. flag and staffed with an American crew, was inaugurated last month in Honolulu and began weekly cruises around the Hawaiian islands. The christening ceremony, held Dec. 8, reflected both the heritage of Hawaii and the spirit of America. Maggie Inouye, wife of Senator Daniel Inouye, officially dedicated the ship. During the traditional breaking of a champagne bottle on the vessel's hull, thousands of orchid and rose blossoms rained from a helicopter onto the ship. Other highlights of the event included the ceremonial blowing of a conch shell, a Hawaiian chant, presentation of colors and rifle salute by the King's Guard, singing of the Hawaiian National Anthem, and entertainment by local dancers and musicians including the Royal Hawaiian Band and Moana Chang. A gala benefiting five Hawaiian charities was held on board. Representing the Seafarers International Union at the ceremony were SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez, SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Jack Caffey and SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone. "Our members are doing an outstanding job aboard the Patriot," stated Tellez. "Any time you bring a vessel out of the ship- yard, it's a challenge. But the SIU crew has more than met the task." The officials joined other guests on a one-night cruise following the christening. "We made sure the other passengers knew they're in good hands with the Patriot crew," Tellez noted. "We reminded them that this is a well-trained American crew- a crew that's not going to run away if something goes wrong, like some of the multinational crews on foreignflag cruise ships who have been in the news. "But beyond that, the crew really made everyone feel at home," he added. "The service is great all the way around, and the deck and engine gangs are hard at work behind the scenes." The first cruise aboard the Patriot began Dec. 9. The vessel departs Honolulu, Oahu every Saturday evening and stops at five ports on four of the Hawaiian islands: Nawiliwili, Kauai; Kahului, Maui; Hilo, Hawaii; and Kona, Hawaii, before returning to Honolulu. "Choosing from Hawaii's vast number of attractions can be daunting for Hawaii visitors," noted Unted States Lines, the ship operator, in annoucning the christening. ''The tiny chain of islands has it all, from black sand beaches and tropical rainforests to fiery volcanoes and ancient Polynesian sites." In addition, the ship's Island Explorations program will Following a $21 million renovation, the ms Patriot, formerly the Nieuw Amsterdam, sails around the Hawaiian islands with an SIU crew. The 1,212-passenger cruise liner is the first ship for the United States Lines fleet. showcase 80 optional shore excursions, including golf outings, hikes, bikes and more. To complement the island explorations, the ms Patriot's new onboard Destination Learning Center and extensive cultural enrichment program will allow passengers to gain an in-depth understanding of each island before they embark on their adventures. There also is an innovative children's and teen's activity center as well as upgraded conference and meeting facilities. The 1,212-passenger cruise liner is the first ship for the United States Lines fleet and represents a new beginning for the U.S. cruise industry. American Classic Voyages, the parent company of United States Lines, has under construction two 1,900 passenger cruise ships-the largest ever built in an American shipyard and the first in more than 40 years. The ships are scheduled to enter service in Hawaii for United States Lines in 2003 and 2004. The ms Patriot was acquired by American Classic Voyages Oct. 18, 2000 and underwent a $21 million renovation. "The introduction of the ms Patriot to America is an exciting occasion for our company, and one that expands consumers' leisure travel options," said Philip C. Calian, chief executive officer of American Classic Voyages. Calian also credited the SIU for its support on the project that led to the Patriot sailing under the Stars and Stripes. MSC Launches LAfSR Tanker Will Reflag U.S. Crew members aboard the ms Patriot participate in one of the many lifeboat training sessions held before the ship's maiden voyage. Notice Retro Increases Reached for RRF The union last month announced that, after lengthy negotiations with the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd), SIU crew members from the Ready Reserve Force vessels will receive retroactive wage increases totaling 7.5 percent for the years 1998-2000. The breakdown is as follows: a 2.5 percent increase effective July 1, 1998; another 2.5 percent increase effective July 1, 1999; and a final 2.5 percent increase effective July 1, 2000. MarAd had been offering 2 percent increases for two years. As previously reported in the Seafarers LOG, SIU members are crewing 45 RRF ships following the General Accounting Office's decision that upheld earlier contract awards by MarAd. The new fiveyear agreements call for substantial wage increases for SIU members. Other gains include Seafarers Health and Pension Plans benefits at their top levels, increased vacation benefits and inclusion of the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan at 5 percent of base wages. Januaf'Y 2001 SIU-contracted Sealift, Inc. recently won a four-year agreement to operate a double-hull tanker for the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC). The 357-foot vessel is slated for delivery in February or March. It is a foreign-flag ship that will reflag under the Stars and Stripes and then replace the Valiant. Built in Turkey in 1999, the ship features 12 cargo tanks. It primarily will sail between South Korea and Japan, transporting jet fuel and other petroleum products. Sealift Co-Owner John Raggio cited the cooperation between the union and the company in securing the operating agreement. "We 're very happy, especially because our competition was a non-union operator," Raggio stated. "With labor and management working together, we attained the business. And we didn't win on the backs of labor, either, because the contract is an increase over the Valiant wages." Sealift has operated vessels on the South Korea-Japan run since 1984. Seafarers will crew the steward department of MSC's newest Bob Hope-class vessel, the USNS Brittin, pictured at a christening ceremony Oct. 21 in New Orleans. The SIU will crew the steward department of the USNS Brittin, the newest of the U.S. Military Sealift Command's (MSC's) large, medium-speed roll-on/rolloff ships. MSC christened the Brittin late last year at union-contracted Avondale Shipyard in New Orleans. The vessel "will join MSC's surge sealift fleet when she delivers, ready on a moment's notice to carry U.S. Army supplies and equipment wherever and whenever needed," said Vice Adm. Gordon S. Holder, commander of MSC. Designed for loading and offloading military combat and combat support equipment, the Brittin is 950 feet long with a beam of l 06 feet. It is dieselpowered and is expected to sustain speeds of up to 24 knots. According to MSC, the ship's six-deck interior "has a cargo carrying capacity of approximately 380,000 square feet and her rollon/roll-off design makes her ideal for transporting helicopters, tanks and other wheeled and tracked military vehicles. Two 110-ton twin pedestal cranes allow her to load and unload cargo where shore-side infrastructure is limited or nonexistent. A helicopter deck enables emergency daytime landings." The Brittin is named in memory of Army Sgt. 1st Class Nelson V. Brittin, a Korean War Medal of Honor recipient who distinguished himself as a member of Company I in Yonggong-ni, Korea on March 7, 1951. The vessel's delivery date was .not known at press time. Seafarers LOS 3 �AMSEA to Operate USNS Soderman, Roy Wheat SIU-contracted American Overseas Marine Corp. (AMSEA) of Quincy, Mass. recently was awarded a five-year contract by the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) to operate the prepositioning ships USNS Soderman and USNS Roy Wheat. Both vessels are undergoing conversions and will resume sailing this year- the Soderman in March, the Wheat in October or November, according to an MSC spokesperson. The Soderman will be renamed the USNS Gunnery Sgt. Fred W. Stockham in honor of the World War I U.S. Marine Corps Medal of Honor recipient. Formerly a containership, the Soderman in 1993 was acquired by the U.S. Navy and then converted to a roll-on/roll-off vessel. The Soderman carried U.S. Army equipment, but, following its current conversion, will transport materiel in support of the Marine Corps. Like the Soderman, the Roy Wheat is a former containership that will provide prepositioning support for U.S. forces. U.S.-flag prepositioning ships are strategically located throughout the world. They are fully loaded with combat equipment and supplies, ready to sail at a moment's notice. As MSC pointed out when it announced AMSEA's operating agreement Nov. 22, "Iraq's 1990 invasion of neighboring Kuwait validated the prepositioning concept. A Marine Expeditionary Force was the first heavy U.S. combat force in-theater for Desert Shield/Desert Storm, arriving on the scene just seven days after departing Diego Garcia. This would not have been possible without forward-deployed equipment and supplies aboard the maritime prepositioning ships." SIU-contracted AMSEA will operate the USNS Soderman for the next five years. 6ov1t Services Division Seafarers Assist USS Cole's Retum to U.S. Three vessels crewed by the center for the mobile div- ities involved in the operation, members of the SIU's ing and salvage unit that sur- SIU crews often worked extended Government Services Diviveyed the damage on the hours under heightened levels of sion-the USNS Catawba, Cole-towed the damaged security. destroyer to the MV Blue USNS Spica and USNS Walter Once in position, the Blue Marlin, which was situated Marlin began filling her ballast S. Diehl-played significant some nine miles offshore tanks, which slowly submerged roles in the U.S. Navy's operfrom Aden. ation to return the USS Cole her deck until only the deckhouse to the United States for Meanwhile, another SIU- and two aft towers were visible repairs. crewed vessel, the combat above the waterline. Two tugCole arrived at Litton stores ship USNS Spica, pro- boats and three Navy divers then Ingalls Shipbuilding in The USS Cole is transported to the United States by the MV Blue Marfin. SIU- vided logistics support to the helped position the Cole above Pascagoula, Miss., Dec. 13 crewed vessels assisted in the operation. Navy ships deployed to the the Blue Marlin's submerged aboard the Military Sealift area as part of Operation deck, according to MSC. Command (MSC) chartered With the Cole properly posiDetermined Response, the three times the weight of the To accomplish her m1ss1on, heavy lift ship MV Blue Marlin. tioned and secured, the Blue Navy maneuver to support and the MV Blue Marlin literally Cole. The target of an Oct. 12 terrorreversed the former proMarlin Cole. protect the Subsequently, the Chief of would have to give the destroyer ist attack in the port of Aden, Still another SIU-crewed ves- cedure and continued to de-bala ride aboard her 584.6-foot deck. Naval Operations issued a Yemen, the USS Cole sustained a The destroyer has a draft of 32 sel, the MSC oiler USNS Walter last until her normal draft was 40-foot-by-40-foot bole in her requirement to charter a heavy feet, and the MV Blue Marlin S. Diehl, kept busy supporting the achieved. port side. Seventeen American ship and MSC initiated negotia- draws about 35 feet, meaning that remaining U.S. Navy forces in The entire loading operation sailors died during the incident tions with Offshore Heavy 75 feet of water would be the Persian Gulf. The Diehl also took about 24 hours. The MV Transport, Blue Marlin's operatand dozens of others were Blue Marlin and her cargo departing company. Following an Oct. required to maneuver the Cole provided logistics support to the injured. ed the Gulf of Aden Nov. 5 for Blue Marlin's Navy escort, safely above the Blue Marlin. Within hours of the attack, 14 meeting between representaThe SIU-crewed MSC fleet destroyer USS Donald Cook, the voyage around the southern tives from MSC, the Naval Sea U.S. officials decided to bring the ocean tug USNS Catawba- from the Coast of Aden to the tip tip of Africa and across the heavily damaged vessel home for Command (NAVSEA), and Off- which earlier had been acting as of Africa. Because of the sensitiv- Atlantic to America. repairs. Published reports say shore Heavy Transport that MSC immediately studied the focused on developing plans and heavy transportation market to timelines for the USS Cole lift, ascertain what heavy lift plat- the contract was awarded. The International Maritime endorsement issued by a party to of mariners in international shipNavy designers then worked forms were obtainable and capaOrganization (IMO) last month the convention, the agency point- ping, bad been in doubt, but that to develop blocks and sea fastenble of providing the needed lift. published its so-called "white ed out. nation in fact is included on the By happenstance, the Blue ings to be placed upon the Blue list" of countries deemed to be in Still, the white list will be- list. Marlin, one of the world's largest Marlin's deck. Crews at a ship- compliance with the revised come one of several criteria, STCW stands for International heavy vessels, was already in the yard in Dubai built and placed STCW Convention {STCW '95). including the inspection of facili- Convention on Standards of area and within five sailing days this hardware on the vessel's deck Some 72 countries are on the ties and procedures, that can be Training, Certification and away from the USS Cole. The and the Blue Marlin sailed for the list, scheduled for implementa- applied in the selection of prop- Watcbkeeping for mariners. The Blue Marlin is capable of lifting Gulf of Aden and the USS Cole. tion in 2002. The roll will be used erly trained and qualified mar- original 1978 convention was up to 30,000 tons, more than She arrived on location Oct. 28. to assist flag states' respective iners. updated in 1995, with the amendThe inclusion of the Philip- ments phased in from Feb. 1, determinations when examining foreign certificates. It also is pines, the world's largest supplier 1997 to Feb. l, 2002. intended as a guide for port state Parties Included on IMO's "White Ust" control targeting. Jn ~ptember 2000, representatives of the Afloat Personnel "A position on the white list Argentina Germany Marshall Islands Spain M§nagement Center {APMC) and the union met to discuss a number entitles other parties to accept, in Australia Mexico Sri Lanka Ghana ., _o f jte~s affecting the working conditions -Of cMJ service mariners saif... Bahamas Greece Morocco Sweden principle, that certificates issued Bangladesh Honduras Netherlands Thailand by or on behalf of the parties on tormptement a new poUcy concerning Belgium iceland New Zealand Tonga · marl~rs 't'ho report for duty' with expired Coast Guard documents. the list are in compliance with the Brazil Norway India Trinidad and . lnitiaJlY., ttie APMC intended to implement thts pottcy in November revised STCW Convention," the Bulgaria Indonesia Pakistan Tobago 2000. After lengthy negotiations in which the union sought a number Ireland Panama Turkey Canada IMO noted in a written announcePeru Tuvalu Colombia Israel Of prot.ectfons and certain admtnistrative assistance for mariners, it ment. "It is expected that ships Croatia Italy Philippines Ukraine w~s determined that beginning Jufy 1, 2001. mariners who report to flying flags of countries that are Jamaica Poland United Kingdom*** Cuba · · duty.with expired Coast Guard documents wilt be inetlgibfe to receive not on the white list will be Cyprus Japan Portugal Uruguay subsi$tence and quarters payments. Please take the necessary Kiribati Republic of Korea Chile USA increasingly targeted by port state ·steJ)s1o renew your documents earty. Latvia Romania China Vanuatu control inspectors." ·;+/ Tb~ ·St}jp's ptirser has aUt~ forms and wilt send your paperwork Denmark* Russian Liberia Venezuela The fact that a country isn't ~o.; tne1 poast Guard for .renewal. Ptease keep proof of mailing your Egypt Vietnam Luxembourg Federation listed by IMO does not invalidate documents for renewal. Home of record must be the United States. Jf Estonia Malaysia Samoa Maldives Singapore Hong Kong you·renew early enough. ·your documents should be waiting for you certificates or endorsements Finland Malta South Africa China** France ';.when you complete your tour of duty. The APMC and the union atso issued by that nation. Nothing in · have information to help you~ Do not hesitate to ask for assistance. * Includes Faeroe Islands the STCW Convention prevents . Remember to renew early to remain eligibfe for subsistence and ** Associate Member the employment of any mariner ·- Includes Isle of Man, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Gibraltar qu~rter payments. who holds a valid certificate or 71 Countries Included on IMO's 'White List' Notice to SIU Civil Service Mariners .'! ~~~r~~; ~e:.:~· 4 Seafarers LOS January 2001 �Runaway-Flag Tanker Spills Half-Million Gallons of Oil Lousy Record Preceded Ship in La. Mishap A runaway-flag tanker spilled half a million gallons of Nigerian crude near New Orleans on Dec. 1. The Liberian-owned Westchester, registered in the Bahamas and crewed by Greeks, ran aground near Port Sulphur, La. after losing power. According to U.S. Coast Guard investigators, the 800-foot tanker sustained a line of six gashes-ranging from 2 to 6 feet long-in the bottom of its hull, releasing the oil. Officials estimated that about one-quarter of the vessel's cargo escaped. At the time of the incident, the Westchester was carrying about 53,000 barrels, or 2.2 million gallons of oil. The Mississippi River's bottom served as a plug and stemmed further loss of the crude. More than 150 federal and state environmental workers and 30 vessels scrambled to the scene to begin the colossal chore of cleanup. Coast Guard officials estimated at the time that cleanup operations could take at least two weeks. The Westchester had received a poor reliability rating for independent tanker monitors before it ran aground, published reports say. One New York-based analyst of the tanker industry said the vessel had logged seven reported problems in the past 15 years. An engine failure at sea in 1996, broken cylinder covers and an engine room fue in 1991, propeller problems in 1990 and an engine failure off the coast of the 1st Avondale Contract Approved By an overwhelming majority, Avondale Shipbuilding employees last month voted to approve the terms of their fust union contract with Litton Industries (Avondale's parent company). The company's 1,500 AFL-CIO Metal Trades Department-represented workers ratified the agreement by a four-to-one margin. Voting took place Dec. 6. The 45-month pact provides an immediate 3 percent wage hike in January as part of an overall 9 percent wage increase paid in three increments. Additionally, the contract sets up a formal skill progression system which will move the majority of employees into higher-paid categories after working 500 hours in any lower classification. Wages under the agreement range from $8.25 per hour for "semi-skilled new · hires" to $16 per hour "at the top of the highest skill level," according to the Metal Trades Department. "These were difficult negotiations, conducted in an amicable atmosphere with an employer who shared our interest in developing a functional agreement which would improve the wages and conditions of Avondale's workers," declared John Meese, president of the national Metal Trades Council. "The negotiating team and Avondale's workers are proud that we opened a new era for Avondale's workers under which they will enjoy the benefits of a unionized work place and a longoverdue sense of dignity and respect. This agreement will also add value to the shipyard by enhancing the quality of its products." The contract establishes joint labor-management committees to address ongoing concerns of the Avondale workforce, with equal representation by union and management. Other highlights include improvements in call-in pay and overtime practices, expanded vacations, non-contributory life insurance and tax-free flexible spending accounts used for day-care and out-of-pocket health care expenses. The parties pledged to continue negotiating for a reformed health insurance program which will reduce employee health care costs with no reduction in benefits. Union negotiators say that process was deferred so that the rest of the agreement would not be delayed. Workers at Avondale won union recognition in August 1999 after nearly a decade of struggle. The employees in June 1993 had voted for union representation, but the election's outcome was stalled until last year when Litton Industries took control of the shipyard in a purchase agreement. "F Supports Sult Coast Mariners Continued from page 2 That same week, at the ITF Seafarers Section Conference, the group unanimously passed a resolution supporting the OMU campaign (see sidebar, page 5). OMU Field Director David Eckstein remarked, "This is another message to the boat companies and to Trico in particular that we aren't going away. This is a human rights issue, a workers' Higldiglds of lfF Resolution rights issue, and the whole SUpportlng Gulf Coast Mariners world is watching." Meanwhile, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David ', THE trF ., . being aware that the United States Heindel last month was maritime affitiates have launched a cafilpaign to elected second vice chair of organtze the unorganized tn the offshore sector and. the ITF's Seafarers Section. to this end, the trade union Offshore Martners "I know I speak for the United (OMO) has been estabfisfled; , ·· BEING ADVISED that Trico Marine Jnc. Is refusSIU in saying that our entire union remains com- . ing to recognize the trade union a9d i~ ~ggres-stvely pun>u1ng anti-union action$, whlch'inctµde the intim~ mitted to lending any and tdatfon and dismissal of seafarers.who join OMU; all help to our brothers and DEPLORES such anti ..trade union, actions~ sisters throughout the ITF," which violate the fnher-en.t and manenallle human right to freedom of association. as established by Heindel stated. the Un1ted Nations Declaration of Human Rights, lLO Conventions 87 and 98. and the 1998 ILO Declaration on Fundamental Prlryciples and Rfgtltt; ·. at Work; ., ENDORSES the decision of the tTF f'ait Practices Committee, taken in Vatencia 19-21 Jilly. for the ITF to support the Gulf of Mexico project. at . the request of lTF afflliate<:l unions in the United States; EXPRESSES solidarity ., wtth the OMU and the offshore workers in the Guff of Mexioo who are struggling to be abte to join a trade union and to be able to enjoy the protection trade union membership brings; Pictured at the ITF's Seafarers Section Conference in New Orleans are (from left) Jon Whitlow, acting secretary of the ITF's Seafarers, Fisheries and Inland Navigation Sections; Brian Orrell, chairman of the Seafarers Section; SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, second vice chair of the Seafarers Section; SIU Executive VP John Fay, former chair of the Seafarers Section; and Stephen Cotton, secretary of the ITF Special Seafarers Department. January 2001 DEMANDS that Trfco Marine Inc. recognize the OMU and reinstate au the workers they have sacked for trade union membership or for trade union actlvfties; RESOLVES to support the OMU in the 'struggle to unionize the offshore workers in the Gulf of Mexico; CALLS UPON all tTF affiliates to take whatever actions they are able lo in support of the OMU and the attempts to unionize the offshore workers in the Gulf of Mexico and, in addition, to bring au possible pressure to bear on Trjco Marine Inc. s-0 that they desist from anti-union activities, recognize the union and reinstate the dismissed workers. United Kingdom in 1985 were among the tanker's documented troubles. The ship's operator, ERMIS Maritime Corp. of Greece, does not have a history of serious oil spills in the United States, according to an O'Brien's Oil Pollution Service official. ERMIS was not operating the vessel when some of its earlier troubles occurred, although the company has had significant reliability problems with other ships. The Westchester was built in 1981 in Brazil. She is registered in Nassau and is owned by Marine Oil Trader 3 Ltd. of Monrovia, Liberia. The cause of the incident is still under investigation, but informed sources point out that the Westchester shared at least one vital trait with other vessels involved in similar accidents. Unlike newer oil tankers with double hulls to protect against the risk of oil spills caused by punctures, the Westchester was built with a single steel skin. Detroit Newspaper Contracts Ratified A strike/lockout that had been ongoing since July 13, 1995 -after two Detroit newspaper publishers imposed new employment conditions on its workers in the midst of bogged down contract talks- finally is over. Members of three units of The Newspaper Guild-Communications Workers of America Local 22 (TNG-CWA) recently ratified final contract offers from Gannett Co. and Knight Ridder Inc. Some 500 newsroom and maintenance workers are represented by the three units. An immediate increase in wages of 2 percent, followed by 2 percent increases in the second and third years, respectively, (for a range of employees) are the key components of the new contracts which run through Jan. 15, 2004. Sources close to the developments said those employees paid over scale at the Detroit News, which comprises the majority of unit members, will not profit from the new wage hikes. They will, however, receive considerations for merit raises. An additional bonus would be in line for employees in the event the newspapers' circulation increases by at least 100,000 over the next year, although the likelihood of such a surge appears dubious. Other provisions of the new pacts include: • Maintenance of previous health coverage, with monthly premiums fully paid by the employer. • Continuance of existing pension plans which also are paid by the employer • Preservation of vacation benefits to a maximum of four weeks a year. • The resumption of dues checkoff. • Restoration of the grievance procedure. • The use of binding arbitration to resolve allegations of contract violations. • The restoration of the justcause provision for discipline and discharge. Not all the news was good, however. According to published reports by The Newspaper Guild, in addition to excluding the majority of unit members from the wage increases, the new agreements eliminate agency shop provisions that were won more than 60 years ago. These provisions will be replaced with open shops that make union membership voluntary. Further, the new pacts suspend free contributions to existing pension plans. (The companies charge that the plan is over-funded.) Bernie Lunzer, secretary-treasurer for TNG, asserted that the companies never intended to make a reasonable agreement. In the wake of the new contracts, he noted in a TNG editorial, "The painful cost to those involved in the strike was substantial, including health problems and even death. It's still not clear that management even now wants the type of relationship that creates a fair and better workplace. Negotiators for both companies took every opportunity to gouge the unions right up to the final agreement." Committees which bargained for the news, editorial and maintenance units had recommended acceptance of the final offers. The Detroit Free Press negotiating group offered no recommendations. Detroit Guild President Lou Mleczko urged ratification, suggesting that "although there are significant concessions in all three contracts, the alternative of having no union is worse." Still unresolved by the contracts are certain issues regarding fired strikers, although both companies have committed to reviewing the dismissals with TNGCWA on an individual basis. Meanwhile, actions by the National Labor Relations Board are to continue. Guild members who were not fired but have not been recalled will remain indefinitely eligible for recall rights (with those rights extinguished for those who decline jobs). TNG-CWA became the third of six striking unions to end the lockout by endorsing the recent offers presented by Gannett and Knight Ridder. Published reports say some 200 press operators who belong to GCIU Local 13N ratified a three-year contract Nov. 5; members of International Typographers Union Local 18 agreed to a contract early last year. The February issue of the Seafarers LOG will contain a special section on tax tips for Seafarers. Be sure to check it out before filing your tax returns for 2000. Seafal'ers LOS 5 �Caps and Gowns Are the Norm For Seafarer's Scholarly FamHy Steward Catahan Puts 5 Kids Through College Any parent who winces at the financial cost of putting a kid through college, needn't look any farther for inspiration than Chief Steward Rodolfo "Rudy" Catahan. A year ago this month, Catahan and his wife, Rosie, celebrated a milestone as their son Rodel became the fifth of the Catahan children to graduate from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Va. "All of my children graduated, all five," said Rudy Catahan, who joined the SIU in 1991 following a 27-year career in the U.S. Navy. "Two of them graduated with degrees in business (Rodel and Maria Catahan Morrison), one is an electrical engineer (Rodolfo Jr.), one is a computer engineer (Dennis) and the other is a registered nurse (Rosita Catahan Morrison)." The respective graduations took place during an 11-year span, from 1989 to last year. "We really had to sacrifice a lot," said Catahan, 58, noting the ever-escalating cost of education. "The kids studied hard and they did part-time jobs. They also got Chief Mate John Gomard (far right) says the training he received many years ago at the Paul Hall Center still helps him today. Here, the former SIU member is pictured aboard the Cape Mohican with (standing, from left) Bosun Blair Baker, Chief Steward Louis Morris, DEU Yehya Omar and (kneeling) AB Michael Penkwitz. Rodolfo Catahan (right) began upgrading classes in galley operations last month at the Paul Hall Center. With him is Instructor Ed White. (partial) scholarships. With the help of the SIU, I sent them all to college, and they all made it through." The Seafarer matter-of-factly mentioned that he's not quite finished supporting his kids' educational endeavors. Daughter Maria plans to enroll in medical school this year. "We 're not done with the bills yet," he quipped. Second career Recertified Steward Felipe Orlanda helped Catahan start (Photo by Jo-Ann Clegg, The Virginian-Pilot) GRADUATION x 5: At their home near Norfolk, Va., Chief Steward Rudy Catahan and his wife, Rosie, are surrounded by their collegegraduate children (from left) Rodolfo Jr., Dennis, Rodel, Rosita and Maria. his second career, taking the Navy veteran to the SIU hall in Norfolk. "Felipe helped me a lot and so did (retired SIU Representative) David Jones. After one week, I sailed," recalled Catahan. "Without the union, I probably would have lost my house. The reason I still sail is, it's good for the table, money-wise. Plus my children." Catahan, who most recently sailed aboard the Northern Lights, believes in the union so much so that he has recruited several local high school graduates in the Norfolk area. "I think (SIU President) Mike Sacco has helped create a good situation for everybody," he stated. Having recently upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., he also affirms that the entry-level, upgrading and academic curriculums are topnotch. "I've seen the programs, and they're very good," Catahan said. "It's an excellent school and I recommend it to my fellow union members. The practical training is so important. "Personally, I want to thank (Instructor) Ed White and (Executive Chef) Romeo Lupinacci. We have such good instructors, and they provide us with everything necessary to be successful seamen." Congratulating Bosun Bradford When Recertified Bosun Dick Bradford (center) signed off the American Merlin last September, he headed to SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. to file for retirement. Congratulating Bradford on his seafaring career are SIU President Michael Sacco (left) and SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez. "Overall, it was a good career," stated Bradford. He advised those just entering the industry to "upgrade, learn your job and respect the men that have been out there." For more on Brother Bradford as well as other newly retired Seafarers, turn to page 17. 6 SealaretS LOii Hawsepiper Gama.rd Credits Piney Point For Olreer 'Foundation' SIU hawsepiper John Gomard has spent his whole life learning about the maritime industry. From the youthful times spent hanging around the Marine Firemen's Union hall with his father in San Pedro, Calif., to the studious days in the trainee program at Piney Point, Md., to his latest step of upgrading to chief mate in the mid-1990s, Gomard has gained a broad background within his profession. One important lesson he wants to share with Seafarers is: take advantage of the courses available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point. "If someone wants to get into this industry, I would highly recommend that they go to Piney Point. It's simply the smartest way to go about it," said the 40-year-old former SIU member. Gomard graduated from the Paul Hall Center's entry training program in 1979. While there, he also completed the GED program and received college credits from Charles County Community College. He later upgraded to FOWT before switching to the deck department. "I still remember my days at Piney Point even now," shared Gomard, "because everything I learned has been so useful and has served me well over the years. The training was very realistic and prepared me well for what was in the real world. It laid a foundation for my career, and I was able to build a house on it." Gomard, who has sailed deep sea and inland, recently visited the school for the first time since 1983."I was very impressed, especially with the fire fighting school and new simulator facility. Without question, your simulator is right up there technologically," he said. "It could well be the best of its kind available anywhere." "It was a great investment," he continued. "You are now able to give students a true hands-on feeling-a bird's eye view of reality. This will help make them understand what's really going on when they graduate and go aboard ships." In some ways, Gomard recalled, his becoming a mariner seemed inevitable. His father, Bob Gomard, was the San Pedro port agent for the Seafarers-affiliated Marine Firemen's Union, so the younger Gomard essentially grew up in the maritime industry. "I used to hang around my dad's union hall a lot," recalled Gomard. "I spent many hours there talking to the guys and listening to their stories. It was really kind of neat." At age 17, he took a summer job with the union-and quickly realized he'd found his calling. His first ship, the Maine, was "an old States Line vessel that served the Asian Rim," Gomard recalled. "I went to Japan, Korea, Hong Kong and Taiwan. I learned my geography as well as a number of other things about the world that I never knew before." Most recently, he sailed as chief mate aboard Intrepid Ship Management's Cape Mohican. Gomard sees today's maritime profession as being much more specialized than when he got involved. "It now demands a lot more training, skill and more priority investment on the part of the individual mariner than before," he said. "With manning levels diminishing, today's sailor has to be better equipped and more versatile than before." For that reason alone, frequent upgrading is not just necessary, it's essential, according to Gomard. "It is absolutely crucial to upgrade as often as you can," he said. "Leaming new skills is vital in today's industry, especially in view of changing STCW standards and requirements." Gomard, who worked as an SIU patrolman in Wilmington, Calif. in the early 1990s, has sailed tankers most of his career and has made quite a good living at it. "I have had people ask me why I do what I do and I tell them because I love the time off," he said. "I work hard when I'm working but then I can sit on the beach for three months and do whatever I want. "My whole career has been good," concluded Gomard. "I would not trade it for anything. It's been a great ride so far." January 2001 �Seafaren, Dignitaries Tum Out For Sm Fnmcisco HoHday Feast The annual Thanksgiving dinner at the SIU hall in San Francisco once again proved successful in 2000, as an estimated 400 people gathered for the nutritious and filling event. Seafarers and their families, SIU retirees, friends and guests accounted for most of the crowd at the Nov. 21 assembly. Also attending were U.S. Rep. George Miller (D-Calif.); U.S. Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.); San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown; Superior Court Judges Ernest Goldsmith, Charlene Mitchell and Donald Mitchell; California Insurance Commissioner Harry Low; retired California Labor Federation Executive Secretary-Treasurer Jack Henning and his successor, Art Pulaski; attorney Nath Cohen; and many more officials from unions, shipping company representatives and others. Chief Stewards Burt Richardson, Louella Sproul and Peter Cidio volunteered along with fellow SIU members in overseeing much of the meal preparation and presentation. The menu was loaded with traditional Thanksgiving fare. As the yearly event steadily has grown, local businesses have pitched in to ensure its continued success. For the 2000 celebration, Alioto's Restaurant on Fishermen's Wharf cooked 22 turkeys and nine hams, while desserts were donated by Mimi's Bakery. SIU-contracted Crowley, Matson and Maersk Sealand donated most of the food. The event lasted longer than three hours, noted SIU Assistant Vice President Nick Celona, who once again coordinated the celebration. "It seems like more people attend each year. We almost ran out of plates," he said. January 2001 Chief Stewards Louella Sproul and Burt Richardson donated their time and efforts to help ensure the gathering's success. SIU's Celona Receives Governor's App i en to Agriculture Board SIU Assistant Vice President West Coast Nick Celona last month received a governor's appointment to California's 1a District Agricultural Association. In announcing the appointments, California Gov. Gray Davis' office stated, "The 1a District Agricultural Association holds fairs, expositions and exhibitions for the purpose of exhibiting all of the industries and industrial enterprises, resources and products of every kind or nature of the state with a view toward improving ... encouraging and stimulating them." Celona, 42, will serve on an advisory board for the Cow Palace, an arena perhaps bestknown outside the state as the one-time home of the National Hockey League's San Jose Sharks. His family has "more than 50 years of involvement in agriculture and has been involved in sponsoring the Junior and Grand National Livestock Exposition," observed Gov. Davis' office. Seafal'lll'S LOii 7 �With SIU Members in the Port of Norfolk • • . Aboard tb.e USNS Prevail ••• Aboard tb.e USNS Persistent Working in the vessel's shop is OS Edward Hill Jr. Steward/Baker John Neal is ready for the dinner crowd. Meeting in the mess hall are (from left, standing) OS Louis Holder Jr., QMED Wendell Brown, Bosun Leon Pulley and AB John Birdwell. Seated is QMED Dennis Middleton. • • • Aboard tb.e USNS Bold Stopping their work to pose for a quick snapshot are (from left) QMED Robert Scott, AB Mark "Hollywood" Cooper and Bosun Ronald Cleveland. • • • Aboard tb.e USNS Indomitable Geoffrey Bagley (left) and Manuel Hernandez are two of the vessel's engine department members, ready to attend the shipboard meeting. Reviewing the new collective bargaining agreement are (from left) MOR Jerome Kebbell, Bosun Kenneth Boone, OS Barry Mccaslin and OS I. Ferguson. Chief Steward John Wessels (left} and Chief Cook Frank Washington are ready to serve freshly baked cookies. B Seafarers LOS Taking part in a meeting aboard the Indomitable are (from left, first row) Chief Cook Lyvell Hall, EU Manuel Hernandez, EU Geoffrey Bagley, AB Adeeb Saleh, SA Vincent Knight, (top row) Bosun Robert Taylor and Steward Milton Sivells. �Above: Helping make a cookout aboard the USNS Red Cloud a success are steward department members (from left) Chief Cook Betty Thompson, Chief Steward Waymond H. Watson Ill , SA Shelly Womble and SA Abdulla Saeed. The vessel was in Singapore at the time. Prior to heading for Singapore, however, the Red Cloud (left photo) went into drydock at the Cascade General Shipyard in Portland, Ore. to get the • engine checked out. Watching from aboard the ship as the drydock is drained are OS Steve Davidson and AB Thomas Decarlo. Left: Among the crew members enjoying the Singapore cookout are Second Mate Paula Woodside and AB Steve Dieken. Right: Chief Steward Waymond H. Watson Ill gets the grill sizzling during the shipboard barbecue. All agree the food is delicious. AB Steve Dieken and AB Tom Decarlo are serving themselves, while Chief Cook Betty Thompson and Bosun David Parks wait in line. No crossing of the equator is complete without the requisite ceremony for first-time crossers (also known as polywogs). There were 11 of them this trip as the vessel sailed from Singapore to Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. Waymond H. Watson Ill temporarily gave up his duties as chief steward to become King Neptune. The role of Neptune's queen was taken by DynCorp Engineer James Wise. Birthday Celebration Aboard the CSX Enterprise July 29 was a special day aboard the CSX Enterprise. During voyage 141-taking the SIUcrewed vessel to its home port of Tacoma, Wash.- a double birthday was celebrated for Captain Kenneth P. Fisher and Chief Steward Franchesca Rose. Food, decorations and entertainment were just part of the festivities. The steward department put on a wonderful 16-entree buffet with eight fresh assorted salads, four appetizer trays and eight baked desserts. Rose, Deck Cadet Jamie Smith (from Kings Point) and Engine Utility Vernon Edwards were the hula dancers, and Chief Cook Arthur Medeiros played the guitar. There was also karaoke and lots and lots of laughter. Chief Steward Rose, who sent the accompanying photos, would like to thank the steward, deck and engine departments as well as the officers for all their extra efforts in making this special occasion possible. "And to Vernon Edwards, we all thank you for the laughter you have given all of us during this voyage." Jan...,2001 Above: Crew members had a great selection of food from which to choose to celebrate the double birthday. Left: Helping make the day a memorable one were (from left) Deck Cadet Jamie Smith, Chief Steward Franchesca Rose, Capt. Kenneth P. Fisher, Engine Utility Vernon Edwards and Chief Cook Arthur Medeiros. Seafarers LOG 9 �Crew members aboard the Crowley tug Pilot get the most recent edition of the Seafarers LOG when SIU Safety Director Amancio Crespo makes a service visit to the TMT Terminal in San Juan. From the left are Chief Mate Roger Rothschild, Chief Engineer Michael S. Stephens, AB Frank J. Messick and Capt. William D. Gossett. Crespo also sent the LOG the photos appearing on this page. At the CSX crane department in San Juan are CMEs William Turner (left) and Marvin Moralez. At a job call in San Juan, AB Jorge Adrian is ready to ship out as a 60-day relief on the Perseverance (IUM). Left: Pictured during a recent standby aboard the Challenger (CSX) is SA Wilfredo Miranda. The vessel was at the CSX dock in San Juan. Right: Boat Delegate Michael Stainer shows the latest LOG received aboard the Crowley tug Ensign following a visit to the TMT terminal in San Juan by SIU Safety Director Amancio Crespo. AB D. Jordan stands gangway watch aboard the Humacao (NPR). Jordan is also the ship's deck delegate. Above: Kris Hopkins, chief steward on the El Morro (IUM) looks through the latest issue of the LOG. CME Jose Flores receives his SIU membership book from SIU Safety Director Amancio Crespo at the union's hall in San Juan. 10 Seafarers LOS Right: SIU pensioner Luis Roman comes to the San Juan hall for the monthly membership meeting . Januat'Y 2001 �This handy version of the Paul Hall Center's catalog is printed in the Seafarel8 IJJC as a convenience to SID members. Please keep it for reference. 2001 Course Guide for Paul Hall Center Installation of new, state-of-the-art simulators for shiphandling, engine room functions, crane operations and liquid cargo procedures was completed at the Paul Hall Center in 2000. W ith the final compliance date for the 1995 STCW amendments only a year away, the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is well-prepared. Located in Piney Point, Md., the school as of January 2001 offers 36 U.S. Coast Guardapproved courses, many of which meet STCW requirements. In fact, a number of the curriculums specifically were written to help enable students to comply with the amended convention. Since its opening in 1967, the Paul Hall Center consistently has improved its courses and its facilities. That was never more evident than in 2000, when the school installed a new, cutting-edge simulator for shiphandling including GMDSS, engine room functions, crane operations and liquid cargo procedures. In 2001, students will have opportunities to benefit from the bridge simulator as it provides teaching support in the following areas: voyage planning and execution; coastal and offshore navigation; collision avoidance; ARPAl radar operation; electronic navigation systems; search and rescue operations; vessel traffic management; high-speed navigation; bridge watchkeeping procedures including tugs and barges, towboats and piloting· GMDSS procedures; oil spill response management:, port development; human factors; and bridge team management. The engine department simulator provides training for engine room watchkeeping, diesel propulsion and electrical power plants. Additionally, the simulator includes an auxiliary system, machinery simulator, plus crane and liquid cargo simulation. The school made other gains in 2000. It opened a Coast Guardapproved safety school at Barber 's Point, Honolulu, Hawaii. This satellite facility will train students for new job opportunities aboard U.S.-flag cruise hips while helping meet the increased demand for trained mariners from Hawaii. The Paul Hall Center last year also received college credit recommendations from the American Council on Education for three additional courses in the deck department: Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman; Able Scaman/ Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch; and Bridge Resource Management. Able Seaman Celestial Navigation This four-week course leads to endorsement as an able seaman (AB). It consists of hands-on training and classroom work covering deck seamanship, rules of the road, marlinespike seamanship, helmsmanship, cargo handling, safety, fire fighting, emergency procedures, first aid, anchoring and mooring, and aids to navigation. The six-week course covers the areas of celestial navigation required for licensing as a second or third mate unlimited and for all limited licenses. Students are instructed in latitude observations by sun and Polaris, running fixes by sun, stars and planets, compass error by amplitude and azimuth, star identificaiton, and care and use of the sextant. Studen ts must have a lifeboat endorsement in order to take the AB course. Studen ts completing the AB course must atten d the Governmen t Vessels course immedia tely afterward. (This course is limited to 25 students maximum.) Llfeboat/Water Survival Students in this two-week course can earn lifeboat cetification at the end of the class. Featuring a mix of practical training and classroom instruction, the course covers emergency drills, lifeboat construction, lifeboat launching and recovery, life raft construction, life raft launching and maintenance, and use of all lifeboat and life raft equipment. Additionally, students learn practical survival methods and the use of emergency radio and distress signals. A minimum of three hours per day is spent outdoors in lifeboats conducting practical exercises such as rowing/coxswain training and davit operations. (This course is limited to 25 students maximum.) Bridge Management The U.S. Coast Guard-approved shiphandling imulator course provides realistic bridge watchstanding training for deck personnel aboard both deep sea and inland vessels. Successful completion of 1hjs two-week course is accepted as Coast Guard credit for 60 days of seatime on vessels of unlimited tonnage. Special areas of skills development include general shiphandling and helmsmanship, river and channel transits, entering and departing various ports, coastal navigation, U.S. Navy-related operations such as convoy and underway replenishment, hawser towing, push.boat towing and emergency shiphandling. Students must have a valid radar certificate to enroll. January 2001 Radar Observer/Unlimited The eight-day radar observer/unlimited class leads to a radar observer endorsement that is good on vessels of any tonnage. Approved by the U.S. Coast Guard, the course features hands-on training and classroom work, including radar theory, observation, operation and use, interpretation and plotting, advanced radar plotting, collision avoidance and navigational exercise. Students operate modem audio-visual and radar simulation gear, as well as the full shiphandling simulator, as they practice controlling and maneuvering a vessel, plotting courses and safely guiding a ship without jeopardizing the safety of other vessels. Also included are practical exercises and lectures covering inland waterway and river navigation and piloting. ARPA - Automatic Radar Plotting Aids This c.ourse of instruction incorporates the use of ARPA simulation equipment to operate, observe and utilize the radar plotting aids. Students will gain an understancling of the limitations of the aids as well as their performance factors, sensor inputs and malfunctions and will gain a knowledge of tracking capabilities processing, operational warnings and target acquisition. Students must have completed the Radar Observer course in order to enroll in this cl~. Third Mate Upgraders in the third mate course will tudy all ubject areas found on the U.S. Coast Guard license exam for third mate. The 14-week curriculum includes instruction in all areas of terrestrial and celestial navigation, deck seamanship, rules of the road, shipbuilding, ship stability, cargo handling, federal regulations, watchkeeping, ship maneuvering, construction and stability. These are just a few of many examples of how the school continues to offer state-of-the-art training for Seafarers, at a time when vocational schooling for .S. mariners inarguably is more important than ever before. An overview of the courses available at the school is contained in this four-page section. Students should note that courses and class dates may change due to the manpower needs of SIU-contracted companies. Therefore, Seafarers sh ould check the latest issue of the Sea/ arers L OG for the most up-todate class listings. Course descriptions and schedules also are available on the Sill's web site, located at http:// www.seafarers.org. The basic eligibility for SIU members who want to upgrade at Piney Point includes 120 days' seatime in the previous year, one day of seatime in the last ix months prior to the date the class tarts, a copy of their z-card (front and back), a copy of the identification page of their union book, plus any other course-specific requirements. H the course mandates a U.S. Coast Guard test to acquire the endorsement, then the upgrader must meet all Coast Guard requirements prior to taking the class. Some courses have other specific requirements which are printed in bold. For more information about the Paul Hall Center or any of its courses, contact the Admissions Office, Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075 or call (301) 9940010. The Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School is being used for basic and advanced fire fighting classes as well as the STCW basic safety, lifeboatman/water survival and government vessels courses. Steward Department Unlicensed Apprentice Courses Includes a 20-hour shipboard sanitation clas.s and a 20-hour galley familiarization class. After students complete 90 days' seatime in the apprentice program, those who choose to sail in the steward department will return to the school for a four-week aalley operations clas.s. Galley operations features a pair of two-week modules. Galley Operations Members must have 240 days' seatime to enroll after completing the unlicensed apprentice pr gram. on-m-aduates must have 365 days' seatime as an SA to enroll. The course consi ts of two, two-week modules (for a total of four weeks). Each module includes 35 hours with additional time participating in the school's galley operations. Certified Chief Cook Members must have 180 days' seatime after completing galley operations to enroll. The course consists of six, two-week modules that are stand-alone (for a total of 12 weeks). This structure allows eligible upgraders to enroll at the start of any module. Advanced Galley Operations Members must have 180 days' seatime after completing certified chief cook to enroll. The course consists f four one-week modules (for a total of four weeks). Chief Steward Members mu t have 180 days' seatime after completing advanced galley operations to enroll. Thi is a 12-week class. Seafarers LOS 11 �Engine Deparlni ent Courses \" Many engine department courses have prereq- uisites. For example, to be acceptedfor Advarum Refrigerotion/Conroiners, students must have suocessfully completed Marine Electrical, Maintenance I (MEM I) and Refrigeration System Maintenance and Operations. Fireman/Watertender and Oiler 1bis year, SHlSS offers a six-week FOWT test preparation course leading to the endorsement as fireman/watertender and oiler. Topics covered include the parts of a boiler, engine room equipment, engine room procedures, operating auxiliary equipment, watchstanding, starting and securing main engines, steam and water cycle, fuel oil and Lube oil systems, diesel engines, refrigeration systems and auxiliary machinery. The class prepares students for U.S. Coast Guard general safety, oiler and fireman/watertender tests. Students completing the FOWT course must attend the Government Vessels course immediately afterward. QMED-Any Rating The curriculum for certification and endorsement as a Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED)-Any Rating consists of a 12-week course leading to the following ratings: pumpman, refrigeration engineer, electrician, machinist, deck engineer and junior engineer. The course of instruction prepares the student to test for the U.S. Coast Guard exams in each of these ratings and includes classroom and practical training. 4Jli QMED Classification Steps Clau QMED 0 SHLSS/PHC QMED- Any Rating certificate or USCG QMEDAny Rating srd Clau QMED 0 QMED-Any Rating successfully completing one mandatory and one or more elective courses 2nd CUua QMED 0 QMED-Any Rating successfully completing two mandatory and two or more elective courses tit Cla88 QMED D QMED-Any Rating successfully completing all mandatory courses and three or more elective courses. Mandatory courses are MEM I, Power Plant equipment, single-speed AC motors and across-the-line starters, and wiring techniques. Course entry requirement is QMEDAny Rating. Marine Electrical Maintenance II Aimed at providing the more advanced sk.ills required of the shipboard electrician, this six-week course features hands-on training and classroom instruction and leads to certification in Marine Electrical Maintenance II. Among the subjects covered are interpretation of the National Electrical Code, specialized electrical test equipment, advanced application of circuit protection and switching devices, relay logic, complex control circuits, OC and AC generators, voltage regulators, electrical distribution hardware, DC motors and controllers, AC motors and controllers deck machinery, motor generator sets, converters, inverters and rectifiers electric propulsion systems and interior communications systems. Also, the course will include an introduction to solid state electronic controls and their applications, and the general maintenance responsibilities of the electrician, as well as troubleshooting and repair. Course entry requirement is Marine Electrical Maintenance I. Diesel Engine Tudmology This four-week course, leading to certification in diesel engine technology, consists of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Topics of instruction include diesel engine theory; two- and four-stroke cycle operating principles; and the construction, operation, maintenance, repair and troubleshooting of low-, medium- and high-speed diesel engines. Also covered are associated auxiliaries including intake and exhaust systems, lubrication and cooling systems, and fuel injection and starting systems. Students receive practical training in the operation and repair of diesel engines on board school training vessels. Course entry requirements are QMED-Any Rating or equivalent inland experience. Maintenance and Diesel_ Technology. Hydraulics No more than two engine department COUI'Ses can be taken per stay at the school. Any member with an engineer's license will be classified as a 4th Class QMED. The curriculum in the four-week hydraulics course blends practical training with classroom work. Fluids, actuators, control devices, pumps, reservoirs, symbols and hydraulic systems in marine equipment are among the subjects covered in this class. Also addressed are principles of electrical control of hydraulic systems, cargo winches, deck cranes, anchor windlasses, ships' steering systems, ramps, fire doors and a wide variety of other shipboard systems. Upon completion of the course, a Paul Hall Center certificate of graduation will be issued. Power Plant Maintenance The majority of this six-week course features hands-on training, covering a variety of topics. Some classroom work also is included. Subjects include pipefitting, thermal insulation, valve repair, pump repair/overhaul, hydraulic system repair, drilling/machine thread fabrication, use of various epoxies and similar compounds for emergency and temporary repairs, maintenance of power transmission equipment (such as flexible couplings), use of proper oils and greases for bearing maintenance and lubrication, reconditioning shell and tube heat exchangers, centrifugal lube oil/fuel oil purifier maintenance, and removal of heavy equipment in the engineroorn. Course entry requirement is QMEDAny Rating. Marine Electrical Maintenance I The six-week course of instruction leading to certification in Marine Electrical Maintenance I consists of practical training and classroom instruction aimed at providing the basic skills required of shipboard electricians. The range of topics includes basic electrical theory, DC and AC circuits, electrical safety, electrical test equipment and troubleshooting, electrical protective and switching devices, electrical wiring diagrams and schematics., control and power circuits, batteries, AC generation and distribution equipment, transformers, lighting systems and fixtures, galley and miscellaneous heating 12 Seafarers LOG Course entry requirement is QMEDAny Rating. Basic Electronics Designed to help Seafarers develop an understanding of what goes on inside the electronic boxes found aboard ship, this four-week course covers principles of analog electronics., active devices and basic digital electronics. The student also will learn all aspects of circuit diagrams, and the instructor will work with each student individually to ensure a working knowledge of all shipboard electronic devices. Marine Electronics Tech I The marine electronics technician program is a four-week course. Topics included in the course are AC and DC circuits, active and passive components, amplifiers, power supplies, antenna systems, satellite and radar systems, microprocessor control systems, digital control systems and systems troubleshooting. Course entry requirement is Basic Electronics. Pumproom Maintenance Leading to certification in pumproom maintenance and operations, this four-week class includes hands-on training and classroom work. The curriculum consists of cargo properties and emergency procedures, operation and maintenance of valves and pumps, loading procedures, cargo pump operations, cargo measurement, discharging procedures, ballasting procedures, tank cleaning, inert gas systems and more. pon completion of the course, a Paul Hall Center certificate of graduation will be issued. In order to take this class, students must already have taken the Tanker Assistant DL (formerly Tanker Operation/Safety) course (described on next page) and be certified as a QMED-Any Rating or hold endorsement as a pumpman. Refrigeration System Maintenance and Operations Now an elective, this six-week class blends practical and classroom instruction leading to rerrification in refrigeration system maintenance and operations. Among the topics covered are theory of mechanical refrigeration, major system components, accessories, cycle controls, refrigerants and oils, and applied electricity. Standard service techniques are emphasized, such as the operation, troubleshooting and maintenance of ships' stores plants, air conditioning plants, cargo ventilation and dehumidifying equipment, as well as pantry refrigerators, water coolers and ice machines. Hands-on shop training includes the complete fabrication of a working refrigeration system from basic system components. An introduction to refrigerated container units also is presented. Students must be renified ~ QMED -Any Raiing or have equivalent inland experienre or hold Ql8St Guanl endorsements~ refrigeraDon engineer and electrician in order to enroll for thS oourse. Refrigerated Containers This four-week course leads to certification in refrigerated containers maintenance and consists of both classroom and practical shop training. The training experience enables students to assume the duties of a maintenance electrician on board ships carrying refrigerated containers. Students receive training in all phases of refrigerated container unit operation, maintenance, repair and troubleshooting. This includes the various types of engines, refrigeration and electrical systems. The course is designed to help students develop a systematic approach to troubleshooting, as well as to acquaint them with specific maintenance procedures. Course entry requirements are Marine Electrical Maintenance I and the basic Refrigeration System course. Welding Classroom instruction and on-the-job training compose this four-week course, which features practical training in electric arc welding and cutting and oxy-acetylene brazing, welding and cutting. Upon completion of the course, a Paul Hall Center certificate of graduation will be issued. Third Assistant Engineer The course of instruction leading to licensing as a third assistant engineer consists of classroom instruction in such topics as diesel propulsion plants, steam propulsion plants, engineering safety, auxiliary boilers and diesels, water systems, electricity generating plants, electrical distribution and electrical devices. The 12-week course, which meets .S. Coast Guard requirements for licensing, also includes steam turbines, refrigeration, heating and air conditioning and auxiliary systems. All FOWT, AB and QMED applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $280 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. Inland Deparlni ent Courses Engine Room Familiarization Tankerman {PIC) Barge Designed for prospective tugboat engineers, this two-week class provides instruction in the following areas: engineroom safety, engineering plant nomenclature, piping system hardware, a functional description of main propulsion and auxiliary machinery and associated piping systems, plant operations and watchkeeping, and safe handling of fuels and oil spill prevention. This 40-hour course leads to the endorsement as tankerman (PIC) barge. The object of this course is to provide the knowledge and skills associated with tank barge operations and to supervise the safe and pollution-free transfer of dangerous liquids. (I'his course i.s limited to 25 students maximum.) Engine Room Operations & Maintenance Limited License/ License Prep This course is designed for inland personnel with intermediate sk.ills to Aimed at preparing students to test for any limited tonnage license, this eight-week course consists of classroom instruction in all areas ofterrestrial navigation, deck seamanship, rules of the road, shipbuilding, ship stability, cargo handling, federal regulations, first aid, CPR and firefighting. prepare assistant engineers for all phases of engineroom operations and routine maintenance. Additionally, the two- week curriculum prepares students to assume the duties of the chief engineer. Engine Room Troubleshooting & Casualty Control This two-week course is an advanced skills program designed to upgrade the sk.ills of the chief engineer for handling emergencies and other non-routine operating conditions. Students must have an AB endorsement and 540 days of sea.time on an SIU-contracted vessel OR equivalent inland experience in order to take the limited license/license prep exam. January 2001 �.,,_ All students attending upgrading programs at the Paul Hall Center participate in certain courses as pa.rt of their regularly scheduled program. Government vessels, physical faness, first aid and CPR, industrWl relations and fire fighting either are required or may be taken as elective courses by upgraders in all departments. Government Vessels As part of its ongoing goal of providing the best possible training for Seafarers while staying a step ahead of the industry's needs, this three-week class is open to Seafarers sailing in any department. The course is structured as three one-week, stand-alone modules. The modules may be taken in any order. Included in the first week are an introduction to the U.S. Military Sealift Command and military vessels, damage contro~ CBRD (chemical, biological, radiological defense), anti-terrorism level I and hazardous materials training. The second week features forklift operations, underway replenislunent and vertical replenislunent. Cargo-handling and crane operations are included in the third week. (l'his course i.s required of students attending AB or FOWT courses.) Oil Spill Prevention and Containment This one-week course consists of classroom and practical training exercises. Topics of instruction include types of oil and petroleum products and their behavior on water, pollution prevention regulations, hazardous materials training, spill prevention, and small boat operations. Students also receive instruction in spill containment booms and boom towing configurations and anchoring operations. Also covered are selection of absorbents, suction equipment and skimmers and their proper use. Hazmat Recertification Available for personnel who have completed 40- or 24-hour hazardous materials (hazmat) courses and who must be annually recertified, this one-day class includes a regulatory overview of Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) requirements, as well as reviews of toxology terminology, medical monitoring instruments and techniques, site-control and emergency preparedness, proper use of respiratory protection and monitoring equipment and new technology. First Aid and CPR Students in this three-day class learn the principles and techniques of safety and basic first aid, as well as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) according to the accepted standards of the American Red Cross. Aher successful completion of each phase of this course, students are a warded a certificate from the American Red Cross. Tanker Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL) The one-week basic fire fighting course provides students with general knowledge of the chemistry of fire, fire fighting equipment and materials and techniques for using them safely. Students receive 20 hours of classroom training and 10 hours of practical training. Upon successful completion of the course, students receive a U.S. Coast Guard-recognized certificate of graduation from the Paul Hall Center. This is a 10-day U.S. Coast Guard-approved, Category 1 course. It is designed to meet the Code of Federal Regulation requirements for personnel not having the required sea service. The objective of this course is to provide the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct operations on tankships. Topics include the 16-hour worker health and safety (HAZWOPER) First Responder/Operations Level, ship design and operation, cargo characteristics, enclosed space entry, cargo transfer and shipment, and pollution prevention and emergency operations and response. Advanced Fire Fighting LNG Familiarization Basic Fire Fighting During this two-week course, students learn how to blueprint a vessel and organize emergency squads for fire fighting. The class covers how to give concise orders using the different types of communications with crew members and land-based fire units, leadership roles and responsibilities, documentation of crew training, and emergency squad organizing. Students also study how to inspect and service various shipboard fire extinguishing equipment before going through shipboard simulations and actual fire fighting drills. This three-week course consists of a safety program designed to meet STCW requirements for those who have not served on LNG ships. The course of instruction includes LNG fire fighting, confined spare awareness, LNG nomenclature, LNG ship operations, personal safety, LNG safety, hazardous material, LNG cargo tank (level indicators, temperature), LNG cargo pump (Carter pump construction and ops), inert gas generator (general flow system), nitrogen gas system, LNG vapor compressor, warm-up heater and boil-off heater. (This course is limited to 25 students maximum.) Industrial Relations While attending upgrading courses at the Lundeberg School, all Sill members attend industrial relations courses for one week. Seafarers learn about the maritime industry and the role of U.S. shipping in the economy and in times of crisis. Also, participants review the role of the SIU within the industry and the rights of Seafarers as outlined by the SIU constitution. Students gain an understanding of the various laws and legislative programs which promote a U.S.-flag merchant marine. Courses also are conducted to provide Seafarers with full information on the man benefit plans available to qualifying members through the union's collective bargaining agreements. General Physical Fitness The .S. Coast Guard places certain physical requirements on all mariners. To ensure the U.S.-flag fleet has physically fit crew members, the SIU encourages Seafarers to exercise properly. At the Paul Hall Center, workout programs are individually designed to meet the needs of the student. Students may participate in free weight, Nautilus or Universal weight training, which can be used to gain, lose or maintain body weight. Aerobic and swimming programs also are available. STCW Basic Safety Two courses are offered, each of which is U.S. Coast Guard-approved. One is a five-day class for all personnel who began sailing after August 1, 1998. The other is a four-day class for all personnel who began . . sailing before August . 1, 1998. Each class meets · the five-year STCW Chapter VI basic safety requir& ments. Subjects include personal survival, fire prevention and fire fighting, first aid/CPR, and social responsibility and personal safety. Classroom training in 90mbination with as.5essment of profi~ ciency as per STCW tables will 'be cori~ ducted ai:d entries made jn the training record bOOk. {This class is limited to 25 students maximum.) (This course does not replace the basic fire fig~ing or water survival training courses required for Coast Guard endorsement as lifeboatman.) STCW - Proficiency in Survival Craft This 37-hour, five-day course helps Seafarers develop the required knowledge and applica- tion skills for water survival including launch, use and recovery of survival craft as well as the proper use of survival equipment. Additionally, the student will understand the procedures necessary to take charge of and maintain a survival craft and to protect embarked personnel while on board. STCW - Crowd Management This four-hour course profiles the required knowledge and applicable skills for crowd management including controlling a crowd in an emergency situation, locating safety and emergency equipment on board a vessel, compliance with the ship's emergency procedures, effective communications during an emergency and demonstration of the use of personal life-saving devices STCW - Crisis Management This seven-hour course is designed for any person having responsibility for the safety of passengers in emergency situation on passenger ships. The training includes organizing the safe movement of passengers when embarking and disembarking, organizing shipboard emergency procedures, optimizing the use of resources, controlling responses to emergencies controlling passengers and other personnel during emergency situations, and the establishing and maintaining of effective communications. STCW - Medical Care Provider This 3-day, 21-hour course is designed for SIU members who are employed or may be employed on U.S.-flag ships. It meets STCW requirements. Students successfully completing this course must take a refresher course within five years or provide information to the U. . Coast Guard d ocumenting maintenance of medical skills. Cardiopulmonary (CPR) certification must be renewed annually. Training as a medical first aid provider is the second level of medical training required by STCW. Topics include a review of cardiac and airway management, rescuer safety, body structure, examination of trauma victims and medical patients, head and spinal injuries, treatment of burns, musculoskeletal injuries medical care of rescued persons, obtaining radio medical advice, medication administration and sterilization techniques. Candidates for the course must possess current certification from the American Red Cross for CPR for the Professional Rescuer or an equivalent certification issued through a similar authorizing agency. Academ,ic Departnient Courses The Academic Department has a Long history of providing support and services to members of the Seafarers International. Union. Since the founding of the school in Piney Point, Md., there has been academic support for students taking vocational programs as well as for those students who require basic skills, English language skills or wish to continue their education. There are a variety of opportunities offered to the membership. Specific questions about the programs can be answered or explained by contacting the Academic Department at (301) 9940010, ext. 5411. General Education Program The GED program is open to all members who do not have a high school diploma. Assistance is offered to prepare students to take the test in Maryland or in their home state. Emphasis is placed on writing skills, social studies, science, interpreting literature and art, and mathematics. GED students receive individualized instruction in preparation for the test The school for many years has successfully prepared SIU members to pass the test. For many Seafarers, this is a milestone in their lives (Prior to taking the test in Maryland, a 12-week residency is required.) ematical skills. Th~ skills help students experience greater success in both vocational and academic classes. Students who receive low scores on the T' ABE benchmark examinations., given at the Paul Hall Center, are encouraged to enroll in this program. Students may enter these classes while attending upgrader courses or may enroll in an extended ABE course offered throughout the year. English as a Second Language The English as a Second Language course assists students in basic English and technical vocabulary skills. The purpose of the class is to give Seafarers who have not learned English as their native language and who have difficulty speaking, hearing, understanding and/or writing the English language, the opportunity to gain proficiency in that language. As much as possible, instruction will be provided to give the Seafarer the English language skills necessary to perform the essential tasks within the department under which he or she sails. Classes are offered throughout the year for those students requiring in-depth instruction, or students may schedule assistance during their upgrading classes. Adult Basic Education Basic Vocational Support Program The Adult Basic Education (ABE) program assists students in improving their basic language, technical vocabulary and math- The Basic Vocational Support Program assists students in improving course-specific vocational language and mathemat- January 2001 ic skills. It is designed to assist with the fundamental understanding of concepts and theoretical ideas which are the fundamentals of a given vocational course. Some of these classes are offered prior to the regularly scheduled courses to provide the members with knowledge and skills that will assist them once the classes have begun. These courses are ideal for students who have been away from the classroom, need basic skills or do not use English as their native language. College Program The Paul Hall Center is a degree-granting institution approved by the Maryland Higher Education Commission. Vocational courses also are approved for credit by the American Council on Education (ACE). Members may apply for college credit for many of the vocational courses that they take while upgrading at the school. In addition, the renter offers general education courses required for an as.sociate's degree. The school currently offers an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nautical Science and Marine Engineering Technology. Students are required to have a total of 60 to 70 college hours to earn a degree. Students also may take advantage of remedial programs that help prepare them for college level courses. It is recommended that students meet with a counselor to plan a college program. Seafarers LOS 13 �Rau.l lJa;JI ~J3('Jlt~t~ , Upgradllf.. rltf~Sthelttde for " The following is the course schedule for the first half of the new year-January through June 2001-at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the industry or the national interest Seafarers should continue to consult each monthly edition of the Seafarers LOG for the most up-to-date course schedule. For additional information, contact the Paul Hall Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; telephone (301) 994-0010. Please note that students should check in the Saturday before their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. April 14 May12 June 9 April 21 May 19 June 16 Advanced Firefighting January 27 February 10 February 10 February 24 Government Vessels February 3 February 24 March 3 March 24 March 31 April 14 April 28 May12 May26 June9 June 23 July 7 August 4 February 23 March 16 March 23 April 13 April 20 May4 May 18 June 1 June 15 June 29 July 13 July 27 August 24 Tanker Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* January 6 February 3 March 3 March 31 April 28 May26 January 20 February 17 March 17 April 14 May12 June 9 March 10 March 17 Basic Fire Fighting/STCW January 6 January 20 February 3 February 17 March 3 March 17 March 31 April 14 April 28 May12 May26 January 19 February 2 February 16 March 2 March 16 March 30 April 13 April 27 Mayll May25 June8 STCW Medical Care Provider February 24 March 24 May 19 June 9 March 3 March 31 May26 June 16 Deck Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman January 20 March 10 April 7 May5 June 2 June 30 February 16 April 6 May4 June 1 June 29 July 27 Able Seaman - Inland & Lakes February 3 February 24 February 23 March 16 January 6 January 20 February 17 February 24 March 17 March 24 April 14 April 21 May12 May 19 June 16 January 20 February 3 March 3 March 10 March 31 April 7 April 28 May5 May26 June 2 June 30 Radar January 6 April 7 January 19 April 20 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* January 20 April 21 January 26 April 27 Limited License January 20 March 16 Lifeboatman/Water Survival (*must have basic fire fighting) Tankerman (PIC) Barge* (*must have basic fire fighting) Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Fireman/Watertender & Oiler February 3 March 24 March 16 May4 Special Oiler January 13 February 2 QMED - Any Rating January 6 April 30 March 30 July 20 Welding January 6 February 3 March 3 March 31 April 28 January 26 February 23 March 23 April 20 May 18 Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week beginning January 8. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning January 8. Safety Specialty Courses Course Basic Firefighting 2091 ~. Academic Department Courses Start Date Date of Completion January 20 February 17 March 17 January 27 February 24 March 24 General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, one week prior to the AB, QMED, FOWT, Third Mate, Tanker Assistant and Water Survival courses. An introduction to computers course will be self-study. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - S e e page 23 for an upgrading application - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - The new entrance to the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (left) is clearly visible from the street. Another new structure at the complex is the building that houses the new stateof-the-art training simulators. January 2001 �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea NOVEMBER 16 - DECEMBER 15, 2000 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SIDPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT <f" . 25 24 8 15 . 9 .....·.-::;.:· ..,..~· 2 4 4 7 .,.,,~ 1_ 8 13 5 10 8 15 7 4 3 22 5 1l 9 .5 1 8 15 l3 6 1 0 6 0 9 8 -~ 15 3 139 ;. ·:~ ... ·. . :-· DulUth .....................Wednesdayz February 14~ March 14 , 47 59 29 31 }5 28 6 2 2 " 2 14 12 BaJtim~~•u•••h•••••••ThurSday~ Fe.bruary 8~ M~ch 8 ·:· .,:/ 0 5 87 3 7 25 29 19 407 193 103 Personal KENNETH THORPE A shipmate from the late '40s-early '50s, lrven Middlebrooks, would like to get in touch with you to talk 13 21 162 41 33 2 5 34 2 0 1 0 2 9, 0 10 10 about the old SIU days. Please write him at 292 5 BriarcliffRoad, Jackson, GA 30233; or telephone (770) 504-1521 34 28 263 4 2 5 73 4 (} 3 2 0 0 6 7 7 34 7 55 7 3 0 0 38 22 ).· 105 2 JH[o>lllt.<dlay Gireedng§ The following holiday greetings did not arrive in ti.me to be published in the December 2ooo issue of the LOG. To all fellow SIU members May your holidays be joyous, your families be well, and your sailing be safe. Hi to everyone from the "old" days. Hope all is well. I'm BACK!!!! Brian Fountain andfamily <. 11 0 16 19 l 8 2 44 164 22 225 23 108 5 0 22 13 157 606 454 388 419 328 269 I 0 3 Totals All Departments 0 8 9 2 12 8 2 0 0 0 0 5 10 0 . O· 0 0 8 13 0 7 66 17 274 l 16 21 299 290 946 674 509 *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. Janua17 2001 4 25 2"% To Brian Fountain Glad you'll be home this year, hon. You can help with the Xmas shopping! Dad, come home soon!! Mom is grumpy! We miss you. Rachel, Justin, Cody & Emily Fountain To the deck, navigation and engine departments on the Mississippi Queen Holiday greetings to all my brothers and sisters. Merry Christmas to you and your families. Enjoy your upcoming layup. God bless you one and all! Robert Mclemore To S.J.C., Jr. Merry Christmas. Here's hoping Santa brings you all you deserve and more and that the coming year will bring you inner peace. N.C.A. (aka "Fred") Seafarers LOii 15 �Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes NOVEMBER 16 - / ' .i }_0irfltii;'Mii~~c." CL - Company/Lakes Jnb&Fay ~xecutive VJC¢ President *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP David Heindel Secretary-Treasurer Augustin Tellez Vire President Contracts Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Tu.m. Or.uehowski Port Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters DeanCorgey Vke President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone Vice President West Coast Ke:rmett M.aogram Vice President GovemmentServices .. ... 0 . Algonac 0 0 0 18' . .,, 7 7 8 13 ·23r« L-Lakes NP-Non Priority TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT .14 5 0 ENGINE DEPARTMENT l 4 DECEMBER 15, 2000 0 4 1 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Oass L Class NP -Q. 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 2 5 ~ 4 3 2 ~;~~.;: -- HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20146 (361) 899-0675 Totals All Depts 0 42 39 0 29 24 0 13 *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr"" Algonac, MI 48001 (81()) 794-4988 ANCllORAGlt 1.21 SesameSt.,#lC,Anchotage.AK 995tl3 {901) 561-4988 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters BALTIMORE 2315 .&stx St., Baltimore, MD 21224 NOVEMBER 16 - {410) 321-4900 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C DUUJTll 705 Medkal Arts Building, Duluth, MN 558@1 (2l8} '?224l10 GUAM J25 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301 ~E "f~unmg;-Oµain 1 - •....· ' DECEMBER 15, 2000 TOTAL smPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region 1Un Jesus Crisostomo St. :r 15 96911 (671) ~1-1350 '))[1i'fft••fi(}iil"tttjg1ilii;t; iA•; 5;J!'. •·· · .·.6<>6 Kiilihi st.; H1JiibtUtii;ttii~819%W {808) 8;4>-5222 '. · HOlJsToN ~~~~: West Coast Totals Region .Adantic c<>asi · 1221 Pierce St., Houston, 1X 17002 .. (713) 659~5152 ~·r_:J\· Gulf Coast ,~~~ ful~ ,:W:aters West Coast JERSE\'.' CITY ~Montgomery St." Jersey City, NJ 0'73£>2 ...·. (2()1) 43$-9414 MOBILE J640 DauphinJsland Mobile~ AL _36605 .Pm. . (334) 478-09 It> NEW :OEl>FORI> ·•, · · 48 UnionSt.,NeW;aedfu~.~ 0214(}, {SO&) 99]~5404 ',. Totals Region 1 Atlantic Coast 0 O Gulf Coast 0 _~JPIOO:ifr:W.at~ o Totals 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 2 2 Totals All Depts 2 3 8 1 1 7 4 2 34 West Coast .}. NEW O.lU.EANS .. · 3~ 1l J.Jlp$1c<> Blvd.; lfruvey~ LA. 700SJf (S04) 328-1545 \ .. NEWYQRK 635 Ff.)Urtb Ave., Br00td~ NY .1qn>" .. ; (718) ~99,.()600 . . *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. PIC-FROM-THE-PAST NORFOLK U5 Third St.., ~otl<tVA 23510 (757)622-1m · · ·.•· ,Z604 S,.·1rlllLAf>~BlA· ·· 4.St; Pbi~phi3, PA 19148 {215} lJ6..3818 • ·• ~· ·:::=:: -·::-.-:-: ·?JNEY:., PolNT . P.O. Box 75~ t>lneyiPnint, MD 20674 (301) 99+00 l(} .,.: Ptlltt EVEitGLADis 1221 S. Andrews Ave,, F'.t Lauderdale, FL ::::::· . =~ 33~16 (954) ?1-2-7984 . -; SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St San.Franeiscq,C.A 94105 z.: . {415)5Al-585S t · ·... G<>Yemment Services Dmsion (415) 8Ql~3400 SANTURCE 1057 Femandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16% Santutce, PR 00907 . . (187)7214033 ST.LOUIS 4581 Orav-Ois Ave•• St. Louis, MO 63116 (314} 752-65<){} TACOMA 3411 Sooth Union Av,e., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253)272~m4 · WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wl1mingten, CA 90144 (310) 5494000 16 Seafarers LOB What's My Line?" was a CBS game show ( 19501967), hosted by John Daly, in which four panelists would try to guess unusual occupations of contestants or a product associated with them. A panelist would ask a question and the contestant would either answer "yes" or "no." If "yes," then the panelist would ask another question until a "no" answer was reached, and play would pass to the next panelist. Throughout the entire show's run, a "no" answer would earn a contestant $5. The game ended when either the occupation was correctly identified, or 10 "no" answers were given. The most a contestant could earn was $50. In this photograph, found in the LOG archives, the contestant was SIU member Pauline Letendre. Unfortunately, we do not know if she stumped the panel. January 2001 �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard US.--flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. A recertified bosun is among the 13 Seafarers announcing their retirements this month. Recertified Bosun Richard Bradford graduated from the highest level of training available to members of the deck department at the SIU's school in Piney Point, Md. He also sailed for more than 30 years. Including Bradford, five of the retirees sailed in the deep sea division. Three plied the Great Lakes and five others navigated the inland waterways. Ten of the retirees were members of the deck department, two shipped in the engine department and one sailed in the steward department. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of the retiring Seafarers. DEEP SEA RICHARD BRADFORD, 58, began his career with the SIU in 1966, joining in the portofNew York. A bosun, Brother Bradford first shipped aboard Venore Transportation Co. 's Chi/ore. The Maryland native sailed in the deck department and often upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., attending in 1975, 1999 and again last year. Additionally, Brother Bradford completed the bosun recertification course in 1980. He last shipped aboard the American Merlin, operated by Osprey-Acomarit Ship Management, Inc. Brother Bradford lives in Ocean City, Md. REGELIO CASTELLANOS, 69, hails from Cuba. He joined the SIU in 1977 in the port of New Orleans. Brother Castellanos first sailed aboard the Port, an Asbury Steamship Co. vessel. He worked in the deck department. Brother Castellanos last shipped aboard the Maersk Arizona, operated by Maersk Line, Ltd. He resides in New Orleans. JOHNM. PASKO, 81 , began his career with the SIU in 1951, joining in the port of New York. Brother Pasko sailed as a member of the engine department. His first ship was the French Creek, an Interocean Management Corp. vessel. The Jersey City, NJ. native last sailed aboard Reynolds Metal Co. 's (Marine Division) Inger. Brother Pasko resides in East Brunswick, N.J. SALEHB. SALEH, 65, started his career with the SIU in 1970, joining in the port of Detroit. Born in Arabia, Brother Saleh first sailed aboard the John P: Reiss, operated by American Steamship Co. He shipped as a member of the deck department. Brother Saleh last sailed aboard Liberty Maritime Corp. 's Liberty Bell. He resides in Yemen . The annual Marine Cooks & Stewards reunion was a great success. Held last September at a park in San Bruno, Calif., it was attended by many retirees, their friends and families and two active SIU members, Chief Steward David Cunningham and Assistant Cook Mary Lou Lopez. Special thanks go to Virginia Martin and her husband, Chuck Whiteman, as well as to Ann Hall and Betty E. Holloway for making all the arrangements for a fun day. of Detroit. Born in Warren, Minn., Brother Stephens served in the U.S. Navy from 1952 to 1955. Brother Stephens shipped in each of the three divisions during his seafaring career. He first sailed aboard the Mt. Evans, a vessel operated by American Tramp Shipping & Development Co. He last sailed aboard an American Hawaii Cruises vessel. Brother Stephens lives in Sandstone, Minn. INLAND GREAT LAKES MC&S Picnic January 2001 JOSEPH WILLIAMS, 76, joined the SIU in 1959 in the port of San Francisco. Born in Panama, Brother Williams sailed as a member of the steward department. He first shipped aboard the Santa Mariana, a Delta Steamship Lines vessel. Brother Williams upgraded his skills in 1987 at the SIU's training school in Piney Point, Md. He last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Innovator. Brother Williams lives in San Francisco. MERLE C. DICKENS, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Detroit. Brother Dickens first sailed aboard a Merritt Chapman & Scott vessel. A native of Michigan, he shipped as a member of the deck department. Brother Dickens last sailed aboard a Great Lakes Towing Co. vessel. He calls Curtice, Ohio home. MICHAELJ. O'DONNELL, 57, began his career with the SIU in 1963, joining in the port of Detroit. He served in the U.S. Army from 1963 to 1966. Born in Cleveland, Brother O'Donnell shipped as a member of the deck department. He last sailed aboard a Great Lakes Towing Co. vessel. Brother O'Donnell lives in Ohio. GLYN H. STEPHENS, 65, joined the SIU in 1960 in the port DONALD A. POWELL, 62, began his career with the SIU in 1979, joining in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Boatman Powell served in the U.S. Air Force from 1955 to 1958. The deck department member upgraded his skills in 1983 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. Boatman Powell sailed primarily aboard Crowley Towing & Transportation Co. vessels in Wilmington/Long Beach. He resides in Huntington Beach, Calif. ROBERTL. REDDITT, 64, started his career with the SIU in 1978, joining in the port of Norfolk, Va. The North Carolina native served in the U.S. Navy. Boatman Redditt sailed in the deck department, primarily aboard McAllister Towing of Virginia vessels. He lives in Norfolk. RICKY J. ROMERO, 51, hails from Texas. He joined the SIU in 1974 in the port of Houston. His first ship was Delta Steamship Lines' Del Brazil. A member of the deck department, Boatman Romero last shipped aboard Moran Towing of Texas vessels. He resides in Groves, Texas. RONNIE L. TRAIL, 65, joined the SIU in 1962. A native of Texas, Boatman Trail worked primarily aboard Galveston Wharves vessels. He sailed as a member of the deck department. Boatman Trail calls Hitchcock, Texas home. JOSEPH ZORBACH JR., 56, started bis career with the SIU in 1956, joining in the port of Baltimore. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1961 to 1972. The Maryland native sailed primarily aboard McAllister Towing of Baltimore vessels. Boatman Zorbach shipped as a member of the engine department and upgraded his skills earlier this year at the Paul Han Center for Maritime Training and Education. He lives in Baltimore. ·~:::::~!-. iil~¥!~~5!~the whicti tfie.it}etcnanfmanne suffers greater proportional casualties than any of the _ . military services, the Maritime War ;Emergency Board has,proposed a cyt in pay for merchant seamenJAithough the , average wag~ .for. aSeafarer is only $1,6 77. t 4 'a year ; including bonus anCI overtime paywhich breaks down to $32.25 per w~~-the ~oar~ is. benefit claim after he paid off his last ship, Lewis Emery Jr• When the plan began in 1952, SIU offtdais estimated that the rate of benefit payments in any one year would approach the $2 milflon mark. The revolutionary vacation plan, a first in mar,.. itime, provided ·re:==========================:::::st THJS MONTH JN SIU HISTORY ~~~;~:r:;e~rfor ,. tf!ing t0 cut the; •·' the first time. Less pay of the men who risk their lives in t!::::=:=:======================:!J than 1 percent of submarine and bombing attacks for 2 4 SIU members ever received a paid vacahours a day. On receipt of a letter from tion before the Seafarers Vacation Plan the board secretary announcing the gov· was inaugurated. emment's intentions, the officers and 1964 members of the SIU voted to protest to Four SIU-contracted companies have sucall levels of government. cessfully bid for l 3 C.·4 type reserve fteet troop ships broken out by the Maritime 1954 Administration for use in the off-shore and domestic trades. Conversion of these SIU member Robert A. Sipsey last week vessels will provide many millions of dolreceived an SIU Vacation Plan benefit lars tn shipyard work plus completely check. The only thing unusual about this modernized U.S. tonnage that will be ser: check was the fact that it boosted the total monies paid out of the vacation fund vlceable for many years. Seafarers LOS r7 �' I I I i ' I L , JESUS AYALA Pensioner Jesus Ayala, 82, died Oct. 9. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Ayala began his career with the SIU in 1945. He joined in the port of New York. The engine department member first sailed aboard an Edgewater Terminal Corp. vessel. Brother Ayala began receiving his pension in 1974. He last shipped aboard a Michigan Tankers Inc. vessel. Brother Ayala resided in his native Puerto Rico. -=. . . . . STANLEY CARILES ROBERTO NATAL Pensioner Stanley Cariles, 75, passed away Aug. 24. Brother Cariles began his career with the MC&S in 1958, joining in the port of San Francisco. A native of Newark, N.J., he served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1947. Brother Cariles first sailed aboard American President Lines' President Fillmore. A member of the steward department, he started receiving his pension in 1980. Brother Cariles last shipped aboard the President Cleveland, another American President Lines' vessel. He lived in his native New Jersey. Pensioner Roberto Natal, 92, passed away Sept. 19. He began his career with the SIU in 1947, joining in the port of New York. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Natal first shipped aboard an AH Bull Steamship Company vessel. He sailed as a member of the engine department and began receiving his pension in 1973. Prior to retiring, he sailed aboard the Sea-Land Boston. Brother Natal lived in Puerto Rico. CHARLES PICKREN Pensioner Alfred Hargis, 77, died Sept. 30. The Virginia native started his career with the Seafarers in 1956, joining in the port of New York after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. A member of the steward department, Brother Hargis began receiving his pension in 1988. Prior to retiring, he shipped aboard the Iberville, a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. Brother Hargis resided in Virginia Beach, Va. Pensioner Charles Pickren, 67, died Aug. 31. Born in Brunswick, Ga., Brother Pickren started his . career with the -~=--.t..-......:i SIU in 1957. He joined in the port of Houston. Brother Pickren served in the U.S. Navy from 1950 to 1953. He first sailed aboard the Tortugas, a TMT Trailer Ferry vessel. A member of the engine department, Brother Pickren began receiving his pension in 1994. Before retiring, he sailed aboard Weschester Marine Corp. 's American Heritage. Brother Pickren resided in Texas. RAFAEL MATOS JAIME RAMIREZ Brother Rafael Matos, 59, died Sept. 9. He started his career with the ~ Seafarers in ~ ~ ,· .,._ 1972, joining in "' the port of New York. Born in ;, San Juan, P.R., Brother Matos first sailed aboard a Waterman Steamship Corp.vessel. A member of the engine department, he last worked aboard the Breton Reef, an Interocean Ugland Management Corp. vessel. Brother Matos lived in New Jersey. Brother Jaime Ramirez, 62, passed away Sept. 3. A native of Puerto Rico, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1970. He joined in the port of New York and sailed as a member of the engine department. Brother Ramirez first shipped aboard the Transerie, a Hudson Waterways Corp. vessel. He last worked aboard the Sea-Land Crusader. Brother Ramirez lived in Puerto Rico. GEORGE McALPINE BARNEY E. SWEARINGEN Pensioner George McAlpine, 89, passed away Sept. 9. Brother McAipine began his career with the SIU in 1943, joining in ="'"'--------' the port of New York. Born in Canada, he first sailed aboard a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. He was a member of the engine department and started receiving his pension in 1976. Prior to his retirement, he sailed aboard the Baltimore, a Sea-Land Service vessel. Brother McAlpine lived in Florida. Pensioner Barney E. Swearingen, 81, died Oct. 11. A charter member of the Seafarers, Brother Swearingen joined the union ..____...........______...______, in 193 9 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. He was a native of Florida and served in the U.S. Army from 1941to1946. His first ship was the Santa Emilia, a Liberty Navigator Trading Co. vessel. A member of the deck department, Brother Swearingen started receiving his pension in 1985. Prior ALFRED HARGIS ..... Pensioner Bernard J. McNally, 82, died Nov. 1. A native of Pittsburgh, Brother McNally started his career with __.............:::...~w the Seafarers in 1942. He joined in the port of Baltimore. Brother McNally sailed as a member of the steward department and first shipped aboard an Overseas Carriers Inc. vessel. He began receiving his pension in 1985. Before retiring, he sailed aboard the Sea-Land Adventure. Brother McNally called Pittsburgh home. 18 Sealarers LOii to retiring, he sailed aboard the Charleston, operated by Westchester Marine Corporation. Maryland vessels. Boatman Wodka began receiving his pension in 1987. He lived in Baltimore. INLAND JOSEPH BERLANDO r-----,,-----. Pensioner Joseph Berlando, 80, passed away Oct. 20. A native of Illinois, Boatman Berlando began his career with the Seafarers in 1964, joining in the port of Norfolk, Va. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1937 to 1959. A member of the deck department, he first sailed aboard Waterman Steamship Corp. 's Yaka. Boatman Berlando last shipped aboard a McAllister Towing of Virginia vessel and began receiving his pension in 1982. He lived in North Carolina. MILAN NORTHROP Pensioner Milan Northrop, 76, died Oct. 1. He started his career with the SIU in 1962, joining in the port of Mobile, Ala. Born in Alabama, Boatman Northrop also sailed in the deep sea division. He first worked aboard the Overseas Rose, an Overseas Carriers Inc. vessel. A member of the deck department, he began receiving his pension in 1988. Before retiring, he sailed aboard a vessel operated by Alabama Pilot, Inc. Boatman Northrop resided in Alabama. ADAMWODKA Pensioner Adam Wodka, 76, died Oct. 28. Boatman Wodka started his career with the SIU in 1956, joining in the port of Baltimore. A Maryland native, he shipped as a member of the deck department. He sailed primarily aboard Moran Towing of GREAT LAKES GEORGE FINNERTY Pensioner George Finnerty, 73, died Oct. 18. Brother Finnerty started his career with the Seafarers in 1961, joining in the port of Cleveland. The Detroit native served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1946. A member of the deck department, Brother Finnerty first shipped aboard a Peter Kiewit Sons Co. vessel. He began receiving his pension in 1988. Prior to his retirement, he sailed aboard the Lemmerhirt, a Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Co. vessel. Brother Finnerty lived in Ohio. JOHN A. LITERSKY Brother John A. Litersky, 50, passed away Oct. 8. He began his career with the SIU in 1974, joining in the port of Duluth, Minn. Born in Two Rivers, Wis., Brother Litersky first sailed aboard the Sharon, an American Steamship Co. vessel. He shipped as a member of the deck department. Brother Litersky last worked aboard the Walter J McCarthy, operated by American Steamship Company. He lived in Wisconsin. passed away Sept. 9. The Mansfield, Ohio native began his career with the SIU in 1961. He joined in the port of Detroit and sailed as a _ __._ member of the steward department. Brother Sams served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945. He worked primarily aboard Great Lakes Towing Co. vessels. Brother Sams began receiving his pension in 1982. He resided in River Rouge, Mich. AnANTIC FISHERMEN CECILIO J. CECILIO Pensioner Cecilio J. Cecilio, 77, died Oct. 30. A native of Gloucester, Mass., he joined the Atlantic Fishermen's Union before it merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Cecilio was a World War II veteran. He began receiving his pension in 1986. A deck captain, Brother Cecilio last sailed aboard a Global Enterprises, Inc. vessel. He called Massachusetts home. o·H'ii Pen :r Salvatore Frontiero, 86, passed away Sept. 11. Brother Frontiero joined the Atlantic Fish- CONSTANTINE D. SAMS Pensioner Constantine D. Sams, 80, Endurance Crew Members Remember Retiree Seafarers aboard U.S. Ship Management's Endurance recently memorialized the late SIU retiree Edward Blackburn with a burial at sea (right). Brother Blackburn's ashes were scattered at sea while the vessel was 86 miles off the coast of Baja, Calif. en route from Panama to Long Beach, Calif. Brother Blackburn retired in 1985 and passed away Sept. 16, 2000. Participating in the shipboard service were (below, from left) Kevin J. McHugh, Recertified Bosun Francisco C. Munoz, AB Maximo L. Lugtu, AB/Dayman Roberto R. Queliza, Recertified Steward Russell B. Beyschau (who provided these images) and Deck Cadets Beth L. Sharp and James D. McElya. JanuaTJ 2001 �· · s11ips minutes first are reviewed by the union:t contract depattment. Those i#ues requiring attention or resolutiqn are addr8$$ed by the union upon receipt of the ships' minutes. Tile minutes are then lorwallled fl> the Seafarers LOG for publication. BLUE RIDGE (Crowley Petroleum Transport), Sept. 24-Chairman Juan M. Rivas, Secretary Ron Malozi, Educational Director William M. Hudson, Deck Delegate James K. Barrett. Payoff scheduled Oct. 1 in Portland, Ore. Chairman said ship will offload plastic garbage there and take on food/sundries. Shoregang will be available. Educational director urged crew members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for contracts department to look into bringing all ships under standard contract. Also asked that everyone be informed when negotiating new contract. Thanks given to steward department for good job and to deck department for painting work on deck. Steward thanked DEU George Mardones for outstanding sanitary work in crew areas. "A lot has been done in a short amount of time. Thomas B. Crowley would have been proud to see such work!" EL MORRO (!UM), Sept. 27Chairman Steven W. Copeland, Secretary Kris A. Hopkins, Educational Director Joel Trotter, Deck Delegate Curtis B. Dunlap Sr., Engine Delegate Milton Israel II. Chairman stated work being done on satellite system. Educational director stressed importance of taking upgrading classes at Piney Point. Treasurer announced $48 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into decreasing time needed for pension. Bosun thanked everyone for keeping noise down. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good meals. Next ports: Jacksonville, Fla.; San Juan, P.R.; Port Everglades, Fla. ITS NEW YORK (Sheridan Transportation Corp.), Sept. 24-Chairman Stephen J. Argay, Secretary Abraham Martinez, Educational Director John Binpong, Deck Delegate Anthony Heinoidt, Steward Delegate Ali Muther. Secretary urged crew to take advantage of upgrading facilities at Paul Hall Center. He also suggested that next contract for Sheridan vessels include return of day off every month. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to steward department for good job. Next ports: Lake Charles, La.; Port Everglades, Fla. LIBERTY WAVE (Liberty Maritime Corp.), Sept. 8-Chairman Inocencio M. Desaville, Secretary Frederick L. Washington Sr., Engine Delegate Danny Walker. Chairman announced payoff Sept. 10 in Houston. Secretary asked everyone to help steward department keep inside house clean. When leaving ship, rooms and reefers should be cleaned and room keys turned in. Educational director reminded crew members of educational opportunities available at Piney Point facility. No beefs reported; some OT noted in deck department. Clarification requested on transportation money from company and launch service in Canadian ports. LNG LEO (Pronav Ship Mgmt.), Sept. 20-Chairman Woodrow Shelton Jr., Secretary Amy K. January 2001 Rippel, Educational Director Stephen T. Stepanski, Deck Delegate Angel L. Perez, Engine Delegate David D. Dinan Jr., Steward Delegate Claudell Blakeley Jr. Chairman stated vessel has been reflagged and copy of contract received. Two loads already successfully carried and discharged. Bosun reminded crew that behavior on board and ashore reflects on SIU and American mariners everywhere. Educational director advised crew to take advantage of upgrading courses offered at Paul Hall Center, especially STCW safety courses which are needed to renew sailing documents. Treasurer announced $200 in ship's fund and $140 in communication fund. No beefs reported; some disputed OT noted by deck department delegate. Steward department thanked for good food and keeping public areas clean. Next ports: Bontang, Indonesia; Osaka, Japan. MAERSK ARIZONA (Maersk Lines), Sept. 29-Chairman Scott A. Heginbotham, Secretary Grant H. Armstead, Educational Director David King, Deck Delegate Joseph LeBeau, Engine Delegate Daniel Avery, Steward Delegate John Caballero. Secretary stated vessel due Oct. 4 in Portland, Ore. Stores to be loaded upon arrival. Educational director urged everyone to upgrade at Piney Point. Treasurer announced $30 in ship's fund. No beefs reported. Engine department delegate noted two crew members not getting proper OT, and deck delegate requested verification of OT for hold cleaning. Several questions brought up including upcoming pay raise, increased pension benefit for retirees and equalization of vacation. Clarification also requested on transportation for crew signing off. Vote of thanks offered to steward department for fine job. MAERSK TEXAS (Maersk Lines), Sept. 24--Chairman John M. Zepeda, Secretary Donna M. DeCesare, Educational Director Edward C. Mancke, Deck Delegate Boyce Wilson. Chairman announced payoff Sept. 24 in Charleston, S.C. Secretary stated everything going well and asked for continued help in keeping house clean. He noted carpeting replaced in crew lounge and requested help in taking care of it. Educational director reminded everyone of new shipping requirements and to be sure all necessary documents and skills are up to date. Treasurer announced $80 in ship's fund. Movies to be purchased in next port. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew looking forward to receiving absentee ballots for Nov. 7 presidential election. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into reinstating time off on freighters or extra pay. Everyone awaiting new contract July 2001 and recommended raising pay scale. SEALAND COMMITMENT (U.S. Ship Mgmt.), Sept. I I-Chairman Leon T. Jekot, Secretary Jerome Jordan, Educational Director Eric D. Bain, Engine Delegate Jimmy Sabga. Chairman stated name change to Sea/and Commitment from OOCL Inspiration now complete. He noted steward getting off and SA taking one trip relief. Three SIU members added for painting during coastwise trip. Educational director advised members to make sure they have necessary courses to comply with new sailing regulations and to have all documents up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made for contracts department to look into increasing pension. Also request made to increase taxi fare to airport and grant hotel accommodations for those paid off early in morning or late in evening when no flights available. Steward department thanked for job well done. SEALAND OREGON (U.S. Ship Mgmt.), Sept. 3-Chairman Pedro L. Lopez, Secretary Edward C. Winne, Deck Delegate Danny Miller, Engine Delegate Richard H. Surrick. Vessel formerly named OOCL Innovation. Educational director stressed importance of attending courses at Paul Center, especially for those needing to comply with STCW requirements. Beef reported in all departments after being restricted to ship. Clarification requested on medical reliefs and use of computers for email communication. Requests made for new chair and repair of electrician's room vent. USNS 808 HOPE (Maersk Lines), Sept. 26-Chairman Terry L. Evins, Secretary Mohamed B. Kamer, Deck Delegate Eddie Thomas, Steward Delegate Michael Briscoe.Vessel presently in Diego Garcia. Chairman asked everyone to help keep ship clean. He reported possible increase in union dues. Educational director stressed need to upgrade at Piney Point. He also stated ship T-shirts available for sale in captain's office. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate gave special thanks to Michael Briscoe, Charles Collier and Hesham Abdellatif for superb job they did when chief steward left for family emergency. USNS DAHL (Maersk Lines), Sept. 24--Chairman Klaus W. Tankersley, Secretary Kevin Marchand, Educational Director William T. Staton, Steward Delegate Richard Wythe. Vessel currently at port in Diego Garcia. Chairman announced receipt of letter from headquarters regarding payment for transportation home. Also, company cannot be held responsible for schedules or delays of military flights. Educational director noted Maersk standards and procedures available for everyone to read in ship's computer room. Treasurer announced $275 in ship's fund. All departments running smoothly with no beefs or disputed OT. Bosun reminded everyone that this is an election year and to read LOG and report of constitutional committee. He also noted proposal that dues be raised to $400 a year or $100 a quarter. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into reducing seatime needed for vacation. Also, that vacation pay contributions not become mandatory. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great job. USNS INTEGRITY (IUM), Sept. 24--Chairman Felsher Beasley, Secretary Jeffrey N. Beasley, Deck Delegate Rodney S. Roberson Sr., Steward Delegate Radfan A. Almaklani. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. USNS Integrity is a lightering vessel and so work is constant-4 months on, 2 months off. Due to demanding workload, request made to have option of 2 months on and 2 months off. Vote of thanks given to entire steward department for great job, including freshly baked bread and pastries and pride in work. "Every meal is a delight, and the crew is happy to have them aboard." Next port: Delaware City. USNS RED CLOUD (Maersk Lines), Sept. 19-Chairman David R. Park, Secretary Waymond H. Watson ill, Educational Director Chester Preston, Deck Delegate Richard L. Gathers, Engine Delegate Hugh J. Haynes, Steward Delegate Betty J. Thompson. Chairman opened meeting with selection of new department dele- adding prescription plan for dependents. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Following payoff in Philadelphia, ship heading to San Juan, P.R. MARINE COLUMBIA (ATC), Oct. 29-Chairman Gregory L. Hamilton, Secretary John F. Huyett, Deck Delegate Jeff B. Turkus, Engine Delegate Detricke R. Kelly. Chairman stressed safety With the McAllister Fleet in Norfolk Working aboard the tug Beth M. McAllister in Norfolk, Va. are (from left) Chief Engineer Romey Burney, Capt. Robert Brush and Deckhand Johnny Wright. gates and answered question of delegate pay (as per communication sent by VP Contracts Augie Tellez). He also reminded crew members of value of upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center. Secretary said upright freezers for storage of ice cream in mess halls were purchased. He urged members to take advantage of training opportunities at Piney Point. Educational director spoke to crew about getting new reading material sent to ship. Steve Roquemore elected ship's treasurer. He immediately received $85 from crew to start movie fund. Discussion held about need for shipboard meetings and problem of garbage storage near galley. Upon crossing equator, polywog ceremony held, with 11 first-time crossers becoming "shellbacks." Special vote of thanks given to steward department for outstanding barbecues, picnics and home-baked pies and cakes. Next port: Diego Garcia. CAPE LOOKOUT SHOALS (IUM), Oct. I-Chairman Christopher J. Kicey, Secretary Alan W. Bartley, Educational Director Nestor Martinez, Deck Delegate Donnie W. Collins, Engine Delegate Jean C. Horne, Steward Delegate Thomas M. Kelly. Chairman noted vessel left Hawaii Sept. 30 bound for Washington and Alaska. Steward thanked everyone for helping keep messhalls and pantry areas clean. Educational director advised crew members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center and make sure all documents are current. He also stressed importance of contributing to SPAD. Engine department reported dispute in OT. Clarification requested from contracts department on shipping rules for IUM. Chief steward requested additional steward assistant due to increased workload and more people aboard ship. Request made for water cooler to be installed in engine room and larger refrigerators in messhall. CAROLINA (NPR, Inc.), Oct. 24--Chairman Luke F. Wells, Secretary Edward L. Haber, Deck Delegate Charles Wright, Engine Delegate Roderick T. Frazier, Steward Delegate Gerald B. Kirtsey. Chairman announced payoff Oct. 27 in Philadelphia and noted company still uncertain of dates of upcoming shipyard period. He reminded crew members to be sure to have all documents up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into in upcoming voyages, particularly on ladders and icy decks. Crew urged to fill out repair list. Company alcohol policy discussed with new crew members. Secretary stated movie list compiled and posted and thanked crew for cooperation in making list. Educational director urged crew to take advantage of facilities at Piney Point for upgrading. He also talked about need to renew STCW certification. Treasurer announced $779.09 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on supplemental vacation day for tankers. Crew reminded to uphold rules on light and noise. Vote of thanks given to chief steward and his department for job well done. Next port: Cherry Pt., Wash. TRADER (CSX Lines), Oct. 15Chairman Loren Watson, Secretary Kevin M. Dougherty, Educational Director Milton E. Sabin, Deck Delegate Joseph Loyal, Engine Delegate M. Abdulla, Steward Delegate Alejo Fabia Jr. Chairman noted response from headquarters regarding satellite hookup when AFN radio goes off air. He announced vessel due Oct. 20 in Tacoma, Wash. Schedule will then change to Oakland, Long Beach, Hawaii triangle run and payoff will be every 28 days in Oakland. There will be no allotments, but draws will be available in cash or check form. Treasurer stated $225 in ship's fund following purchase of new exercise equipment. Engine department reported disputed OT. Otherwise, everything running smoothly. After reading of September president's report in LOG, which talked about many powerful people in U.S. military and government calling for a strong merchant marine, discussion ensued. "It's good to have such people on our side, but we hope that their ideas for a strong merchant marine will also include container ships and other non-military commercial vessels. These ships need incentives not to be able to be easily converted to foreign-flag status to avoid U.S. safety standards, taxes and wages to American seamen." Discussion also held about upcoming contract negotiations with CSX. Suggestion made for contracts department to try and increase vacation pay by one day to compensate for possible increase in union dues. Unlicensed Apprentice Jason Hudkins commended for doing good job. Bosun reminded crew to fill out repair list. Seafarers LOB 19 .... - �j I I I i French Bread I ~ Know Your Rights r Makes 3 loaves . .. Chef John Dobson won first place at the St. Marys County Fair with this recipe for French bread . . . GALLEY 3% cups bread flour 2lf.i teaspoons salt 1Yi cups water 2 lf.i teaspoons yeast CORNER Combine water and yeast and stir until the yeast is completely dissolved. Place flour and salt in a mixer with the dough hook attachment. Turn on the mixer and slowly add water and yeast mixture until all the ingredients have been incorporated. Place dough on a flat surface and knead for 5 to 10 minutes. Let the dough sit until it has tripled in size. Punch down the dough and allow it to rise again until it has doubled in size. Shape the loaves, allow to rise for an hour and bake in a 400 degree oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Chef John Dobson with two loaves of his prize-winning bread If anyone is looking for a particular recipe or has one of their own that they would like to share, drop Chef Hetmanski a line at the Paul Hall Center, P 0. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 or e-mail to: shlssvoc@us.hsanet.net. (Editors note: the Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writers intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) Gulf Coast Mariner Tells It Like It Is Bravo! Handshakes, backslaps, kudos and attaboys all around! I am referring to the piece in the November Seafarers LOG concerning "Oil Patch Mariners." Truer words were never spoken. I know the truth; I worked for an offshore outfit for three years. The best description I can come up with is, plantation mentality. Working 18 hours, minimum. Sleep? What's that? Standard staples: baloney and cheese. No benefits, no insurance, substandard wage. Welcome to the "company." Enclosed is a company memo. I suppose when faced with losing "slaves," this type of directive is necessary. (Editor's note: The writer enclosed an anti-union letter from the president of Hornbeck-Leevac Marine Operators Inc., based in Mandeville, La., directed to employees and their families.) As for the LOG piece, it does my heart good to finally read an article about what has been going on for years! I can detail honestto-God accounts of abuses and humiliations that occur daily. I have copies of all my memos concerning conditions, parts shortages, etc. It's a grim tale. Ralph Goff Norfolk, Va. Are You Receiving All Your Important Mail? In order to ensure that each active SIU member and pensioner receives a copy of the Seafarers LOG every month-as well as other important mail such as W-2 forms, pension and health insurance checks and bulletins or notices-a correct home address must be on file with the union. If you have moved recently or feel that you are not getting your union mail, please use the form on this page to update your home address. Your home address is your permanent address, and this is where all official union doc- uments will be mailed (unless otherwise specified). If you are getting more than one copy of the LOG delivered to you, if you have changed your address, or if your name or address is misprinted or incomplete, please fill out the form and send it to: Seafarers International Union Address Correction Dept. 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 r--------------------------------------------------, HOME ADDRESS FORM 1101 (Please Print) Name: Phone No.:~(~~-)~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~- Social Security No.: _ _ __ Book No.: D Active SIU D Pensioner This will be my permanent address for all official union mailings. This address should remain in the union file unless otherwise changed by me personally. ~--------------------------------------------------~ 20 Seafarers LOS FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SffiPPJNG RIGHTS. A member's shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should ge to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 2Q746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY - THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be · · · ated against because of race, cree , c , national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or s is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and pu including, but not lim' o, fur· · , social and ecothering the . mterests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION-If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. January 2001 �Payd«',OD'. t;'Jfi:~ Jfae.rsk Colorado Once hoisted aboard ship, the load of stores are unhooked by (from left) AB Timothy Girard, AB Ali Abdulgani and (in background) AB Ray Tate. Waiting for the next pallet of food stores to be hoisted to them for loading aboard the Maersk Colorado are (from left) AB Ray Tate, AB Timothy Girard, GVA Osvaldo Montero and AB Ali Abdulgani. "These are good ships, and I like the run. We have a good crew and things always seem to run smoothly here. " -AB Timothy Girard (below, loading food stores) Right: Bosun Mohammed S. Ahmed operates the stores crane aboard the Maersk Colorado. "These are great ships with a great run. " -Chief Cook John Q. Lee (readying the chill box for incoming stores) "The SIU is a great way to make a living. Things just seem to keep improving. " -AB Ali Abdulgani (at>uvQ, loading food stores) Recertified Chief Steward Hugh "Buck" Wildermuth (left) discusses Maersk Line ordering procedures with the port steward, John McDougal, during the inspection and loading of food stores in Charleston, S.C. "The steward department aboard the Maersk Colorado, as well as the rest of her fine crew, make this vessel one of the smoothest running ships in Maersk." -Port Steward John McDougal Don't Let the Scholarship Deadline Pass You By The deadline for receipt of Seafarers scholarship applications is April 15, 2001. That is only three months away- but there still is plenty of time to apply for one of the eight scholarships being awarded this year. First, obtain a scholarship program booklet which spells out eligibility requirements and proce- dures for applying. It also includes a copy of the application form. You may get the booklet in in any SIU hall or by filling out the coupon below and mailing it to the SIU Scholarship Program of the Seafarers Health and Benefits Piaµ. All Seafarers and their spouses and children who plan to attend college are encouraged to apply. If you sent in an application form last year and were not selected for one of the scholarships, you should try again in 2001. A total of$132,000 in scholarship monies will be awarded (five dependent scholarships at $20,000 each, one SIU member award in the amount of $20,000 and two SIU member awards for $6,000 each). Make 2001 a memorable year by investing in your futur~du­ cation is the key! Send in your application for an SIU scholarship before Apri! 15. r----------------------------------------------------------------------------, lease send me the 2001 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. P Mariner's Social Security Number _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Street Address City, State, Zip Code - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Telephone Number _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ This application is for: D Self D Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 1101 L----------------------------------------------------------------------------~ January 2001 Seafarers LOS 21 �Paul Hall Center Graduating Classes . -'> PAUL HALL CENTER LIFEBOAT . p-~ ~L-~-~H------~--~ M. TE R CLASS LIFEBOAT (~~~;~~~~;~~==~~~ Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 608 - Unlicensed apprentices from class 608 who graduated from the water survival course are (in alphabetical order) Lashawn Allen, Daniel Ball, Peter Ellison, Steven Germac, Romeo Harriell, Darrick Johnson, Uverna Johnson, Timothy Kosiba, Melissa Leon Guerrero, Denny Manns, Chris Marquez, Adrian Moore, Michael Moore Jr., Felix Nunez, Clara Sale and Steve Wilson Jr. Basic Fire Fighting - Earning their fire fighting endorsements Nov. 1O are (in alphabetical order) Cornell Andrews, Juan Baptiste, Brian Bradbury, Robert Feltus, Lee Frazier, Randy Frisby, Edmund Idler, Melvin Nelson, Lamar Parker, Sean Ryan, Scott Seiler, Michael Slemp, Steven Soltysik, Bobby Taylor, Lionel Taylor, Gene Wheelis, Adele Williams and Andrew Shaw. Their instructor, not pictured, was Kathy Battles. CLASS l ·61· ' Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 609 - Completing the water survival course are unlicensed apprentices from class 609. They are (from left, kneeling) Michael Watkins, Joshua O'Connor, (second row) David Johnson, Bradford Webster, Shawn Waring, Robert Stellon, Robert Benson, Christopher Avila, Kevin Nattoo, (third row) Freddie McCreary Jr., Jason Graves, Jeffrey Edwards, Michael Voda, Charles Ford and Lima Valoaga. Basic Fire Fighting - Crowley - Upgrading Seafarers working aboard Crowley vessels recently earned their fire fighting endorsements. They are (from left, kneeling) Henry Scott, George Esponge, Jim Naisium, James Gilson, James Gray, Lesley Stravers, Javier Montano Jr., Robert August Jr., (second row) Bill Privatti, Michael Stravers, Bobby Boone Jr., Michael Perry, Robert Eastwood, Paul Stanford, John Maloney, Andrew Kelly and Edwin Milligan. Their instructor, not pictured, was Jennifer Lankford . . . _ ..- i '' Government Vessels - Graduating from the government vessels course Nov. 24 are (from left) Delsrael Williams, Ruben Rivera, Andrzej Bronkowski, Michael Harvey, Beth Ketah , Otis Reynolds, Charles Fitzpatrick, Stiles Anderson, Bryan Field, Harry Clements IV, Jafar Gordon, Mark Cates (instructor) and Sean Fortner. Engine Utility - Unlicensed apprentices in Phase Ill of their program completed the engine utility course Dec. 8. They are (from left, kneeling) Kenneth Green, Antwar Stafford, Leonard Shuman Jr., Jamal Somerville, Nathaniel Miller, Gilberto Figueroa, (second row) Kenneth Jackson, Eric Malzkuhn (instructor), Peter Pamepinto, Ole Olesen, Nicholas Craddock and Ibrahim Muhammad. Galley Operations - Finishing one of the required two-week modules in the galley operations curriculum are (from left, front row) Ahmed Ali, Karen Mischel, Jose Garcia, Joseph Oglesby, William Grow, Rodolfo Catahan, (second row) Ed White (instructor) , Jeff Telsoit, Don Pillen, Richard Jones, Evelina Barnes, Christopher Boronski and Lori Mansuy. 22 Seafarers LOS Chief Cook- Upgrading to chief cook are (from left) Jimmy Williams, Thalis Ealy and Fonda Biamonte. Their instructor, Bob Baumgarten, is at right. January 2001 �··:-=·:· Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week beginning January 8. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning January 6~ Steward Recertification March5 February3 Safety Specialty Courses Course Arrival Date Date of Completion Basic Fire Fighting January20 February 17 March 17 January27 February24 Mareb24 Advanced Fire Fighting January 27 February 10 February,%4 February 10 February 23 .M artb.16 March23 Arrival Date January 20 March 10 ~ril February3 February 24 Name --------------------------- Address- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All FOWT, AB and QMED applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee Q.f $280 with their 4J1J!lication. The pavment should be made with a money order onlv. pavable to LMSS. COURSE Telephone 13 Aprn20 BEGIN END DATE DATE Date of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Deep Sea Member D If the following Lakes Member D Inland Waters Member D information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security# _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Book# _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Seniority _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ Department _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ U.S. Citizen: Yes D No D Home Port Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? D Yes D No LAST VESSEL: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Rating: _ _ __ Date On: - - - - - - - - - - - Date Off: S I G N A T U R E - - - - - - - - - - - - - DATE If yes, c l a s s # - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? D Yes D No If yes, course(s) t a k e n - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? D Yes D No Firefighting: 0 Yes D No CPR: D Yes D No Primary language spoken - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - January 2001 NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only ifyou present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, Admissions Office, PO. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex.. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 1101 Seafarers LOB 23 �PAUL HALL CENTER COURSE GUIDE FOR 2001 See pages 11-14 for the latest upgrading opportunities. Year In Review SIU-#MU Merger Talks, Job Growth, School Improvements Highlight Y2K Union's Major Contractual Gains Also Stood Out Whether or not the year 2000 actually marked the start of the new millennium is open to argument (some say the true date is 2001), but there's no question "Y2K" saw numerous gains made by the Seafarers International Union. In fact, major stories seemingly broke each month. None was bigger than the overwhelming approval by the SIU and National Maritime Union (NMU) memberships, respectively, to proceed with full merger talks between the two unions. Depending in part on subsequent membership voting during the just-concluded SIU elections, the merger should be finalized sometime in 2001. The SIU in 2000 secured new shipboard job opportunities at a vigorous and steady pace. The union also made substantial gains in new contracts covering SIU crews aboard RRF, surveillance and fast sealift ships, among others. The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education finished the year with a flurry, first installing a new simulator, then opening a safety school in Honolulu and finally announcing the planned construction of single-occupancy dorm rooms on the Piney Point, Md. campus. The union opened new halls in Baltimore and Guam and completely refurbished its hall in Wilmington, Calif. The following is a chronological look at some of the SIU highlights from 2000. New.Jobs The New Year began with news that SIUcontracted Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE) ordered two new roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) vessels to be built in an American yard for the Jones Act trade. The Orea-class ships, expected to sail by late 2002, are the first non-military RO/ROs built in a domestic yard (NASSCO) since 1992. Great Lakes Dredge and Dock announced construction of a hopper dredge (Liberty Island) expected to launch in late 2001. Norfolk, Va.-based Allied Transportation Co. added the ATB Sea Raven to its fleet. Seafarers crewed the new prepositioning ship USNS Red Cloud. The union gained a tanker when Crowley Maritime became the operator of the former ARCO vessel Prudhoe Bay. SIU members climbed the gangway to new jobs aboard the USNS Charlton, another addition to the U.S. Military Sealift Command's (MSC's) prepositioning fleet. Seafarers welcomed new opportunities in the cruise sector as The Delta Queen Steamboat Co. launched the Columbia Queen, which sails in the Pacific Northwest. The SIU gained a pair of ships when two foreign-flag cargo vessels reflagged under the Stars and Stripes, replacing two others (the Newark Bay and OOCL Innovation) that transferred from the Maritime Security Program to the MSC fleet. (The latter two also remained under SIU contract.) Construction began for the first of two new U.S. Lines cruise ships at Litton Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Miss. The union maintained jobs on six LNG tankers. U.S. sealift got a further boost as SIU members crewed the USNS Watkins, an MSC support ship. BP Exploration (Alaska) Inc. ordered three new double-hull tankers for the Jones Act trade, with company options for three additional vessels. The first ship is scheduled for delivery in 2003. MSC launched the new surveillance ships USNS Mary Sears and USNS Impeccable. In Texas, SIU members crewed the new Z-drive tug Matthew K, operated by G&H Towing. STCW-related classes at the school (crowd management, along with crisis management and human behavior). More than 100 NMU members completed courses at the Paul Hall Center. The school's deep sea and inland advisory board, with representatives from all segments of the industry, revisited various STCW requirements and other key training issues. RRF contracts. Seafarers approved new, three-year contracts at NATCO, Express Marine, Admiral Towing and Orgulf; and okayed four-year pacts at Crowley Towing and Transportation and NY Waterway. The Seafarers Welfare Plan took a new name--Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan -and expanded its scholarship program for SIU members and dependents to include an additional grant. The total amount awarded each year increased to $13 2, 000 (in the form of scholarships for three Seafarers and five dependents of SIU members). The Plan also increased the sickness and accident benefit by 212 percent. The S a in memory of the late SI sident Leon Hall. At least 20 members of family, along with more than 100 SIU members, officials and other guests, attended the dedication. The union opened a new hall in Guam, a territory where many SIU-crewed vessels are based. The union's health plan also contracted with a nearby medical clinic. In Baltimore, the SIU opened a new hall on Essex Street. The union had operated from th old hall on East Baltimore Streets· 4. images reflect a year of growth for the SIU. From left to right, top to bottom: New hall in Members eagerly welco ove . Baltimore, new simulator in Pine int. _...,_LJ_'!"."'.":J:J~~-~~-~~~a 's address remained Md., one of several1tew sru-crewed RO/ROs, voting in the proposed SIU-NMU merger, rallying against runaway-flag shipping. unchanged, but otherwise the facility took on an entirely new appearance as the buildipg completely was rebuilt. The Norfolk hall underwent comparably minor, but needed, renovations. MoreNews U.S. Lines' cruise ship ms Patriot underwent a major refurbishment and then in December began offering Hawaii-based cruises. Express Marine launched the new barge Domino Sugar in tandem with the tug Express Explorer. Training and Education When it came to generating headlines, the Paul Hall Center more than held its own. Early in the year, the U.S. territory of Guam established a recruitment system designed to facilitate its eligible residents' enrollment in the center's unlicensed apprentice program. The first group of students from Guam soon were headed to Piney Point. The school continued its long tradition of offering company-specific and specialty training both in Piney Point and at Seafarers' job sites. In the fall, the center installed a worldclass simulator for shiphandling, engine room operations, crane operations and liquid cargo transfer. The U.S. Coast Guard approved two more To help meet the increased demand for trained mariners from Hawaii, the center opened a Coast Guard-approved safety school in Honolulu. More than 3,500 Seafarers trained at the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, a part of the Paul Hall Center that opened in May 1999. The school announced plans for singleoccupancy dorm rooms and improvements in the existing hotel. Seafarers across the country said the single rooms will enhance upgraders' studies. Contract lmpnM1111811ts & Other Gains The Marine Cooks & Stewards pension benefit increased by 14 percent. The union achieved big gains in separate, five-year contracts covering eight fast sealift ships and 13 surveillance ships. SIU-contracted companies won five-year agreements to operate a total of 45 Ready Reserve Force ships. As with the surveillance and fast sealift vessels, the union achieved substantial wage and benefits increases in the A number of retired SIU officials passed away, as did two active instructors from the Paul Hall Center. The union mourned the losses of Harold Fischer, longtime Mobile port official; Stormie Combs and John Smith, fire fighting instructors at Piney Point; Ed Mooney, headquarters representative; Juan Reinosa, San Juan, P.R. port agent; and Paul Dempster, president of the SIU-affiliated Sailors' Union of the Pacific. Longtime SIU Great Lakes Vice President Byron Kelley retired and was succeeded by Tom Orzechowski. The Overseas Philadelphia, Maersk Arizona and Overseas Vivian became the first SIU-crewed ships to visit North Korea. A coalition of maritime unions, shipowners, operators and associations urged major expansion of the Maritime Security Program. The U.S. Maritime Administration issued a report examining U.S. sealift in the Persian Gulf War. The document praised the job done by U.S. mariners and emphasized the need for a strong American-flag fleet. Balloting took place in the SIU election. The SIU participated in (and helped coordinate) a Capitol Hill rally calling attention to the pitfalls of runaway-flag shipping. Throughout the year, the union also continued supporting the International Transport Workers' campaign against flags of convenience. In conjunction with four other U.S. maritime unions, the SIU backed the ongoing effort of Gulf Coast Mariners working in the offshore service to secure union representation. � 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 2000-2009 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXII-LXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present, Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource January 2001 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES ITF BACKS GULF MARINERS SIU SHOWS SUPPORT AT NEW ORLEANS RALLY; HEINDEL ELECTED SEAFARERS SECTION VICE CHAIR SIU ELECTION RESULTS TO BE ANNOUNCED PATRIOT CHRISTENED MSC LAUNCHES LMSR TANKER WILL REFLAG U.S. AMSEA TO OPERATE USNS SODERMAN, ROY WHEAT GOV’T SERVICES DIVISION SEAFARERS ASSIST USS COLE’S RETURN TO U.S. 71 COUNTRIES INCLUDED ON IMO’S ‘WHITE LIST’ RUNAWAY-FLAG TANKERS SPILL HALF-MILLION GALLONS OF OIL DETROIT NEWSPAPER CONTRACTS RATIFIED 1ST AVONDALE CONTRACT APPROVED CAPS AND GOWNS ARE THE NORM FOR SEAFARER’S SCHOLARLY FAMILY HAWSEPIPER GOMARD CREDITS PINEY POINT FOR CAREER ‘FOUNDATION’ SEAFARERS, DIGNITARIES TURN OUT FOR SAN FRANCISCO HOLIDAY FEAST SIU’S CELONA RECEIVES GOVERNOR’S AGIRCULTURE BOARD LIFE ABOARD THE USNS RED CLOUD PAYOFF ON THE MAERSK COLORADO SIU-NMU MERGER TALKS, JOB GROWTH, SCHOOL IMPROVEMENTS HIGHLIGHT Y2K UNION’S MAJOR CONTRACTUAL GAINS ALSO STOOD OUT Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 01/01/2001 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. 63, No. 1 2001 Periodicals Seafarers Log