http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/7772cdff0b89a2069d13794b5a43026a.pdf 9a3f12fda1b18bb7289f780b7bbb1061 PDF Text Text DECEMBER 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 12 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Happy Holidays Beck Notice Page 6 Scholarship Info Page 11 �President’s Report Standing Up for Cargo Preference The American maritime industry’s constant battle to uphold the Jones Act is vital, but it’s definitely not the only area in which we stand up for the U.S. Merchant Marine. Like the Jones Act and the U.S. Maritime Security Program, cargo preference laws are another staple of U.S.-flag shipping. With that in mind, the coalition USA Maritime (the SIU is an affiliate) in late October wrote to Congress and urged legislators to help ensure full enforcement. Specifically, USA Maritime contacted leaders of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation and asked them to back a section of the House-passed Coast Guard Authorization Act that calls for an independent audit of cargo preference enforcement. Such an audit is in order. USA Maritime suggested there are legitimate questions about whether some federal agencies may be skirting the law and using foreign-flag ships instead of American-flag vessels for preference cargoes. The coalition also Michael Sacco underscored the fact that enforcing cargo preference laws is crucial for “the national defense capability provided by a strong and active U.S.-flag Merchant Marine.” For those who may be new to our industry, cargo preference requires shippers to use U.S.-flag vessels to transport certain government-impelled, ocean-borne cargoes. Most of the time when we talk about cargo preference, we mean the 1954 Food for Peace initiative, specifically governing the shipment of agricultural goods and government aid programs. However, it also includes the Military Cargo Preference Act of 1904, which dictates that 100 percent of military cargoes are shipped under the Stars and Stripes. And, it includes Public Resolution 17 (enacted in 1934), which requires all cargo generated by the U.S. Export-Import Bank be shipped via U.S.-flag vessels unless granted a waiver by the U.S. Maritime Administration. Opponents (including enemies of American-flag shipping) of the programs, and those who truly do not understand the programs, have tried to turn them into cash giveaways, among other attacks. There is no doubt in my mind that such a move would harm not only the U.S. workforce, including our hard-working farmers, but also the intended recipients of the food. The bottom line is that food aid is vital for our industry. It’s a main source of cargo for our fleet, and it’s a primary source of shipboard jobs, too. Without American mariners, we can’t defend America. That’s reason enough to not only enforce but also boost cargo preference. For this month, I turn to the U.S. Maritime Administration for the last word on the subject. The agency points out: “Cargo Preference provides another critical benefit: a revenue base that will retain and encourage a privately owned and operated U.S.-flag Merchant Marine, which itself provides 1) essential sealift capability in wartime or other national emergencies, 2) a stream of skilled seafarers and 3) protection against total foreign entities attempting to dominate US. waterborne commerce.” Happy Holidays The winter holidays are still on the horizon as of this writing, but this is the time to extend my heartfelt best wishes to the entire SIU family for a safe and happy season. To our active members and retirees and your families, and to all of our staff and officials, here’s to an enjoyable time filled with whatever makes the holidays most gratifying for you. As usual, I also offer a respectful “season’s greetings” to our men and women in uniform and to my fellow military veterans. The SIU appreciates your service and we are proud to support you as America’s fourth arm of defense. You can count on us in the New Year and for every year that follows! O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 81 Number 12 December 2019 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2019 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. Transportation Secretary Chao Underscores Maritime Support U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao recently reiterated the department’s strong support of American maritime. Speaking Oct. 8 at the National Defense Transportation Association’s fall meeting in St. Louis, Secretary Chao noted the importance of the Jones Act, the U.S. Maritime Security Program, the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) and U.S. Merchant Mariners. She also commended the work of SIU President Michael Sacco, who attended the meeting (Oct. 7-10). DOT Secretary Elaine L. Chao addresses the NDTA meeting. (Photo courtesy DOT) Secretary Chao said in part: “The Maritime Security Program ensures that American-flagged vessels are available for service. All 60 Congressionally-funded operating agreements are in place. Planned vessel replacements through November should add 80,000 square feet of additional RO/RO capacity to the fleet. Congress is looking at potentially increasing the amount paid per ship, and establishing a sister program, called the Tanker Security Program, or TSP, that would involve 10 tankers. “In addition,” she continued, “the Ready Reserve Force has 46 vessels that can be activated for use when needed. Turbo-activation drills were recently conducted to ensure rapid deployment. The RRF provides nearly 50 percent of government-owned surge sealift capability. But there are concerns. For starters, the average age of these vessels is 44.5 years. Long-term, the Navy’s surge sealift recapitalization strategy, which includes a combination of targeted service life extensions, acquiring and converting used vessels, and building new sealift vessels in U.S. shipyards, should address these challenges.” She later turned to America’s freight cabotage law and stated, “Human capital is as important to a good transportation system as concrete and steel. A primary benefit of the Jones Act and other measures to maintain a U.S. Merchant Marine, is to ensure that the U.S. has skilled seafarers and Merchant mariners….” A complete copy of Secretary Chao’s prepared remarks is available on the DOT website and is linked in an Oct. 9 news post on the SIU website. IMB Piracy Report Shows Improvement The International Chamber of Commerce’s International Maritime Bureau (IMB) recently released their “Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships” report for the period Jan. 1-Sept. 30, 2019. The overall data shows that piracy numbers are down across the globe, with the total numbers for the period almost identical to the same period in 2017. The total number of incidents through the first three months of 2019 was 119, which breaks down as follows: 10 vessels fired upon, 10 attempted attacks, four hijacked vessels and 95 vessels boarded. The single largest concentration of attacks was in the waters near Nigeria, with 29 separate incidents, followed by Indonesia with 20. While the number of hostages taken in attacks has sharply fallen from last year’s report, that fall is due in part to an uptick in kidnappings, with 70 incidents of kidnapping occurring during the period. As stated in the report, “As a region, the Gulf of Guinea accounts for 86 percent of those crew taken hostage and for almost 82 percent of the crew kidnappings globally.” Bulk carriers remain the most popular target for pirates, and ships were most likely to be attacked while they were at anchor. Continuing a trend since 2016, small arms were the most common weapon used in attacks. According to the report, “In East Africa, no incidents have been reported for Somalia in 2019. IMB continues to urge masters however to maintain high levels of vigilance when transiting these waters and to follow the latest BMP recommendations. Elsewhere, the number of mainly low-level reports for Indonesia has dropped from 31 in 2018 to 20 in 2019.” There was also a death reported during the period, as stated in the report: “Pirates armed with machine guns in two speed boats approached an offshore support vessel underway. The Captain immediately notified the naval escort security boat which maneuvered to engage the attackers. One speed boat closed in from port side of the vessel and crossed the bow, while the other speed boat engaged fire with the security boat. Alarm raised, crew proceeded to the engine room and all power was shut down. The pirates boarded the vessel with the aid of an elongated ladder. They broke into the accommodation, vandalized the cabins and took crew belongings and vessel’s properties. The pirates then proceeded to the engine room, kidnapped five men and escaped. The remaining crews sailed the vessel under escort to a safe anchorage. One Nigerian Navy armed guard reported killed in the exchange of fire between the naval security boat and the pirates.” Launched in 1991, the IMB Piracy Reporting Center (PRC) is a 24-hour manned facility that provides the maritime industry, governments and response agencies with timely and transparent data on armed robbery incidents received directly from the master or owner of vessels. Navy Christens USNS Miguel Keith New jobs for members of the SIU Government Services Division are on the horizon following the Oct. 19 christening of the expeditionary sea base USNS Miguel Keith (right) at the General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard in San Diego. SIU CIVMARS will provide some of the shipboard manpower for the union-built ship, named in honor of Marine Corps Vietnam veteran and Medal of Honor recipient Lance Cpl. Miguel Keith. The vessel is expected to be delivered in the near future. (Photo courtesy General Dynamics NASSCO) Reversed to White Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG December 2019 �NY Waterway Crews Ratify Five-Year Contract SIU members employed by one of the nation’s most reliable passenger ferry companies now have the security of a new contract. Seafarers overwhelmingly approved a five-year agreement that features annual wage increases and other gains. Voting took place by mail-in ballot; results were tallied on Oct. 8. The pact covers approximately 125 members. Negotiating on behalf of the SIU were Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Port Agent Ray Henderson, Capt. Michael Muia, Capt. George Sullivan, Deckhand Nestor Martinez and Deckhand George Schumpp. Three bargaining sessions took place, all at the hiring hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. “It’s the best contract I’ve seen in a long time,” Henderson said. “The negotiations were pretty straightforward, and the committee took their time and studied the facts. They cared about their contract and getting the best possible agreement for their fellow members. “This is also a very good and fair agreement for the company,” Henderson continued. “I think they deserve credit for looking out for their employees.” Schumpp has served on several SIU negotiating teams, and he also was pleased with the new agreement. “It’s probably the best contract I’ve seen in the 31 years I’ve been here,” he stated. “The whole thing went very smooth and fast, very professional. We got a lot of good things out of this contract.” Muia made his debut as a member of the negotiating committee. “The contract is fair, I believe,” he said. “Overall, it went a little easier than I expected. I understand that in the past, things got a little heated, but there was nothing like that this time around.” Since 1986, SIU-crewed NY Waterway ferries have provided dependable transportation for commuters and other passengers in New York and New Jersey. They also have conducted emergency evacuations, bringing hundreds of thousands of New Jersey resi- emony, as did SIU President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez and Vice President Contracts George Tricker. The Seafarers-crewed, Central Gulf Linesoperated Green Lake saved seven people whose ship caught fire approximately 2,100 miles northwest of Oahu, Hawaii. Nine other individuals also were rescued during the 18hour undertaking; five were not recovered. The Green Lake’s officers are represented by the MM&P and MEBA, respectively. During last month’s event, Buzby stated, “Today, as we honor the crew of a great American ship, we again see the value of the Maritime Security Program to our country. The Green Lake was there to respond in the timehonored tradition of mariners coming to the aid of fellow mariners. This American-trained crew highlights the professionalism and valor of our nation’s mariners, whether conducting humanitarian aid missions or providing vital sustainment to the U.S. Armed Forces.” The Sincerity Ace was a car carrier whose crew of 21 abandoned ship. When the Green Lake arrived on the scene, it encountered what MARAD described as “a daunting task – locating Sincerity Ace crew members floating in unforgiving seas spread out across several miles. The Green Lake fought 17- to 20-foot waves and turbulent winds, making lifesaving attempts even more dangerous and challenging. The rescue effort lasted 18 hours, with the Green Lake’s entire deck crew working tirelessly to get the survivors on board.” The Gallant Ship Award dates back to an executive order issued by President Franklin D. Roosevelt during World War II to recognize excellence and bravery in merchant mariners. Between 1944 and 1994, only 41 ships received Gallant Ship status, with the last award presented in 1994. Pictured at the ceremony are (from left) SIU VP Contracts George Tricker, Chief Cook Jose Clotter, SIU President Michael Sacco and SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez. December 2019 aviation history. The ferries carry upwards of 32,000 or more passengers daily and maintain an ontime performance rate greater than 99 percent. The boats serve 20-plus routes between New Jersey and Manhattan. Pictured from left to right at the hiring hall in Jersey City, New Jersey, are members of the respective negotiating committees: Consultant Burt Trebour and VP Alan Warren for NY Waterway, and for the SIU, Capt. Michael Muia, Capt. George Sullivan, Deckhand Nestor Martinez, Deckhand George Schumpp, VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi and Port Agent Ray Henderson. SIU-Crewed Green Lake Receives MARAD’s Gallant Ship Award SIU members recently received a rare honor from the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD). Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby on Nov. 1 presented the agency’s Gallant Ship Citation Award and U.S. Merchant Marine Medals for Outstanding Achievement to the crew of the Green Lake. The ceremony took place at the Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House in New York City. In announcing the presentations, MARAD noted, “The awards were given for the crew’s unprecedented rescue efforts in response to the horrific fire aboard the foreign-flag vessel M/V Sincerity Ace in the northern Pacific Ocean on Dec. 31, 2018.” Chief Cook Jose Clotter attended the cer- dents home safely after 9/11, the 2003 blackout and other disasters. These ferries and crews also have saved more than 300 people from various accidents, including 143 people rescued from Flight 1549 in the Miracle on the Hudson, the most successful rescue in The award is presented “to any United States vessel or to any foreign vessel (merchant, Coast Guard, Navy, or other), the crew of that ship, or other individuals or organizations participating in outstanding or gallant action in marine disasters or other emergencies for the purpose of saving life or property.” Ships and crews receiving Gallant Ship status must have encountered substantial danger during rescue and lifesaving efforts while demonstrating efficiency, discipline, and expertise in conducting such operations. The Merchant Marine Medal for Outstanding Achievement is awarded to U.S. Merchant Mariners who have participated in an act or operation of humanitarian nature directly aiding an individual or group of individuals. As noted by Buzby, the Green Lake is part of the Maritime Security Program (MSP) fleet. The program helps maintain a fleet of militarily useful, civilian-crewed, privately operated ships that are available to the Department of Defense whenever needed. Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby (left) congratulates Chief Cook Jose Clotter, who was there on behalf of the entire SIU crew from the Green Lake. Seafarers LOG 3 �Union Membership Meeting Dates for 2020 Port Traditional Date January February Piney Point March Monday after first Sunday 6 3 2 Jersey City Tuesday after first Sunday 7 4 Philadelphia Wednesday after first Sunday 8 Baltimore Thursday after first Sunday Norfolk April May June July August September October November December 6 4 8 6 3 8 5 2 7 3 7 5 9 7 4 8 6 3 8 5 4 8 6 10 8 5 9 7 4 9 9 6 5 9 7 11 9 6 10 8 5 10 Thursday after first Sunday 9 6 5 9 7 11 9 6 10 8 5 10 Jacksonville Thursday after first Sunday 9 6 5 9 7 11 9 6 10 8 5 10 San Juan Thursday after first Sunday 9 6 5 9 7 11 9 6 10 8 5 10 Algonac Friday after first Sunday 10 7 6 10 8 12 10 7 11 9 6 11 Houston Monday after second Sunday 13 10 9 13 11 15 13 10 14 13 9 14 New Orleans Tuesday after second Sunday 14 11 10 14 12 16 14 11 15 13 10 15 Mobile Wednesday after second Sunday 15 12 11 15 13 17 15 12 16 14 12 16 Oakland Thursday after second Sunday 16 13 12 16 14 18 16 13 17 15 12 17 Port Everglades Thursday after second Sunday 16 13 12 16 14 18 16 13 17 15 12 17 Joliet Thursday after second Sunday 16 13 12 16 14 18 16 13 17 15 12 17 St. Louis Friday after second Sunday 17 14 13 17 15 19 17 14 18 16 13 18 Honolulu Friday after second Sunday 17 14 13 17 15 19 17 14 18 16 13 18 Wilmington Monday after third Sunday 21 18 16 20 18 22 20 17 21 19 16 21 Guam Thursday after third Sunday 23 20 19 23 21 25 23 20 24 22 19 24 Tacoma Friday after third Sunday 24 21 20 24 22 26 24 21 25 23 20 28 Dates appearing in bold indicate that meetings are being held on other than traditional meeting dates. The reasons for the changes at affected ports, respectively, are as follows: n Piney Point change created by Labor Day Observance n Houston change created by Columbus Day Observance n Wilmington changes created by Martin Luther King Day and Washington’s Birthday Observances n Mobile change created by Veterans Day Observance n Tacoma change created by Christmas Day Observance Meetings at each port start at 10:30 a.m. Spotlight on Mariner Health West Nile Virus Exhibits A Variety of Symptoms Editor’s note: The following article was provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. The West Nile virus is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. It is a virus capable of causing disease in humans, as well as infecting horses, many types of birds and other animals. Approximately 80% of people who become infected with the West Nile virus will have either no symptoms or only mild ones. However, on rare occasions, the virus can cause severe and sometimes fatal illnesses in others. The chances of a human getting the illness from a mosquito bite are low. Usually only two out of 10 will develop any symptoms if infected. The incubation period from the time of infection to the development of any symptoms is five to 15 days. Signs and symptoms can be as follows: Fever, headaches, skin rashes, body aches, swollen lymph nodes, stiff neck, sleepiness, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions and paralysis can occur. However, the symptoms are usually not severe enough to require medical attention. Many people can feel tired or weak, and those symptoms may last for several weeks. Typically, only one in 150 infections might lead to severe neurological infections, per the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). 4 Seafarers LOG The risk of West Nile is high during mosquito season and does not lower until the season is over. The blood supply in the United States is screened for this infection with every blood donation. If the virus is found in the blood supply, that particular bag will be disposed of. The diagnosis of this virus is by blood test or cerebrospinal fluid testing. There is no specific treatment for West Nile. Supportive therapy is directed towards the side effects that may ensue. Anti-inflammatory medications, intravenous fluids, and possibly intensive medical monitoring may be required in severe cases. Use of over-the-counter meds such as Motrin, Ibuprofen, Tylenol, and Advil can help to reduce some of the discomfort brought on by West Nile. There are no specific antibiotics or antiviral medications for this infection. The greatest risk is to pregnant women if they become infected with West Nile or Zika. The risk is low but still there. The CDC encourages women who are pregnant to take precautions to reduce their risk for any infection. Precautions potentially beneficial to all individuals include avoiding wooded areas, wearing protective clothing, staying indoors at dawn and dusk, and using repellents that contain DEET. Seek a doctor’s advice if you do not feel well and have been bitten by a mosquito. Healthy Recipe Grilled Rockfish with Mango Salsa Servings 25 Ingredients and Seasonings 10 pounds rockfish fillets, cut 6 oz each *marinate recipe 4 cups olive oil ¾ cup lemon juice ¾ cup fresh parsley, minced 12 cloves garlic, minced ¼ cup dried basil ¼ cup ground black pepper Kosher salt, to taste *salsa recipe 2 quarts mango, peeled and chopped 1 cup strawberries, small diced 4 cups red bell pepper, small diced 2 cups red onion, minced ¾ cup fresh cilantro, chopped ¾ cup jalapeno, minced 1 cup lime juice ½ cup lemon juice Salt and pepper to taste ¾ cup olive oil, used to grill the fish Preparation Preheat grill to med-high. Place all of the marinate ingredients together in large container, mix together well. Add all of the rockfish fillets to the marinate. Refrigerate for at least one hour. Prepare mango salsa: Add all the salsa ingredients together in a large bowl. Cover and set aside. Remove the rockfish from the marinate, discard any leftover marinate. Grill the fillets on a welloiled grill, until done and still flaky. Cook about 3-4 minutes on each side depending on thickness of the fish. Serve the rockfish with the mango salsa. Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 284 Calories; 9g fat (28.3% calories from fat); 35g protein; 16g carbohydrate; 3g dietary fiber; 87mg cholesterol; 153mg sodium. Exchanges: 0 grain (starch); 4 ½ lean meat; ½ vegetable; ½ fruit; 1 ½ fat. Editor’s note: The foregoing recipe was provided by Chef Robert “RJ” Johnson of the of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship. December 2019 �SIU Mourns Passing of Rep. Cummings The SIU is mourning the death of U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Maryland), a longtime backer of workers’ rights and an unwavering supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Cummings, who spoke at the 2007 convention of the Seafarers International Union of North America, passed away U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings was a ceaseless backer of workers’ rights and American mariners. Oct. 17 at age 68. His office reported that the congressman’s death was “due to complications concerning longstanding health challenges.” Born and raised in Baltimore, Cummings served in the U.S. Congress since 1996. Previously, he was a member of the Maryland General Assembly for 14 years. Cummings graduated from the University of Maryland School of Law and passed the state bar in 1976. “Elijah Cummings was a tremendous leader, a true friend and a first-class individual,” stated SIU President Michael Sacco. “He always – without fail – stood up for workers’ rights and for the American maritime industry. He was someone you were grateful to have on your side, and it would be a huge understatement to say he will be missed.” SIU Senior Political Consultant Terry Turner noted, “The Congressman had a portfolio centering on issues that went to the heart of America, yet had the time and effort to lift our maritime issues to the nation’s attention.” SIU Political and Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman offered this tribute online: “There are few members of Congress, on either side of the aisle, that I’ve worked as closely with over the last 20 years than Elijah Cummings. He served as both Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Transportation Committee’s Coast Guard subcommittee, which has jurisdiction over a lot of maritime law. He was as tough as they come, and even when I knew his questioning was friendly, my heart always beat a little faster when I was on the hotseat testifying before that Committee and the Chair recognized the Gentleman from Baltimore for five minutes’ worth of questioning…. Congress has lost another of its lions, and I will always thank him and his staff for what he did for my industry.” According to news reports, Cummings in recent years used a wheelchair to get around and braced himself with a walker when he stood. U.S. Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Maryland), Summary Annual Report For Seafarers Health And Benefits Plan This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, (Employer Identification No. 13-5557534, Plan No. 501) for the period January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2018. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $184,235,622 as of December 31, 2018 compared to $153,601,785 as of January 1, 2018. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $30,633,837. This increase includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $116,645,953. This income included employer contributions of $120,600,694, employee contributions of $506,800, realized losses of $365,672 from the sale of assets, losses from investments of $4,642,014 and other income of $546,145. Plan expenses were $86,012,116. These expenses included $13,782,390 in administrative expenses and $72,229,726 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Congressman Cummings (left) addresses the 2007 SIUNA convention in Piney Point, Maryland, as Seafarers President Michael Sacco looks on. the senior member of the commonwealth’s congressional delegation, said Cummings’ passing “leaves an irreplaceable void in our hearts, in our Maryland and in our Congress. Quite possibly no elected official mattered so much to his constituents.” Cummings in 2012 introduced legislation aimed at repealing a provision added at the last minute to a highway bill that reduced the U.S.-flag vessel carriage of food aid cargoes overseas. He also was a strong advocate of anti-piracy measures. In 2011, he issued a National Maritime Day statement that read in part: “In my capacity as the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, I will continue to support the development of a comprehensive maritime policy that will protect the integrity of the Jones Act, that will support the Maritime Security Program, and that will pro- mote the growth of the U.S.-flagged fleet competing in our foreign trade.” The Maritime Trades Department’s Port Council of New York-New Jersey in 2008 honored Cummings with its Government Man of the Year Award. At that time, SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, who also serves as president of the port council, stated, “Very simply, Congressman Cummings speaks our language and supports our issues. He is a no-nonsense legislator who supports working families and in particular backs the men and women who work in the maritime trades…. Congressman Cummings is dedicated to the same things that motivate us in the labor movement: protecting workers’ rights, securing our homeland, ensuring health care coverage and educational opportunities for everyone, and the list goes on and on.” Celebrating New Tonnage As previously reported, Seafarers-contracted American Roll-on Roll-off Carrier (ARC) has flagged in three newer vessels, for a net gain of two SIU-crewed ships. Seafarers recently helped formalize the name change on one of those vessels, the ARC Integrity. Welcoming the development are (from left in photo at right) AB Jeremie Brooks, OS Manuel Manzur Rosado, OS Josh Cutchin and AB Phillip Borders. In the photo below, Brooks helps make it official. (Thanks to Recertified Bosun Shannon Smith for the photos.) Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: n An accountant’s report; n Financial information and information on payments to service providers; n Assets held for investment; and n Transactions in excess of five percent of the plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of: Margaret Bowen, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $7.75 for the full report or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: Plan Office, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Public Disclosure Room, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite N-1513, Washington, D.C. 20210. December 2019 Seafarers LOG 5 �Summary Annual Report for Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan, (Employer Identification No. 52-1994914, Plan No. 001) for the period January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2018. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust (benefits are provided in whole from trust funds). Plan expenses were $10,478,138. These expenses included $1,098,998 in administrative expenses and $9,379,140 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 15,512 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $126,965,662 as of December 31, 2018 compared to $128,471,916 as of January 1, 2018. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $1,506,254. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had total income of $8,971,884, including employer contributions of $9,626,353, employee contributions of $167,170, losses of $680,756 from the sale of assets, losses from investments of $143,957 and other income of $3,074. The plan has a contract with The Prudential Insurance Company of America which allocates funds toward individual policies. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: n An accountant’s report; n Financial information and information on payments to service providers; n Assets held for investment; n Transactions in excess of five percent of the plan assets; n Insurance information including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers; and n Information regarding any common or collective trust, pooled separate accounts, master trusts or 103-12 investment entities in which the plan participates. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of: Margaret R. Bowen, Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, 301-899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $7.75 for the full report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: Plan Office, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Public Disclosure Room, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite N-1513, Washington, D.C. 20210. Summary Annual Report for Seafarers Vacation Plan This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Vacation Plan, (Employer Identification No. 13-5602047, Plan No. 503) for the period January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2018. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $23,993,376 as of December 31, 2018 compared to $24,346,823 as of January 1, 2018. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $353,447. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $69,336,761. This income included employer contributions of $70,632,511, realized losses of $21,136 from the sale of assets, losses from investments of $1,416,644 and other income of $142,030. Plan expenses were $69,690,208. These expenses included $6,366,405 in administrative expenses and $63,323,803 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: n An accountant’s report; n Financial information and information on payments to service providers; n Assets held for investment; and n Transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of: Margaret R. Bowen, Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, 301-899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $16.75 for the full report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: Plan Office, 5201 Auth Way , Camp Springs, MD 20746 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Public Disclosure Room, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite N-1513, Washington, D.C. 20210. Beck Notice The Seafarers International Union, AGLIW assists employees by representing them in all aspects of their employment and work aboard vessels which sail deep sea, on the Great Lakes and inland waters throughout the country. For the most part, the union spends a majority of its financial resources on collective bargaining activities and employee representation services. In addition to these expenditures, the union also spends resources on a variety of other efforts such as organizing, publications, political activities, international affairs and community services. All of these services advance the interests of the union and its membership. This annual notice is required by law and is sent to advise employees represented by the Seafarers International Union, AGLIW about their rights and obligations concerning payment of union dues. This notice contains information which will allow you to understand the advantages and benefits of being a union member in good standing. It also will provide you with detailed information as to how to become an agency fee payor. An agency fee payor is an employee who is not a member of the union but who meets his or her financial obligation by making agency fee payments. With this information, you will be able to make an informed decision about your status with the Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. 1. Benefits of union membership — While nonmembers do receive material benefits from a union presence in their workplace, there are significant benefits to retaining full membership in the union. Among the many benefits and opportunities available to a member of the Seafarers International Union, AGLIW are the right to attend union meetings, the right to vote for candidates for union office and the right to run for union office. Members also have the right to participate in the development of contract proposals and participate in contract ratification and strike votes. Members also may play a 6 Seafarers LOG Summary Annual Report For Seafarers International Union AGLIW 401(k) Plan This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers International Union AGLIW 401(k) Plan, (Employer Identification No. 261527179, Plan No. 002) for the period January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2018. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust (benefits are provided in whole from trust funds). Plan expenses were $4,588,485. These expenses included $72,953 in administrative expenses, $4,366,089 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries and $149,443 in other expenses. A total of 13,299 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $35,788,111 as of December 31, 2018 compared to $36,621,936 as of January 1, 2018. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $833,825. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had total income of $3,754,660, including employee contributions of $5,338,190, other contributions of $338,380, losses from investments of $1,921,923 and other income of $13. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: n An accountant’s report; n Financial Information and information on payments to service providers; n Assets held for investment; n Schedule of delinquent participant contributions; and n Insurance information including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of: Margaret Bowen, Plan Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, 301-899-0675 The charge to cover copying costs will be $12.50 for the full report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: Plan Office, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Public Disclosure Room, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite N-1513, Washington, D.C. 20210. Notice to Employees Covered by Union Agreements Regulated Under the National Labor Relations Act role in the development and formulation of union policies. 2. Cost of union membership — In addition to working dues, to belong to the union as a full book member the cost is $500.00 (five hundred dollars) per year or $125.00 (one hundred twenty-five dollars) per quarter. Working dues amount to 5 percent of the gross amount an employee receives for vacation benefits and are paid when the member files a vacation application. 3. Agency fee payors — Employees who choose not to become union members may become agency fee payors. As a condition of employment, in states which permit such arrangements, individuals are obligated to make payments to the union in the form of an agency fee. The fee these employees pay is to support the core representational services that the union provides. These services are those related to the collective bargaining process, contract administration and grievance adjustments. Examples of these activities include but are not limited to, the negotiation of collective bargaining agreements, the enforcement and administration of collective bargaining agreements and meetings with employers and employees. Union services also include representation of employees during disciplinary meetings, grievance and arbitration proceedings, National Labor Relations Board hearings and court litigation. Employees who pay agency fees are not required to pay for expenses not germane to the collective bargaining process. Examples of these expenses would be expenses required as a result of community service, legislative activities and political affairs. 4. Amount of agency fee — As noted above, dues objectors may pay a fee which represents the costs of expenses related to those supporting costs germane to the collective bargaining process. After review of all expenses during the 2018 calendar year, the fee cost associated with this representation amounts to 80.08 percent of the dues amount. This means that the agency fee based upon the dues would be $400.40 (four hundred dollars forty cents) for the applicable year. An appropriate reduction also will be calculated for working dues. This amount applies to the 2020 calendar year. This means that any individual who wishes to elect to pay agency fees and submits a letter between December 1, 2019 and November 30, 2020 will have this calculation applied to their 2020 dues payments which may still be owed to the union. As noted below, however, to continue to receive the agency fee reduction effective January 2021, your objection must be received by December 1, 2020. A report which delineates chargeable and nonchargeable expenses is available to you free of charge. You may receive a copy of this report by writing to: Secretary-Treasurer, Seafarers International Union, AGLIW, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. This report is based upon an audited financial report of the union’s expenses during 2018. Please note that as the chargeable and nonchargeable expenses may change each year, the agency fee amount may also fluctuate each year. Individuals who are entitled to pay agency fees and wish to pay fees rather than dues, must elect this option each year by filing an objection in accordance with the procedure noted below. 5. Filing of objections — If you choose to object to paying dues, an objection must be filed annually. To receive the deduction beginning in January of each year, you must file by the beginning of December in the prior year. An employee may file an objection at any time during the year, however, the reduction will apply only prospectively and only until December 31 of that calendar year. Reductions in dues will not be applied retroactively. As noted above, each year the amount of the dues reduction may change based upon an auditor’s report from a previous year. The objection must be sent in writing to: Agency Fee Payor Objection Administration, Secretary-Treasurer’s Office, Seafarers International Union, AGLIW, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 6. Filing a challenge — Upon receiving the notice of calculation of the chargeable expenditures related to core representation activities, an objector shall have 45 days to submit a challenge with the Secretary-Treasurer’s office if he or she believes that the calculation of chargeable activities is incorrect. Every person who wishes to object to the calculation of chargeable expenses has a legal right to file such an objection. 7. Appeal procedure — Upon receiving the challenge(s) at the end of the 45-day period, the union will consolidate all appeals and submit them to an independent arbitrator. The presentation to the arbitrator will be either in writing or at a hearing. The method of the arbitration will be determined by the arbitrator. If a hearing is held, any objector who does not wish to attend may submit his/her views in writing by the date of the hearing. If a hearing is not held, the arbitrator will set the dates by which all written submissions will be received. The costs of the arbitration shall be borne by the union. Individuals submitting challenges will be responsible for all the costs associated with presenting their appeal. The union will have the burden of justifying its calculations. The SIU works very hard to ensure that all of its members receive the best representation possible. On behalf of all the SIU officers and employees, I would like to thank you for your continuing support. Sincerely, David Heindel Secretary-Treasurer December 2019 �The donated prints (above) now adorn one wall of the New Orleans Hall in Harvey, Louisiana. They were donated by FOWT Bert Hatten (pictured at right), a former SIU member who served on cargo ships sailing into the Pacific Theater from 1942-1945 WWII Seafarer Donates Collection, Shares Memories Not every mariner sails for their whole life, instead choosing to spend only a few years at sea before pursuing a new career. But when those years are the final days of World War II, they leave memories that last a lifetime. FOWT W. Bert Hatten, a former SIU member who served on cargo ships sailing into the Pacific Theater from 1942-1945, recently donated a collection of prints to the New Orleans hall in Harvey, Louisiana. The framed art depicts World War II-era merchant ships; the items were commissioned from artist Theodore C. Ewen by maritime underwriter Chubb & Son. Hatten, 92, was in the process of moving, and wanted the collection to have a proper home where others could view them. “The set is awesome, and it’s such an honor that Bert thought to donate them to the hall,” said SIU Port Agent Chris Westbrook. “It was great to talk to him on the phone, and hear some of his sea stories from that era. The prints are up on the wall, and the feedback I’ve received from the members who have seen them is really positive.” “I have very fond memories of my time in the SIU,” Hatten said. “As a youthful participant in the final stages of World War II, my first attraction to the SIU was, it offered me an opportunity to get into the action despite my youth, which caused my rejection by the Navy. Secondly, the SIU leadership in those days was strongly anti-communist, which was not the case with some others. Our leadership then included men like Harry Lundeberg and Paul Hall, both of whom were patriots and strong, honorable leaders. “After the war ended, I debated for a while between sailing and seeking another career,” Hatten added. He eventually made his decision, heading to college before becoming a reporter for a local paper in Louisiana (from where he’d primarily sailed from), and launched a decades-long career in the newspaper industry. After sailing, he worked as the managing editor of two newspapers, the Monroe Morning World and The News-Star World, before starting and running his own newspaper, The Ouachita Citizen, from 1965 to 1986. He also found time to serve as the mayor of West Monroe, Louisiana, from 1966-1978. After that, he worked as an insurance underwriter until retirement. It’s been nearly 75 years since the end of World War II, but Hatten still remembers where he was when the war ended. “While en route to Japan as part of a supply convoy in September of 1945, our ship passed the USS Indianapolis, which was headed the opposite direction,” he recalled. “At the time, it was only notable because I had a friend serving aboard that ship, but of course now I know that the Indianapolis had just delivered the atomic bomb to be loaded onto the Enola Gay. Of course, this was before it was sunk by a Japanese torpedo. When we arrived in Tokyo Bay, we anchored right next to the USS Missouri, which served as MacArthur’s flagship. So that’s where we were when the Japanese surrendered.” Hatten has three daughters, and currently lives with his youngest daughter in West Monroe. IBEW’s Demchuk Elected To Lead Baltimore PMC Peter Demchuk is now at the helm of the Maritime Trades Department’s (MTD) Baltimore Port Maritime Council (PMC). The IBEW Local 24 business manager succeeds Dion Guthrie, who stepped down Oct. 16 Hatten’s sister, Dee Carbo, views the collection in its new home. after 13 years as the PMC president. Demchuk and his fellow officers – Vice President Guthrie and SecretaryTreasurer John Hoskins (who is the SIU’s Baltimore port agent) – were sworn in by MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan at the council’s meeting in mid-October. The IBEW official told delegates he looks forward to his new position. He said Pictured from left are Baltimore PMC VP Dion Guthrie, Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO President Donna Edwards, Baltimore PMC President Peter Demchuk, Baltimore PMC Secretary-Treasurer/SIU Port Agent John Hoskins and MTD Executive SecretaryTreasurer Daniel Duncan. December 2019 he plans to work closely with the Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO (whose president, Donna Edwards, attended) and the Metro Baltimore AFL-CIO on projects affecting all union workers in the city and its surrounding communities. He looks forward to growing the port council, he said. Additionally, Demchuk outlined a program to promote the hard-working men and women within the Port of Baltimore community. He noted the advent of offshore wind turbines and wants to make sure union members from the maritime trades, metal trades and building trades are involved. In addition, he thanked Guthrie for his decades of service to the council. Delegates from AFSCME, the IBEW, MEBA, the SIU and UA took part in the October meeting. Besides the officers, delegates approved Richard Kile, Klaus Luhta, Bill Van Loo and Daniel Zellers as PMC trustees. The Baltimore PMC received its charter in 1952. The MTD is a constitutionally mandated department of the AFL-CIO and was formed in 1946. The MTD’s network of 21 port maritime councils has given maritime workers a strong grassroots presence in port and coastal cities all across the nation. Representing a wide array of workers, the councils have provided the department’s 23 affiliates (who collectively represent approximately five million members) a mechanism to pool their resources on a wide range of issues and projects. Seafarers LOG 7 �TALKING MARITIME WITH CONGRESSMAN – Maritime Trades Department Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan (left) is pictured with U.S. Rep. Anthony Brown (D-Maryland) in late September in the nation’s capital. The Washington Nationals baseball game in the background did not prevent them from discussing the importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine. ABOARD BELL SHIMADA – SIU VP Government Services Kate Hunt (back row, far left) and Asst. VP Joe Vincenzo (also in back, far right) meet with SIU Government Services Division members aboard the NOAA ship on the West Coast. PROMOTING MARITIME WITH CONGRESSWOMAN – SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins (right) is pictured with U.S. Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (D-Florida) at a recent labor gathering in the Sunshine State. They discussed the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, cargo preference laws and more. A-BOOK IN SAN JUAN – Bosun John Diaz (left) receives his A-seniority book. He’s pictured at the hiring hall, with SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo. “I’m excited to become an A-book member and extremely grateful to the SIU for the awesome career opportunities it has given me,” Diaz said. “May God bless the industry and may God bless the SIU. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU A-BOOK IN OAKLAND – AB Ahmed Kassem (left) picks up his A-seniority book at the hiring hall. He is pictured with Port Agent Nick Marrone II. ABOARD KAIMANA HILA – Pictured from left in the photo above are Chief Cook Alberto Insong, ACU Saleh Sewileh and Chief Steward Timothy Laird. The two snapshots at right show parts of the galley aboard the new Matson vessel. Thanks to SIU Wilmington Patrolman Jesse Sunga Jr. for the photos. ABOARD NATIONAL GLORY – Members gather for a union meeting aboard the Crowley vessel in mid-October in Houston. Pictured third from left is SIU Patrolman J.B. Niday. ABOARD OCEAN GLOBE – Enjoying a coffee break on the Waterman ship in Houston are (above, from left) Paul Hall Center Apprentice Luis Venegas, AB Frank Estupinan and GUDE Cale Irons. 8 Seafarers LOG December 2019 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU A-BOOK IN JERSEY CITY – QMED Michael Robinson (right) receives his A-seniority book. He’s pictured at the hiring hall with Port Agent Ray Henderson. WELCOME ASHORE IN FLORIDA – Chief Steward Evelyn Tayag (left), pictured at the Fort Lauderdale hall with Asst. VP Kris Hopkins, picks up her first pension check. FULL BOOKS IN PINEY POINT – SA Craig Sorrell (left in photo at immediate left) and AB Dexter Turija (left in photo above) recently received their respective full membership books at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. SIU Port Agent Victor Nunez is at right in both photos. ABOARD WEST VIRGINIA – Recertified Bosun John Cedeno submitted these snapshots from the Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning tanker. AB Juberto Perez (lower left) installs chafing gear. In photo directly below, ABs Victor Chevalier and Christopher Dickens repair chafing gear on mooring line. Pictured from left in the remaining photo are Pumpman Scott Fuller, Second Mate Daniel McCullough, Cedeno and Third Mate Parker Dale. FULL B-BOOK IN HONOLULU – ARE Raymond Orosco (right) receives his full B-book at the hiring hall. Congratulating him is Shureen Yatchmenoff, administrative assistant. December 2019 Seafarers LOG 9 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU GRASSROOTS ACTION IN HOUSTON – Seafarers recently volunteered their time to help spread the word about labor-backed candidates. A number of those SIU members are pictured during phone-banking (photo at immediate left) and in front of the hiring hall, shortly before block walking (photo above). Recertified Steward Verleshia Robinson (left in photo at immediate right, with Port Agent Joe Zavala) participated and also prepared food for fellow members. ANSWERING THE CALL – SIU members helped crew up 33 military support vessels earlier this year when the U.S. Transportation Command ordered a large-scale exercise. These photos were taken on one of the Ready Reserve Force ships that activated – the Cape Intrepid (operated by Ocean Duchess). Pictured from left in the galley (below, right) are SA Nadine Nomed Ryf, Chief Cook Alba Ayala, Recertified Steward Jioia De Leon and SA Marshall Daguio. Pictured on deck (immediate left, from left) are GVA Ameer Ali and Recertified Bosun LBJ Tanoa. Standing from left in the photo above are AB Nick Sabuco, De Leon, Tanoa, Oiler Leonard Chavis, OS Edward Sabac, Oiler Mark Lata and Darrell Jackson. Henson Mariners Brighten Kids’ Day Overseas - SIU members and AMO officers from the USNS Henson visited the International Children’s Advocate, Inc. (Ninos Pag-Asa Center), a residential care facility in Olongapo City, Philippines, in October. The organization is self-described as “a non-profit … established to help [meet] the special needs of impoverished, malnourished, and sick children and young adults with disabilities and with deformities.” Among those participating in the visit were Storekeeper Caroline Thomas, SA Mery Koch-Lupa, GVA Fahd Saleh, GVA Assaf Ghalib, Capt. Kristin Mangold, Third Assistant Engineer Stephanie Stowe, Second Mate Danielle Garcia-Lance, Radio Officer Joanne Sykes and Second A.E. Brandy White. Attending but not in the photo were Chief Steward Arturo Montoya and QMED Benjamin Mathews. The USNS Henson is operated for the Military Sealift Command by Ocean Ships, Inc. (Photo courtesy of Capt. Kristin Mangold) 10 Seafarers LOG December 2019 �Higher Education Opportunities 2020 Seafarers 2020 Seafarers 2020 Seafarers Health and Benefi tsPlan Plan Health and Benefi ts HealthScholarship and Benefi ts Plan Program Scholarship Scholarship Program Program Wilson Hall James Madison University Scholarships totalling $132,000 are avaiable to Seafarers and their dependents looking to continue their education. Allocations for each category will be as follows: Wilson Hall Wilson Hall James Madison University James Madison University Seafarers Scholarships Dependents Scholarships Scholarships Scholarships totalling totalling $132,000 $132,000 are are avaiable avaiable to to Seafarers Seafarers and and their their dependents dependents looking looking to to continue continue their education. Allocations for each category will be as follows: Three scholarships designated for active Seafarers: Five scholarships designated for dependents: their education. Allocations for each category will be as follows: ■ A total of five scholarships, each totalling $20,000, are at an accredited college or university being offered to dependents (spouses incuded) to attend four-year courses of study at accredited colleges or ■ Two scholarships ($6,000 each) for Seafarers universities. Dependents and spouses of active as well interested in pursuing two-year courses of study at a as retired Seafarers may apply. Three scholarships designated active Seafarers: Five scholarships designated for dependents: community collegefor or vocational school ■ One $20,000 offering for a four-year course of study Seafarers Seafarers Scholarships Scholarships Three scholarships designated for active Seafarers: Dependents Dependents Scholarships Scholarships Five scholarships designated for dependents: ■ One $20,000 offering foradvantage a four-year course of study clip, complete ■ A totaland of fimail ve scholarships, each totalling $20,000, are To take of these opportunities, the form below, or visit www.seafarers.org, ■ One $20,000 offering for a four-year course of study ■ A total of five scholarships, each totalling $20,000, are at an accredited college or university being and offered totsdependents (spouses incuded) to Notices attend go to the ABOUT tab, navigate to the Seafarers Health Benefi Plan menu (Participant Letters and at an accredited college or university being offered to dependents (spouses incuded) to attend four-year Application courses of (PDF). study Although at accredited colleges or Materialeach) Modifications section) and select Scholarship the booklet is dated ■ Two scholarshipsof($6,000 for Seafarers four-year courses of study at accredited colleges or ■ Two scholarships ($6,000 each) for Seafarers Dependents and spouses of active as well 2016, all information is of stillstudy current SHBP Scholarships. interested in pursuing two-year courses at afor the 2020universities. universities. Dependents and spouses of active as well interested in pursuing two-year courses of study at a as retired Seafarers may apply. community college or vocational school as retired Seafarers may apply. community college or vocational school Please send me the 2020 SHBP Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. To To take take advantage advantage of of these these opportunities, opportunities, clip, clip, complete complete and and mail mail the the form form below, below, or or visit visit www.seafarers.org, www.seafarers.org, go to the ABOUT tab, navigate to the Seafarers Health and Benefi ts Plan menu (Participant Name.................................................................................................................................................................................. go to the ABOUT tab, navigate to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan menu (Participant Letters Letters and and Notices Notices Street Address................................................................................................................................................................... of Material Modifi cations section) and select Scholarship Application (PDF). Although the booklet is dated of Material Modifications section) and select Scholarship Application (PDF). Although the booklet is dated City, State, Zipfor Code........................................................................................................................................................ 2016, 12/19 2016, all all information information is is still still current current for the the 2020 2020 SHBP SHBP Scholarships. Scholarships. Telephone Number ( ) ............................................................................................................................................... Please send me the 2020 SHBP Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying Please send me the 2020 Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying This SHBP application ❏ Self ❏ Dependent and a copy of the application form.is for: and a copy of the application form. form to: Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 Mail this completed Name.................................................................................................................................................................................. Name.................................................................................................................................................................................. Street Address................................................................................................................................................................... Street Address................................................................................................................................................................... City, State, Zip Code........................................................................................................................................................ City, State, Zip Code........................................................................................................................................................ Telephone Number ( ) ............................................................................................................................................... Telephone Number ( ) ............................................................................................................................................... This application is for: ❏ Self ❏ Dependent This application is for: ❏ Self ❏ Dependent Mail this completed form to: Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 Mail this completed form to: Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 December 2019 Seafarers LOG 11 �With Seafarers Aboard the Alaskan Legend SIU crews continue to help Seafarers-contracted Alaska Tanker Company (ATC) enjoy a well-earned reputation for safety and efficiency. Seafarers sail aboard the company’s four Jones Act vessels: the Alaskan Legend, Alaskan Explorer, Alaskan Frontier and Alaskan Navigator. Among the fleet’s many accolades over the years are the Alaska Governor’s Special Achievement Award, and the U.S. Coast Guard’s prestigious Benkert “Osprey” Award in recognition of outstanding achievement in marine environmental protection and community outreach. ATC has been previously recognized for its safe operations by the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation, legislators from the State of Alaska, the Prince William Sound Regional Citizens Advisory Council, the Washington State Department of Ecology, the California Office of Spill Prevention and Response, the Pacific States–British Columbia Oil Spill Task Force, and the AFL-CIO. The photos on these two pages were taken earlier this year aboard the Alaskan Legend. AB Jaime Callejas and AB Ramon Guimba Jr. (From left) Maintenance Mechanic Corey Hann, DEU Mohammed Obad and AB Jaime Callejas 12 Seafarers LOG AB Sergio Valentin and Bosun Alvin Martin Bosun Alvin Martin AB Marcus Foster December 2019 AB Jake Tierney Deck/Engine Maint. Kassim Mohamed December 2019 DEU Piotr Mlynarczyk AB Mohamed Alomari AB Ramon Guimba Jr. CC Johnson Ashun S/B Just Self SA Hamid Shahbain Seafarers LOG 13 �Everyday Savings Save every day with union member-only discounts on everything from fashion and beauty to electronics and everyday household items. And whether it’s date night or a fun family night out, enjoy delicious, union family discounts at select restaurants. Find out more about this and other great Union Plus programs by visiting unionplus.org. FREE COLLEGE CREDIT CARDS FLOWERS & GIFTS WIRELESS DISCOUNTS Learn more at unionplus.org 14 Seafarers LOG 12/19 December 2019 �PHC Offers Culinary 2.0 As previously reported, the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education continues to offer Culinary 2.0 classes designed to help students boost their skills while complying with a new rule that takes effect next year. Completing the coursework also is intended to aid individual shipping opportunities. Shipping Rule 5.A.(6), which will go into effect January 1, 2020, states, “Within each class of seniority in the Steward Department, priority shall be given to those seamen who possess an advanced Culinary 2.0 certificate from the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, in the event such program is being offered and that the seaman is registered in Group I, Steward Department.” While every new member of the steward department who completes their apprenticeship at the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship will have successfully passed Culinary 2.0, it’s important to remem- ber that those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards must also take the coursework in order to exercise preference and priority beginning next year (unless they have received training after January 1, 2017 at the Piney Point, Maryland-based campus). For those seamen currently employed as permanent stewards aboard commercial vessels, they must attend Culinary 2.0 in order to maintain their current employment status. For those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards, there are two new revalidation courses that have been designed to ensure a consistent level of culinary training and efficiency: Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 and Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0. The courses are being offered regularly, but spaces are limited, so members are encouraged to plan ahead and enroll as soon as possible. For more information, contact your port agent and/or the school’s admissions office. December 2019 & January 2020 Membership Meetings Piney Point...............................Monday: December 2, January 6 Algonac..................................Friday: December 6, January 10 Baltimore............................Thursday: December 5, January 9 Guam.................................Thursday: December 19, January 23 Honolulu.............................Friday: December 13, January 17 Houston.......................................Monday: December 9, January 13 Jacksonville..................Thursday: December 5, January 9 Joliet.................................Thursday: December 12, January 16 Mobile.........................Wednesday: December 11, January 15 New Orleans........................Tuesday: December 10, January 14 Jersey City..........................Tuesday: December 3, January 7 Norfolk..............................Thursday: December 5, January 9 Oakland.........................Thursday: December 12, January 16 Philadelphia.............Wednesday: December 4, January 8 Port Everglades..............Thursday: December 12, January 16 San Juan................................Thursday: December 5 , January 9 St. Louis..................................Friday: December 13, January 17 Tacoma............................Friday: December 20, January 24 Wilmington..............Monday: December 16,*Tuesday: January 21 *Wilmington change due to Martin Luther King Day observance Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m ATTENTION SEAFARERS Another New Ship SPAD Works For You. Contribute To The Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD December 2019 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from Oct. 6-Nov. 5. “Registered on the Beach” data is as of Nov. 5. Total Registered All Groups B Total Shipped Trip Reliefs 2 2 0 4 0 1 0 10 5 3 0 3 10 1 2 0 1 4 0 5 53 Deck Department 11 7 1 2 1 0 15 7 1 1 7 4 6 0 35 15 24 18 36 6 2 1 8 2 21 12 15 3 2 1 3 3 4 5 19 8 0 0 23 10 234 105 C 1 1 0 2 0 4 0 2 4 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 4 2 2 25 3 1 4 7 0 2 3 10 19 7 1 6 20 5 0 7 3 9 1 6 114 3 0 0 1 0 0 1 3 2 1 1 1 6 3 0 0 1 0 0 1 24 Engine Department 3 1 1 0 1 1 9 4 1 0 2 4 3 3 11 5 16 10 10 6 0 1 2 4 15 16 6 2 0 0 2 2 4 2 13 8 2 0 13 9 114 78 10 0 3 8 3 4 10 19 17 14 1 4 17 12 2 1 4 9 2 22 162 2 0 0 2 0 1 1 7 8 3 0 4 9 6 0 1 6 0 1 9 60 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 2 1 1 0 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 16 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 0 0 0 2 0 0 2 5 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 3 0 2 19 10 1 1 5 1 1 8 10 24 15 1 0 19 8 1 0 1 9 1 15 131 12 0 1 4 0 2 3 8 24 4 2 1 14 4 1 4 0 7 1 4 96 GRAND TOTAL: 593 448 189 Port A Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 24 1 2 12 5 13 7 47 37 31 1 12 19 12 2 2 6 19 2 24 278 6 2 1 9 1 6 3 23 29 7 1 1 19 4 2 5 6 8 1 9 143 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 4 0 0 12 1 3 6 17 18 11 1 5 13 7 1 5 2 13 1 14 134 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS C A All Groups B C 2 0 0 6 0 7 1 20 9 22 0 4 12 5 1 2 7 14 1 13 126 28 4 5 33 6 15 14 78 56 52 4 22 36 26 6 3 9 49 4 68 518 13 1 3 11 1 12 8 43 50 23 1 6 27 8 3 5 10 14 1 24 264 4 4 0 7 0 1 0 14 12 9 1 6 17 5 2 0 2 9 0 9 102 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 2 0 0 4 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 14 0 0 1 7 0 2 0 6 10 4 0 2 8 1 0 2 4 9 0 1 57 5 1 1 17 1 5 18 25 28 21 2 6 24 14 3 5 3 20 1 27 227 2 2 3 8 0 4 7 18 34 18 1 8 30 8 2 7 2 10 3 14 181 3 0 1 4 1 1 1 5 3 2 3 1 7 5 1 0 1 2 0 4 45 Steward Department 5 2 0 0 3 0 4 4 1 0 5 1 7 3 14 4 12 5 11 5 0 0 4 1 3 8 12 6 3 0 0 1 2 5 12 1 2 1 15 9 120 51 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 3 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 8 2 0 0 2 0 3 3 8 5 3 0 0 2 6 0 1 6 5 0 12 58 7 0 3 16 3 7 19 38 41 24 2 5 27 19 1 5 5 20 4 36 282 2 0 1 6 0 2 3 13 15 3 0 5 22 6 0 6 8 1 0 15 108 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 6 1 0 0 4 3 1 0 1 2 1 0 22 Entry Department 1 4 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 5 5 9 0 17 0 8 0 0 1 0 0 10 1 6 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 7 0 0 2 13 13 84 5 1 0 2 0 2 2 5 10 3 1 0 13 4 0 4 0 8 1 4 65 3 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 8 1 2 0 3 1 0 2 0 2 0 6 31 0 0 0 2 0 0 2 8 4 4 0 0 0 1 0 1 2 5 0 12 41 9 1 0 7 0 2 14 18 55 32 3 0 42 18 2 0 1 22 2 32 260 20 0 1 6 1 6 3 12 41 8 2 2 43 11 1 2 0 17 0 21 197 112 272 1,068 813 366 A 481 All Groups B Registered on Beach 318 Seafarers LOG 15 �Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kate Hunt, Vice President Government Services Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by students at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. Question: What do you like most about being a member of the SIU? HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 Malia Bouchee Chief Cook I like the fact that although I am a female, I’m treated fairly in every respect; a rarity in today’s society. I also think it’s great that the union makes it easy for me and fellow members to advance their careers by making this school available to us free of charge. When it comes down to it, I guess you could say that I really like everything about the union. John Reid Recertified Chief Steward The SIU provides me with a good environment to work in and some great people to work with. At the same time, I am compensated very well. I have been able to provide for my family for 31 years as a member of the SIU, so I have no complaints. I’ve had a great career so far and acquired a great deal of knowledge over the years in my craft. It was all made possible because of the union. Lamont Robinson QMED Electrician I’d have to say the money that I’m able to make, and the travel. I also enjoy and appreciate the fact that the union makes it so easy for me to increase my knowledge and advance in my career through these free upgrading programs. You won’t find any place like this (the school) anywhere else. Here we have everything we need to keep moving up in our careers and I really appreciate that. Najeeb Ginah Chief Cook I like having the opportunity to choose your own career path. I used to work on the Great Lakes in the deck department, but I always enjoyed cooking. Through the union I was able to get into the steward department, upgrade my skills and become a better cook. I really like my job and the union. Italy Byers Chief Cook I enjoy the camaraderie – that we always stick together regardless of the challenges we may face. I never have to worry because I know that someone has my back and I can always find assistance up to and including talking to officials at my union hall. I also love my job because it affords me the opportunity to travel extensively and make a great living in the process. Face it, you’re not going to find a job ashore that compensates you as well as mine. Malcolm Holmes Chief Steward I enjoy everything about being a member of the SIU. I’ve been with the union for about 35 years now and I only have good things to say about it. I enjoy sailing and seeing the world. The SIU has given me both of those things in addition to providing me the chance to make a good living. It’s been great! MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (787) 721-4033 Pic From The Past The original caption from the Feb. 3, 1956 LOG that accompanied this photo: “The whole family joined in the holiday festivities enjoyed by Seafarers in New Orleans when Mr. and Mrs. Al Nasser and Al Jr. attended the SIU dinner. Junior had eyes only for the photographer, however.” Readers can look up back issues of the LOG at seafarerslog.org or by visiting the “Complete Seafarers Log Archive” section that’s linked on the regular SIU website (seafarers.org). ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG December 2019 �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA LITO ACOSTA Brother Lito Acosta, 65, started sailing with the SIU in 1982, initially shipping aboard the Independence. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Acosta last shipped on the Matsonia. He resides in Daly City, California. EMMANUEL BAYANI Brother Emmanuel Bayani, 64, began sailing with the SIU in 1989 when he shipped on the Independence. He primarily sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Bayani most recently sailed on the USNS Algol and makes his home in Union City, California. STEPHEN BROWN Brother Stephen Brown, 65, started sailing with the union in 1976, initially shipping with Mariner Towing. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on several occasions. Brother Brown last shipped on the SLNC York. He resides in Auburn, Georgia. JOVENCIO CABAB Brother Jovencio Cabab, 61, joined the SIU in 1990 and first sailed aboard the Independence. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions. Brother Cabab’s last vessel was the Norfolk. He lives in Fairfield, California. TEDDIE CARTER Brother Teddie Carter, 62, signed on with the SIU in 1979 when he shipped on the Zapata Ranger. An engine department member, he upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Carter’s final vessel was the Horizon Reliance. He makes his home in Los Angeles. HILARIO DAVID Brother Hilario David, 63, began sailing with the union in 1992, first shipping on the Independence. He worked in the steward department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother David most recently sailed on the Manoa and resides in Alameda, California. EARL FARMER Brother Earl Farmer, 72, started his career with the SIU in 2001 when he sailed on the Liberator. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Farmer December 2019 concluded his career on the Alliance Norfolk and resides in Brooklyn, New York. DANIEL GAMBOA Brother Daniel Gamboa, 67, donned the SIU colors in 2001. The deck department member upgraded at the Piney Point school within his first year with the union. Brother Gamboa’s first vessel was the Cape Farewell; his last, the Liberty Glory. He is a Houston resident. TERRY GOODWIN Brother Terry Goodwin, 65, joined the union in 2005, initially sailing on the Advantage. He shipped in the deck department and trained at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Goodwin last sailed on the Black Eagle and makes his home in Alexandria, Louisiana. TYLER LAFFITTE Brother Tyler Laffitte, 60, embarked on his SIU career in 1981 when he shipped on the Golden Endeavor. A member of the steward department, he upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Laffitte most recently sailed on the Empire State and calls Mobile, Alabama, home. RANDY LOUQUE Brother Randy Louque, 65, became a member of the SIU in 1996 when he sailed on the Cape Flattery. An engine department member, he upgraded his skills on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Louque’s last vessel was the Atlantic Forest. He resides in New Zealand. MICHAEL MAHONEY Brother Michael Mahoney, 65, signed on with the union in 1977, sailing first on the Baltimore. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Mahoney last sailed on the Resolve and settled in Philadelphia. JAMES REILY Brother James Reily, 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1989 when he shipped on the USNS Assurance. He upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center and worked in the deck department. Brother Reily concluded his career on the Liberty Grace. He is a resident of Shreveport, Louisiana. ROLANDO ROMANILLOS Brother Rolando Romanillos, 65, joined the SIU in 1993, first sailing on the Producer. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Romanillos last sailed on the Ocean Freedom and makes his home in Long Beach, California. CRAIG SMITH Brother Craig Smith, 65, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1974 when he shipped on the Erna Elizabeth. He upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center and sailed in the engine department. Brother Smith’s last vessel was the Padre Island. He calls Carriere, Mississippi, home. GREAT LAKES ANDREW DERRY Brother Andrew Derry, 56, joined the SIU in 1990, initially sailing aboard the EM Ford. He was an engine department member and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Derry last worked on the Burns Harbor. He makes his home in South Haven, Michigan. JOSEPH RACICOT Brother Joseph Racicot, 62, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1979, initially working on the Buckeye. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 1993. Brother Racicot concluded his career on the Joyce L. VanEnkevort and lives in Escanaba, Michigan. JAN THOMPSON Brother Jan Thompson, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1977 when he shipped with Inland Tugs. He worked in the engine department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Thompson’s last vessel was the Indiana Harbor. He settled in Nokesville, Virginia. INLAND ISRAEL DEJESUS Brother Israel DeJesus, 58, joined the union in 1993. A deck department member, he first sailed aboard the George Washington. Brother DeJesus upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 2001 and concluded his career working for Port Imperial Ferry. He calls Maywood, New Jersey, home. RONALD ECHEVERIO Brother Ronald Echeverio, 66, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1973 when he worked for OMI Corporation. He shipped in both the steward and deck departments and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1973. Brother Echeverio last worked for American Marine Corporation. He lives in Stevenson, Washington. ALBERT HILLIER Brother Albert Hillier, 66, began his career with the SIU in 2010 when he worked for Penn Maritime. A deck department member, he upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2016. Brother Hillier remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He resides in Richmond, Virginia. JERRY LOCKABY Brother Jerry Lockaby, 64, signed on with the SIU in 1977. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments and worked for Marine Contracting and Towing for his entire career. Brother Lockaby lives in Charleston, South Carolina. ANGEL LOZADA OSORIO Brother Angel Lozada Osorio, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1994, initially working for Crowley Puerto Rico. He primarily shipped in the deck department and most recently worked for Puerto Rico Towing & Barge. Brother Lazada Osorio settled in Bayamon, Puerto Rico. EDWARD MANCKE Brother Edward Mancke, 58, joined the union in 1991 when he shipped aboard the Independence. He was an engine department member and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Mancke’s final vessel was the Padre Island. He calls Dandridge, Tennessee, home. FRANCIS MARI Brother Francis Mari, 63, began sailing with the Seafarers in 2001. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Mari worked for Port Imperial Ferry for the duration of his career. He is a resident of Gaithersburg, Maryland. JOHN NATIONS Brother John Nations, 62, started his SIU career in 1976, initially working for National Marine Service. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 1980. Brother Nations was last employed by OLS Transport in 1998. He settled in Farmington, Missouri. JON RICHARDSON Brother Jon Richardson, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1976 when he worked for National Marine Service. A member of the deck department, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Richardson most recently sailed aboard the Legend. He makes his home in Plant City, Florida. KIM ROGERS Brother Kim Rogers, 62, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1979. He was employed by Crowley Towing & Transportation and sailed in the deck department. Brother Rogers upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1983. He worked for the same company for his entire career and lives in Murrieta, California. ALAN SELF Brother Alan Self, 62, signed on with the SIU in 1977, initially shipping with G&H Towing. He was a deck department member and upgraded at the union-affiliated Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Self last worked for Moran Towing of Texas and resides in Pasadena, Texas. GEORGE URBAN Brother George Urban, 62, began his career with the union in 1991 when he worked for Allied Transportation. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on several occasions and continued to work for the same company throughout his entire career. Brother Urban lives in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA MICHAEL BRENNAN Pensioner Michael Brennan, 81, passed away October 24. He embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1970, initially sailing on a Hudson Waterways vessel. Brother Brennan shipped in the engine department and concluded his career on the LNG Virgo. He became a pensioner in 2003 and was a resident of Houston. ROY CARR Pensioner Roy Carr, 78, died October 23. He began sailing with the union in 1962 when he signed on aboard the MT Shasta. Brother Carr was a member of the deck department. He concluded his career on the Overseas Arctic and retired in 1997. Brother Carr lived in Williamsburg, Kentucky. ROBERT CROOKS Pensioner Robert Crooks, 89, passed away September 23. He joined the SIU in 1966 when he worked for Michigan Tankers. A deck department member, Brother Crooks last sailed on the Horizon Tiger. He became a pensioner in 2002 and made his home in San Francisco. GARIN DOYLE Pensioner Garin Doyle, 78, died October 8. He became an SIU member in 1978 when he sailed on the Cove Navigator. Brother Doyle primarily sailed in the deck department and concluded his career on the Kocak. He became a pensioner in 2000 and lived in River Ridge, Louisiana. RALPH EGELAND Pensioner Ralph Egeland, 77, has passed away. He signed on with the SIU in 1969, first sailing on the Mohawk. Brother Egeland was a deck department member. He last shipped on the Comet and 18 Seafarers LOG began collecting his pension in 2006. Brother Egeland resided in Deming, New Mexico. JAMES JOWERS Pensioner James Jowers, 76, died September 13. He joined the union in 1986 and first sailed on the USNS De Steiguer. A deck department member, Brother Jowers last sailed on the Nantucket Shoals. He retired in 2007 and was a resident of Liberty Hill, Texas. DONALD OYOLA Pensioner Donald Oyola, 76, passed away October 21. He joined the SIU in 1965 and first sailed aboard the Ocean Spray. Brother Oyola worked in the engine department and last sailed on the Champion. He became a pensioner in 2008 and was a Baltimore resident. JOHN PADILLA Pensioner John Padilla, 72, died October 30. He embarked on his Seafarers career in 1978 when he sailed on an Interocean American Shipping vessel. Brother Padilla shipped in the steward department and last sailed on the Agate. He began collecting his pension in 2011 and called Elizabeth, New Jersey, home. FREDERICK SULLIVAN Pensioner Frederick Sullivan, 92, passed away October 9. He signed on with the SIU in 1950 and initially sailed with Alcoa Steamship Company. Brother Sullivan primarily sailed in the steward department. He last shipped on the Economy before becoming a pensioner in 1988. Brother Sullivan resided in New Orleans. 72, passed away October 15. He joined the Seafarers in 1991, first sailing aboard the Bonny. Brother Wildermuth sailed in the steward department, most recently aboard the Maersk Chicago. He became a pensioner in 2016 and lived in Suwanee, Georgia. YOUNS YAFAI Pensioner Youns Yafai, 86, died October 9. He donned the SIU colors in 1970, initially sailing on the Cantigny. Brother Yafai shipped in all three departments. He last sailed on the Mayaguez before going on pension in 1998. Brother Yafai was a resident of Brooklyn, New York. INLAND EDWARD BETHEL Pensioner Edward Bethel, 81, passed away September 14. Sailing with Taylor Marine, he signed on with the Seafarers in 1957. Brother Bethel shipped in the deck department and concluded his career working for Moran Towing of Philadelphia. He retired in 2002 and lived in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania. GERALD BISHOP Pensioner Gerald Bishop, 65, died August 28. He joined the SIU in 1977 when he worked for HVIDE Marine. Brother Bishop was a deck department member and last worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation. He went on pension in 2017 and lived in Westminster, California. EDWIN BLACK Pensioner Edwin Black, 81, passed away October 1. He began sailing with the union in 1969, initially working with Berg Towing Company. Brother Black shipped in the deck department and last worked for Interstate Oil. He became a pensioner in 2000 and settled in Rock Hall, Maryland. SEAN GALLAGHER Brother Sean Gallagher, 27, died September 5. He signed on with the SIU in 2015 when he worked for Great Lakes Dredge and Dock. The engine department member’s final vessel was the Dodge Island. Brother Gallagher resided in Virginia Beach, Virginia. LOUIS LOUVIERRE Pensioner Louis Louvierre, 88, passed away September 18. He joined the union in 1964 and was employed with Higman Barge Lines. The deck department member concluded his career with the same company. He went on pension in 2001 and was a resident of Dickinson, Texas. JOHN TAYLOR Pensioner John Taylor, 87, died September 27. He joined the SIU in 1968 when he worked for Allied Transportation. Brother Taylor was a deck department member and remained with the same company for the majority of his career. He went on pension in 1994 and lived in Newport News, Virginia. NMU CLIFFORD CHURCHWELL Pensioner Clifford Churchwell, 89, passed away October 1. He was born in Tifton, Georgia, and sailed with the NMU before the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. Brother Churchwell made his home in in Philadelphia. KIM GIN Brother Kim Gin, 107, died September 1. Born in China, he was an NMU member prior to the 2001 merger with Seafarers International Union. Brother Gin resided in San Francisco. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. NAME AGE Alverio, Pablo 77 Anderson, Frederick 77 Benitez, Enrique 92 Calderon, Emilio 84 Esteves, Justo 75 Matthews, Henry 94 Persakis, John 95 Smith, Robert 94 DOD 10/01/2019 09/25/2019 08/31/2019 09/26/2019 09/27/2019 10/07/2019 10/19/2019 09/22/2019 Unrep in the Atlantic WILLIAM WEEKLEY Pensioner William Weekley, 77, died October 18. He began sailing with the union in 1968 when he signed on aboard the Choctaw. An engine department member, Brother Weekley concluded his career on the Defender. He retired in 1998 and made his home in Bay Minette, Alabama. HUGH WILDERMUTH Pensioner Hugh Wildermuth, The USNS Supply (left), crewed by CIVMARS from the SIU Government Services Division, provides fuel to the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan Oct. 30 in the Atlantic Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kaitlin Rowell) December 2019 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings ALLIANCE ST. LOUIS (Maersk Line, Limited), June 8 – Chairman Timothy Olvany, Secretary Rudolph Daniels, Educational Director Herbert Hyde, Deck Delegate Tavell Love, Steward Delegate Malachi Tannis. Chairman confirmed payoff in Jacksonville, where voyage will end. Educational director stressed the importance of attending upgrading classes at Piney Point. He emphasized the educational benefits as well as the advantage when competing for jobs at the hall. Members discussed the ship’s fund and various ways it could be used. Deck delegate reported dispute in India where agent wanted monetary compensation for shore passes. Also, crew would like clarification from port agent for penalty work pay for weekends and holidays. Members collectively expressed that a better benefits plan for vision was needed, especially since company requires two pairs of glasses. Crew would like consideration given to safety prescription glasses as well. Crew discussed STCW regulations and their effect on various ratings during docking/ undocking. They noted a potential conflict between STCW requirements and (collectively) union and company rules. They emphasized the importance of safe working conditions for everyone. Next port: Gulfport, Mississippi. INDEPENDENCE II (TOTE), June 9 – Chairman Victor Eligio, Secretary Gerald Hyman, Deck Delegate Zachary Ballard, Engine Delegate Ricardo The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Fuentes. Chairman noted one hour of meal relief pay for watchman when on watch, and also discussed pending OT for engine and deck departments. Chairman thanked all departments for their good work and gave a special thanks to the three ordinary seamen. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested coffee for bosun shop, new toaster, new mattresses and WiFi availability. Members asked for TV and DVDs in rooms. CALIFORNIA (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning), July 14 – Chairman Kenneth Abrahamson, Secretary Gerald Kirtsey, Educational Director Alex Canada, Deck Delegate Barry Briggs, Engine Delegate Raibonne Charles, Steward Delegate Lea Ramos. Computer in crew lounge has internet access. Chairman discussed shipyard period in September and explained new medical benefits. He reiterated the importance of the Jones Act, a staple of the American maritime industry. Educational director recommended members upgrade at the Piney Point school and check credentials for expiration dates. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks extended to all departments for a job well done. Crew requested bigger TVs in rooms as well as cable access. Ship will soon be wired for WiFi. Next port: Long Beach, California. INDEPENDENCE II (TOTE), August 2 – Chairman Victor Eligio, Secretary Gerald Hyman. Crew discussed getting relief for watchmen at mealtime. Chairman thanked entire crew for a job well done. Another time will be given to call for a job relief. Members inquired about using ship funds to purchase movies. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew went over expiration dates for credentials and discussed course requirements. Members asked for new mattresses, new refrigerator and another washer and dryer for work clothes. Crew requested TVs in each room and WiFi availability. MAERSK SELETAR (Maersk Line, Limited), August 11 – Chairman Ronmel Lopez, Secretary Steven Dickson, Educational Director Monroe Monseur, Deck Delegate Michael Sherman, Engine Delegate Christopher Edwards, Steward Delegate Danilo Florendo. Secretary advised members to keep documents up to date and to visit SIU website to set up member profile. Educational director encouraged crew to upgrade whenever possible at the Paul Hall Center and donate to SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Two new juice machines purchased. Universal weight machine to be purchased and set up in gym. Members requested a raise in pension and an increase in vacation days. Crew directed to report any nonworking items on ship. Next port: Newark, New Jersey. MAERSK ATLANTA (Maersk Line, Limited), September 1 – Chairman Nur Holis, Secretary Oscar Gomez, Educational Director Richard Huffman, Deck Delegate Mohamed Abdelwahab. Payoff scheduled at sea. Chairman thanked steward department for a job well done including the hot food at nighttime. Secretary gave thanks to the engine and deck departments for supporting the ship and galley gang. Special thanks given to captain for supportiveness. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested TVs in all rooms, plus transformers and adaptors. Crew needs more big-sized coveralls and new microwave in crew mess. They suggested changing requirements for medical benefit eligibility. MAERSK COLUMBUS (Maersk Line, Limited), September 20 – Chairman Ali Alhamyari, Secretary Merly Ford, Educational Director Melgar Dagvio, Engine Delegate Norman Arquillano, Steward Delegate Adele Messina. AB sent home after ankle injury. Missing-man wages not paid while vessel sailed short. Educational director reminded crew to take advantage of the upgrading opportunities at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. Members discussed budgetary questions about security team. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Ship in need of new pillows and linen. WiFi equipment delivered and waiting to be installed. Food funding was adequate according to Capt. Madden. Crew requested TVs for each stateroom and for the cost be taken out of ship’s fund. Next port: Newark, New Jersey. LIBERTY PEACE (North Star Shipping), September 22 – Chairman Manolo Delos Santos, Secretary Terrell McMillian, Deck Delegate Darius McCastle. Chairman reiterated importance of keeping documents up to date and upgrading at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Secretary reminded crew to save all pay vouchers in order to file for vacation. No beefs or disputed OT reported. MIDNIGHT SUN (TOTE), September 24 – Chairman Darryl Smith, Secretary Lewis Johansen, Educational Director Michael McGlone. Members were instructed to leave clean rooms when leaving ship. Crew discussed importance of donating to SPAD to help keep the U.S. Merchant Marine strong and thereby help ensure the availability of jobs for fellow brothers and sisters. Chairman announced payoff at sea and encouraged crew to remain watchful and safe. Secretary reminded members of their responsibility keeping documents updated. Help is available at the union halls. Educational director informed crew of newly available LNG courses. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members were told to keep new fans in their rooms as they will be needed again soon. Crew was directed to use transportation van for luggage when no cargo operations are going on. Next port: Tacoma, Washington. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt December 2019 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Seafarers LOG 19 �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Advanced Refer Containers May 4 May 15 Title of Course BAPO March 23 April 17 Engineroom Resource Management August 24 August 28 FOWT February 24 March 20 Start Date Date of Completion Gap Closing Courses Start Date Date of Completion Engine Department Upgrading Courses MSC Storekeeper Basic February 24 March 13 Junior Engineer Program January 13 March 6 MSC Supply Configuration Management March 16 April 10 Machinist June 29 July 17 Marine Electrician June 29 July 31 Marine Refer Tech May 18 June 26 Pumpman July 20 July 24 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck February 24 April 20 June 15 AB to Mate Modules March 20 May 15 July 10 Modules must be taken in order. Those who are not in the mates program cannot apply for these courses. Contact the Admissions Office for further details. Welding Advanced Galley Operations February 17 Advanced Meteorology May 4 May 8 Chief Cook Advanced Shiphandling May 11 May 22 Modules run every other week. Contact Admissions for exact date. Advanced Stability April 27 May 1 Chief Steward January 6 February 14 ARPA March 16 August 3 March 20 August 7 Galley Operations January 27 February 21 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 Bosun Recertification July 20 August 3 January 13 February 3 January 17 February 7 Crane Familiarization March 9 March 13 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 January 6 January 10 ECDIS May 25 May 29 Steward Recertification March 16 April 6 Fast Rescue Boat July 20 July 24 GMDSS February 17 July 6 February 28 July 17 January 13 February 10 March 9 Leadership Management Skills August 31 Radar Renewal (one day) January 13 Steward Department Courses January 31 March 13 Safety/Open Upgrading Courses Basic Training March 2 March 6 Basic Training Revalidation January 17 January 17 January 24 February 21 March 20 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation February 10 February 14 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting February 10 February 14 September 4 Government Vessels January 6 January 10 Contact the PHC Admissions Office Medical Care Provider February 3 February 7 Radar Observer March 2 July 20 March 13 July 31 Tank Ship - DL February 24 February 28 RFPNW January 27 February 21 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL February 10 February 14 100 Ton Master August 17 September 4 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG February 3 February 7 Lifeboat UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth __________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #_________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG COURSE ____________________________ ____________________________ START DATE _______________ _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION ________________________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable. Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, or any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 12/19 December 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class 853 – Graduated Aug. 9 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Bryan Aleman Medina, Peter Louis Festa III, Antonio Leroyce A.H. Hagans Jr., Christian Ivezic, Nathan Ray Johnson Jr., Jalen D’chan Lewis, Felix Maldonado, Pedro Sadrac Maysonet-Gonzalez, Mark Morris, Benjamin Oostenbrug, Jordan Richardson, Elvin Joel RijosPerez, Davner M. Rivera-Melendez, Jorge Gerardo Valencia Bon, Ricardo Jose ValenzuelaVenegas and Jonathan Yates. Important Notice To All Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Water Survival (Upgraders) - Graduated June 14 (above, from left): Carleous Leroy Brown Jr., and Aurora Foster. Also graduating, but not pictured, was Adam Salim Elmenani. Water Survival (Upgraders) – Graduated July 12 (above, from left): Michael Bonifacio Adote, Carleton Lamar Jenkins II and Saddam Mohamed Yahia. Also graduating, but not pictured, were Badr Eddine Bouziane, Mark Dennison and Cortney Smith. Fast Rescue Boat – Graduated June 7 (above, in alphabetical order): Husein Mohsin Alrayyashi, Bernard Baker, Jason Boyer, David Chance, Christopher Gross, Joshua Lux and Mackenzie Wincelowicz. Class instructor Thomas Truitt is at the far right. ECDIS – Michael Wilson (above, right) graduated from this course June 7. Joining Wilson to celebrate his accomplishment is Patrick Schoenberger, his instructor. Small Arms – Graduated June 21 (above, starting second from left): Joseph Bowen, Eric Van Mose and Michael Souza. Class instructors John Thomas and Matthew Rogers are at the far left and far right, respectively. Government Vessels – Graduated July 12 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Nathaniel Balos, Bernardo Mozo Celi, Adrian Darden, Eugene Evans Jr., Troy Fleming, Noel Ramos Gemo, Raymond Gordon, Dwayne Harris, Darrion Ingram, Jason James, Jamal Kassim, Keith McIntosh, Brian Murphy, Patrick Stubbs, Nixon Thomas, Mary Whatley and Emory Wheeler. December 2019 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes UA to AS-D – Graduated July 19 (right, in alphabetical order): Patrick Kenny Anderson Jr., Timothy Behnke, Thomas Burch, Carlos Omar Diaz-Torres, James Douglas, Rannie Bernard Fore II, Michael Laskowsky, Omaree Williams and Seamus Woods. Government Vessels – Graduated Aug. 2 (above, in alphabetical order): Marsha Blas, Keshyra Brinkley, Peter Burroughs, Nadine Butler, Peter Kweku Annan Dadzie, Salvador Malasan De Guzman, James Fells, Laura Hollar, Romello Johnson, David Kenedy, Martin Krins, Edwin Lashley, Nathaniel Leary, Mario Loria, Luis Ivan Mena, Joshua Ato Mensah, Abdulrahman Mohamed Mussa, Alex Adelmir Oliva, Christopher Richardson, Sharde Ross, Shewanna Stephenson, Nikia Stripling, Derrick Sullivan and Kennard Young. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Paul Hall Center Classes Machinist – Graduated July 19 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): SUA (Galley – GradManolitoOperations) Gener Garcia, uatedJeffrey October 5 (photoEmanat left, in Nicholson, alphabetical order): Alexandra uel Paul, Ronaldo Jose Erickson, Paisami Perez, Gay, Daniel HowQuinones Arturo ard, Lamarai Jones, Apig Reyes, DavidShadonna SanJones, EsStonia Moore, Eugenia chez-Flores, Mohamed Porter, NoahSheriff Susumu Lamin andSantiagoDerStephens, Jessica rick Lareesa Sullivan.Warren, Instructor Williams, Kendra Williams Keith Adamson is atand theJarid Wilson. far right. Combined & Advanced SUA Basic (Galley Opera- Firefighting – Graduated June No14 (photo tions) – Graduated at right, in alphabetical order): Arvember 2 (photo at right, chie in David Eldridge Jr., order): Harold Peter alphabetical Gerber II, Martin Hamilton, Joshua Reginald Howard, Billie Johnson, Roy Alcalde Madrio, Mahealani Kawelo, Alize Martin McDonald, Ian McDonough, Lassiter, Christian Louis, Abdulkhalek Siddiq Mohsen, Gerardo Kaindoy Melano, John Morrison, Davin Tucker Silva, and MackWilfredo Ramos enzieJames Wincelowicz. Scott, Tahn Stuart, Nicholas Tacy, Jalisa Williams and Derek Wilson. 22 Seafarers LOG December 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Tank Ship Familiarization DL – Graduated Aug. 2 (above, in alphabetical order): Jeffrey Amestoy, Michael Cruz, Fredy David, Johnny Dozier III, Joseph Dupre, Debbie Lanquin Garcia, Tavell Love and Chanel Peters. Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Graduated July 26 (above, in alphabetical order): Jeffrey Amestoy, Michael Cruz, Fredy David, Joseph Dupre, Debbie Lanquin Garcia, Jason James, Tony Kirven, Jesus Miguel Mendez Mercado, Sonia Pabon Barreto, Chanel Peters and Lebarron West. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting Upgraders) – Graduated July 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Glennorris Randolph Alston III, Loren Arriola, Michael Birke, Ashley Codrington, Andrew Devine, Mark Feldhaus, Charles Ferguson, Stephen Jenkins, Chanel Peters, Kenneth Taylor, Matthew Thompson, Kenneth Tousignant and Craig Wooten. Certified Chief Cook – Graduated July 12 (above, from left): Dante Jibri Moyer, Jesus Miguel Mendez Mercado and Katherine Anderson. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting Upgraders) – Graduated July 12 (above, in alphabetical order): James Dillon, Tyler Jasinski, David Lorocco, Pamela Mahan, Douglas Marshall, Michael Mazyck, Tony Olaya, Prateek Poras and Hiten Chinukumar Shrimankar. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated July 12 (above, in alphabetical order): Marlon Agulan Battad, Julito Cordova Crodua, Laura Deebach, Kenneth McHellen and Jayne Peterson. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated Aug. 2 (above, in alphabetical order): Shirley Bellamy, Roxanne Fike, Douglas Hundshamer, Francisco Javier Madsen and Richard James Wythe Jr. December 2019 Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated July 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Barry Alviso, Lonnie Wayne Jones Jr., Emmanuel Fabia Laureta, Isabel Reino Sabio and Mary Whatley. Seafarers LOG 23 �VOLUME 81, NO. 12 DECEMBER 2019 Text “Join” to 97779 To Sign Up for SIU Text Alerts O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O DOT Secretary Elaine L. Chao (fifth from right) poses with SIU officials at the gathering in New York. Pictured from left are Safety Director Osvaldo Ramos, Asst. VP Nick Celona, VP Tom Orzechowski, Exec. VP Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, President Michael Sacco, SIU of Canada President Jim Given, Secretary Chao, VP Dean Corgey, Director of Manpower Mark von Siegel, Port Agent Ray Henderson and VP Joseph Soresi. Transportation Secretary Receives AOTOS Award United Seamen’s Service Also Honors Given, Mathur, Pyne, U.S. Crews U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao headlined this year’s recipients of the United Seamen’s Service Admiral of the Ocean Sea (AOTOS) Awards. Chao accepted the honor Nov. 1 in New York City, where she was joined by fellow honorees SIU of Canada President Jim Given, Alaska Tanker Company President and CEO Anil Mathur, and Kirby Corporation Chairman Joseph Pyne. Four Seafarers-crewed vessels also were recognized for heroic actions: the Green Lake (Central Gulf Lines), Maersk Yorktown (Maersk Line, Limited), Great Republic (Key Lakes), and USNS Brunswick (crewed by CIVMARS from the SIU Government Services Division). SIU President Michael Sacco introduced Secretary Chao at the ceremony. He described her as “one of the strongest champi- SIU President Michael Sacco introduces Secretary Chao. ons our industry has ever known…. She not only understands American maritime, but also truly cares about the American worker. She is a tremendous leader and is universally respected, admired and trusted throughout our industry.” Chao received the AOTOS Award based on her career-long commitment to the maritime industry. “I am honored to have my work over the years recognized by such a distinguished organization and audience,” she said. “I understand very well the sacrifices that merchant mariners experience. The men and women in this industry are heroes; I am proud of them and work hard to support them.” “Secretary Elaine L. Chao has worked hard to advance the U.S. maritime industry,” said Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby. “Secretary Chao has been a staunch defender of the U.S.-flag merchant marine fleet. She has defended the budget of the Maritime Administration, and many of its policies in the interagency process. Today, we congratulate Secretary Chao on receiving the Admiral of the Ocean Sea Award which is recognized as one of the most prestigious awards in the maritime industry.” This is Secretary Chao’s second Cabinet post. She served as U.S. Secretary of Labor from 2001-January 2009. She began her executive career in public service working on transportation and trade issues at the White House. She then served as Deputy Maritime Administrator; Chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission; and Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Given has led the fight for tougher cabotage laws within his country. He also chairs a working group of the International Transport Workers’ Federation to support cabotage laws around the world. Given is a third-generation Seafarer, having started his career in the deck department in 1979. After sailing for 13 years, he came ashore as a union dispatcher in Thorold. He held other posts within the union before be- coming its president in 2013. In accepting his award, Given informed those attending that the “Jones Act is the gold standard” of cabotage internationally. He said any weakening of the law – which states any cargo moved between two U.S. ports must be carried aboard U.S.-built, U.S.-owned and U.S.-flagged vessel with American crews – would have negative implications around the world. “You who defend the Jones Act in the United States are the defenders of cabotage around the world,” Given added. Mathur became president and CEO of SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company in 2001 after working for British Petroleum for 20 years in management, corporate planning and facilities engineering. He holds an MBA from the University of California at Berkeley and an MS in Engineering from the Univer- sity of Tulsa. He is an alumnus of the Harvard Business School. Pyne started with Kirby in 1978 and climbed through its executive ranks, becoming a director in 1988. He retired in April 2018 but continues to serve Kirby’s chairman in a non-executive role. The United Seaman’s Service presented the first AOTOS Award in 1970. More than 80 maritime industry leaders have been recognized through the years. Established in 1942, the United Seaman’s Service provides community services for the U.S. Merchant Marine, U.S. armed forces and mariners from around the world at its centers in Europe, Asia, Africa and in the Indian Ocean. It also oversees seagoing libraries for American vessels through its affiliate, the American Merchant Marine Library Association. This year’s honorees are (from left) Joseph Pyne, chairman of the board of Kirby Corporation; U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao; Anil Mathur, president and CEO of Alaska Tanker Company.; and Jim Given, president of the Seafarers International Union of Canada. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource December 2019 Description An account of the resource TRANSPORTATION SECRETARY CHAO UNDERSCORES MARITIME SUPPORT NY WATERWAY CREWS RATIFY 5-YEAR CONTRACT SIU-CREWED GREEN LAKE RECEIVES MARAD'S GALLANT SHIP AWARD SIU MOURNS PASSING OF REP. CUMMINGS WWII SEAFARER DONATES COLLECTION, SHARES MEMORIES TRANSPORTATION SECRETARY RECEIVES AOTOS AWARD Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 12/01/2019 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 81, No. 12