http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/b9bd9df8d8bca561ebd1af2ab4e57100.PDF 57aef57f39c6ba733752b526390dce84 PDF Text Text Official Organ of the Atlantic and Gulf District, Seafarers International Union of North America Vol. VIII. . mm NEW YORK. N. Y., FKIDAY, MARCH 29. 1946 WHAT GOES UP.... No. 13 Isthmian Bars Election; Officials in New Stall To Keep Men Non-Union FLASH! NEW YORK. March 28 — NLRB and SIU representa­ tives will again attempt to board Isthmian vessels in this port to post election no­ tices. This action follows a telegram from the WSA in Washington to the Isthmian SS Company instructing the company to allow the notices to be posted in compliance with the law. The Isthmian Steamship Company pulled a new stall­ ing tactic out of its old bag of obstructionist tricks on March 28, as National Labor Relations Board regional of­ ficials, SIU and NMU organizers tried to board ships in New York Harbor to post notices of the upcoming elec­ tions to decido which, if any,$ Union • is to represent Isthmian the election machinery. By its delaying tactics the seamen. The NLRB and Union repre­ strongly anti-Union company is sentatives were barred from all trying to avert collective bar­ ships in the harbor, under one gaining and maintain its far-below-par wage scale as long as subterfuge or another. Isthmian' clearly showed that possible to save a few pennies. At every ship in New York it will delay as long as, possible Harbor Isthmian had doubled or trebled its dockside guards. The guards were under orders not to allow anyone aboard under any -circumstances. The tactics of barring the dele­ gations were slightly different in each case, btrt the pattern was the same througliuut. At three ships, the Mary Livermore, the H. H. Bancroft and the John Wanamaker, the guards gave this phony excuse: The ships are not the property Among the decisions reached of Isthmian; they belong to WSA NEW YORK—After eight full days of intensive discussion, the were proposals that would tight­ and you must have authorization longest conference of its kind in en the organizational structure from the WSA. Seafarers history, the Agents of the Union; look into the fea­ ANOTHER PHONY Conference of the Atlantic and sibility and advisibility of form­ At the Atlanta City they pull­ Gulf District has come to a close. ing an AFL Maritime Council; ed this one: The recommendations will be sub­ probe the desirability of setting This is an Isthmian ship. The mitted immediately to the mem­ up a Credit Union within the government has nothing to do SIU; make changes in the pres­ bership for its approval. with it. Consequently, the NLRB In this, the first peacetime ent probationary and trip card has nothing to do with the way it Agents Conference since 1941, system; and expand the present is run. many important decisions were Educational Program. The NLRB men took exception reached, which will serve to, Following are some of the re­ to the company's statements in strengthen the gains made so far,' each case. They argued with the and to make possible the further ports and proposals of the Con­ guards, they called their bo.ss, expansion of the Seafarers In­ ference excerpted from the offi­ the regional director, and they cial minutes of the conference: ternational Union. called Isthmian officials. Conference Proposals Miners Will 'Stay At Home' Go Before Membership Unless Given Health Fund For Final Approval Mr WASHINGTON, March 26 — Over 400,000 soft coal miners, 7Ticmbcrs of the United Mine Workers, AFL, will "down tools" at midnight Sunday, according to UMW President, John L. Lewis. Asserting, that this is "not a strike," Mr. Lewis stated that the miners are "exercising its option under the present agree­ ment." "In our letter to the local unions," Mr. Lewis said, "we are not calling a strike. We are no­ tifying them of the termination of the agreement. Obviously you know that the miners do not woi'k without an agreement. They will not trespass upon the properties until they have a con­ tract as that will be a violation of law and the miners are law-abid­ ing." The break in the negotiations, which started on March 12, came_ principally through the failure to agree on a "health and welfare fund" for the minei-s, and an agreement to act on the safety recommendations of the Federal Mine Inspection Service, instead of those of the state mining bu­ reaus. HITS STATE BUREAUS Mr. Lewis asserted that the state mining bureaus are lax and company dominated, and that casualties of his men during the war period had been greater than in the armed services in propor­ tion to the number involved. He said; "There will be no miner's blood spilled next week." Mr. Lewi.s maintained that fur­ ther talks would be useless un­ less the mine owners agi'eed in principle to the miners' proposal that a health and welfare fund, approximating $60,000,000 a year, to be collected through a "par­ ticipating royalty" of ten cents a ton, be set up. Lewis told his press conference today that the miners are not in­ terested in wages and hour.s if the question of its demands for health and safety measures are not satis­ fied. HOME USERS SPARED Although the work stoppage All shipping rules, except rules might paralyze basic industries, 8, 14, 25, 35, and the rule relative Lewis said that the union waited to. the Eastern Steamship Com­ until after the end of winter so pany, the Colonial Navigation that home users would not be in­ Company, the Savannah Line convenienced. Basic industries and the New England Steamship have enough coal for from 10 to Company, were unanimously re30 days, and the Solid Fuels Ad­ adopted by the Conference. The ministration is preparing to em­ latter rule and rule 35 were com­ bargo soft coal deliveries to in­ pletely deleted; rules 8, 14, and sure supplies to the most essen­ 25 were changed; and a new rule tial consumers. was inserted as number 35 to Government officials estimate take the place of the rule on tripthat electric power plants have card men and probationary men enough coal to last 72 days, and adopted at Llie 1943 Annual Elec­ railroads have enough for 27 days tion Ballot. of operation. The recommended rule changes The negotiations will continue, are: but observers see meager prosShipping Rule No. 8 be chang­ fJ^ct of a settlement in time to ed to read as follows: avert the Sunday night shut­ Any member on the regular down. shipping list who has a shipping. Proposed Changes in Shipping Rules card more than 3 months old must re-register on the shipping list and take out a new shipping card and date. Members more than 3 months in arrears in dues or assessments and less than 6 months in arrears in dues or assessments shall reg­ ister and ship from the 'same list as Tripcard and Permit Men do. Former members, more than 6 months in arrears in dues or as­ sessments, after approval by membership action, shall lake the first job assigned to him by the shipping dispatcher. Shipping Rule No. 14 be chang­ ed to read as follows: Members who have shipped and later quit or get fired and who do not report back to the (Continued on Page 4) Isthmian finally backed down on one point. It said the NLRB and Union delegations could go aboard company-owned ships af­ ter Isthmian had compiled lists of men aboard each ship who would be eligible to vote. HERE'S THE SCORE Under the NLRB ruling the elections are to include all*unlicensed personnel in the Deck, Engine and Stewai'd's Depart­ ments. The NLRB specified that the elections were to take place as early as possible, but not later than 30 days after the March 19 order. The new Isthmian time-spar­ ring tactic follows a long delay­ ing action by the company, which was climaxed when the NLRB denied a motion by Isthmian to reopen oral arguments on wheth­ er an election should be held. �Page Two THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, March 29, 1946 SEAFARERS LOG Puhlixhed Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affil/aied with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 1 » HARRY LUNDEBERG ------- President 105 Market Street, San Francisco, Calif. JOHN HAWK -- - Secy-Treas. P. O. Box 25, Station P., New York City Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. •267 Hunger In Europe It is ironical that the first fighters against fascism m the world should be the victims of the peace. Yet it is an undisputed fact that, unless immediate help is forthcoming, more than 20,000,000 European people will starve within the next year. The situation in Europe is critical. From eyewitness reports, and from letters, we know that disease and starva­ tion are scourging ever)' continental country. Our own seamen, returning from abroad, have told us of the bodies, of starvation-dead people being stacked like cord wood along public streets. They have told us about children and adults rooting through garbage pails for food, and scrabbling along the decks of relief ships for any grain that might have been dropped. STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL PATIENTS Such an attitude must prevail throughout the world, intolerable. Here in the United States, organized labor has adopt­ ed the attitude that hunger is not to be used as a weapon in industrial disputes. In the instance of the GM-UAW strike, labor showed its solidarity by contributing whole­ heartedly to the strikers so that the strike could be settled on its merits, and nor because of the hunger of the strikers' families. Such an attitude must prevail throughout hte world. The brave people in France, Poland, Greece, and the Balkan countries, who fought by our sides in the struggle against fascist oppression must not be allowed to starve now that the war has been won. We cannot allow hunger to be used as a political wea­ pon to force these people into the camp of the Russians, or to make it easy for a dictator of the Hitler-Mussolini type to use this situation to seize power. During the long war years, we in the United States looked forward eagerly to the days of unlimited steaks, quantities of butter, and an abundance of all other delica­ cies. And so, as a Christmas present to the rest of the world, we ended rationing of most items here. It is true that even yet we do not have all that we want. But we do have more than we need. And this excess must be shared with starving peoples of the world if we are to see the dream of a warless world come true. & Abraham Lincoln once said that a nation cannot exist half slave and half free. A peaceful world, as we would like to see it, cannot exist half fed and half starving. In this situation organized labor must take the lead. It is our duty to press for action by our government to alleviate the distress of the hungry peoples of the world. By whatever measures necessary, even the re-institutUn of rationing, we must make available enough food to sustain life in our brothers and sisters overseas. We have the food and we have the ships and men to sail the ships. We must heed the call of starving Europe and Asia. Men Now In The Marine Hospitals BOSTON HOSPITAL T. F. SMITH JAMES LEE T. THOMR RAY KEY G. PHINVEY JR. E. ALLEN GUY GAGE ED JOHNSTON H. GILLAN F. C. BROWN s. a. t NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL J. DENNIS J. H. BOWEN DONAT.D DAHL JAMES RILEY R. E. THORP, Jr. P. F. HICKS W. F. LEWIS H. A. CRUSE EDWARD JOHNSON J. E. DALE C. JANULEVICUS W. J. MARIONEAUX R. M, NOLAN JOSEPH MAJEAU H. D. STERTZBACK 4. 4. STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL J. S. CAMPBELL C. G. SMITH D. A. HUTTS J. V. RODRIGUEZ C. W. FARRELL W. A. MORSE W. H. G. BAUSE L. R. MORJA L. J. A. J. V. A. F. L. MOODY L. WEEKS WHEATON H. SPEARN SHAVROFF C. McALPHIN M. HANGEN 4 4 ft BUFFALO HOSPITAL THOMAS DUFFY J. LA BONTE J. PEMBROKE ART JEPSON ft ft ft MOBILE TIM BURKE M. CARDANA J. C. DANZEY ft ft ft ELLIS ISLAND HOSPITAL D. MCDONALD J. KASLUSKY C. MIDDLETON SAN JUAIL P!H.^HOSPITAL HIPOLITA DE LEON JOHN VANDESSPOOLL ROBERT MORGAN DELAWARE P. ELDEMIRE ANGEL CABRERA F. M. DUCLOS GERALD R. VOHLER BLAS RAMIREZ JULIO CATO BERNARD ft ft ft FORT STANTON HOSPITAL NICK GAMAMIN A. McGUIGAN You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing itmes: Tuesday—-1:30 to 3;30 p. ni. (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday—1:30 to 3:30 p. m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday—1:30 to 3:30 p. m. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) When entering the hospital notify the delegate by post­ card, giving your name and the number of your ward. E. T. HARDEMAN A. B. THOMPSON J. E. McCREADIE JOHN R. SARTOR L. L. LEWIS H. TUTTLE FRANK NICHOLSON ft ft ft DETROIT HOSPITAL EDWARD WARES WALTER DERR LYNN BURKE TONY SOVERENTO ALEX McMTI.I.AN ft ft ft BALTIMORE HOSPITAL JAMES KELLY FLOYD FRITZ JOSE SARAVIA OLIVER HEFFLEY JOHN MORRIS CLARK POPE GEORGE PARDEE IRA VAN WORMEK ft ft ft GALVESTON HOSPITAL A. A. TROMLY R. N. STROMER H. HARTMAN DIXON BANDA QUAID �Friday. March 29. 1946 TU t SEA tAKtRS LOG Page Three Deadlock Still Holds In Norfolk By PAUL HALL The Agents Conference has recommended a program of coor­ dination of union activities with New Orleans Port Agent Steely White as Gulf coordinator and Eaid Sheppard, Atlantic and Gulf director of organization, as Atlantic coordinator. The importance of this program is that it serves to weld the entire apparatus of the Union into a compact apparatus capable of meeting all issues squarely and using its full strength to act without delay. It means further that all activities of the Union are handled in a systematic manner with all sections of the apparatus working as one. Through the medium of the coordinators, headquarters and or­ ganizational officers in New York will be kept in constant touch with every phase of both port and organizational operations. In addition the burden of work can be more efficiently allocated, receiving supervision at all times. This is particularly needed at this time in view of the immediate tasks facing the Union. Elections Begin The Isthmian and AT&P elections have been finally ordered and the posting of the ships has actually started. When a ship is posted by the National Labor Relations Board, voting actually .starts within forty-eight hours. As this issue of the Log goes to press vot­ ing is already under way. In the voting period the closest attention must be paid to see that every crew member is contacted and every possible SIU vote is voted. A functioning organizational apparatus has been set up by the Union. This operation consists of some of the most energetic and best-trained men in the Union. These men have been trained in the hardest school of all, organization of the unorganized on the point of production. This apparatus is equipped to handle anything that comes their way and it only takes a brief glance at what the future holds to sec just how necessary it is to maintain this apparatus. They Love Their Jobs The Coast Guard, the War Shipping Administration and the other government maritime agencies aren't going to give up easy. They like their jobs and they intend to keep them as long as they ran and they will use every means in their power to hang on. The Union has to get rid of all forms of government bureau control and return maritime administration to its peacetime status if we are to progress. A well functioning Union with the organizational and port ap­ paratus working together can give the bureaucrats a run for their money and should end in the elimination of their control. The question of contracts and negotiations will be coming up soon and here again it is necessary that all Union operations be geared up so that the SIU can continue to lead the maritime field on the question of wages and conditions. The proper coordination will mean that the Union is on its toes and ready to get into any scuffle with both hands swinging. The Conference has proposed the formation of an AFL Maritime Council. This means that all AFL Unions connected with the mari­ time industry will be working together closer than ever before. The formation of such a Council means the active support of mighty unions such as the Longshoremen and the Teamsters. With such a strength the SIU can face the future with confidence and assurance. Chance For All With the educational program getting into full swing, every member will have the opportunity of preparing himself for leader­ ship. The AT&P and Isthmian drives have developed hundreds of members who will be found in the leadership of the future. The future looks good. This conference has been one of hard work which has produced jn-any progressive plans and proposals. All the proposals in the world don't mean anything, however, unless they are carried out. With the proper coordination of all Union activities they can, and vyill be carried out, The coming year is a year of action, a year of growth and progress. Isthmian is the first step towards the goal of organizing all the unorganized, towards bringing the whole in­ dustry under the banner of the SIU. The SIU belongs to the membership and the membership have a job to do. The time to act is now. With everyone pulling together it won't bo long before the SIU is the "ONE BIG UNION" in the maritime field. Make Isthmian SIU NORFOLK, Va.—Possibility of return of State-operated ferries to the Chesapeake Ferry Com pany and an end to the wage dis pute between the SIU and the company was foreseen here, as Seafarers officials reported "pro gress" in negotiations with the company. The Virginia Assembly enacted legislation on February 28 for the State to seize and operate the ferries after a three-week strike by Seafarer crews for vacations, holidays and a higher monthly scale.- The State is still operating the ferries at rates paid by the ferry company. There is reason for optimism, SIU leaders said, because the Chesapeake ferry company is, in effect, out of business until the ferries are returned by the State. And the State will continue to operate the ferries "until such time as the company can guaran­ tee uninterrupted service." AGREEMENT A "MUST" An agreement with the SIU will be necessary before any such guarantee can be given. Public opinion has been on the side of the strikers since the ne­ gotiations between SIU Secre­ tary-Treasurer John Hawk and Norfolk Agent Ray White and company officials bogged down .early in February. The strike rocked along for three weeks, supported by all maritime Unions in the ai-ea be­ fore the State took over the fer­ ries and ordered the men back to work. All during that time, despite transportation hardships, the public and press in the area were on the side of the Union. There were several reasons for this support. First, it was gen­ erally known that the Union de­ mands were just, and that the ferry company was a notorious slave driver. It was known also that the wages and conditions sought by the Union merely eciualized those of the ferries op­ erated by the county. GAINS ALREADY MADE The disputed ferries are op­ erated between Pine Beach and Newport News and Willoughby Spit and Old Point Comfort. Prior to an NLRB election in 1945, which certified the SIU as collective bargaining agent for unlicensed personnel, men had worked an eight hour day, seven days a week and 365 days a year. There had been no compensation for overtime after the eight-hour workday—and there was plenty of overtime work. Immediately following the elec­ tion, the Seafarers were able to obtain a 48-hour week, with time and a half for work in excess of eight hours a day and time and a half in excess of 48 hours. COMPANY STALLING Then negotiations were carried on for four months by the SIU to obtain a two-week vacation for the men, 10 holidays a year and an increase in the monthly pay scale. The company continued to stall and the unlicensed personnel voted to strike the ferries. The company had held out for no blanket increases and had tried to whittle dov/n other demands. The high-handed action of the State of Virginia came without warning. Hawk and White both were in the Norfolk area, but were not consulted before the strike-breaking legislation was railroaded through the legisla­ tive body by the Virginia Gover­ nor. The State Circuit Court also acted with lightning speed in handing down a writ ordering the State Highway Department to operate the ferries. SIU leaders conducting the present negotiations are holding firm in their demands. The ferry company is on the spot. The only action that can possibly fore­ stall an SIU victory is continued operation of the ferries by the State. Report On Organizing Drive By EARL "BULL" SHEPPARD FLASH ! I Posting of Isthmian ships has start­ ed. When your ship is posted voting starts in 48 hours. STAY ABOARD AND VOTE SIU ! The thing everyone has been*— — looking for has finally happened and show them just what SIU and the crews sailing Isthmian representation really means. Staying aboard these ships will and AT & P ships are going to insure a full turnout of the SIU have the opportunity to make vote. If, for example, the SIU their decision as to whom they were to win by an impressive wish to be represented by. majority, negotiations could be This is a time when, more than immediately opened and the sign­ ever before, every man must stay ing of an agreement made much on the job. The voting is only ea.sier. one phase of the activity that The question of a contract is must now be carried on, and the something for Isthmian seamen larger the margin of the SIU to immediately start discussing. vote, the easier will be the carryUsing the SIU contracts now in ng out of these tasks.. force as base, group discussions STAY ABOARD should be started with a view to It is important to stay aboard getting as many ideas and sugges­ the ships now and see that every tions as possible from the ships. man votes. There are still men These ideas should be writ­ aboard these ships who haven't ten down and mailed to the New fully made up their minds as to York Hall so they can be assem­ just what they are going to do. bled and studied. They will then It is up to every SIU member be turned over to the negotia­ and supporter to discuss the tions committees when the vot­ Union in detail with these men ing is over and the question of an agreement comes up. PICTURE OF AN INJUNCTION GOOD NEWS Good reports are coming in from all ports and ships. The most marked improvement in or­ ganizing has been in the Stew­ ards Department. Many cooks and chief stewards, who pre­ viously were undecided, have now signed pledge cards and se­ lected the SIU as their choice. The response to the charter membership offer continues to be good and all ports report many Isthmian men taking out mem­ bership books. Men who have joined ships since March 19th will not be able to vote, but they should still stay on the job until the voting is over. If a few men start piling off, others will follow and if they get scattered many will lose out on the chance of making their choice in the elections. It won't be long now and after putting up with these jobs for so long it shouldn't be too hard to stick around for the final punch. Everything looks good now and it is up to everyone both ashore and General Electric's attempt to provoke violence by obtaining an on the ships to keep it that way. injunction against group picketing and using cops as strikebreakers Before long the Isthmian fleet only succeeded in doubling the determination of GE employes in will be SIU! Philadelphia to win their strike and a pay raise. The injunction, which failed to turn out a single radio or refrigerator, brought only a parade of 6000 pickets whom club-swinging police tried futilely to disperse. (LPA) Make Isthmian SIU! •- iy- �Page Four THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, March 29, 1946 Agents Conference Plans For Expansion All Tripcard Men and Permift (Continued from Page 1) dispatcher within 24 hours after Men who have their dues paid shipping, shall lose their original for the current month shall reg ister on a separate shipping list date. Shipping Rule No. 25 be chang­ other than the regular shipping list and shall ship from this list ed to read as follows: Men shipped on regular job as Tripcard and Permit Men in a whose ship lays up in less than rotary manner.' 15 days after original employ­ All Tripcard Men and Permit ment date shall have his shipping Men shall be shipped only after card restored. book members do not take jobs, Shipping Rule relative to the After no member on regular clauses regarding Eastern .Steam­ shipping list takes jobs after 3 ship Company, the Colonial Na­ hourly calls, then Permit Men vigation Company, the Savannah or Tripcard Men sliall bo allow­ I,inc and the New England ed the privilege of throwing in Steamship (Clauses 1, 2, 3 and cards for the job. 4) be deleted in its entirety. Tripcard Men and Permit Men Shipping Rule No. 35 be de­ shall be allowed to make either leted in its entirety. one complete round trip or to To delete that part of the Ship­ not less than 60 days continuous ping Rules relative to the Reso­ employment on same vessel. lution adopted at the 1943 An­ To recommend to the member­ nual Election Ballot in its entire­ ty, and a new Shipping Rule be ship that the Shipping Rules be added to the regular Shipping amended and after ratification by Rules to replace the old Sliip- the membership that it be placed ping Rule No. 35 and to read as on a referendum ballot for ap­ proval, as per the Constitution. follows: Constitutional Change Proposed In tire r-epori of the Committee tion. This provision shall not ap­ Oil Constitution it Was recom­ ply to officials and other office mended that only Article XIII be holders working for the Union amended. The proposed amend­ during current year for period of 4 months or longer. ment follows: Section 12: After completion of Section (c): Any candidate for Agent or joint patrolman must referendum balloting, and final have three years of sea service action taken by membership re­ in any one of three depai'tments. garding same, used ballots to be Any candidate for departmental held in Secretary-Treasurer's of­ patrolman must have three years fices, The Quarterly Finance sea service in their respective de­ Committee, meeting in the first partments. Sea service, as speci­ meeting of such type after final fied in this article, shall mean on action by membership is taken, merchant vessels in unlicensed are to recommend means and capacity. methods of disposing of used bal­ Section (e): That he be an ac­ lots. tive and fuU book member and If passed by the membership show four montlis discharges for the proposed amendment will be the current year in an unlicensed placed on a referendum ballot rating, prior to date of nomina­ for approval, as per Constitution. Action Against The Coast Guard The S e a f a r ers International Union of North America has al­ ready taken concrete action on the question of unnecessary peacetime controls of the mari­ time industry by the U.S. Coast Guard, and the transfer of juris­ diction of the Bureau of Steam­ boat Inspection and Navigation to the Maritime Commission instead of to the Department of Com­ merce, as in pre-war days. On January 11, 1946, a letter of protest was sent to the Presi­ dent of the United States regard­ ing the continuance of Coast Guard authority over the Mer­ chant Marine, and at the same time, it was requested that the jurisdiction .over the Bureau of Steamboat Inspection and Navi­ gation be transfeiTed to the De­ partment of Commerce. On March 8, 1946, a further letter of protest was sent to the President's Executive Office re­ garding these same matters, and was concurred in by all SIU af­ filiates. Your Union has further protested the transfer of the Shipping Commissioners and the Steamboat Inspectors functions to the Maritime Commission, and has demanded that open public hearings be held on this matter before it is transferred to any other authority than the Depart­ ment of Commerce. A continuous campaign has been carried on in the pages of the Seafarers Log regarding con­ tinued Coast Guard control of maritime personnel, and our stand in opposition to this peace­ time control has been made in no uncertain terms in several differ­ ent stories and editorials. A motion was passed by SIU membership meetings that the Seafarers call on all Maritime Unions and AFL affiliates to join with the SIU in a campaign to rid the seamen of wartime Coast Guard controls and return the in­ dustry to peacetime status. In line with this motion, let­ ters were sent to all Maritime Unions during the past week re­ stating this motion, and suggest­ ing a program of action. Since that time, a four paged mimeographed leaflet has been issued to all SIU members, along with copies of the letter and sug­ gested program. We feel it necessary and urgent that this Agents' Conference re­ affirm the stand which has al­ ready been taken on the Coast Guard and the Bureau of Steam­ boat Inspection and Navigation, and continue this same militant program of publicity and direct action until these evils which be­ set the merchant marine are en­ tirely eliminated, and conditions are returned to their pre-war status or better. YES, ITS ISTHMIAN'S SEA HAWK These Isthmian men were glad to have their picture taken by the Union of their choice—the Seafarers! Front (reading from left): Skuistad. DM; Hilliard. Oiler: Neilson. AB; Martinson, AH. Second row: Roberts, Wiper; Barker, AB; Servallos, 2nd Ck.; Belcher, FWT; Martinski, FWT; Rob­ ertson, AB: Barney, AB; Priichett, Oiler. Back row: Webber, MM; Clemens, AB; Diaz, MM; Lueek, OS; Dennis, DM; and Lode, OS. Two former NMU men. Skuisted and Servallos, turned in their books, and took out SIU memberships. Deck delegate Robertson and Eng. delegate Belcher are holding the Sea Hawk shipshape for the SIU, and doing a swell job, too! Probationary Books, Permits The probationary book and tripcard system of operation has become obsolete. With the in­ dustry being reconverted to a peacetime operational .status, the operators will be laying up a large amount of tonnage. On a small scale, this is already being felt with a marked decrease in shipping. The rights of the membership to jobs must be protected at all times and we have to be par­ ticularly careful today because we don't know just how many jobs will be available tomorrow. It is true that winning the Isth­ mian Line will mean more jobs, but it will also mean more mem­ bers, and we will have to have good Union men sailing those ships to see that the right kind of Agreement is obtained. For this reason, we cannot even consider closing the books of the Union as such an action would be the same thing as shutting off the organizational activity. When we organize a company, we bring new members into the Union who are entitled to and must be given, the same protec­ tion as the older members. For that reason, it is recom­ mended that the present tripcard and probationary book system be changed to a permit system. The value of the permit system is that it enables the membership to ad­ mit as members the necessary numbers to keep shipping on a decent basis. The permit system would elim­ inate much of the duplicate filing and office work and would aid in the check-up system of dues records, etc. When any seaman who is car­ rying a permit card is admitted to the Union from time to time, he would be given the regular blue membership book, but re­ gardless of the length of time he has sailed on a permit, he would have to remain on probation for at least six months before be­ coming a full member. A general summarization of the recommendations are: 1. Tripcards and probationarybooks are to be eliminated. 2. Permits to be issued prop­ erly ruled for payments, de­ scriptions, etc. . 3.. These admissions to be based on seniority but in no case should any permit man be admitted with less than six months time on a permit. •4. The regular blue mem­ bership book to be issued from the Headquarters Offices when the permit holder is admitted to the Union. 5. A minimum of six months probationary period is to be required on membership books, in addition to time already spent on permit before a man is considered for a full book membei'. 6. None of these rules to ap­ ply to unorganized seamen working on ships where an or­ ganizational drive is being con­ ducted. SIU Moves To Abolish The WSA The War Shipping Administra­ tion was created to take over the responsibility of operation and administration of shipping for the period of the war to relieve the U. S. Maritime Commission of the overload of wartime ad­ ministration and operation. During the course of the war, the WSA has constantly added to its powers and duties until it has become virtually the controlling agency. At the present time, the WSA is frantically trying to hang on to everything it can and to even increase its jurisdiction. The purpose of this is to hang onto the pie and have the WSA, under the same set-up, but with pos­ sibly another title, become a permanent government bureau. Inasmuch as many companies are resuming peacetime opera­ tion, the WSA is no longer neces­ sary and only a burden to the people of the country who must continue to pay high taxes to support such useless paper bu­ reaus, this committee recom­ mends and urges that the SIU exercise every possible means to have the WSA abolished in all of its phases and all shipping con­ trol returned to tlie pre-emergency status. Need For AFL Maritime Council This committee realizes the urgent need for -a closer coopera­ tion among the affiliate unions connected with the maritime in­ dustry. The SIU support of Dis­ trict 50 of the Mine Workers and the Longshoremen have shown that this cooperation is both feasible and necessary. The fact that the support of the entire AFL in Mobile was in­ strumental in the quick tugboat strike victory there shows again that some even closer national agreement between the SIU and our affiliates is necessary. This committee, therefore, recommends that the President of the AFL, the Executive Com­ mittee and the National Officers and Executive Committes of the ILA, the Teamsters and all other maritime connected Unions, be immediately contacted with a view towards the establishment of an AFL Maritime Council. It is further recommended that each Port Agent immediately con­ tact the Local Unions in his Port and sound them out and discuss the formation of this Councilwith them. In line with this program, it is recommended that the SIU of­ ficially request a meeting to be held as soon as possible to ex­ plore and set up the mechanics for such a council. (More on Page 6) �THE Friday. March 29, 1946 SEAFARERS LOG Baltimore Seafarers Give To Hospitalized ITHMK QUESTfON:—T)o you think that the United States should reinstitute rationing, if necessary, to help provide food for the starving people of Europe and Asia. MATTHEW DILEO, Acting AB— Rationing during the war gave jjeople in the United Stales enough to eat. On my last trip, I was in Belgium and people there didn't have anything to eat. So. of course we ought to help them out with food. We have plenty. We should make sure that we leave ourselves enough to get along on. but any sound system of rationing will do that. I don't know how people here can enjoy the food they eat when they know that men. women, and children are starving overseas. They don't need much, and what we give them will keep them alive. Port Baltimore Has Big Field JOSEPH CANTIN. Bosun— That's a good idea if done cor­ rectly. By that I mean that we have got to see that the black markets don't start again, and all people will get a just share of the food. I was in France last month and I know that people are starving there. We had grain as our cargo, and people came on board and picked up all the loose grain from around the winches, and swept up every last piece from the deck. Starving people have got to be fed. and we should feel lucky that we can help them, and still have enough for our­ selves. JOSEPH J. FENNER. Bosurf-We should not allow these peo­ ple to starve. We helped them fight the war, and now we should help them live. We have plenty of food and we could help them until they get on their feet. When people get hungry they get out of hand and anything can hap­ pen. I think the majority of peo­ ple in the United States is in favor of feeding Europe and Asia. The quicker we get those people straightened out. the bet­ ter it will be for all of us. Europe is starving, and the only ones who can do anyihing about it are the people of the Untied States. i BALTIMORE — Contributions from the rank and file members of the SIU for their sick brothers in the Marine Hospital continue to come in, reports John Taurin of the Baltimore hospital committe. Brother Taurin has received $16.10 from Rex Dickey, acting Agent, and $35 from Miss Lopez, secretary, which they collected from Seafarers in the Baltimore port. The following hospitalized men have received for their personal expenses the sums specified: Floyd W. Fritz $4.26 Charles Skakacs 4.20 P. Chappell 4.26 M. Morris 4.26 Jose Sarove 4.26 Daniel Hickey 4.26 E. J. Dellamuno 4.26 1. Iverson 4.26 S. Kelly 4.26 J. Kelly 4.26 J. Morris 4.25 J. Van Womer 4.25 CHRIS. J. LEGER, Jr.. AB— I'm in favor of it provided that we get what we need to keep us going, and then let them have the rest. The situation in Europe is bad. They lack nutritious food, and we should give them all we can spare. I saw people scram­ bling in garbage cans for food, and that kind of living will lead to riots. Even worse, the chil­ dren will grow up skinny and sick, and then it will be too late to do them any good. Most of the people I talk to are in favor of helping these unfortunate people, and so am I. ' r-' ~t' rt -if 'S' •' I- 'r T I By CURLY RENTZ BALTIMORE —A lot of guys don't understand the problems in the Port of Baltimore. In the first place, Baltimore is the head­ quarters for hundreds of men who work in allied industries closely connected with seamen. The entire Cheasepeake Bay area from Hampton Roads, the Eliza­ beth, Potomac and James Rivers, up to the Patapsco, is a fishing, towboat and tug area with thous­ ands of men closely allied to the seamen. In the great part these men are unorganized or else loosely or­ ganized in small local associa­ tions. The most important thing to consider is that almost any of them can qualify as seamen and, a.s .such, should be organized un­ der the SIU in one of our af­ filiated Unions. For example, a man may work a portion of tne year as an oysterman, later he fishes and still later he takes a barge or tug­ boat job. TUGS AND TOWS Actually more tugs and towboats operate in this area than in any other section outside of New York. Baltimore is a main transit point of the inland water­ way system from the Carolinas to New York, and coal alone rep­ resents a large part of the transit tonnage. Many big towing companies, such as the Curtis Bay Towing company which is organized in the ILA, AFL, make Baltimore their headquarters. It is import­ ant that these men all be organ­ ized in affiliate unions so that we can all work together in the event of trouble. The whole Chesepeake area is a thing that should be studied by the Union, as a tie-up of this area would be a prime factor in winning any beef we might have with the shipowners. Its a big job but we are tack­ ling it, and so far the results are favorable. If we remember that Baltimore is inland waters head­ quarters, then we must realize the necessity of doing a job there. An organized Cheseapeake Bay area would be one of the greatest weapons the SIU could have. Page Five The Patrolmen Say... Good Feeding the man that he did not feel like ' paying him overtimeNEW YORK—Recently I had The crew also complained that the privilege of paying off the this Purser spent money, enMV Black Rock, one of the Mo- j trusted in his care for the beneran tugs. Believe me, it was a ! fit of the crew, on souvenirs for himself. pleasure to see a ship so clean and MAIL UNSORTED spotless. When mail was delivered for The food aboard is excellent. the crew, he threw it on the Brother Eldori Cook, Chief Cook messroom table unsorted, and and Steward, and Brother Leslie told the crew he would not be Wing, Second Cook, are doing a responsible for any mail that was wonderful job. This ship could lost while they were sorting it. be rightfully termed the Wal­ After threats and promises dorf-Astoria of the waves. failed, we finally had to take ac­ A good clean crew, and good tion against this man and had cooking, makes a combination him put off the ship. hard to beat. Keep up the swell The war is over . . . now is the work. time for all Union men to weed R. E. Gonzales these men out and report them to the Union. No Pay—No Sign Salvador Colls NEW YORK—Last week I was called in on a beef aboard the Council Crest of the Los Angeles Tanker Company. This crew had been on coastwise articles for twentj'-three days, and the com­ pany wanted them to sign on foreign articles. This sounds okay, but what made it so tricky is that the company wanted to backdate the foreign articles twenty-three days without paying the men off on the original articles. We tried to talk to them, but we got nowhere fast. So we held up the sign on, and then they squared away the beef in a hurry. The men got the pay they were entitled to, and then they signed the foreign articles. Graydon "Tex" Suil Foreign Rider NEW YORK — When I got to the SS John Merick of the Calmar Line last week, all but six men had already signed on the articles without the Foreign Rider being signed also. These men waited while I got in touch with the Union Hall, and the Hall con­ tacted the WSA and the company. The company finally agreed to accept the Foreign. Rider and so the remaining six men signed them, and the rest of tlie crew initialed their copies. Now all unlicensed personnel are pro­ tected with first class" transporta­ tion, wages, and subsistence, back to the port of signing on if the vessel terminates its voyage any place other than that port. The same thing happened on the SS Galen Stone of the East­ ern Steamship Lines. There, too, they tried to sign the crew on without the Foreign Rider. We stopped that in a hurry, and we also made them change the crew's quarters around to where they are supposed to be. There was a Commissioner from the WSA aboard the Galen Stone when I got there, but he was letting the company get away with anything they wanted to—some help he was. Fred Hart Beef On Purser NEW YORK — A little while ago we received a complaint about the Purser of the SS Bluefield Victory of the Mississippi Steamship Company. It seems that this guy had gotten the idea he was a little tin God—practical­ ly the Master of the ship. He refused to okay overtime and threatened to have crewmembers logged and thrown off the ship. On one occasion he went so far as to have a man from the Stewards Department soogie his room, and then he told Troop Ship Rules NEW YORK - On all troop ships paying off, members in the Steward's Department who are laid off must come to the Union Hall, re-rogister foj; that .ship, and if the ships call for crews within ten days, these men are eligible for the jobs. According to the Shipping Rules, to which seamen are sub­ ject, they must get off the ship if they are laid off. Failure to do so may result in plenty of trouble. Business and' shipping con­ tinues good in this port. Plenty of work for all ratings, with ABs still at a premium.. All men who do not hold a rating, but would like to get one, should see Jimmy Stewart, on the 3rd floor of the Union Hall, for information. The Coast Guard is still in our hair with quite a few beefs now and then. It will be a great day for all concerned when the.se birds go back to paddling their canoes. In another part of this issue, an article appears giving the facts on how discharges from the WSA can be obtained. It is very im­ portant for every member of the SIU who has the required Ecatime to take advantage of this because if you are within the draft age, and you have a dis­ charge, it will keep the Draft Board from breathing down j'our neck. Joe Algina Brasshats Push Peacetime Braft WASHINGTON (LPA) — The Army brass hat.'; did a turn-abniit in their demands for permanent peacetime conscription, and came up with a proposal for an exten­ sion of the present Selective Serv­ ice Act. Members of Congress are believed to favor extension, for less than a year, and Senate Military Committee Chairman Elbert Thomas already has be­ fore the committee his bill ex­ tending the act for six weeks after its present expiration date. May 15. Major opposition is e.xpected to center around the argument that present voluntary enlistments are at a rate sufficient to provide the needed 1,070,000-man Army on July 1, and that raising the pay and status of the regular Army would result in maintain­ ing this figure. Make Isthmian SIU 1 �Page Six THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, March 29, 1946 CREW OF ISTHMIAN'S GEORGE READ AT NORFOLK Agents' Proposals Go Before Membership For Seamen's Gl Bill Of Rights "This committe has met with the Secretary-Treasurer and dis­ cussed this point as well as in­ vestigating the various member­ ship demands in regards to the adoption of this bill of rights. We see now that the chances of this bill being pigeon-holed in Congress are great. Considering these factors, this committee recommends the following: 1. That this Union demand from Congress immediate ac­ tion on the Seamen's GI Bill of Rights. 2. That we call on all our affiliated Unions within the AFL to assist us in this by adopting a resolution calling for action by Congress on this bill. 3. That we call on ALL friends of labor to exert all possible pressure to assist us in this matter. 4. That we send a representa­ tive or representatives to Wash­ ington at the next hearing on this matter to present our views. The entire question of the Sea­ men's G. I. Bill of Rights has been tossed around in Congress like a political football ever since its fii-st introduction. We must all realize that the fight for. the passage of this bill is going to be a tough one, and where we, as seamen, were con­ sidered a short while ago as "Heroes in Dungarees," we are now considered little better than bums. This is, of course, in large part due to Westbrook Pegler and others of his slimy ilk who have maligned the seamen vic­ iously. We must prepare ourselves for an all-out battle to secure pas­ sage of this bill, and through continuous publicity and pres­ sure, make certain that the pub­ lic learns the real story behind the wartime merchant marine. When the true story of the sac­ rifices made by seamen is known, then the public and progressive members of Congress will sup­ port us in our fight for this just legislation. Union-Run Upgrading Schools One service the Union can, and must give to the membership is a Union upgrading school. At the present time, they have a choice of going to (1) WSA School, (2) Pi'ivate School, or (3) Haphazard Studying. Unionism is a bread and but­ ter proposition; what can the Union do for its members? Or, if there are two (or more) unions in the same field, which union gives its members the most ben­ efits? In time of stress, those members wlio have no deep or­ ganizational ties (and these, no doubt, form the majority — al­ though a comprehensive educa­ tional program would greatly les­ sen this number), these members would tend to turn to that outfit which offers him more—-whether in wage.s or conditions, or a chance to advance his status in the industry. The Seafarers has the men who could teach the up­ grading schools. In all cases, the cost of maintaining them would be small. The committee therefore rec­ ommends on upgrading schools that: 1. Activate the New Orleans upgrading School (this is al­ ready established but not op­ erating). 2. Open Upgrading School in the New York Hall. 3. Open Upgrading School in the Baltimore Hall. Committees must set up an Agenda for each Department, draw up whatever printed mater­ ial is necessary, set minimum lequirements for admission, and to arrange for instructors. Agenda, material, admission, etc. — whatever pertains to all schools in any port—should be set up hy a joint committee. Instruc­ tors may be a Port matter, un­ less a Port feels that it hasn't the qualified personnel. The responsibility of putting into effect such .schools .should be that of the Local Officials, sub­ ject to the approval of the mem­ bership. Possibilities For Credit Union Your committee has investi­ gated the proposition of Credit Unions, and recommends the fol­ lowing action; (a) That we instruct the Sec­ retary-Treasurer to contact, as soon as is physically-pos­ sible, a representative of the Farm Credit Administration, or whatever agency handles Credit Union Information, and have him explain to us in plain language the func­ tions of same. (b) That once this information is available, that it be sub­ mitted to the membership for action, as to whether they want such gear set up, and under what terms if they want it at all. (c) That we recommend to all officials and to the member­ ship that they seriously study and consider the entire prop-osition of a Credit Union for the Seafarers. We could thus get well-informed action, and thereby be following the most advisable course on this matter. This we feel to be very important. (d) That we recuiiiMiend Llial the officials encourage as much as possible the full dis­ cussion of this matter by the members of our Union, and that we include in the Log such information as will aid our members to make up their minds. ^ (e) That we mimeograph or print in the very near future, a pamphlet or leaflet on Credit Union, and this be made available to all mem­ bers. In closing, this committee would like to add that they are in favor of establi.shing such Credit Union. However, wo are of the further opinion that be­ fore we consider adopting such action, that the membership should be completely familiar­ ized with Credit Unions. Thus, we feel that the adoption of the above program will answer this purpose. Here's a group of Isthmian brothers from the George Read docked at Norfolk. She's 100 per cent SIU. and in his hurry to make the Log deadline, our correspondent from Norfolk neglected to include their names. Stand Against Expanding Educational Program WSA Fink Halls The position of the SIU on the question of Fink Halls of any type, whether operated by the government, steamship compan­ ies, or by any combination of shipowners, remains the same. From the beginning, the Seafar­ ers have consistenthv fought against any and all types of hir­ ing other than rotary shipping from the Union Hall. Shipping from a Fink Hall is even more demoralizing than shipping from the dock and a system of hiring from any place other than the Union Hiring Hall can only serve to weaken the Union, give the companies the opportunity to place their stooges aboard ships and ultimately wreck the Union. This committee recommends that the system of government hiring be placed in the same category as the Fink Halls oper­ ated between the years 1921 and 1934 on the West Coast by the Pacific Coast Shipowners Asso­ ciation, on the Atlantic and Gulf by the U. S. Shipping Board, and at present, operated on the Great Lakes by the Lakes Carriers As­ sociation. This committee, therefore, rec­ ommends further that the mem­ bership reiterate their position on this question and take every pos­ sible means to abolish in their entirety, all Fink Halls and the Agencies sponsoring them. We recommend that the mem­ bers of this Union instruct their Officials to set up for their ap­ proval, as soon as possible, a program calling for an organized effort by ALL Maritime Unions, for the permanent elimination of this evil for all times from this industry. Venice Unions Venice unions star'ted a 24-hour general strike recently in protest against government leniency in cleaning out fascists from public offices and private industry. •With the end of the war, and 3—Public Speaking and Parlia­ the need for "national unity" mentary Procedure gone w'th the wind of Russian 4—History of SIU expansion, the need for an edu­ 5—History of Communist Union­ cational program for the Sea­ ism—Emphasis on NMU farers membership becomes more 6—How to Organize and more apparent. There is' no doubt but what 7—Labor Journalism There are, of course, other sub­ the commies will take a more and more militant line. How­ jects that may be considered. ever, since they are clever enough This is by no means a complete list. What should be pointed out to tie their political demands demands that will push Russia's here is that almost all of these interests in this country — with subjects, with the possible e:.the bright ribbons of what seem ception of public 'speaking can to be legitimate beefs, there will be taught by men who are now be many politcally uneducated on the Union payroll and thus who, if not taken in, will find will incur no additional expenses. If po.s.sible, the m,Tterials u.sed in. themselves greatly confused. In order to save the politically tlie classes should be priiiled or naive from the high-pressure mimeographed for general discommie propaganda, and to give trbiution. This committee recommends our membership a solid ground from which to be able to effec­ that that the administration of tively oppose the commies on the the educational program, as was watei-front in competing for the decided by the Agents' Confer­ unorganized seamen, and to make ence of last year, should remain them more union-conscious so in the hands of the Editor and that they'U be better able to with­ Educational Director. Agents are stand the coming counter-offen­ requested to communicate with sive of the shipowners, we recom­ the Educational Director to sug­ mend that the Seafarers Inter­ gest subjects, etc. The committee also recom­ national Union must immediately mends the purchase of a multilith set up a broadened educational machine so that educational ma­ program. The best medium, of course, is terial (as well as organizing and the Log—because it reaches more propaganda material) can be of the membership as compared cheaply and quickly printed in with classes, which must be the Union Hall by the SIU. limited in capacity. However, the Log must be supplemented by classes, since the latter permits of more intense instruction, ques­ tions from the floor, and discus­ sion to clear the doubts and mis­ understanding. The following subjects are LONDON, Mar. 24—Protesting recommended to be considered: against a 72-hour work week, 200 1—Theory and Practice of Trade crew members of the 25 tugboats Unionism operating in this harbor went on "(a) The principles of "pure strike. The demands of the strik­ trade unionism" as opposed to ers include wage increases and "political trade unionism." a 48-hour work week. A spokesman for the strikers 2—SIU Contracts, Agreements, said that the present work week Etc. "(a) Overtime, Settling a Beef, is 72 hours and that overtime fre­ Shipboard Meetings, Ship quently boosted this to 100 hours Delegates, Elections, Duties, a week. The protest was started as a 24-hour work stoppage. Functions, Etc. London Tugmen Strike For Hours �Friday. March 29. 1946 THE SEAFARERS LOG Background On Russia Page Seven AT EASE as long as the Communist Party and are, easily liquidated. machine wields the legislative It is absurd to think that such The Soviet Union has emerged and executive authority. things could exist under selffrom World War II as one of the government. No people having THE WORKERS Big Three powers. The influence the recourse to democratic pro­ which the Soviet wields in Eur­ According to the Soviet Con­ cedure would institute a system ope and Asia cannot be over­ stitution, Russia is a .Socialist which guarantees them so little emphasized, as witness the scores state of workers and peasants. and gives so much to a privileged of headlines and columns of dis­ To which group then do the high few. patches devoted to Russian ac­ officials of the Communist Party Ru.ssia fails of achieving de­ tions and policies. belong? In which category do mocracy in many more ways. The An understanding of Soviet in­ we place managers of. industries. absence of a free press, the re­ ternal policies and practices is Army officers, artists and writ­ fusal to submit territorial dis­ necessary if we are to understand ers, and members of the gov­ putes to the United Nations Or­ Obviously, a third ganization, the enslavement of her foreign policy. It is a his­ ernment? torical fact that foreign policy group has evolved which is tan­ millions of forced laborers in is a reflection of a government's tamount to a ruling class. concentration carnps; these are domestic policy. And under­ A bureaucracy has arisen which all the actions of a fascist dic­ stand Russia we must if we are tatorship, not a .socialist democ­ to live in a world without war, takes to itself the exploitation of racy. and one in which the coopera­ the worker and peasant—a func­ OUTLOOK? tion of nations is raised to its tion which was previously car­ And so the picture for Europe ried out by the Czarist nobility highest degree. does not look optimistic. Where and capitalists. The Soviet RED ARMY masses have traded in their capi­ the Red Armies go, the Soviet There can be no denial of the talist exploiters for the privilege type of rule will be set up. Where fact that Russia, with her power­ of being ruled by a managerial the Communist Party gains pow­ ful Red Army, played an impor­ dictatorship. er, dictatorship will take the tant part in the victory over fas­ place of democracy. Labor unions do not exist in cism. The magnificent heroism What, then, is the answer to Russia. The ultimate power to of the Red forces staved off de­ the Soviet riddle? The ideal so­ feat in the dark days of 1942-43, set wages, hours, working condi­ lution would be the overthrow and contributed mightly to the tions, and job security is vested of Stalin's dictatorship from with­ final destruction of the Nazi in the government. There is no in, and the setting up of a true appeal because strikes agpinst Army. woi-kers' state. Failing of this, But the peoples of Europe have the government are illegal. There the remaining great powers must not thrown off the yoke of fas­ are no rights for workers; no take a firm stand against further cist dictatorship, only to have it position is guaranteed, and pro­ Soviet imperialist aggression. replaced b/ Russian dictatorship. motions to better jobs depend The Russian people do not want Only too well do these people upon political loyalty and favorit­ war. The Soviet leaders will not know that the denial of democ­ ism of superiors. take the final steps to throw the racy does not breed more de­ Tile Russian worker is humili­ nation into conflict if they see mocracy but less as time goes on. ated and degraded. He has not that the rest of the world is The one-party type of govern­ the right to say where he will against them. ment which has been imposed by woj-k, when he will work, or how The Soviet Union can exist the Russians docs not go hand in many hours he will work. These peaceably as one of the United hand with any concept of self conditions are laid down by the Nations. Only her own decision rule. State, and any dissenters can be, will prevent her doing so. And Russia's policy in occu­ pied countries is merely a pro­ jection of her theory and prac­ Crew members of Islhmian's Orange Victory—who are all-out tice in home affairs. for the Seafarers—in a moment of rest. What is the nature of the gov­ ernment of the Soviet Union? Is there any indication that Russia is moving from a one-man, oneparty dictatorship toward real po­ litical democracy? What is the Although all seamen are urged Reemployment Rights—A sea­ status of the Russian worker to­ to stay on the job to help return man of any age who left a per­ day, and what is the official at­ our troops from foreign shoi'es, manent job to enter the Merchant titude toward trade union.s? NEW Y'ORK — Here's another black gang ratings. There he and to help supply our occupa­ Marine on or after May 1, 1940 First, let us take up the sub­ tion forces and to carry relief is not entitled to his former job typical case of how Coast Guard found out that hi.s Union cards ject of the nature of the Russian supplies to the liberated coun­ until tlie termination of the Un­ red tape and inefficiency works were not enough, and that, he Government. According to the tries, this information is being limited National Emergency, as a genuine hardship on special would have to furnish written constitution, promulgated in 1937, furnished for the benefit of those declared by the President or Con­ ratings, and makes it difficult for proof of his employment as Mathe Union to fill these- jobs, j rine Electrician for a period of democratic processes are guarded who have already left the Mer­ gress, unless There's been quite a shortage of • at least three years. Also, when and every Soviet citizen over 18 chant Marine, or who contem­ (1) The provisions of points 1 Chief Electricians recently, and 1 he showed his father's citizenyears of age is given the right to plate such action. and 2 under Draft Status in response to the demand. Local ship papers with notation regardvote and be elected. Releases—Service in the Mer­ have been met, or B277 of the International Broth­ ing himself on the papers, Gold­ Yet, very recently, without re­ chant Marine is voluntary and (2) Ho has become permanent­ erhood of Electrical Workers, thorpe was informed that he course to the legal procedure for any seaman may leave such serv­ ly disabled for further serv­ AFL, occasionally sends over would have to provide a signed amending the constitution, it was ice at any time without the ne­ ice in the Merchant Ma­ qualified men who desire to ship affidavit proving that he was the decreed that only those citizens cessity of obtaining a release or rine through no fault of his out. son who was mentioned therein. who had reached the age of 23 discharge. However, the follow­ own. This must be sub­ DAYS WASTED could be elected to the Supreme ing points should be considered. One day last week, William stantiated by a statement In addition to all this red tape, Soviet. It is po.ssible that t.hi.<4 Draft Status—A seaman be­ from the United States Goldthorpe came over to the SlU Goldthorpe was required to fill change is justified, but the flaunt­ tween the ages of eighteen and Public Health Service, or Hall, going up to the Third Deck out numerous forms, take a phy­ ing of democratic procedure is twenty-six is subject to reclas­ from a private physi­ where he received a letter to the sification and induction into the Coast Guard from Jimmy Stewart sical examination, and also a not. cian, or Armed Forces upon leaving the Electrician's written l^est for Chief .Electrician The elections to the Soviet are (3) Through no fault of his requesting Chief papers. Goldthorpe came over i ^i^cn by an e.xaminer who probcarried out by means of a single Merchant Marine, unless own, his continued service to the SlU well-recommended by i training (1) He has been in the service slate of candidates, picked in ad­ in the Merchant Marine is but little actual experience. mem­ the IBEW, and carried a vance by meetings of voters. This of the Merchant Marine no Jonger desirable or All of this bureaucratic nonbership book along with working constitutes, in the final analysis, for not less than thirty-two necessary. cards which qualified him as sense and fol-de-rol merely took a vote of confidence in the ruling months, beginning on or The Certificate referred to Journej-man — Marine Di\isiun, three days of Brother Goldparty, and not an election of a after May 1, 1940, and above entitles the seaman to lethorpe's valuable time! And legislative body. No candidates (2) He has performed active employment rights to the job. Snapper, and Foreman. while this unnecessary delay is are ever nomin.'ited wlio are not SINCE '22 duty during not less than other than temporary, which he , going on, shipowners are howling supported by the local Com­ 75% of this period, and horpe h,-,sbcnaJo^.,„,, ® Bill Goldtho held prior to entering the service. munist Party and Communist (3) He has applied for and re­ Application for a Certificate— neyrnan Elc Youth League. And so, it is not at marine electrical f ~ "j" ™ r-n • ceived a Certificate, pur­ A seaman who considers himself has 1 worked • mon J u 1 .1 qualified men to fill out their strange that a dissenting vote has work since 1939, and has worked suant to Public Law 87— eligible for a Certificate pursuant crews. never been cast in the sessions 78th Congress, certifying to Public Law 87 should apply in the capacity of snapper or fore­ The Goldthorpe case corroboof the Supreme Soviet. man for more than four years. that the two preceding con­ for one within thirty days after „ , ... „ . . .rates what the SlU and the Log Lately, however, even these ^ ^ ditions have been met. he leaves the service. A seaman Sm-cly w.th all of this .accamupretenses have been torn away, Upon the issuance of this certi­ who remains in the service after latcd expcncnce he .s ,ual.I.ed Coast Guard hinders the and more and more power has ficate, the seaman's Draft Board industry, and should the end of the Unlimited Na­ as a Chief Electrician! go he' been usurped by the Council of will be notified, and they will tional Emergency must apply for thought. get out entirely, returning the inPeople's Commissars, the execu­ thereupon consider his reclassifi­ the Certificate, if he wants one, Upon arrival at Coast Guard dustry to its peacetime status once tive arm of State authority. cation into a class which makes within six months after the end­ with his letter of endorsement, again—^and backs up our deTrue political democracy does him no longer eligible for in­ ing of the Unlimited National Goldthorpe saw Warrant Officer mands that the Coast Guard get not exist in Russia, and cannot duction. Emergency. Van Nuys who is in charge of out of maritime for good! By BURT BECK Status Of Seamen Who Leave The Sea Usual Coast Guard Redtape Holds Up Needed Ratings E. �Page Eight THE SEAtAHERS LOG Friday. March 29. 1946 PR Hospitals Are Okay, He Says By CHARLES B. MARTIN Not Much West Coast Activity By ROBERT A. MATTHEWS ATTENTION! SAN JUAN—I have often won­ dered why the Agents are greyhaired, and now I can understand some of the reasons. Since my short stay in office I have had everything to iron out. It is new to me, and I really get a kick out of it, but sometimes I wonder what the membership expects of the Agents. I was called down to one of the ships recently to try to squash the case against a Bosun who openly admitted that he was guilty of theft of some ship's pioppi ty and wanted me to try to have the charges dropped. Well, I did all I could; but it was impossible. A few of the members who were shipmates with me in years gone by stopped in to pay me a visit. I'm always glad to see old shipmates and any of the mem­ bership at any time. We have had so many calls from fellows here for letters to help them get seaman's papers that we have had to post a sign on the board that under no condition will letters be issued from this office as long as there are mem­ bers to take the jobs that come up. GOOD HOSPITAL A few of our members are in the hospital here and they claim that they are being treated very well. I know that, since I have been here, the personnel at the hospital has treated me with all If you don't find linen when you go aboard your SAN FRANCISCO — At the every official and every rank and ship, notify the Hall at once. present writing we are still en- fUer doing his utrriost to carry A. telegram from Le Havre or gaged in the Agents Conference. the word to Isthmian crews, then Singapore won't do you any We have drafted proposals, and good. It's your bed and you we will draft still more proposals have to lie in it. which will have more far reach­ ing effects on the entire structure and the future of the Union than ever before. I have attended Agents Confer­ ences before, but never before have I seen a more progressive By JOHN MOGAN and cooperative spirit apparent BOSTON—Shipping and busi­ ened out; but the telephone be­ among the collectvie officials than ness continues good in Boston. tween Searsport and Boston gets is in evidence at this conference. Two ships are lying in Searsport, quite a play from our understand­ We have taken steps to stream­ Me., with the ci-ews not a little ably impatient crews. line the organization. We have SHOULD CONTINUE eager to get paid off and go home. taken steps to cut down operating There is no reason to believe This Searpsort deal is a real expenses in all phases of the or­ we have reason to be very con­ headache these days, chiefly be­ that shipping will not continue ganization at the same time bear­ fident of winning this battle with cause of the phony riders these to be brisk for a while. Three ing in mind to do nothing to de­ orthe communist party front ships sailed with. In most cases, arrivals are scheduled to payoff crease and curtail the efficiency we manage to get things straight- here the first of the week, an­ of the organization. All these ganization— theNMU. other in Searsport awaiting a proposals will be submitted to company representative from the membership for action at the New York, and all kinds of stuff next regular Branch meetings. So in transit. much for that. Every week, also, there are a As for shipping on the West couple of ships pulling in to the respect anyone could expect. By LOUIS GOFFIN Coast: At the present, shipping Portland for loading. Invariably I want to go on record about the and payoffs on the Pacific Coast JACKSONVILLE—The South­ actions of the above mentioned they arrive shorthanded, so that hospital and the staff, as told to are very slow. We are still get-' land is far behind us, temporarily phonies, and see to it that these we have a chance to place a few me by the membership, because ting some of the repatriated crews at least, as we are now attending birds are ,put where they belong. some of the people here have men up there. in to the Pacific Coast for pay­ the Agents Conference in New We are sure that no seaman Nothing for Isthmian has paid been trying to sling mud at the off. These crews are from the York. While the Port of Jack­ wants to go back to the wage and off here in the last couple of staff. ships which were turned over to sonville has been kind of quiet working conditions of the '20s We have nine members in the weeks, although we had a couple the Japs in the Far East. of late, it seems to be a consensus hospital now, and we make it a in transit. Everything points to The shipyard strike in the San of opinion that the business of the practice to visit them on Satur­ an SIU victory in any election Francisco Bay area has finally Port will increase in the near day as we have more time to go held now or soon, as every ship been settled after being closed future. around and we don't overstay our contacted here has been belter for over four months. This should We certainly hope that such than 60% SIU—and, in the ma­ time. cause shipping in general to pick will be the case very soon. We NMU BEEF jority of instances^ better than up considerably. Now I under­ had a payoff on Monday, and 95%. We have been hearing beefs stand there is a possibility that this was taken care of by our SHORTAGE about the NMU and they are real­ some of the West Coast Maritime relief man (a further report on The shortage of FWTs and Oil­ ly down on the Agent here be­ Unions may take strike action in this payolf will be in the next ers is still acute up this way. A cause he gave a man a tripcard forcing some of their demands issue of the Log). The action ship pays uff and the three Fire­ to ship out and there were al­ in the very near future. It is a taken at the Agents conference men waste no time in packing ready two Chief Cooks on the little too early at this time to be should be studied by every mem­ up and getting off; and very often list. This guy waited until the able to see just how this will ber of the SIU, as the recommen­ we haven't got the Firemen avail­ boys went out to lunch, and then affect us. dations are for the best interests able immediately to keep up he shipped the man. This is I am notified that there are of the membership and the Union and early '30's, and such may be steam. In fact, it seems some­ nothing unusual for them. I quite a few Isthmian ships in the as a whole. the case if we allow these birds times that all the Firemen in the don't know the Agent, and it is various West Coast ports at this From time to time we have to operate against us. Now is the industry are enrolled with WSA. really a job to find the NMU hall time. We have just received noti­ written articles which we believe time to kick them out. Let's go Well, the Agent's conference here if you don't know where it fication that the Isthmian elec­ were for the best interests of the and make a real job of it, so being held right now should be is. tion has been ordered for some Union and Labor in general, and that our march forward never productive of some changes bene­ The Beachcomber is still time within the next thirty days. we shall do our utmost to con­ slackens. ficial to the Union and the mem­ around. He says he is going to You have my word that no tinue this policy of condemning bers. And since it is actually un­ ship out, but I wonder if he is stone will be left unturned to in­ those whose very existence perils derway right now, I'd better cut giving he the old blarney. I sure that every single ship is the advances that we have made this short and head for the Big asked him if he is still writing for contacted continuously in an ef­ since we came into being. Town. the Log. and he says that he does The records of the -SIU in its fort to swing all crews to support when he" can find anything to advancement are unparalleled in the SIU. write about. I better watch and Proof I am sure that with each and the Maritime industry. see if he puts me in print. lies in our contracts in the of­ Owing to the fact that we did ficial representation in the set­ not have a quorum, we could not EUROPE AND EAST tling of beefs; and in the general By STEELY WHITE have a meeting last week. I SHIPPING OUTLOOK way in which are membership is NEW ORLEANS — The Sea- couple of weeks. All of our con­ would like to thank the members protected. We intend to not only tracted companies and agents who came up from the ships in Signs of increased shipping to keep up this record but to sur­ train beef is still pending in this the harbor for the interest that port, and when they will reach here refuse to use Bisso. Lykes Europe and the Middle East are pass it as much as possible. Brothers and NMU outfit are the they show in their Union. foreseen in reports of additional The continuous existence of an agreement is hard to say. The only ones that do not cooperate Well, that will be all for this shipments of wheat to starving certain Government Agencies, Company acts like it doesn't give week, so till next week, Bon Voy­ with us. Europe and the conclusion of the such as the Coast Guard, and the a damn about the ship, and re­ We still have the Thomas Nel­ age to all. Anglo-American financial agree­ WSA, perils our advances and fuses to meet and negotiate an son of the Calmar Line trying to ment. we must continue to demand that agreement with these men. The sign on and get a crew. The beef Wheat already is flowing to these two phony outfits get out WSA still has the ship, so the is still pending regards meal Europe in unprecedented of the picture, along with their Company does not care about the money on this ship. We should amount, with one million tons stooges, the commie officials and expenses. After it is turned over have something definite for the Seafarers Sailing expected to be shipped this their buddies, the shipowners, to Seatrain Lines, then they will next meeting. month. Middle Eastern countries, who have been aiding and abet- come to terms in a hurry. As Engineers We have a new Ijoard for the meanwhile, are considered prime ing these Agencies in their dirty The men received the check Hall now, on which we will put All members—^retired and prospective U.S. markets as soon work against the forward pro­ donated to them by the SIU and all information we have on ships, former members—of Ihe SIU. as the short dollar exchange is gress of the genuine seamen's were highly satisfied. They con­ sailings, when they will sail, now sailing as licensed En­ i;emedied. Unions. vey their thanks to the member­ where they are going, etc. gineers. report to the New Both of these straws in the All seamen, organized and un­ ship. This will relieve the Dispatch­ York SIU Hall as soon as pos­ wind should mean more jobs for organized alike, should make it The Bisso situation has kept all er of having to answer so many sible. U.S. seamen. their business to condemn the hands mighty busy for the past questions. Boston Needs Black Gang Ratings Time To Oust Meddling Bureaus Make Isthmian SIU! Operator Stalls At Govt. Expence NOTICE! �T H E Friday. March 29. 1946 Great Lakes Sec'y-Treas Reports S E A t< A REUS LOG Page Nine VIGIL IN THE NEW ORLEANS HALL By EMANUEL LASHOVER NEGOTIATIONS: Your negotiating committees have completed the Sandboat and Georgian Bay contracts and they will be brought up tonight for ratification. (The agreement was unanimously ratified.) NICHOLSON STRIKE: The shipyard workers at Nich­ olson and Great Lakes shipyards went out on strike last week and placed a picket line around the Stmr. Westcoat. This ship was not involved, in their beef inas­ much as she was laying at a dock midway between the yards but the strikers .still refused to allow our men to go aboard her. Your Secretary went down to the picket line at 9 p. m. last Wednesday and after a little ex­ plaining obtained permission for our men to pass through the pick­ et line without any trouble. TUGBOATMEN'S NEGOTIATIONS: The various locals of the li­ censed and unlicensed tugboatmen's unions are here in Detroit negotiating with tlieir operators for a 1946 contract. The unli­ censed men have been offered 10c per hour increase retroactive to April of 1945. They have accepted that and are now demanding that an in­ crease of ISt^c per hour be grant­ ed retroactive to V-J Day. Their chances of obtaining this raise look vei-y promising. The Buffalo tugs were seized by the ODT last fall after the Great Lakes Towing Company locked out the workers, and ac­ cording to the United States law, the issues which precipitated the dispute are to be settled before the boats are turned back to the Company. However, it looks like the Com­ pany has a lot of influence in Washington, becau.se the latest information is that they will be turned back in the very near fu­ ture without any settlement hav­ ing been reached. If they are turned back, it means that again a government agency has been used as "strike-breakers" and the i-esultant publicity will embarass the Truman administration. The tuginen have issued a threat to tie up the entire Lakes if the ODT is allowed to go through with its plan. STMR. WESTCOAT; , Your negotiating committee had its first session with the op­ erators of this boat and it looks as though we will have very little trouble with them in nego­ tiating our 1946 contract. UNITED STATES EMPLOYMENT SERVICE; An article appeared in the De­ troit Free Press stating that the operators are crying for men. Alcoa Resumes Service To S. A. Service from Baltimore to the principal ports of Venezuela and to Curacao and Aruba will be resumed on May 3, by the Alcoa Steamship Company, it was an­ nounced recently. The first sailing will be by the Alcoa Cutter. Thereafter, fort­ nightly sailings are scheduled with the Alcoa Trader, Alcoa Master, and Alcoa Voyager, be­ ing used in this service also. women and children tp sail the ships, and that there is such a terrific shortage that the USES has established a separate depart­ ment just to handle them. They also claim that there is a shortage in maids and waitresses. This ar.ticle is highly misleading and is only causing us a great deal of headaches by a lot of 16year-old boys and a lot of wom­ en coming up and taking up the time of your officials to explain that we do not have any jobs for them. By WILLIAM STEVENSON DULUTH AGENT: Due to the fact that we will not have many ships running up to Duluth until about the middle of June, Bill Stevenson has been ordered to Detroit to give Fred Farnen a hand in the crewing up of the vessels in this area. Duluth Hall Suspends This peaceful scene in Ihe New Orleans Hall seems lypical of many an off moment anywhere. Buf just wait for a new ship to appear on the board, and the boys lose all of their seeming lethargy. DULUTH — This country is really paradise now that the robin.s are around. Some of the members tell me that they are as big as pigeons. Brother W. H. Stovall dropped around. He made two trips across the pond since he left here la.st fall. We had quite a chat, and he is coming back next week to see the doctor. We've had a lot of new pros­ pects in this week. They seem anxious to get those sailing pa­ pers, but you lads who are on the coast will be able to make another trip before Duluth is Army Misuse Of Piers Hurts New York Shipping Speaking at a monthly lunch­ eon meeting of the Warehouse­ man's Association of the Port of New York, Charles R. Haffenden. Commissioner of Marine and Aviation, charged that the Port of New York i.s in danger of los­ ing 3,250,000 tons of shipping traffic a year. This loss, stated Commissioner Haffenden, is caused by the re­ luctance of the Army and Navy to release city-owned piers. He further pointed out that the arm­ ed services are occupying 20% of the city's piers, and that the All Quiet In Savannah By EUSTACE B. McAULEY SAVANNAH—This city had a gala St. Patrick's Day parade Sat­ urday. The Royal Order of Hiboimians really put on a show for the visiting delegates of the lOU Conference (International Mon­ etary Conference to youse guys what ain't heard of the limelight the Coastal Empire is now get­ ting in the newspapers of the world.) We might be in the headlines on this conference deal, but in the shipping depart­ ment we are viewing a famine. We have a co.uple of South At­ lantic Hogs in port, the Fluor Spar and the Schoharie. We paid off the August Belmont last week, but .still have one beef pending on some overtime in Delaware Bay, The Belmont will be sailing today for Charleston. The way the WSA shifts these ships around, one has a tough time keeping up with these float­ ing masses of steel. The weather turned a little cold down under these southern skies. You know by that last paragraph this report is coming to an end, 'cause the weather is the last thing one talks about. Here's hoping everything is running smooth at the Agents' Conference. volume of traffic which these piers can handle represents close to 10% of the Port's total volume. The armed forces are making no use of these piers, the Com­ missioner stated, and their con­ tinued occupancy is causing con­ siderable hardships to shipping interests here. Twenty applica­ tions have been received from shipping lines anxious to rent piers and they cannot be filled due to the slow rate at which the Army and Navy arc surrender­ ing the facilties. DAMAGES REPORTED Preliminary reports from a sur­ vey of the city's piers, the Com­ missioner said, has shown that the city will be able to present a claim for considerable damages. These damages, incurred during the past five years of wartime shipping, were caused by negli­ gence, the Commissioner charged. He specifically charged that the WSA had allowed the dumping of ballasts in the slips, thereby lessening the draft of vessels that can be accommodated in the slips, and necessitating dredging op­ erations to make them usable. Mr. Haffenden also stated that he thought passenger traffic is on the decline and he urged ware­ housemen to begin making plans for handling a larger volume of freight as the day of passenger liners drav.'s to a close. Lakes Crews Due To Report shipping anyone. It will be May 1 before they get going here. So, boys, unless you have a sock full, make one more trip and then come out here where the mosquitos travel on show shoes in July. Duluth is the place where the beer is always cool, and the girls are friendly and beautiful. By ALEX McLEAN BUFFALO—The Steward. 2nd Cook and Porters are now aboard the George W. Mead, and the full after-end crew will be on by the 26th. The Oilers and Firemen of the EDITOR'S NOTE: Brother George H. Ingalls will also go to Stevenson seems to be stray­ work by the week of the 26th. ing off the straight and nar­ The members along with their friends viewed the St. Patrick's row with his pipe dreams of Day parade from the second floor friendly girls and cool beer. assembly room with much enthu­ Therefore, in order to save him siasm. from a life of shame and sin, Old Sol also put on his best for the Secretary-Treasurer has or­ this time of year here. He came dered him to report to Detroit out in the GOs causing the side­ where his actions can be close­ lines to sweat a little along with the Irish. ly watched. With this unusual warm weath­ .•W." er, ice in the Great Lakes con­ tinued to melt rapidly during the past week. Make Isthmian SiU! SIU IN CANADA iiliilislPi Ik By HUGH MURPHY VANCOUVER — In Canada "crimping," like the "blacklist," is supposed to be illegal. Every maritime nation in the world has definite regulations against such practices, and en­ forces them. Canada, which is the most regulated and governed country in the world, with more laws than an old rustbucket has barnacles, is still, in spite of all this, the happy hunting ground of financiers and industrialists. This has brought about a con­ dition where laws and regula­ tions are stretched and, in some cases, even disregarded entirely if it suits the purpose of the em­ ploying class. Nothing must stand in the way of their accum­ ulation of the almighty dollar, by the millions. LAWS EVADED Shipowners are the most no­ torious in this respect, and they kick the Canada Shipping Act around at will. There seems to be no central authority to en­ force this Act: Its contents come within the jurisdiction of many control. The only answer to this sub-departments, and none of whole vicious mess is through them has the final authoritj- over ! the organization of seamen for any part of it. their own protection. The or­ ganization through which this These are the kind of condi­ can be attained is here now. Join tions that shipowners thrive on, and use to evade the just de­ the Seafarers International mands of organized seajnen for a Union for a better life. POOR SHIP decent standard of living. The vessel, Hai Lee, arrived Now that the war is over, and last week and was reported by the shipowners are juggling for position in the race for postwar the delegate to be in a hell of a trade routes, many foreign sea­ shape. Crew quarters are dirty, men who have given their ser­ there were insufficient linen and vices to various Allied Countries i blankets: the electric fans were now find themselves stranded j on the bum; there were no elec­ and unwanted in many ports. tric heaters. The crew was very These men are usually imprison­ much dissatisfied with conditions ed in our Immigration Building on a United States ship. These at the behest of the shipowner conditions will be rectified be­ responsible for them, until an fore this vessel pulls out again, opportunity presents itself to and the company will be made ship them out on some old rust- to live up to the SUP agreement. All members are urged to con­ bucket. tact Isthmian ships in their re­ CRIMPING FLOURISHES spective ports. Voting will start Local .shipowners retain their soon to determine a bargaining own "crimp joints" to handle the agent for Isthmian seamen, and unholy work of disposing of these Isthmian must go SIU. The Sea­ unfortunates under conditions farers is your Union, and you, as over which they have no say, or members, are the best, organizers. �THE l!>age Ten SEAFARERS LOG Friday, March 29, 1946 SHIPS' MIMUTES AND NEWS HERE'S WHAT WSA'S ^DISCHARGE' PAPERS LOOK LIKE - ir; . c;^ , ^ Monk Sets Stage For This Yarn There's a titillating resolution atnong the minutes of the ship­ board meeting of the SS Piatt Park of January 22—one that lends itself to all sorts of conjec­ tures. The resolution itself is short, sweet and to the point: 'tlhat monkey be barred from rjiessroom for sanitary reasons." But it's the sort of resolution that doesn't let a man be. He can't just read it and drop it. There are too many possibilities to explore. There's the angle, fur instance, that the monkey referred to may not be a simian at all, but an NMU man who somehow got aboard the ship. That would be understandable, at any rate. A;-.. > . .i '/ ' • . ' . V— •"< "-rAA « ^ vv. s :?4i . 1 < ^ t ' f,- iui;tn,., 'u, , npiu '--'iW 'I^TFIT i -I 11 :J I r ;>' ADMimSTltATION ' "'>> < my v.- . , V/'"? >•, 'V r 'v./'Ti i, » ^ A'c- :,r;o /. < , WAT? ^ c , \ A';,' WAB. ! - J*. rl)' f t >r ; 4s ''J')i. h'ir V) h -.>M u'A><' . «.t7. T A<' ' o V-c,' . 'wv<4 „ .<rilG !- - " r/VJ-i CHiPravC' AO'.'-i,,! ^ fcias on thi$ date completed a period of substii^i^jaUy5! / -M continuous service la t1?e Merchant Marine, commendng .r " ^ within the meaning of Public Law S7, 78th.'<f, - < 'C Congress (57 Stat. and the R,ules and Regulations,? < < 4,,^ 4 issued pursufeltii^ijrbil'the'^dinit^ ping Administration. This certificate is issued for the ' 4 ? . purpose of establishing reemployment tights under said ,Public Law, '> ' ' >41 -.v / MONKEY BUSINESS . ""J.;. • Or it may be that the crew kr. SSitxta to t-c frm v-j- --,- -K: tor tut;., p olasi# iJqr ^ j . members are afraid that if the uaftsr t;«<? monkey gets in the messroom a I'iVV.'; V,/': ;; j':;,': :..V:Vc.Y::V'V'-;Ki »if Jit. i. f:;' • iTf'fr ' W A ??' f 5tiif i'A NS meat-short Cook may spy him. •, ^ f; I fi-f Jfi:f fOMlM • :AV'4ArUMA.hiA.AH' :Ai • • ,• The crew may like that monkey :ffWAA MiWHAPi rt WA?; , , , J' , . ' ' " T" .' 'A. ' too well to consider him appe­ iXiAAhiSH A?? ; AOMifA ••: : " tizing. fiiSiG' _ Again, the crew may be against , • " < ; ^GrEurville Ooavfay >"^ '""7 {yffraternizing with officers, or Acting A&Bthistrator ^ ' , - ' Uar Shipping JiidMnisinitton -A'<4 prospective company officials. ATTtsT: ^ A, J. Vi'U-U-VMS. Secremy Wtnr A<lmmisiralh/f . - _ _ ' \ Chairman McCrinic had other things to report about the meet­ ing, however. For instance: that a motion was carried to contact Captain Parsons to ask him about the possibility of taking troops back to the States, since there was room for them aboard. This brings up new food for thought, sjnce there is no report on what tl>e Captain answered. DIRTY CUPS AGAIN A motion also was carried that members clean their respective places before retiring, since the complaint was raised that dirty Clips were left in the messroom. ' There was a .suggestion made by the Steward, who was shorthanded in the messhall: that one of the Bedroom Stewards be used for serving, thus leaving one man to clean the Officers' Mess. vTo which we might add: Why not let the monkey help out t^iere; at least he'd feel at home. Editor's Note:—If you read this. Monk, we're just kidding. For the information of Broth­ ers who haven't yet seen a copy of the "discharge" certificates is­ sued by the WSA, we're printing a facsimile (above) of the one issued to Bruno V. Seliste, Deck Engineer, Book No. 25155. It was issued to him on January 29. The typewriten. section, which didn't reproduce very well, reads: "Mr. Seliste is eligible to be relieved from any future con­ sideration for classification into ^ 'I V > :v. '.•• i«y>HriW7-r -li. t. y : -J , ' > X > ^ * UNINFORMED TRIPPER A Tripper (who seems to have been reading Pegler, or at least the Hearst or Scripps-Howard papers) raised a question on the probability and stability of the Union. He wanted to know whether Unionism wasn't really a racket. The Bosun (name not listed in the minutes) explained Union spirit in action. He waxed elo­ : •-•. i •>•:••:; V-j'JVi/i ' •'VV;HA^' •'Sr''' • '• ' . . <. , '.< I' y a class available for service un­ der the Selective Service Sys­ tem." In plain English, Brothers, that means Seliste ain't available for the draft no more, no more. Suffice it to say. Brother Seliste has done his share—and more— in the late and unlamented war. He has seen action in every war zone, and has been under fire several times. He holds the At­ lantic War Zone Bar, the Pacific 4 f:- > f - ( / - supplies and contents of slopchest betore allowing crew to sign on: all departments to turn in list of needed repairs at end of voyage; to have all overtime lists signed. St i> MADAKET. Dec. 2—Chair­ man W. Pozen; Secretary S. Rolkiewicz. Motions carried: That every man who eats be­ tween meals would clean up the mess hall; crew to return dirty linen for fresh. Good and Welfare: A survey of mem­ bers, twelve probationary, four­ teen tripcards. Bosun C. Dole, quent. Then he came down to earth and bi-ought up the obliga­ tions entailed by a man shipping on a trip card. He went into pro­ bationary books, obligated books, deferment and draft age men and assessments. A motion followed, which was carried, that the Tripcarders who are going to school should pay regular dues. War Zone Bar, the Mediterranean Middle-East War Zone Bar and the Merchant Marine Combat Bar. The fact that he's seen "substantially continuous" serv­ ice "commencing December 5. 1941" shows he's been in more action than many well-decorated, uniformed heroes. WELFARE ITEMS LISTED Any of you Brothers who have seen 32 months combined service Then the Trippers were able at sea or accrued leave are elig­ to see what could be done aboard ible for one of these gadgets. a Union ship in the matter of Good and Welfare. The follow­ ing improvements were suggest­ ed and will be taken up: Fumigation and painting of the entire fo'csle; replacing an oldiimer, gave a short talk broken lockers and putting locks on Unionism and its mean­ on all of them; a wheelhouse for ing. He stated that most of the the helmsman; repair of steampipes, electric fixtures, radio conveniences on ships today speaker, plumbing facilities, the were gained by Unions. leaking oil drain of the steering apparatus which passes through 4. t 4. ST. AUGUSTINE VICTORY. the Black Gang's fo'csle, which is Jan. 14—Chairman I. Schlipf; dangerous; to replace toa.sters and Secretary E. Sedlack. Motion coffee maker; to replace or re­ carried: A list of violations be condition the icebox. placed on bulletin board. Vio­ All in all, this was just a good lators be brought before three run-of-the-mill meeting, with no judges, and fines collected will special beefs or problems, but it be donated to US Marine Hos­ was the sort of meeting that pital. Maximum fine $1.00. makes for a good Union shipminimum fine $0.10. Good and and brings men into the Union as good Union men. (Continued an Page 11) Digested Minutes Of SlU Ship Meetings ANTINOUS. Dec. 9—Chair­ man Carolyn; Secretary M. Daire. Crew refused to sail on Dec. 2 because of an BOO lb. meat shortage. Steward from another ship impersonated Port Steward and said ship should sail because meat had been brought aboard. Upon ques­ tioning he admitted that he was not Port Steward but a mem­ ber of SIU. Motions carried: That charges be brought against this Steward, and an investi­ gation be made of reported shortage; in future Patrolman be asked to check Steward's They're got a militant bunch of boys aboard the SS Colabee, Seafarers who are going all-out to bring home what Unionism means to the Tripcarders aboard ship. Most of the March 2 meet­ ing, as reported by Secretary J. E. Williams, was devoted to that issue. Chairman R. F. Vincent open­ ed the meeting by suggesting that Delegates from each department make up lists of all Tripcarders who desired to join the SIU and present them to the Patrolman upon arrival at home port. Then he explained to the firsttripers the method of changing endorsements. __ .' J," y (| m ^ 5685 Union Men Go All Out On Colahee �Friday, March 29, 1946 THE SEAFARERS Page Eleven LOG Digested Minutes Of SiU Ship Meetings (Continued from Page 10) Welfare: Safely measures v/ere discussed; sanilary condilions were spoken about and plans made to better these conditions. X % JAMES SWAN. Jan. 23— Chairman Arthur Forcier; Sec­ retary Curtice Bobbins. Mo­ tions carried: All overtime beefs to be settled before pay­ offs; Union to be asked to take action to alleviate crowded conditions aboard Liberty ihips; to request better toilets and showers for Engine De­ partment. 5. t BERNARD L. RODMAN, -Jan. 24—Chairman A. Meshefsky; Secretary W. Dupchyk. Good and Welfare: For the benefit of new members. Deck Delegate discussed the way to acquire a Union Book; general discussion on how to get a ship for next trip; Deck Department dissatisfied with quarters, claim garbage dumped too near them, wish to change back to pre­ war quarters. S. 1 J. GOVERNOR JOHN LIND, Jan. 27 — Chairman Lloyd Thomas; Secretary George Billak. Motion carried: All beefs to be brought to a Union Hall meeting. Good and Welfare: A list of repairs cind needed pur­ chases was submitted; on board are eight full book members, three probationary members, and eleven tripcards. 4. S. t E. G. HALL. Jan. 9—Chair­ man H. Tucker; Secretary O. T. Gates. Motions carried: That dues and assessments be cut due to decreased earnings of seamen now that bonuses have been revoked; that action be taken to insure that unsatisfac­ tory conditions aboard ship be corrected, and that crew slick to the grievances at time of payoff. Good and Welfare: Galley and all crews quarters should be painted; numerous articles, such as razor blades. T-shirts, leather work gloves, have been left out of slopchest. It was requested that these ar­ ticles be furnished; Deck En­ gineer's full, approved over­ time was not paid him when ship paid off in Antwerp. This is to be reported to Patrolman when ship gets back to Stales. S. it COASTAL COMPETITOR. Feb. 8—Chairman Roman Vilaria; Secretary J. E. Winderweedle. Suggestion made that Purser sell slops during slopchest time, and not do his book work, also that a sign be post­ ed showing slopchest lime. Molions carried: That a sink and scuppers be installed in galley; that the crew be allowed more cigarettes; list of repairs and improvements to be presented to the company. 4. a; 4. CODY VICTORY. Feb. 10— Chairman Schmidt: Secretary Dellavalle. A repair list was drawn up. Motions carried: Payoff will be held up until a Patrolman views the over­ crowded situation; ship should be fumigated; brand of coffee should be changed. 4-4 4 ROBIN TUXFORD, Feb. 10 —Chairman Thomas Tooma; Secretary Robert P. Moran. Motions carried: Definite infor­ mation to be obtained as to whether Steward's Department should take care of Steward's, Electricians', or Purser's rooms without being paid overtime; that a precise agreement be drawn up so that deck hands on sea watches will get a full hour for meals or payment of a penalty hour; that Patrol­ man investigate why Engine Department received no soap powder and officers did. Good and Welfare: It was decided that entire crew should settle beefs before paying off; all crew forecastles, heads, show­ ers, and passageways should be painted; licensed personnel must remain out of crew's messhall; Patrolman will be asked to investigate slopchest situa­ tion, since crew is rationed and passengers can buy all the ci­ garettes they want. 4 4 4 CRANSTON VICTORY, Feb. 10—Due to an epidemic in Nagoya, it was necessary for all men to get smallpox "shots." One man refused because of the after affects. Motions carried: That souvenirs be returned to the crew and not held by Pur­ ser; Purser was voted off ship because he is incapable of do­ ing his job: one man sailing on Iripcard was voted out of the Union because he is imcompetent; no crew member to sign on again unless repairs are made to lockers, scuppers, and railings on crosstrees. 4 4 4 AM-MER-MAR, Jan. 28—(not noted) Motions carried: "Horse­ play" to be eliminated in pass­ ageways and messrccm; crew to hold meetings to take action against anyone violating regu­ lations. Good and Welfare: Sanitary regulations discussed; after coffee time, each person to rinse out his own cup; messmen to defrost ice boxes once a week. 4 4 4 JOHN A. ROEBLING, Feb. 3—Chairman Joseph Lecke; Secretary G. Lindstrand. Mo­ tion carried: That Union liter­ ature be procured for new member. Good and Welfare: Ship sailed one Wiper short; delegates report everything else OK. 4 4 4 CHARLES W. STILES, Feb. 9—Chairman Ed Johnston; Sec­ retary A. Pontoni. Motions carried: Each department have men responsible for cleaning laundry once each week, and department delegate be respon­ sible for execution of same; tine each man Ic for each of­ fence of throwing debris on deck of messhall or passage­ way, accummulated tines to be donated to the Log. 4 4 4 CUBA VICTORY, Feb. 10— Chairman E. Metros; Secretary A. Johnson. Motions carried: Crew to refuse to sign on again until a number of minor re­ pairs and purchases be made for the safety and health of the crew; each department to ap­ point two men to Inspect all forecastles before payoff. Good and Welfare: Purser sold ar­ ticles from slopchest to pas­ sengers and limited purchases of crew, this beef was adjusted. 4 4 4 MADAKET, Feb. 12 — Chairman W. Pozen; Secretary Mastrandrea. A member claim­ ed that the Chief Mate was working on the Deck Gang and giving order to the Deck De­ partment instead of through the Bosun. New members were informed about Union Fees. Good and Welfare: The fol­ lowing beefs were brought up; no penicillin aboard; insuffi­ cient slopchest; radio and rec­ ord player needed in crew re­ creation room; washing ma­ chine and iron needed for laundry. 4 4 4 OCCIDENTAL VICT CRY, Oct. 14—Chairman W. J. Walsh. Deck Delegate reported that someone in deck department had cut the wheel with a knife, and that if it didn't stop, the men who steer the wheel will have to pay for it. Good and Welfare: Men complained abouf shorfage of French fries and were promised a more adequate supply; one order of steaks to be placed, at a time to insure equal distribution; the crew utility is to prepare the coffee from now on. 4 4 4 OCCIDENTAL VICTORY. Oct. 27—Chairman R. Meeks; Secretary W. Walsh. Deck Del­ egate reported that Purser had received no order increasing rate of subsistence, but that if there should be an increase it will be paid on return to an American port. One hour per week of overtime goes into dis­ pute because skipper will OK only one hour for sanitary work on Sundays and holidays. Mo­ tions carried: Probationary members have voice and vote aboard ship, but voice only at regular meetings on the beach. Good and Welfare: The victrola head disappeared and men were requested to return same to Armed Guard, if found. 4 4 4 LLOYD S. CARLSON, Feb. 11—Chairman Ernie Fast: Sec­ retary C. Parker. Motions car­ ried: Last standby of each watch to clean messhall; a list of duties drawn up so crew can help each other. •<EAO TMe ARTICLES AHD RIDERS CAREf^ULLV BBfORE SIGNING ON I ! ! Nicolette Supports Four-Watch Action A motion to support any action taken by the Sea­ farers International Union on the matter of a four-watch system was voted unanimously by the crew of the SS Nicolette at its shipboard meeting on March 14, according to minutes submitted by Chairman W. Malley and Sec­ retary S. stein. 4 The crew's resolution follows: Baldwin Hills Crew Says Steward Cut Hours Off Overtime "That in view of the long hours worked by seamen (56) and the danger of unemployment, the crew of the SS Nicolette unani­ A beef charging the Chief mously agrees to support the Steward of the Baldwin Hilis Union 100 per cent in any action with chiseling on overtime of to secure the four-watch system." crew members in his department was lodged by the crew at a ADDITIONAL ACTION membership meeting held at sea Other important action taken on Feb. 24, according to the ship's at the meeting included: minutes. A motion to ask the Union to Stewards Delegate J. P. King put up the area or street where said men had complained to hirn a ship i,s docked on the board that they had worked five hours, in the New York Hall as well during which they also cleaned as the destination. The Chair­ the chill bo.x, but that they were man and most members felt such credited with only four hours of All men doing this a motion should be brought up at overtime. the New York membership meet­ type of work verified the dis­ ing, but it was agreed to put crepancy, and the matter has the matter under Good and Wel­ been referred to the Port Agent. fare, so it could be brought up The crew gave a vote of thanks' at the next meeting, to Chief Engineer Morgan for hi^' A motion that Delegates at­ "fine work at sea" when the' tempt to obtain new books for .ship's engines broke down. Mor=' the ship's library, since the ones gan stayed day and night at his job until repairs were completed. on board are of poor quality. A food discussion brought the That the Steward obtain a fruit squeezer and that breakfast juices recommendation that the Dele­ gates contact the shore Agent who be more varied. in turn is to notify the Port Stew­ NOISY OFFICERS ard to have the ship's supplies That officers be asked to be brought to the vessel before sail­ more quiet in the Saloon after ing time. In addition it was midnight, since the Watch can't recommended that Delegates can sleep through tlfem. check stores with the Steward That in view of the Mate's at­ concerning ship supplies for the titude toward the dog, and in or­ voyage. der to protect the animal, the The crew voted that each mem­ Captain be contacted and asked ber make a donation to the Log whether the crew can keep the at the payoff, and that the money dog aboard. be turned over to the Agent in" That the spare toilet be cleaned Port Arthur, Texas. and locked for use by any mem­ Recommended also was the ber who contracts a contagious painting of the Stewards' quar­ disease while on the trip. ters and showers, which were de­ That the four to eight watch scribed as "filthy." keep messrooms clean at sea, and that members who continue to be careless about butts and dirty cups be fined. Make Isthmian SIU! v5( �THE Page Twelve SEAFARERS LOG Friday. March 29. 1946 THE MEMBERSHIP SPEAKS MORE RUINS OF NAGASAKI FROM OCCIDENTAL CREW JIMMY STEWART COMES IN FOR MERITED PRAISE Dear Edilor: I would like to pass along some merited praise for Jimmy Stew­ art, and at the same time give some of the boys a good steer. Log-A - Rhythms UNION MAN By SCI330RBILL I want to tell the fellows that they should go and see Jimmy when they hit the New York Hall if they want their endorsements raised. I was in with two dis­ charges showing 57 and 55 days respectively as Fireman and Watertender, and Jimmy phoned the He was gentle and quiet, yet Strong as steel; Never seemed to know he was around; Yet any time a helping hand was needed There he was— Real as real. And somehow all felt better. More sure and certain of them­ selves When Bill was there. Bill? you ask. What Bill? Why any Bill will do We're talking of a Union man. A man of will. Of courage and convictions He may be Sam or Mike or Jim. But for our purpose. He's just plain Bill. WEST COAST TOWN GARBAGE DRIVER IS SYMBOLISTIC Coast Guard at 10 a. m. By 2 p. m. the same day he had ob­ tained my endorsement! It sure is nothing like the deal in New Orleans (at the Hole in the Wall) at the Customs House, where you stand out in the street and are called in at the Coast Guard's discretion. So three cheers for Jimmy and his handling of the Coast Guard. F. Cloplnn FORMER MEMBER OF NMU CHARGES SPY PLOT IN U. S. Dear Editor: The anti-American situation now existing in the National Maritime Union is similiar to the Canadian spy plot now being re­ vealed in the daily press, only on a smaller scale. It has been revealed that some of the so-called leaders of the NMU collected shipping infor­ mation during the war and pass­ ed it on to other sources outside the United States. It is already known by the State Department that some of this information on departures and cargoes found its way to Russian operators in New York. Several members of the NMU National Council whose wartime activities and connections arc be­ ing further investigated may be indicted along with the seditionists who tried to sell America down the river. These would-be spies have no right to a soft berth on the payroll of an Am­ erican Union. As a shining example of lead­ ership these men are using young inexperience seamen to picket personal enemies. If the men ex­ press any contrary opinion on the picketing, they are denied the right to take a job at the Union Han. Furthermore, this same so-call­ ed Union has collected and used without accounting for same some 12 million dollars during the war. Where is the $12,000,000? That is a question NMU Dear Editor: 1 was on the West Coast at a small steam schooner port re­ cently and was waiting for a bus at the bus station, A garbage truck drove up to collect the gar­ bage from the restaurant in the station. I did a double take, and then laughed like hell. The garbage truck driver was wearing a Steward's high pres­ sure cap—crescent and all. Whoops! R. E. Tunison LOG BECOMING FAMILY PAPER BROTHER SAYS Dear Editor: I am an SIU man sailing SIU ships. I have read several copies of the Log on board ships. I brought one home and let my dad I —i_ii_ J i ^ STOP PUSHIN@/ YOf'RE TURN WILL COME.' and mother read it. They enjoy it very much. I would like for my name to be put on the mail­ ing list and the Log sent to my home. James L. La Caze seamen are asking among them­ selves. If American Unions ai-e to con­ tinue to enjoy the privileges they have gained through hard strug­ gles for decent pay and conditioris, such misleaders as the above mentioned should be cast out where their loud-mouthed un-American activities will not mislead young America. Former NMUer Make Isthmian SIU! Dear Editor: Here are two pictures I took during a five month trip on the Occidental Victory. No 1 is myself at Nagaskai. Japan, in the area where the atomic bomb was dropped. The destruction can hardly be described. No. 2 might be titled "The Old and The New." It is of Oscar Grimm. Second Cook (left), and Danny Ungaren. Wiper, on his first trip. Phil Adelman BROTHER LANGLEY TELLS OF CAPTAIN WHO HATES UNION ENGINE BEEFS SPELL TROUBLE FOR DELEGATE Dear Editor: I thought I would write and let you know of a certain louse who is sailing as Captain for LAT. He is Captain Dickson of the SS La Brea Hills. Dear Editor: Tlieatening charges were made against me by the First Assistant Engineer aboard the George W. Alther at sea today. This morning, January 28, I was approached by the First As­ sistant and questioned about the overtime, which as Engine Dele­ gate I turned in for the Fireman and Oiler for relieving the watch On March 19 we arrived in New York from Port Arthur. Six of us were paying off, all in the Stewards Department. We" work­ ed that day. At 3:30 p.m. our re­ placements came aboard. I ask­ ed the Purser when we were paying off, and he said after sup­ per. We went to the Purser at 6:15. He said the Captain was busy. At 7 p.m. I went up to the Captain's office, knocked and stepped in. The Captain was just getting up after a nap. I asked when we were paying off. He .said as far as he was concerned we could wait all night. At 9:45 p.m. the Purser came back to the Messroom and said the Captain was ready to pay us off. Afterward I told the Captain I was bringing this matter up with the Union. The Captain said: "The hell with the Union. for supper, and for the Wiper for carrying angle, iron and. lumber from the magazine to the store room. The First Assistant claimed I was a trouble maker and that he There's the story, fellows. You was going to turn me over to the can see tliat the guy is strictly Coast Guard for putting in such overtime. I denied causing NFG. trouble but insisted I would conCharles A> Langley What was his race, his creed, his color? V/hy friend. I do not know. He was all races. All names. All religions. Sometimes he wore dungarees. Sometimes he had smooth hands. Instead of callouses And wore white collars. But underneath It was all the same. • And this is Bill. American And Union Man. A rebel against all tyranny. Oppression and dictatorship. He asked nothing For himself, other than his due. Old? Young? Why. he is all ages. And all trades. He is the- dignity Of labor and its fame. EARNED RESPECT By ERNEST KAPRALL The earned respect of your fel­ low men. Is the finest thing on earth. And as you go along in life. You'll find out v/hat its worth. But that respect which can be forced. By virtue of authority. Can at best but be endorsed. By a very small minority. And even those who thus respect you. While you are on top. Will be the first ones to reject you. Once you take a flop. tinue to turn in overtime as re­ quested by the men. The First Assistant said that if such overtime is put in again, he will refuse all overtime. I re­ torted that he did not have to check the overtime if he did not wish. The First Assistant then told me he did not want me on the ship and he would have me put in jail for stating I would not go to sea any more. The First Assistant stormed against the SIU as just a bunch of scabs, kicked out of the NMU. He is a member of the NMU. Alvln W. Frwrsoa �THE Friday. March 29. 1946 SEAFARERS LOG COMPANY TRYING TO BUMP STEWARD ON CAPE PILLAR Dear Editor: I would like to call to the at­ tention of the crew members of the MV Cape Pillar who paid off on March 3 in Norfolk the at­ tempt that is being made to smear Pete Piralta, who was Steward that trip. The South Atlantic Steamship Company's agent at Norfolk says the Steward brought in a dirty .ship, but certainly you fellows .know better than that, just as I do. Surely, you recall the Captain, the Chief Engineer and the Chief STEWARD, COOK STIR UP CREW OF ELBRIDGE GERRY BUNTLINE CREW WANTS HOT WATER RUN FOR A CHANGE Dear Editor: Dear Editor: The good ship Buntline Hitch is loaded with plenty of trouble and is always headed for Iceland, the land of the midnight sun. These trips would be exception­ ally dull and desperate if the crew had not picked out of the We, the undersigned crew members of the Elbridge Gerry wish to report the activities of the Chief Steward, C. Chattin, and tJie Chief Cook, Casella, aboard this ship. BROTHER SUGGESTS NEW ORGANIZATION 'OFFICERS WITHIN THE SEAFARERS' There are among the licensed personnel on a lot of SIU ships jiiany members of the Seafaieis and fonnc-r members of the Seafarers, and I know that a lot of these boys figure on stay­ ing in the Union after they get their papers. ' I don't sec why the SIU, then, doesn't build up an organi­ zation within the organization to take care of these men. They would be plenty useful in keeping members fiom getting a rough deal and helping them nut aboard ship. In addition, we certainly could use them for constructive criticism on what Seamen can do to get along with officers with­ out bending a knee to them. How about it, Brothers? Answer: This is hardly a beef, Brofher. Bui ii does merit some considereilion. and should be brought up at a member­ ship meeting by interested parties. Both of them .should have their | papers revoked. The Steward is a company man, a first class of­ ficers' stooge, who has failed throughout this whole trip to peiform his duties. In addition, he has kepi Casella on as Chief Cook, knowing he was no cook in the first place. When he gets gassed up, which is frequently, he comes down to llie crew's mess, accusing us of breaking into the storei'ooms and old hat an exceptionally fine set of deck officers. Especially Cap­ tain Harold Reid, Jr. and Chief Mate Royce Graham. They are both old hands and members of SIU. "To you Captain and to you Chief Mate, we salute you as" good brothers and will damn well; sail with you any time, bul please, don't take us to Reykjavik, Ice­ land again!" The Crew BROTHER PROPOSES AN ASSIST FOR OUR HARRIED DISPATCHERS Mate making the inspection rounds every day. I know that most of us won't forget it, becau.se it made us mad as hell. But at any rate, there wouldn't be much chance of a dirty sliip with that sort of inspection deal. The thing for you fellows to do is write the company and set it straight; point out that every­ body on the ship left it, and that the Norfolk Agent is probably sore about that and wants to take it out on someone. Henry Beckman BROTHER TRYING TO FIND SEAMAN JAMES POULOS Page Thirteen Most of our members are unaware of the fact that the Journal of Commerce carries full news about shipping—dates of arrival, departure, destinations, lengths of trips, etc. As a result of this not generally being known, the dispatch­ ers have to answer many unnecessary questions and because of the pressure of work are unable to satisfy everybody. I propose, therefore, that the full shipping page of the Journal of Com­ merce be posted in a convenient place on the second floor of the hall, and that care be taken to change the page daily. B. Goodman Answer: A very good idea. Brothers; we'll call it to the Dispatchers' attention. SEAFARERS ABOARD WALLOWA REFUTE CANARDS ABOUT COOPERATIVE OLD MAN Dear Editor: We, the undersigned crew members of the SS Wallowa, having just completed a trip to Germany with Capt. O. W. Chaffee, would like at this time to add a word of praise and admiration for the Dear Editor: "Old Man." I am writing in an effort to lo­ It appears that in the past a few unsavory letters have been cate my brother, James Lamprowritten to the Log concerning Captain Chaffee; but as far as this poulos. .We have not heard from him for six years. We believe he sails unc^er the nanio of James Poulos for con­ venience sake. He is in the Stew­ ards Department and usually ships from West Coast ports. Any information that any Sea­ farers might have as to his ad­ dress or present whereabouts would be greatly appreciated. Theodore Lampropoulos Tidane Victory Crew Sets Union Example selling the stores. We know that he's the one who does it. When the officers' water pitchers were broken he took the ones from the Black Gang's mess to replace thern, saying: "if you don't like it, go to the Old Man." He spends all his time with the Purser and in the saloon, never thinking of the lousy chow his stinking cook puts out. The cook has taken but one bath the whole trip, and that was when he went ashore in Rotterdam. He has worn practically the same clothes the whole trip. These men should be put ashore where they belong, and not allowed to contaminate American ships. We want this to be printed in the Log so other members •who rnme in contact with the.se characters will know what to give them; the toes of their shoes. The letter is signed by 19 mem­ bers of the crew. RETIRED SEAMAN WOULD LIKE TO RECEIVE LOG Dear Editor: The 3S Tulane Victory in its minutes of March 7, as reported by Secretary R. Goldstein, has a motion that would be worth while for any ship to follow: To visit all Isthmian ships in ports hit and speak to crews about better con­ ditions in the SIU. Captain Chaffee (standing center) and friends. The crew also voted to see the Captain about obtaining names crew is concerned he is 100 percent, and never has there been a and addresses in ports where the Skipper who has cooperated more wholeheartedly witlr the crew crew can get maU; to have do­ than Captain Chaffee. mestic water aboard; to notify Leter signed by 36 crew members. the Agent of Stewards DeiiartEditor's Note: The Log is glad to learn of Captain Chaffee's ment shortages, and to have the new attitude toward his crews; this letter is markedly different New Orleans Agent take care of from those received about him in the past. The Log trusts it had the fans. something to do with the transition. EeUy Shipowners! The War^s Over, Yet SICK BROTHER ASKS FOR LOG AND MAIL You may not know it yet. Ship­ owners, but the war's over. The crew of the SS Williams Victory wants to know why blackout cov­ ers were installed. The query came up in the minutes of the March 11 shipboard meeting, as reported by (Chairman William Blakeley and Secretary P. Dyer. Dear Editor: I am in the Marine Hospital here in Detroit, and across the ward from me is Brother Wares, our former Agent in Detrot. I would like to ask you if there is any chance of getting the Log as I haven't seen one since I left Baltimore last August. Also, if there is any chance of getting some mail for Brother Wares and myself. Perhaps you can put us on the mailing list. I've been in these hospitals for almost two years now, but I will become a militant SIU member again on my release. James R. Lewis (Book G28) I am a retired seaman. I would like to get the Log every week. The Log is alwaj's full of good news for a former seaman now in the Army, and I would be quite happy if you would send it to me. Pvt. Charles F. Cirri SEAMAN'S DEATH ABOARD CROSBY IS INVESTIGATED Dear Editor: Will any of the former mem­ bers of the crew of the SS Na­ thaniel Crosby who know any­ thing about the injui-y to, and death of, George Braddock on August 24, 1945, while the ves­ sel was at Stockton, California, please conununicate with the un­ dersigned as promptly as pos­ sible. I represent his family. Sol C. Berenholtz 1102 Court Sq[uare Bldg. Baltimore, 2, Maryland Lexington 6967 OUACHITA VICTORY HOSPITAL SHOWS PURSER'S ABILITY Dear Editor: The enclosed shot of the hos­ pital on the Ouachita Victory was made on its trip to Sweden and Denmark last fall. The Purser took the Steward's key to the hospital at the begin­ ning of the trip and said it was his room to look after—so stay the hell out. Just how well he took care of it is shown in this picture. It was like this for more than half of the trip. That Purser is a phony if one ever lived. So, Brother, look out for Lieut. Peter Del Morris, one of the Sheepshead Bay wonders, because he's strictly C. S. Harold Baldauf BROTHER NERRING HELD UP, STABBED; WANTS VISITORS Dear Editor: One of your boys is sick in the Holy Family Hospital, 155 Dean Street, Brooklyn. His name is Frank Nerring (Fireman). He sure would like someone from the Union or some of hi^ friends to come over. Visiting hours are 2-3 and 7-8 p. m. every day, the Ward is St. Charles on the second floor. Ner­ ring was held up and stabbed in the left arm and left side just below the heart, but is coming along fine. Sincerely yours. Stern H. Clliah C'J �."-r, ' Page Fourteen THE Skipper Of SS Lawson Is 'One Of The Boys' SEAFARERS STURDY BEGGAR'S CHIEF MATE HAS 'ACHING' ALLERGY LOG • Friday, March 29, 1946 What Commie Unity Means By WHITEY LYKKE The unity of all waterfront mate waterfront unions to unite The following was read and workers has always been the with them. What can be behind Dear Editor: goal of all union seamen. Today this move? ORGANIZE, CRIES approved by the members at The current crew members of the waterfront unions of the AFL PARTY LINE the John Lawson agree that fate BROTHER BUCKLEY; general meeting held aboard the are the organizations closest to We know that in the past the Sturdy Beggar at sea on Feb­ achieving this. has cast one of her rare smiles GIVES SOME TIPS policy of these unions always ruary 15. Our Union, the SIU—which in­ connected with the relationship in their favor. Not only are they Dear Editor: can­ between the United States and The ship left New Orleans on cludes seamen, fishermen, bound for Buenos Aires, which Organize is the cry in every January 18. One man, Milton J nery workers, inland boatmen, alone is a boost for mor&le, but issue of the Seafarers Log. Or­ Malousc, AB, went to the hos­ and tugboatmen—together with Russia. When Russia was allied with Nazi Germany, they were are also fortunate in sailing with ganize to create more jobs. That pital at St. Thomas, V. I., the the International Longshore­ isolationists. When Russia joined a captain who everyone vows is is one method of reconversion. Deck Maintenance man was put men's Association representing the Allies, they became superthe best they have ever sailed Go out and tell the.se unorganized on watch in his place. On leav­ longshoremen, ware housemen* patriotic. Whatever the Govern­ seamen of the gains they can win ing Recife, Brazil, one man, R. checkers, and other waterfront ment or one of its agencies did with, by joining up with the SIU. The Henault, Tripcard, missed the workers—and the Tearnsteis In­ was OK with them, even when it Captain T, H. Hostetter, a for­ old-timers are e.specially called ship. The Chief Mate .said it was ternational Union, which repre­ came to cutting the seamen's mer member of the SIU, carried upon to do this work because unnecessary to put cither the sents the men hauling the fi-eight paybook No. G-136. He joined riw their experience will be a great Bosun or the Carpenter on his to and from the docks, are work­ Today, relations between this Union in 1938 and retired his aid to the younger element with­ watch, as he would be at sea over ing together very closely. country and Russia have become book in 1941. He was a former in our ranks today. the weekend! This group of unions has no strained, although there are in­ ISU member before joining the Indeed, the art of knowing In Rio Henault rejoined the political mission. Their only con­ dications that everything will be things as they really are is ex­ ship and the Deck Maintenance cern is decent wages and work­ ironed out to the satisfaction of ceedingly difficult: moreover, the returned to day work. An SIU ing conditions for the men they all concerned. But in the event mind of man is by nature feeble represent. And by militant or­ that something should happen at and drawn this way by impres­ ganizing and unity in action, some time in the future, what is sions coming from without; fur­ these unions enjoy the best con­ the most effective blow which thermore, the influence of pas­ ditions in the country today. could be struck against this sions takes away or diminishes country in time of war? HISTORY SIMILIAR the capacity for grasping the TREASONABLE ACTION There are, however, other or­ truth. Complete paralysis of the ganizations among the maritime On this account force is often waterfront is the answer. How workers. One, headed by Harry used in controlling Union affairs Bridges, is the West Coast Inter­ can the commies achieve this? fo keep together those who can­ national Longshoremen's Union. By putting themselves in a po­ not agree in their way of think­ The other, headed by Joseph Cur- sition whereby they control all ing. ran, is the National Maritime maritime and waterfront work­ When you go aboard an unor­ Union. This history of both of ers. SIU and started his sailing days ganized ship it is not with pur­ And this is the purpose of their these organizations is quite sim­ at the age of 16 on the Lakes. He pose of telling the world in gen­ so-called unity program. ilar. remembers the days when he eral your business. Keep to your­ While unions such as curs man was picked up off the beach They started out as militant fought with NMU men, when he self at first. Study your ship­ work together for better living as an Ordinary Seaman to re­ rank and file organizations, and first joined the SIU, and also the mates. Every fq'csle has a leader place the AB whom we left in St. ended up saddled with a leader­ conditions, the communist unity days when you had to fight to to whom most of the men are Thomas. The Mate claims it is ship that has been ruling them means a weapon against the eco­ get an SIU ship. At present he drawn. When you are sure of nomic system of this country, all right to keep four Ordinary with an iron hand. is a member of the Master, Mates your ground, bring the subject of which they believe they can Seamen without promoting any­ and Pilots in good standing. These leaders were put in change by helping the Soviet unions into the ordinary conver­ one to Acting AB. there to carry out a certain polit­ He prefers a Union crew who sation; don't try to force it upon The Mate also claims that no ical line and to develop the Union, even to the extent of de' knows their agreements and jobs, men. If your subject is interest­ OS can go aloft to work, but they unions as a weapon for further­ feating this country in a war. rather than men who belong to a ing their normal curiosity will can go up in a Bosun's chair! This is the difference between ing the program of the Commun­ their brand of unity, and our Union because they have to. He make them listen. Bring your F. "Cuz" Murray ist Party. sees the Union's viewpoint in unity for a better standard of what they have done and ask for This is the first concern of these living. and what they are willing to go Conditions of the mem­ Make Isthmian SIU! leaders. out and get in raising wage bers is secondary. scales and conditions. These very same political Captain Hostetter says this is agents are now asking the legitiTHE FIRE ISLAND the best crew he has ever had SUPPORTS STAND under his command. Six men of ON COAST GUARD the Decli Department and two of By J. TRUESDALE the Steward Department are now Dear Editor: making their third trip with him, PHILADELPHIA—News from The SIU crew of the Moran and the rest of the men are mak­ the City of Brotherly Love is not tug M. V. Fh-e Island held its ing their second trip. so hot this week. The tugboat finst weekly meeting of this tilp Alien seamen, heretofore bar­ strike called by District 50, United This ship has never been de­ on Saturday, March 2, shortly red from entering the United layed or hold up because of any after leaving New Orleans for States due to the fact that they Mine Workers, is really giving us subject to the point and don't crew^ member, and Captain Ho­ the business. Although the men had served aboard ships of the involved in this strike have gain­ stetter feels with a crew like that drag it along. Let the men un­ Guantanamo, Cuba. Above all, get After crew discussion of Paul United Nations since September they de.serve the best of breaks. derstand you. ed- practically everything they them to respect you. Hall's remarks in the Log of Feb­ 1, 1939, are now eligible to re­ He cleared sevei'al of his crew in want, with the exception of one A worker on the job trusts a ruary 22, 1946, concerning the ceive immigration visas. These point which is going to be ar­ Galveston v/hen they had a runin with the police. He also went worker who approaches him in SIU plans to investigate the pos­ instructions were recently sent bitrated, it will be a few -days to bat in front of the Coast the same capacity. He feels the sibilities of removing the Coast to Consular Officers by the De­ before we will know what is Guard when one of the crew other fellow has a understand­ Guard's authority over the Mari­ partment of State. what. So no ships are going out ing of his economic life better time Industry, the following was missed the ship in Marseilles. The text of the instructions has right now. entered in the minutes of that not beon made public, but it has He has sailed with South .At­ than an outsider. We are now fixing up the Hall been learned that Consulates will so it will be more comfortable It is important that you do meeting: lantic since 1935, the past threeThe lopic of faking fhe Coast be permitted to accept applica­ for the members. A lot of Philly years as Captain. And up to your job and stay sober. Then Guard's authority away from tions and issue visas to alien sea­ men are now coming back and you can prove your ability to pro­ date, there hasn't been a log on the Lawson, despite the futile ef­ tect your shipmates when the the merchant marine was men who have American-citizen we hope they will like it. discussed. The wives, and alien seamen who are forts of the Chief Engineer and brass hats attempt the usual ex­ thoroughly Here at the Agents Conference his social climbing First Assis­ ploitation found on these unor­ crew as a whole agreed to nationals of any one of the coun­ in New York everything is going support the decision of those tries with which the United States along fine. There is a lot of con­ tant, and we don't think there ganized ships. will be. Brute strength in organization in the Union qualified to in­ had wartime agreements. structive work being done, and The countries referred to are it looks like we will come out A quiet-spoken go-getter is shows stupidity and lack of un­ vestigate the situation. So do prejudices These minutes will of course be Gi-eat Britain, Norway, China, with a program which the mem­ Captaiq. Hostetter—a gentleman derstanding. of the seas if ever there was one. when displayed in an argument, handed in to the Patrolman on a Greece, Belgium, The Nether­ bership will like and approve of. "One of the boys" is a fitting whether the men around you hold regular blank whenever we may lands, France, and Yugoslavia. be in an SIU port again. Mean­ The applications will only be ac­ description, and we of the John the same prejudices or not. Your job is to gain the confi­ while, the crew of the M. V. Fire cepted if the seamen can secure PORT OF NEW YORK Lawson are happy to be the ones to say so. With the majority it's dence of the crew; understand Island desires to go on record a release from the country with TO KEEP PACE a case of:' "suitcases over the side, ther weaknesses and fears; know with the Log as willing to en­ which they served. their hopes and ambitions. Only dorse whatever steps the SIU of­ Mayor William O'Dwyer of Any alien seaman who since here's my home sweet home." then can you organize them. ficials may decide upon with re­ September 1, 1939, served aboard New York has promised that his Very truly yours, Joseph S. Buckley gard to authority over merchant a merchant ship of the United administration will impi'ove New Johnnie Johnson Nations, may apply for an immi­ York s harbor facilities,, particu­ seamen. Gene Yarborough grant visa. The Consul to whom larly piers, warehousing and Woodrow A. Soderman, W. L. Cunningham such application is made, will de­ approaches. Deck Delegate Frank "Scottie" Aubascsson termine whether or not the sea­ W. N. Lockwood, man is eligible according to the Engine Deleate authority contained in the new Jack M. Greenberg, Make Isthmian SIU! Steward's Dept. Delegate instructions. Dear Editor: Visas Opened To Alien Seamen Tugboat Strike Cools Phiily Make Isthmian SIU! �Frida7< March 29, 1946 THE SEAFARERS Page Fiileen LOG BUUJITIN J - • Z1 •K7- - Unclaimed Wages SS THEODORE ROOSEVELT Back pay checks for the fol­ lowing men will be held at the Chicago Branch until May 15th, 1946, after which they will be re­ turned to the Company offices. Marie McMillan, $12.69; J. McMahon, $15.99; John Cass, $39.01; Charles Brown, $17.73; Wm. Rich­ ard, $24.54; Clarence O'Donnel, $28.85; Paul Byi'd, $30.61; Joseph Smith, $57.01; Arnold Kelm, 21.38; Salavatore Barers, $22,61; G. Catandella, $29.55; Donald Keret, $20.86; Walter Otis, $28.85; J. L. Smith, $51.27; Charles Pataky, $27.46. Natale Cantendella, $17.73; Salvatore Cinellato, $29.55; Edward Galgin, $30.15; Louis Johnson, $26.76; Anton Prusaitis, $26.76; Mechle Scala, $22.59; Walter Wolden, $27.81; Richard Wechol, E. McArthur. $1.00; L. Cheaves. $1.00; R. Parker, $1.00; R. Broadus. $1.00: SS PENDLETON C. Pendergraft, $1.00; M. Gilbert. $1.00; R. Pack. $1.00: U. Johnson. $1.00; W. D Huff. $1.00; W. Stoan. $1.00; J. Walker, $1.00. Total—$3.00. Rainwater, $1.00; U. McCorvey. $1.00; SS BASTROPE R. Stribner. $1.00; F. Stanton, $1.00; J. LeVa«.suer, $3,00; R, Mcl.eod, J. Fleemaii, $1.00. Total—$19.00. $3.00; j. R. Frutton. $2.00; G. A. SS GEORGE WASHINGTON French. $2.00; O. Silun, $5.00; C. E. C. J. Cora, $2.00; S. Ferarz, $2.00. rollins, $3.00; Edward F. Raposa. $1.00; Total—$4.00. H. J. Pi^zgrowski. $1.00; E. P. LaniSS WAYCROSS VICTORY gan. $1.00; Lewis B. Michaud. $1.00; W. Lcmkcy, $2.00; F. A. Calitri, $2.00; Rubin L. DuBose. $1.00; E. C. Dacey. W Barwarz, $2.00; N Mattei, $2.00; $1.00; Peter S. Kozak. $1.00; A. Supple. K. Blir. $2.00; J. Marsh, $2.00; C. $1.00; j. Garello. $2.00; llenry HigLeFeber, $2.00; R. O'Dell, $2.00; P. hani. $2.00. Total—$30.00. Tietsche. $2.00; S. Lazzari. $2.00; L. A. SS DORCOSTER Schumann. $2.00; A. Birrell. $1.00; R. E. F. Raul, $1.00; A. W. Shearer. T. Moran, $2.00; G. R. Gass. $1.00. $1.00; A. Watson, $5.00; W. KaczanowTotal—$26.00. -ki. $1.00. Total $8.00. SS EDWIN WEED SS CITADEL VICTORY Garland Brown, $2.00; C. .E. Swenson. W. Howell, $5.00; T. Nickols, $1.00; $1.00; O. V. Hale, $2.00; P. Klein. J. Saucier. $1.00; T. Sharp. $1.00; M. $2.00; C. W. Wells. $2.00; J. C. HamRossi, $2.00. Total—$10.00. berlin. $2.00; R. H. Davis. $2.00; R. SS FT. McHENRV M. Bennett, $2.00; J. L. Turner, $2.00, C. Hargis, $1.00; j. Floyd. $1.00; Total—$17.00. W. Palmer. $1.00; R. Drobiak. $1.00; SS F. CRITTENDON S. Cohen, $1.00. Total—$5.00. K. Bagley, $2.00; M. T. Coffee. $2.00; NEW YORK SS HILTON R. Darby. $2.00; Donald Cease. $2.00; LeRoy Harrod, $2.00; T. Balde, $2.00; John W. Andreasson, $2.00. Total— W. W. Allen, $2.00; W. Eslinger, $2.00; $10.00. J. E. Maher, $2.00; T. Popa. $2.00; F. SS WILLIAMS VICTORY Garcia. $10.00; C. H. Kisner. $2.00; F. Rutkowski, $1.00; J. W. Gard, H. Chapman, $2.00; R. Rae, $1.00; P. $1.00; C. A. Hancock, $3.00; M. GoldenAlnocisa. $1.00; Paul Schobenid, $2.00; berg. .$1.00; R. G. Kluerk. $1.00; W. J. Charle,s Lacy. $2.00. Total—$32.00. Balkelcy, $1.00; S. D. Wright. $2.00; SS COASTAL MARINER Thoriiaa M. Quinn. $1.00; V. J. Bene­ H. T. Clisaoii, $1.00; L. A. Cabrera. detto. $2.00; P. Dyer, $1.00. Total— $2.00ffi W. T. Scott. $1.00; C. Reyes. $14.00. $2.00; R. M. Porter. $2.00. Total—$8.00. SS SAMUEL GRIFFIN SS ROBIN WENTLEY J. Ouiapo, $2.00; A. Leiner, $2.00; D. R. Fisher, $2.00. Total—$2.00. R. L. Varnum, $3.00; A. H. Harbaugh. SS R. M. CULTER Roy Voss, $1.00; A. Tavares. $2.00; R. McDougald. $2.00; Clyde S. Couch, $2.00; G. .Georgevich, $5.00. Total— $12.00. SS CLAYMONT VICTORY j. j. DiFebo, $2.00; Jose Toro. $1.00; H. D. Shackelford, $2.00. Total—$5.00. $2.00; R. D. Rossi, $2.00; C. W. Gorlcy. $2.00; D. Crabtree, $2.00; J. E Lillis. $1.00; R. N. James. $2.00; R. McManus. $2.00; H. E. Encelder, $1.00; S. Escoldi. $2.00; T. Wheeler. $2.00; F. Shapiro, $2.00ffi F. Phillips. $2.00; J. R. Smith. $2.00; T. McCarthy, $2.00; P. J. V. Spinney, $1.00; J. Panozzo. $2.00; George Bogorae, $1.00; R. B. Lowe. $2.00; Lee Simmons, $2.00; A. J. Nittl, $1.00; E. C. Johnson. $1.00; C. P. Jack­ son, $2.00; M. Trocha, $1.00; D. M. Moody. $1.00; T. Adkins, $1.00. Total —$48.00. SS W. S. YOUNG C. Kasparian. $5.00; E. D. Holmberg, $2.00; J. H. LaFlame, $5.00; F. Salhany, $2.00; O. Pelland, $2.00; E. D. Neipel. $2.00; A. Freund. $2.00, M. Kennedy, $2.00; B. C. Osborne, $2.00; H. Hnrr, $2.00; I, Boe, $2.00; B. IngNORFOLK hie. $2.00. Total—$30.00. R. S. Turman, $1.00; W. G. Manning. C. Chambless. $1.00; T. Whitford. $2.00; H. Beckman, $3.00; W. Finley, $1.00; T. George. $1.00; J. Dudley. $1.00; J. Owens. Jr.. $10.00; F. E. $1.00; E. Jolly, $1.00; C. Hughes, $1.00; Koppersmith, $10.00. Total—$27.00. NOTICE! Henry Connolly, Book 38839, contact Union Hall, New York, and pick up your book. INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS J. F. Wood, $2.00; E. E. Cosby. $2.00; B. E. Brooks, $2.00; H. W. Beck. $2.00; S. Rosoff, $2.00; W. W. Etty. $2.00; W. A. Smith. Jr., $2.00; J. H. Richard­ son, $2.00; A. R. Douglas, $2.00; Roy L. Auman, $2.00; Vincent Vallencla, $2.00; I-.- 1 PERSONALS PETE HUDAK $23.93; Wm. C. Fisher, $21.72; Os­ car Huggins, $58.47; Francis I. Please get in touch with Don­ Jolcoeur, $28.85; Betty Grater, ald Dahl at the Marine Hospital, $19.12; John Naglowski, .95. New Orleans. When Dahl was taken off the Pacific Tanker Mis­ % % % sion de Pala in Panama, as the SS WALTER M. CHRISTIANSEN result, of an accident, you were George Smith, Messman, and a member of the crew, and he Frank H. Sullivan, Oiler, contact needs your testimony. the American Liberty SS Corp., 5. 75 West Street, New York, for GEORGE W, MEANEY unclaimed wages. Peter King, with whom you sailed on the SS Peter Zcnger, wants you to get in touch with him through the New York Hall. J- i 5. JAMES AND NICHOLAS j LAMPROPOULOS I Write to your brother. Theo\ doro Lampropoulos at 361 Nepperhan Ave., Yonkcrs. New York, or call Batavia, New York, 612-R. i. 4. 4. GEORGE E. BENTLEY Please get in touch with your mother, who is ill, at 238 Howard Ave., Brooklyn, New York. Notice! Books for the following men are being held at the New Or­ leans Hall: Wm. E. Apple 38166 Reginald Arceneaux 106-6 Louis L. Arena 6908 Pio Arna 28425 John C. Atherton 30472 Francis P. Aucoin 23973 Wm. L. Austin 75-6 Thos. J. Baier 767 P.D. Angelo Barone 39918 Lionel F. Baxter 31910 Doyle B. Bellew 34487 Arthur Berger 22724 James A. Berley 34045 A. T. Bernard, 356-6, 70003-A, 1675-Lakes J. A. Berry 32655 W, W. Bickford 39144 F. A. Bishop 6964 Fvichard L. Blake 752 P.D. James F. Blizzard 33277 Fred B. Bloomer 38625 Victor T. Bonura 7103 Warren Bose 38006 Carter E. Boyd 29656 John R. Boyle 332 P.D. Preston Boyter 176-6 B. J. Brewer 44519 Charles Briscoe 31908 Frank Brookins 33510 Ed. J. Hoblin. $2.00; W H. Hunsucker. $2.00; L. Smithson. $2.00; M. A. Free­ Carl L. Bruncr 34124 The Seafarers' Hall in Duman. $2.00; H. L. Westfall. $2,00; L. E. Richard Bryant 39303 Farmer. $2.00; G. A. Brinkley. $2.00; luth, Minn„ will be closed for Gen. Bunch 37881 W. M. Van Dresser. Jr.. $2.00; M. M. a month or so. F. V. Burrus 37925 Robbins. $2.00; D. A. Waffell. $2.00. Ralph Butler 296-6 Total—$42.00. Leonard Bailey 45487 Pro. PHILADELPHIA Joseph S. Barron 44588 Pro. INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS C. Dunphy, $2.00; J. Quist. $1.00; Henry Bonk 39269 Pro. •A. Anderson. $1,00; H. Sharpe. $2.00; J. MANFREDI W. J. Boudreaux 44637 Pro. Follctt. $1.00; D. Groner. $5.00; Crew of You can collect three days Joseph L. Campbell 32371 J. Lenon. $7.00; Crew of Schoarie. wages for standing fireman's Clarice Carey 36314 $11.00; C. O'Brien. $1.00; Herman, $1.00; 41170 C. Jacques. $4.00; N. Bartholomeo, watch on SS Ft. Meigs, at 17 Bat­ Paul Carlson $1.00; I,. Goldwhithe. $2.00; J, Harrison, tery Place, Room 1723. John C. Carolan 23058 $4.00; C, Dolan. $5.00; R. Allare. .$1 Oil; Olivei Carpenter 29930 B. Meyers. $4.00; T. Romango, $4.00; J. •las. G Carter 3720 SUP Logan. $4.00: P. Bistline, $3.00; J. Edgar Caudill 248 P.D. Bendergrass. $4.00. 37944 51 Beaver St. W. C. Chancey A. Melin. $10.00; G. James. $4.00; W. NEW YORK HAnover 2-2784 Frank Cimperman Kwitchoeff. $2.00; W. Weber. $3.00; 32485 330 Atlantic Ave. K. Brown. $4.00; W. Cahill. $4.00; BOSTON 37214 Liberty 4057 Jesse Clarke Bruoffy. $2.00; A. Bitale. $3.00; A. BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St. Jack W. Conway 29659 Djerdi, $1.00; J. Connolly. $1.00; J. Pa­ Calvert 4539 Houston F. Cooper 6739-A tient. $1.00; J. Velthe, $3.00; R. Har- PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. Phone Lombard 7651 F. B. Crowther 37493 rimant. $1.00; J. Ringtont. $2.00; J. 127-129 Bank Street Joseph 8. Crustuski Wheeler. $1.00; F. Quindnest. $1.00; NORFOLK 29474 4-1083 D. Cavanaugh, $1.00; C. Ponhro. $8.00; V. J. Cortez 62 NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. T. Amann. $1.00; R. Stedman. $2.00; J. Canal 3336 P. M. Darnell 22449 Gouiea, $4.00; J. Baveas. $5.00; A. SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. 21692 Hawley, $2.00; M. Reeves. $1.00; L. 3-1728 Thomas Q. Dear 7 St. Michael St. L. H. Denton Dower, $2.00; Crew of Rider Victory. MOBILE 34043 2-1754 $12.00; A. Rosenfield, $3.00; A. Valdez. C. F. DeShane 234 P.D. 45 Ponce de Leon $3.00; S. Liberto, $5.00; W. Black. SAN JUAN, P. R San Juan 2-5996 Steptoe Dixon 22733 $4.00; p.. Dillon. $3.00; J. Dougherty. GALVESTON 305'/i 22nd St. H. H. Dorer 37911 $3 00; R Wentz, $3.00; \V. Swcboda. 2-8043 7654 $15.00; D. Scalise. $15.00; R. Swoboda, RICHMOND, Calif 257 5th St. Chas. M. Dowling $15.00; T. McEirone, $2.00; F. Wher- SAN FRANCISCO 59 Clay St. Kennth M. Dowty 32923 ritz, $2.00; A. Aghazasmetz. $3.00. | SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. Charles R. Duff 29547 Ill W. Burnside St. G. Owens. $3.00; J. Gallagher, $3.00; PORTLAND F. E. Eklund 25-6 WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd. J. Campbell. $4.00; J. Shaw. $4.00; A. H. F. Flkund 42466 16 Merchant St. Sellre. $3.00; D. Smith, $4.00; J. HONOLULU 10 Exchange St. W. Fpton 45480 Pro. Doughlas $1.00; A. McGuffey $4.00; BUFFALO 24 W. Superior Ave. Edward Faris W. Hines, $4.00; A. Scardina, $2.00; CHICAGO 25387 I0I4 E. St. Clair St. A. Ploch. $3.00; Sarchild. $2.00. V.; CLEVELAND Michael J. Feeheny 22006 1038 Third St. Smith, $1.00; F. Newcomer. $2.00; Ginn. DETROIT 5890 DULUTH 531 W. fvlichigan St. John Felix $2.00; H. Price. $1.00; J. Blach. $2.00; VICTORIA, B. C 602 Boughton .St, Charles D. Feraci 20082-A J. Hoyle. $4.00: J. Ledden. $4.00; J. VANCOUVER 144 W. Hastings St. Joseph N. Fisette 29672 Myefski. $2.00; Crew of Capitol Reef. TAMPA 842 Zack St. $8.00; C. Santee. $1.00; T. Delia. $1.00; 37856 M-1323 E. P. Flannagan C. McLawhorn, $1.00; P. Harris, $1.00; JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St. Harvey L. Flora 30157 G. Butter. $2.00; Crew of Scripps. 5-1231 L. C. Fortner 35857 PORT ARTHUR 445 Austin Ave. $68.50; G. Bursick, $1.00. Total $261.50. Phone: 28532 H. J. Fountain 37082 HOUSTON 7137 Navigation Blvd. BOSTON S. Franzella 7552 Phone Wenlworth 3-3809 SS CALVIN AUSTIN Raymond F. Fristoe 27825 Joseph Forget, $1.00; Robert Falke. J. J. Frisella 32847 $1.09; W. Mosley. $2.00; R. W. Clark. $5.00; C.. Mahmlcl. $5.00; J. Gess. $5.00; H. Fruge 37966 $1.00; S. J. Steel, $1.00; Raymond B. T. Glover. $3.00. P. Heckman, $5.00; Ohara. $1.00; N. Funken. $1.00. Total 39792 J. Shuninn, $5.00; D. Rae. $5.00; H. P. Jas. Fulmer —$8.00. Bilinski. $5.00; L. S. Atzull. $5.00; C. Wm. M. Faulkner 37688 Pro. INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS West. $5.00; S. Jones. $5.00; E. P. Per- R. V. Felger 49620 Pro. Crew of SS Geo. Whitefield. $15.50. terson, $5.00; H. A. Brown. $3.00; E. L. K. Fortenberry 45220 Pro. Weeker. $1.00; B. Coffey. $2.00; F. C. GALVESTON Samuel Garouette 34354 Walz, $2.00; SS John Bartman, $19.55; J. H. Seiber, $1.00; W. T. Ncel. $1.00; 23213 P. H. Devine. $4.00; L. G. Johnson. E. P. Meek. $1.00; T. Momarety, $1.00; Harold J. Garty 209 P.D. $1.00; F. N. Meinerth. $1.00; J. Denke, SS Council Crest, $20.00. Total—$126.55. A. A. Gonaiez Grand Total—$753.00. $4.00; N. L. Fuzzell, $5.00; R. J. Hardt. ' Willie Gooden 32515 NOTICE! MONEY DUE SlU HALLS �Page Sixteen ft- THE SEAFARERS LOG The J. Sterling Morton Back From Hectic, But Typical, Isthmian Trip Friday, March 29, 1946 J. STERLING MORTON, ISTHMIAN LINE By W. E. WYMAN 3rd. If we didn't have a good ashore in the motorboat to see On the Chief Mate on here, it really the American Consul. NEW YORK — After a hecticwould be tough as he docs all of way up, he took one case of cof­ voyage of three and a" half fee, two cases of syrup-arid five the navigating. months with a bully 1st Asst who H. Norwood, one of the Oilers, cases of dried potatoes, and gave only had a 3rd's license, the J. was broken down to a Wiper for them to a man who owns a yacht. Sterling Morton of the Isthmian supposedly being drunk, even LINEN. EGG SHORTAGE Line docked at New York. My though he oiled the winches total overtime under Isthmian Due to the Steward giving while we were in port and none rules amounted to 76 hours, while away most of our eggs in Greece, of the others in the Black Gang under an SIU contract, it would the supply was cut down, and were working. A friend of the have added up to a total of 213 we were forced to go without First Asst's was promoted as a hours. What price non-Unionism! eggs quite often. Linen was cut result of Norwood's demotion, and We went on the Morton for the the entire crew was of the opin­ down to changes every ten days fii'st time at Galveston on Dec. ion that hi.s demotion was plan­ as the Steward claimed 1900 13th, and wouldn't have stayed ned by the 1st for that specific sheets were stolen in Greece. We only had 800 on the entire trip, so oh this filthy scow, only we had purpose. I guess the rest must have been a job of organizing to do. Our The 1st Asst, 2nd Asst, 2nd first beef was with the Steward Mate, Captain and 3rd Asst were lost, strayed or stolen. who didn't want to feed us one always di-unk or drinking, but Leaving the Gib on the 3rd of morning when we had worked nothing was ever said or done March bound for New York, we through breakfast shifting ship. about that. They were never fish-oiled the decks .and painted We went to the Capt., raising broken. The Chief Engineer was her up. We really didn't need the devil about it, and he made warned by the Captain to stay to oil the decks as the engine them feed us. away from the crew, to refrain room spilled oil nine separate ENGINE: (reading from left—front). H. Thomas. Wiper; and After breaking and setting sea from fraternizing with them or times, and we're 1000 barrels of Charles McDowlel. FWT. Standing: John Chaplin. DE; E. J. S2mez, watches five times in two days, be fired, and we all believed that oil short. 1st Eng. (this is the man who caused so much trouble: read story), and .sounding the bilges and deep! the 1st Asst was trying to get The 1st Asst was bragging all and Joe Barron. Oiler. tanks, we finally got the okay i the Chief's job. of the trip about being in the to leave on Dec. 22nd. On the! Navy during the First World GIRL STOWAWAYS 24th we started in to paint and, War, and that he had an un­ decorate the messeS for Christ- j Leaving Crete on Feb. 11th, limited Chief's license. When the mas, and on Dec. 30th we held we arrived at Oran on the 12th. licenses were posted, we found our first Union meeting on ship­ and found it to be a pretty good nut that he only had a 3rd',s li­ port. Wliile there, we enclosed board. cense, and that he was only 33 the flying bridge with plywood years old. He must have been in MEETING HELD WILLIAM D. HOARD — This dodgers, made dodgers for the the Navy when he was the ripe Isthmian vessel, which the NMU All crew members were in full steering stand, took down all claimed so strcnguously a couple attendance with Joe Barron elect­ jumbo guys and renewed the old age of six years. of months ago, held two ship­ ed Recordng Secretary, and yours i boat falls. These beefs are typical of Isth­ board meetings on the trip over truly as Chairman. The- SIU • From Oran, we went to Arzeu mian, so we must bear with them frorh New Orleans to Genoa, policies and program were fully j to get ballast, finding two girl the best we can while Isthmiah Italy. With two exceptions, the explained at the meeting, and! stowaways, when we arrived is still unorganzied. We'll fight Chief Cook and 2nd Cook, the vai'ious agreements were broken | there. Leaving Arzeu, we went back the best we can until Isth­ entue crew is SIU. The NMU out for the benefit of those broth­ to Gibraltar to bunker, and got mian is under an SIU contract. Steward and Bosun got off be­ ers who didn't know much about there on the 23rd. While we were Then things will be a lot dif­ fore the Hoard left New Orleans, the Union. They were told that! at Gibraltar, I took the Captain ferent! and were replaced with Seafai"the Seafarers had no isms or ists.!I ers. The meeting was adjourned At the first meeting on Feb. after the election of delegates as 10th, Briant, Peterson and Stev­ follows: Deck—W. E. Wyman; ens were elected Chairman, Engine—W. Roux; and Stewards NEW YORK — William T. was that the company error in Reading Clerk and Secretary re­ —M. E. Logan. Witushynski, NMU 73138, visited not officially promoting the wi­ spectively, and Hilton was elect­ We really did a job of cleaning the SIU Hall the other day in pers put $600.00 in one Wiper's ed as Ships Delegate. Discussion up the Morton; two coats on the company with some SIU ship­ pocket and $200 in the other's. revolved around certain sanitary messhalls; varnished the tabels mates off the Robin Adair. He paid Witushynski said, "In the ATS and safety measures, and fine and chairs; repainted the icebox; off an NMU ship, the Mitchell the army decided what was over­ painted the decks; overhauled STEWARD: Sol Fernandez and penalties were imposed for vio­ Palmer in Montivcdeo and, after time; in the NMU the patrolman lations with the money to go to and repaired or i-eplaced almost two months on the beach, he was took all disputed overtime ashore Henry Evangelista, with their the Log. Meeting was closed af­ all of the gear; put two coats of with him and that was the last buddies busy getting chow ready, shipped on the Robin Adair. ter giving one. minute of respect fish oil on the decks; painted the Prior to joining the NMU Wi­ ever heard of it; but here on my were the only men available to tlie fallen Seafarers of the last foc'sles and repaired the life­ first SIU ship I found the over­ from the Stewards Dept. for this World War. boats. Boy, what a job, but it tushynski had sailed in the ATS. time settled before we got in." He then sailed on several ships of was worth it! shot. On Feb. 24th, a second meet­ the NMU operated by the United ing was held with Stevens being UTILITY WORKED OVER Fruit, American South African elected Chairman; Hunt as Sec­ After the Captain and the Util­ and other lines. He heard the retary; and Bishop as Reading ity had a beef, the Utility was same story in the NMU that had Clerk. All beefs from the pre­ chased back to the Gunners' quar­ been told him in the ATS, "the vious meeting had been taken ters. When the Captain stuck his SIU is an outfit of goons—keep cai-e of, and Ship.s Delegate Hil­ head in the door, the Utility away from them." ton reported on his activities. Af­ punched him in the nose. So, the With this ringing in his ears he ter discussing various measures 1st A,s.st. and the Captain worked went aboard the Adair with some for improving shipboard condi­ him over good, and then shackled trepidation. Once aboard how­ tions, and holding the memorial him to his bunk. ever, he found himself treated observation, the meeting was ad­ When we arjived at Piraeus on like any other crew member of journed. the 20th of January, we had to the crew. No one threw his STEEL INVENTOR — This is spot and lower booms every time weight around or treated him any another four star ship with at the longshoremen went to work. differently because of his NMU least 25 certain SIU votes aboard We also had another beef with membership. The relative merits counting reconverted NMU men. the Steward who would feed all of the NMU and SIU were dis­ The Captain of the Inventor is of the outsiders first and let us cussed and the SIU agreements one of those tough" Skippers who •wait. explained. In- his own words believe in living up to the letter "they were all good shipmates." NO FREE RIDES of the rules. When any crew The majority of the beefs were We had to pay to got a boat to member wishes to make a draw, take us ashore at Piraeus, as the so well squared away that a good he only gets the actual amount Isthmian Line doesn't believe in speedy payoff was made with of money coming at that time. giving the crew free rides—not practically all beefs settled. The Recently, several men were the unlicensed personnel, at least, question came up however, of short on dough, so their only al­ A couple of us met all of the of­ two Wipers who had been stand­ ternative was to sell their blood. ficers at the Frolic.s Club in ing Oilers' watches. An inspec­ Up to the blood bank went two Athens one night, and we gave tion of the ships log showed A..B's, two Messmen, one OS and them a good talk about the mer­ that these Wipers had not been one Wiper. They all gave a pint its of the SIU, also some SIU promoted. DECK (from left): Jesse Barton, AB; W. Wyman, Bosun and of blood just for a six dollar bill! literature. Patrolman Jimmy Hanners, ships organizer; R. Katt. OS; H. Boyd, AB; and C. Kumrow, AB. That's really one for the books, On Feb. 1st we left for Crete, representing the engine dept., im­ Brother Wyman, with some valuable asssitance from other Sea­ but conditions like this will stop and had to hunt for it at least 48 mediately took an overtime sheet farers, is doing a splendid job on the Morton, and has her almost just as soon as Isthmian is under hours, finally finding it on the and began writing. The result solid SIU. contract to the Seafarers. Short Reports On isthmian One Trip Was All He Needed � 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 1939-1949 Description An account of the resource Volumes I-XI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource March 29, 1946 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. VIII, No. 13 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Description An account of the resource Headlines: ISTHMIAN BARS ELECTION; OFFICIALS IN NEW STALL TO KEEP MEN NON-UNION MINERS WILL 'STAY AT HOME' UNLESS GIVEN HEALTH FUND CONFERENCE PROPOSALS GO BEFORE MEMBERSHIP FOR FINAL APPROVAL HUNGER IN EUROPE DEADLOCK STILL HOLDS IN NORFOLK REPORT ON ORGANIZING DRIVE PROBATIONARY BOOKS, PERMITS ACTION AGAINST THE COAST GUARD NEED FOR AFL MARITIME COUNCIL SIU MOVES TO ABOLISH THE WSA BALTIMORE SEAFARERS GIVE TO HOSPITALIZED PORT BALTIMORE HAS BIG FIELD BRASSHATS PUSH PEACETIME DRAFT AGENTS' PROPOSALS GO BEFORE MEMBERSHIP UNION-RUN UPGRADING SCHOOLS POSSIBILITIES FOR CREDIT UNION STAND AGAINST WSA FINK HALLS EXPANDING EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM LONDON TUGMEN STRIKE FOR HOURS BACKGROUND ON RUSSIA STATUS OF SEAMEN WHO LEAVE THE SEA USUAL COAST GUARD REDTAPE HOLDS UP NEEDED RATINGS PR HOSPITALS ARE OKAY, HE SAYS NOT MUCH WEST COAST ACTIVITY TIME TO OUST MEDDLING BUREAUS OPERATOR STALLS AT GOVT. EXPENCE EUROPE AND EAST SHIPPING OUTLOOK GREAT LAKES SEC'Y-TREAS REPORTS VIGIL IN THE NEW ORLEANS HALL DULUTH HALL SUSPSNEDS ARMY MISUES OF PIERS HURTS NEW YORK SHIPPING LAKES CREWS DUE TO REPORT ALL QUIET IN SAVANNAH ALCOA RESUMES SERVICE TO S.A. MONK SETS STAGE FOR THIS YARN UNION MEN GO ALL OUT ON COLABEE HERE'S WHAT WSA'S 'DISCHARGE' PAPERS LOOK LIKE NICOLETTE SUPPORTS FOUR-WATCH ACTION BALDWIN HILLS CREW SAYS STEWARD CUT HOURS OFF OVERTIME WHAT COMMIE UNITY MEANS VISAS OPENED TO ALIEN SEAMEN TUGBOAT STRIKE COOLS PHILLY THE J. STERLING MORTON BACK FROM HECTIC, BUT TYPICAL, ISTHMIAN TRIP ONE TRIP WAS ALL HE NEEDED SHORT REPORTS ON ISTHMIAN Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 3/29/1946 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1946 Periodicals Seafarers Log