http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/4368437034c2427c3c2fff0e0b7d84ac.PDF b075a4c972f074a59891057fad56ecea PDF Text Text Official Organ of the Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. More Crews Go To Defense Of Youtzy, Boutweli WEW YORK, N. Y.. FRIDAY. DECEMBER 5. 1947 Seafarers In Action At the membership meeting of the New York Branch, held at Beethoven Hall, 210 East 5ih Slreei, on Wednescday, December 3, Samuel Glickman, Educational Director of the CIO Shipyard Workers, showed motion pictures of the way the SIU-SUP members in Baltimore went to the aid of the Ship­ builders in their recent strike. The same night saw the Baltimore Branch honored by the presentation of a placque by the Shipyard Workers in that area in appreciation of the assistance rendered by the Baltimore Seafarers. On all picketlines established by • the Shipyard Workers in their 136-day strike against the Bethlehem Steel Shipyards, the white-capped Seafarers were present to 'in­ fluence' scabs from breaking the lines. No. 49 MC SellingTwo-Thirds Of US Reserve Fleet Te Foreign Ceuntrles The Union is continuing to bend its efforts to assure a prop­ er defense for Ralph Youtzy and Robert Boutweli, two good Sea­ What is happening to the U.S. It may stick in your craw a farers face to face with a mur­ Merchant Fleet, and to the jobs bit to learn, moreover, that of der trial in Georgetown, British of U.S. seamen as a result, is 1,074 sold for foreign registry Guiana, next month growing out pretty clearly revealed in the 113 are American-owned. Those of the accidental drowning of last quarterly report of the U.S. last are some of the Panamanian the Captain of a harbor launch. Maritime Commission. and Honduran scows that are From Mobile recently, Frank What is more, the Commission undermining the occupation of Knight, who was a witness to tells the dreary story without seafaring. the accident, wrote that the crew cracking a smile or voicing a Just to make the picture comof the Alcoa Roamer had do­ word in criticism of the policy pigte, as of September 30, there nated $50 toward the trial costs. of doing American sailors out; were 775 applications pending In a letter to Joseph Volpian, of a living, and holding down I at the Commission for the purSpecial Services Representative, the conditions of sailors every- chase of ships for foreign regKnight said that the Roamer In a joint resolution, propose^-' our call upon the Congress of where at the same time. istry. For American registry. was carrying a swell bunch of by SIU and SUP members, an' Here's the central fact. Dur- there were only 94. the United States made previ­ boys alert to the needs of their passed by the New York mem ously by the SIU-SUP to write ing the three months before What all these overall figures Union Brothers. bership of the SIU in regular into the relief bill a provision September 30, the Commission I mean comes clear when they Meanwhile, Knight, who is a meeting on December 3, foreign that these cargoes be carried in sold 171 ships and sold 121 ofl^^.^ broken down a bit. British subject, has been asked aid for the "shattei'ed people o' American flag ships, manned by them to foreign operators. That s CRYSTAL CLEAR to give testimony at the trial Europe and Asia" was supported American merchant seamen, and better than two to one. which starts January 13. After with the proviso that such as be it further Those 121 ships will sail the Included in the ships already being approached by Mobile sistance be shipped in Amorica'RESOLVED, that we give this seven seas in competition with' sold for foreign registry among Port Agent Cal Tanner, Alcoa bottoms, and that a halt be call­ resolution the widest possible American ships. Their crews will which are the 113 that are officials said they would do their ed to the practice of handing publicity throughout the labor be paid coolie wages, will live American-owned, were: 46 C-ls, best to provide Knight with I over American tonnage to for- movement, and it be also called under coolie conditions. Freight 11 C-2s, 577 Liberties, 98 Vic­ passage to Georgetown in plenty gjgn powers. tories, 126 coastal vessels, 208 again to the attention of mem­ charges will be low. American producers, anxious large tankers and eight coastal of time. The resolution, which was bers of Congress and President to preserve what they call the tankers. Add them up—1,074. The ci-ew of the T. J. Jack- adopted by an overwhelming ma Truman, and be it finally "American way of life," will ship son, Alcoa, of which Youtzy follows: RESOLVED, that we call on In comparison, the number of cheap. American sailors will i the Commission's ships sold to and Boutweli were membei-s, do-| WHEREAS, through the trans all organized labor throughout nated $221 before the ship left gf American ships to foreign the country to support us in our whistle on the dock to keep j Americans-for American regiswarm—or sail under strange ' try—is ; unimpressive. They in­ Geoi-getown and another $332 at^flagg paying the wage: opposition to this move to take flags. cluded: 18 C-ls, 122 C-2s, 88 the payoff in New York late in standard in the American mari- away from the American mer­ 2 TO 1 ALL THE WAY Oc'obei', C-3s, 110 Liberties, 9 Victories, time industry the number of chant marine what jobs are still These 171 sales brought the 22 coastal vessels, 110 large Since then, the crew of the ships sailing under the Amerucar left. total number of ships sold by, tankers and two small tankers, William Cullen Bryant, Alcoa,' flag has diminished to an alarm For SIU: J. P. Shuler, Robert the Commission under the Ship Only 481. has given $24.30; the crew of ing degree, and In addition, the boneyard fleet the Casa Grande, Pacrfic Tank­ WHEREAS, this has caused a A. Matthews, Lindsey Williams. Sales Act of 1946 to 1,555. Joe Algina and Paul Hall. Now listen to this. Of those on all coasts increased to 1,237 ers, $12. sharp decr-ease in the number of For SUP: Morris Weisberger, 1,555 ships, exactly 1,074 have | on September 30 compared to Union Headquarters is doing jobs available to American sea everything it can to keep in men, thereby creating a serious Henry Jackson, William Arm­ gone to foreign registry only 1,196 on June 30. You see where the jobs are touch with witnesses and defense unemployment problem on the strong, H. Potts, Jack Dwyer. 481 to American registry. Two and Jerry Lichtman. going. It's crystal clear. to one, right down the line. attorneys in order that the en­ American waterfront, and tire defense case can be coordi­ WHEREAS, under the Mar­ nated. shall Plan it is proposed that re­ lief cargoes be carried in for­ eign bottoms instead of Ameri­ can bottoms, and WHEREAS, this plan will ag­ gravate an already serious Fenced in by police lines, the in a nearby school until morn­ NEW YORK—With all the ap­ threat to the continued gainful men completely occupied three ing. employment of American sea­ pearances of the depression days sides of a city block. During A staff of city employees pro­ when men camped outside fac­ A congressional committee men, therefore be it their all-night vigil the men cessed the men through the rou­ RESOLVED, that this Union go tories for days seeking jobs, 4,000 crowded around curb fires drink­ tine of filling out the applica­ investigating the high cost of on record as being in favor of tions and being fingerprinted. home building received a tei'rimen waited outdoors in the cold ing coffee and eating sandwiches. bringing relief to the shattered Each man when applying paid fic jolt recently when a bigtime to apply for 1,000 laboring jobs Unlike the all night waits for $1.12 for costs. New York builder refused to people of Europe and Asia who world series tickets, there was offered by the city. The order of preference, in ad­ place the blame on the building look to the United States for no singing or boisterous shout­ Those who responded to the the assistance to help them cre­ dition to the first come—first trades unions. ing, waiting all night to com­ William Levitt, builder of ate a decent woiid out of the city's call, which stipulated first pete for a limited number of served method was: disabled vet­ thousands of homes in New chaos wrought by the war, and come—first served, waited thro­ jobs did not make for holiday erans, veterans, non-veterans. ughout the previous day and Although the city took appli­ York, instead blasted the mid­ be it further atmosphere. RESOLVED, that we reaffirm night to be on hand at 9 A.M. cations for 1,000 jobs, it was dlemen and distributors of ma­ STUCK IT OUT announced that no actual va­ terials. He stated that because our previous position as being when the application office open­ cancies exist at the moment, as of useless middlemen, who of­ unalterably opposed to that part ed. As the night of waiting grew ten never even see the materials, of the Marshall Plan which pro­ The tremendous turnout to colder none of the men left his the jobs are filled by temporary employees. the cost of a home is thirty- vides that relief cargoes be ship­ the advertisement, a sure sign place in line to take shelter', un­ Thus, instead of providing jobs three percent over what it should ped in foreign bottoms, and the of the rising unemployment and til an arrangement was made for more men, it merely means be. By knocking out the middle­ provision that American tonnage lowering wage rates, was for whereby the men were given the replacement of temporary men a $7,500 home could be be handed over to foreign coun jobs which will pay $41.54 a workers with permanent em­ numbers corresponding to their sold for around $5,000, Levitt tries, and be it further week for street cleaners and gen­ said. place in line and were billeted ployees. RESOLVED, that we reaffirn eral laborers. Sm Okays Fereiga Relief, Demaads US Ships Be Used Middlemen's Profits Big Factor In Cost Of Building Homes The New Look: 4000 Men Sweat Out 24-Hour Line For 1000 Laboring Jobs That Pay $41 Per Week �- • ; •;(<- • THE Page Two SEAFARERS LOG SEAFARERS LOG Friday. December 5, 1947 REAMIIC LAMP''' Ftiblished Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated wilh the American Federaften of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 J. P. SHULER - - - - Secretary-Treasurer Editorial Board J. p. SHULER PAUL HALL JOE ALGINA Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. George K. Novick, Editor . So All May See The Quarterly Financial Statement of the Atlantic and Gulf District, recently completed by an Auditing Committee elected by the membership, shows that the organization is in sound shape, and that the economies recommended by the 1946 Agents' Conference, and con­ curred in by the membership, have been instituted with e?;cellent results. Prior to the last Agents' Conference, the A&C Dis­ trict, although solvent, was spending money on unneces­ sary items, and as a consequence, the situation was rapid­ ly heading for chaos. But the Conference met the reali­ ties of the situation with cold logic, and recommended a program designed to increase the efficiency of the Un­ ion's structure, while at the same time reducing the overhead. This has been accomplished, and tlic Report of tlie Auditing Committee, which appears on page 16 of this v/eek's LOC, is proof that the Union has made great strides in organizing the unorganized and servicing the membership, and at the same time cutting operating costs to the bone. But more than that, the statement is definite proof that the affairs of the Seafarers International Union are an .open book to the membership. There is no hedging, no attempt to whitewash discrepancies, and no efforts to cover up the few cases where officials have failed to carry out completely the instructions of the membership. Men Now In The Marine Hospitals These are ihe Union Brothers currently in Ihe marine hospitals, as reported by Ihe Port Agents. These Brothers find lime hanging heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writing to them. In other unions, the financial affairs are a deep se­ cret, with only the top officials having access to the books. Recently the President of the United Automobile Work­ STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL ers blasted other officea-s of his union for was-ting a half M. PARASCHIEV W. E. STORVIS million dollars on an organizing campaign; most of this C. O. UNDERWOOD money having bean spent to pay the salaries of organizers G. ROGERS J. McNEELY who did absolutely Jio work on the campaign itself, but G. BISCHOFF used tlae time instead to propagandize for tlie communist 1. V. KELLY T. MiUSCOVAGE party. Even more recently the Treasurer of the National Maritime Union issued aji ejnergency report to the effect that his union is in desperate straits, .with expenses every month which are far greater than tite money collected in dues and initiation lees. Such proceedings lead mevitahly to bankruptcy. The SIU is sailing along on an even keel, with a stiff wmd behmd it. No function of the Union has been neg­ lected, twganizing continues at a rapid pace with com­ panies heing signed up all the time, yet economies have been effected, and expenses are well within our income. R. WOODWARD F. WALLACE F. BECKER H. McDILDA E. T. BROWN G. CARLSON F. NERING W. VAUiGHN E. B. HAYES W. B. CHANDLER N, HUFF R. EGAN G. J. MILLER C. RODRIQUEZ W. BARRETT E. CARAVONA A X & The Union has aehicved that dream of all honest FORT STANTON HOSPITAL trade unions financial solvency, coupled with complete inner democracy. Such a combination cannot be beaten, JOHN P. WILLL4MBGN E. B. WRIGHT and the new companies which have been added, to the' CLIFFORD MIDDLETOM list of SlU-coatraotod outfits is proof of that. ' ARCHIE MBGUIGAH R. S. LUFLIN JULIUS SUPINSKI M. D. PENRY X % X SAN FRANCISCO HOSPITAL J. KRESSEN J. HOD'O P. J. MILLER DANIEL BEQAL J. SPURON XXX NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL O. S. SHAHAN W. K. WUNG J. j. O'NEILL • G. CURL A. S. CONTI C. T. WHITE • R. L. McGREW F. R. DE VASHER , I. E. MATHERNE M. LIUZZA G. A. WILLIAMS G. HARDEMAN L. A. HOLMES W. •€. -COLLEY J. E. SILKOWSKI R. K TRULY L. CLARKE C. C. HAYFUSE J. E. PENCON A. J. LE JEUNE MARJORY "LINDA" EVANS J. B. GEISSLER E. E. DAVIS E. M. LOOPER E. G. WALKER J. DENNIS L. GROVER C. MASON J. E. MAGUIRE A. A. SAMPSON R. BUNCH XXX MOBILE HOSPITAL W. J. SULLIVAN E. L. MYERS W. C. JEFFERLES J. C. RAMBO W. C. CARDANA M. W. BUSBY E. V. GRANT W. D. JOHNS C. W. BARNE XXX BRIGHTON MARINE HOSP. A BONTE R. liORD G. MEANEY M. DEAN J. MURPHY J. BARBON H. SCHWARZ J. O'BYRNE J. McKEAN (SUP) B. HUDSON E. DELLAMAIN O J. LEWIS T. BOGUS J. SILKOWSKI (SUP) J. ANDERSON XXX GALVESTON KOSiPlTAL WM. BARGONE DAN GRAVES A. MCALPIN W. CARVANN W. VORRELL P. A. WHITE F. W. GRANT W. E. ROWAN J. HARRIS i ; i 7 �Friday. December 5, 1947 THE S E .4 P 4 K E R S LOG (AtMmRSHlP Page Three Filing Claim For Jobless Benefits Simple Procedure By JOSEPH VOLPIAN Special Services Representative By J. P. SHULER. Secretary-Treasurer Negotiations ISTHMIAN STEAMSHIP COMPANY: The complete Isthmian contract has been negotiated and a full report covering same has been sent out. Verbatim copies of this report, together with the contract itself, have appeared in the Sea­ farers Log of November 28, 1947. This is a con­ tract that lots of people in the Maritime Indus­ try said could never be secured. The weak points, as well as the strong points of thi.-i contract are dealt with in the Negotiating Committee's Report. It is therefore recommend­ ed that every member gels a copy of this par­ ticular issue of the Log and read the happenings of the entire negotiations. CALMAR AND ORE STEAMSHIP COMPANY: Headquarters Office will now make arrangements for negotiations as soon as possible with Caimar and Ore Steamship Company. Once these dates have been airanged, your Negotiating Committee will be convened and negotiations will start. These are the only contracts which the Union have open at this time and will now attempt to rectify some of those faults which we know do e.xist under those contracts as they presently are. Quarterly Finance Committee's Report There will be submitted to all Branch Mem­ bership Meetings tonight copies of" the report made by the Quarterly Finance Committee, as elected at the last regular meeting held in New York on November 19, 1947. It is very import­ ant that all members read this report. As Sec­ retary-Treasurer of this Union, I have met with this Committee on different subjects and have requested them to render a full report and rec­ ommendations regarding all phases of the Union, showing the good points, as well as the faulty ones. (Report appears on Page 16.) The Committee, in my opinion, has made a good report. There is one point, however, that it ap­ pears they have forgotten. That is th.at although they specially instructed certain Agents to make certain reductions in expenditures, but they at­ tach no penalities to the Agent if he fails to make such reductions if the membership states that he should. I recommend, therefore, to the membership for action the propostion that in the future whe n Union money is spent by Union officials which has been specifically prohibited by either mem­ bership action or constitution, that the Poi't Agent or the person responsible for such ex­ penditures be held directly accountable to the membersiiip, and ropay this amount of money from his own pocket. So as to be sure that the membership will have the chance to acquaint themselves with this report in its entirety, I recommend that tl'.ese .special points as taken up by this Com­ mittee be printed verbatim in the next issue of the SEAFARERS LOG. Balloting Committees' Reports From All Ports All Ports in the Atlantic and Gulf District show heavy balloting in the General Election for Officials for the year 1948. It now appears that be:ause of the added membership interest in the affaii^s and problems of the Union, we will tstablish a new high this year for votes cast in the Atlantic and Gulf District than in any previous voting period. Bookkeeper Change In Headquarters Office Due to the illness of the former Bookkeeper in Headquarters Office, it has been necessary to change same. To avoid cases where, as in the past, through illness of the Bookkeeper, busi­ ness has been delayed by his absence to sign Union documents and checks, the following is recommended: 1. That only regularly bonded Officials of the Union sign and counter-sign Headquarteis checks. 2. That in compliance with the regular memhcrship's in..t.uctions to have two signatures on Union Headquarters checks, that Paul Hall, New York Agent, be authorized to sign. checks in place of the Bookkeeper. 3. That Joe Algina, Deck Department Patrol­ man of New York and Acting New Yoi'k Agen", be authorized to act as alternate to sign checks and Union documents in the event that either the Secretary-Treasurer, J. P. Shuler, mr the New York Agent, Paul Hall, are out of town on Union business Upon concurrence of this report, it is recomi.iended that ihis change be made immediately to avo'd any future c.elays in regular routine business. Headquarters Reinstatement Committee The procedure to be followed by merchant seamen in obtain­ ing unemployment insurance benefits is fairly simple, and Seafarers who are entitled to this aid should make application immediately. If you worked aboard any ves­ sel—WSA or privately owned— during 1946 and you are now unemployed, you are eligible for unemployment compensation. To receive the benefits this is what you must do: Immediately after your ship pays off, you are to go to the nearest SIU Hall and register for a job. You then go to the nearest unemployment insurance office —in whatever State you happen to be in at the time—and make application. Make sure you have the fol­ lowing papers with you: 1) The shipping registration card issued at the Union hiring hall; 2) Your seaman's certificate of identification; 3) All discharge certificates for the year 1946. Generally, your compensation checks will begin arriving in about three weeks. Payments are retroactive. Administration of this project is very complex and varies in several states. In New York, for example, no payments are made for the first week of unemploy­ ment which is known as a wait­ ing period. You're advised to be patient, however; eventually you'll get all that you're entitled to. Remember, any seaman who worked aboard a vessel in 1946 but now is unemployed and who is ready, able and willing to work may file a claim "for unem­ ployment insurance benefits at the insurance office nearest his place of unemployment. In New York City, Seafarers can file at the State Labor De­ partment Office at 227 Canal Street. Although benefits may vary slightly in some states, the table below will give Seafarers an idea of how compensation is cal­ culated: The membership, with the exception of the Port of Boston has gone on record to accept the lecommendation made at the last coastwise meetings regarding the Headquarters Reinstate­ ment Committee. The Port of Boston has raised a question that by adopting such action, that the membership is placing "top control" in Headquarters Office. The record should be made clear on this issue. The membership can, at any time, as it has in this case, designate such committees. The membership should be furthei made aware of the fact that any person that this Committee acts on will be men who are more than 12 mom lis in arrears in dues and/or assessments and who actually are no longer members of t'nis Union. The failure by Headquarters to have such a And you earned You would be elig« committee in the past has caused this Union If the wages paid in the calendar the corresponding ible to receive the gUtat troubles. This trouble has been caused quarter in 1946 in amount shown in corresponding week­ particularly by two Ports; the Port of Boston which your wages this column during ly benefit amount were highest the whole year and the Port of Tampa. Because of remitting 1946: shown below: back dues to various people who were so-called amounted to: "reinstated" in the Port of Boston, in violation $100.00 — $240.00 $300 $10 of previous membership action, the Union now 241.00 — 263.99 330 11 ha's charges placed against it by the New York 264.00 — 286.99 360 12 State Anti-Discrimination Board. 287.00 — 309.99 390 13 This could easily have been avoided had the 310.00 — 332.99 420 14 Boston Branch not allowed these former mem­ 333.00 — 355.99 450 15 bers to reinstate who were not entitled to same. 356.09 — 378.99 480 16 Because of this Boston Branch previous action. 379.99 — 401.99 510 17 Union officials in Headquarters have had to 402.00 — 424.99 540 18 attend two formal hearings to date on this ques­ 425.00 — 447.99 570 19 tion of discrimination and have been instructed 448.00 — 470.99 600 20 ^0 stand by for further hearings. 471.00 — and over 630 21 The Port of Tampa, by allowing men to re­ instate who were not entitled to do so, and where Headquarters had to later refund the various men involved money, the Union now has been charged with violation of the anti-closed shcp law in Florida and will possibly be brought up on official charges shortly. , The actions of these two Ports, Boston and The lid that was blown off the For instance, total receipts, in­ Tampa, show why setting up such a Committee National Maritime Union, CIO, cluding dues and initiation fees was necessary. for the month of November to­ The membership should be made aware of the last year by Joe Curran's blast taled $136,836.74, while expenses fact that in setting up such a committee, first of against communist control of hit the figure of $409,706.03. all, it would save themselves a lot of trouble the union, was lifted a little SKY-HIGH PAYROLL by having three full book men handling this, in higher into the stratosphei-e this addition to their other duties, and that those week by an emergency financial The payroll for the NMU, just phonies, who did not stand picket duty and who report issued by Treasurer M. for the month of October, reach­ I'ofused to sail ships during the war because of Hedley Stone. ed the staggering figure of $105,danger, and now want to go back to sea so that According to Stone, the NMU 182.01, or almost as much as they can receive top wages and conditions, can is "practically destitute," and was taken in for dues and in­ be curtailed. there is no assurance that the itiations. Other e.xpenses, such The membership should be made aware of the union will be able to meet its as transportation and per diem, fact that the necessity for such a Committee are not included in the payroll operating in New York Headquarters is simple. payroll for the month of Decem­ total. ber. All membership records, as applies to dues, Stone recommended to the In November alone the union strike activities, etc., are on complete file in New York, in addition to other official commu­ went into the red to the tune of membership that certain steps nications and documents of the SIU. It is there­ $143,652.67, and in order to be taken immediately to cut ex­ fore easily understood as to why the necessity "ovci'come this deplorable situa­ penses. Specifically he urged a of checking these men's records against the tion," Stone had to liquidate ten percent wage cut in the sal­ aries of all officials and em­ Headquarters records must be done in New York. $235,000 worth of bonds. ployers of the NMU, a ten per­ It is further recommended that the membership Several items in Stone's re­ cent cut in personnel, and reduc­ in all Ports, especially in the Ports of Boston port make interesting reading. tion in the number of New York and Tampa, discuss this particular issue at to­ Patrolmen from 30 to 20. night's meeting. In concluding his report, the Ships Delegates Treasurer mysteriously warns The question has been asked recently by var­ tliat in future articles he will ious SIU crews as to whether or not an SUP show what happened to the man is eligible to become Ship's Delegate when money, presenting facts and fig­ riding SIU ships. The answer is absolutely yes, ures on administration and the providing of course, the crews elect him the wages paid union employes, the same as all Ships or Departmental Delegates organizing picture and the peo­ are. It must be pointed out to the membership ple in charge, and administration and made clear that when SIU men are riding of strikes and the people in SUP ships that they have the same right. This charge. matter should be made clear to all SIU crews Those articles should make in­ so as to prevent any misunderstanding on the teresting reading. subject. NMU is "Practically Destitute," Says Stone In Emergency Report �Page Four Frisco Shipping Low; Steer Clear Of Gold Coast By W. H. SIMMONS SAN FRANCISCO—If it hadn't been for the arrival of the SS Calmar in transit, tlie old Gold Coast would have been the most dismal of ports this week. As it is, shipping is at its lowest with the week not producing a single payoff or sign-on. !?• I: I. SEAFARERS LOG Friday, December 5, 1947 WHAT ttWIlK QUESTTON: What gear do you think the recreation hall should keep on hand for the mem­ bership's use? HARRY LANCOUR, OS: The sstup in Ihe recreation hall is pretty good as it is. VtosilY everything the fellows would need to pses away some time is on hand now. Besides, there isn't too much room avail­ able to go in for any big chan­ ges. One thing, though, that I think would be a SW'ell thing and which wotrldn't take too much to operate -would be a moving picture, once a day. If we could see a movie once a day, or some shorts, it would help break the monotony of kill­ ing time between shipping calls. JOE DeCARLO, Oiler: Our recieation room has a pretty good library at present, but .1 think we can add a few of the newer books to the shel­ ves. Books are always popular. Chess and checker sets are al­ ways in demand as well as a good supply of pinoclile and straight playing cards. Perhaps a. good way of killing those hours of wailing would be to have rope around for the new­ comers to practice knot tying. The deck bands. I believe, would make use of any weaving ma­ terials supplied to make belts, wallets and other handicraft. The SS Calmar stopped off in transit and had enough beefs to keep us busy for a little while. There were overtime beefs in the Deck Department and five men wanted to pile off. Tliey were paid off and re­ placed, taut other than these five men we haven't sent a man from the Hall. We aren't going to say that things will pick up, although they can't get any worse, but. something is bound to break sooner or later. If it is necessary, here is a word-of advice; stay away from MICHAEL TGSADO, OS: NICK VIOREL, OS: Frisco if J'ou're looking for a I think we could stand a sec­ About everything that's need­ ship. tion set aside for the fellows to ed is now on hand in the rec­ patch their gear, sew on buttons reation room. It's pretty hard to HALL CHATTER and press pants. A sort of drythink of anything we don't have, The lallt around hero seems except for a few things. About dock for personal gear. Of to be concentrated on two en­ the only thing I ever use doWn course, v/e can always use more tirely disconnected subjects: the there are playing cards — and books, playing cards and games Isthmian contract and the West they have pleni-y of those. Right —the present supply seems to Coast football games. be too small. I'd like to see a n.ov/, with shipping pretty slow, I don't know too much about I think we could use more seat­ couple of pool tables for the the luggers of the pigskin, but ing facilities. There are more guys who like to cue a fev/, like I do know that my nomination guys hanging around the recreame, but the recreation room here for All-Ainerican honors goes I tion room and some of them is too small for the necessary to our negotiating coinmittce can't find a place to sit dov/n. maneuvering space needed. May­ for the fine contract they gained A juke box so we could listen be they could work this in the from the Isth.inian company. outports, but New York is too to the latest records might be a crov/ded. Oldtimcr Bi'other Joseph Din- good deal, kias is in town at the moment enjoying the city'.s irospitality. Joe says he is spending his time in the local movie houses and at the football games. By RUSSELL SMITH The Great Lakes District of tain matters which thc.-e liars to vote for the SIU, some salt­ It is real football •v\'eather out have been spreading false prcrp- water guy will take your job the SIU has a Secretary-Treas­ here now. The weather has be­ DETROIT—Several times dur­ urer named Fred Fnrnen who is aganda about. Wc want all Great away from you." come a little chilly and the old ing the past .season we've pre­ a Lakes man. All other Port Lakes seamen to know ;hc score SALT WATER HOOEY fireside feels good. dicted that -tiie Lake Carriers This is really one of their fa­ Agents, Patrolmen and officials about the SIU Great Lakes Dis­ Of course, in fair weather or As.sociaiien, their member com­ trict at all times. vorite stories because these phon­ are members who have sailed for.I, the gashounds will still be panies, representatives and stoo­ One lie which these desperate ies like to stir up dissension be­ the Lakes, and understand com­ ges would stop at nothing in tween men who sail tlie Lakes pletely the problems peculiar to their all-out attempt to stop the stooges continuously repeat is and those who sail deep water. the Great Lakes seamen. CAL!R9RNIA 5RNIA— I successful organizing drive of that men who vote for the SIU They also like to add that the will have no job .security because WHY? HESE iGo! the SIU Groat Lakes District. SIU is completely run and do­ Weii, we don't like to say we other men will be .sent out by As for saltwater men taking minated by saltwater men who Irud you so, but th0.se guys have the SIU to take their jobs. This over the jobs of Lakes' seamen, have no interest in the Great lie is easily disproved because really been pulling every trick that's the biggest laugh of all. Lakes other than to milk the in the book since the voting oe- all SIU Great Lake;-, contracts Lakes seamen our 5-- Lakes seamen ; sailing saltwater — many more gan around the middle of No­ provide that the men who lay tlian there are saltwater men vember for the men of the Han- up a ship shall ha m Lie right Both of these lies are typical out that same ship. sailing the Lakes. In the SIU na, 'Wilson and Kinsman (Stein- of fitting For years, the SIU has been of Hitler tactics that when you Great Lakes District, your paidbrenner) fleet.s. A new low has lie you should tell a big one and been reached by the same guys printing crew lay-up lists which the gullible public will at least up membership book entitles you who e.stabli.shed the old record are furnished to all SIU con­ believe part of it. Both of these to sail on any SIU contracted tracted ships. These crew layfor lov/down activities. vessel—Pacific, Lakes, Gulf, At­ out by the Paul Bunyan stories can eas­ lantic or Inland. If it wasn't that these com­ up lists are filled ily bo proven false. There's one sure way to apply on the loose. This past v/eek pany stooges and officials were SIU departmental delegates ab­ First, as v/e've stated many they seemed to be out in good playing with the very lives and oard the vessels at the time their times previously, the SIU Great the acid test to these lies which are being circulated by the Lakes numbers and most of them con­ jobs of hundreds of Lakes sea­ ship is laid up, and copies arc Lakes District is one of five verged on tiift Hall. men, we'd say to them to go kept on file at SIU offices. autonomous Districts in the Sea­ operators. Just ask yourselves right ahead and do their dam­ Of course, any time an SIU Some of them eiaimed they farers International Union of why are these operators so mucli nedest to discredit the SIU. member desires to change his bid beefs tj settle, but the way North America, AFL. Great afraid of the SIU. Why are they promising you the moon to vote However, we can't sit idly by ship for any reason, he immed­ they garbled matters, it was hard Lakes seamen run the SIU Great for the so-callcd "Independent" while these slimy creatures car­ iately registers on the rotafy to figure out just what they had Lakes District free from any Lake Sailors Union? ry on with their filthy lies and s'nipping list. This means that outside dictation or control. on their minds. Any operator's brain and soul propaganda, and attempt to in­ SIU member Joe Doe then With the exception of ten rest solely m his pocketbook. TOUCH TASK timidate tlie liuiidi-eds of Lakes Ihrows in for any job which he cents from each two dollars of If a guy isn't sober enough seamen who sail in their ships, desires. The man with the most dues ruoney, all Great Lake.5 You know this for a fact. If sru DUTY they weren't mortally afraid that waiting time gets the job, but to present his beef correctly, When you sign an SIU pledge there are many jobs on the n;oni;y remains on the Great an SIU contract and conditions then it isn't v/orth pressing. card asking the SIU to repre­ board, so waiting time is usually Lakes. would cost them many extra It is the hardest thing in the Tills five percent per capita dollars, why would these phonies sent you for collective bargain­ .short. world to handle a beef for a On top of this type of security, tax means that we have the tell you to vote against the SIU" ga.shound. 'Usually it's a bum ing purposes, we believe that you are entitled to SlU protec­ SIU members never need be strength and support of more Great Lakes District? beef he dreamed up over a tion the same as SIU members afraid that some friend or rela­ than ninety thousand Seafarer.s You be the judge and juiy. bottle, and the official who press­ You have already indicated the tive of the Skipper or other behind us in our beefs. Ask yourselves "Why?" Tiien de­ es it ends by looking as silly as SIU Great Lakes District as your officer will take their jobs when In addition, the International cide for yourselves whether ycu the drunk. choice. provides many more services want the SIU Great Lakes D.!?the going gets tough. If you have a beef, stay so­ For that reason, we are duty Another favorite lie of these well worth double the small trict, or some outfit that the ber long enough to fight it bound to put all Great Lake smooth-oil guys is the one that amount paid to them for affilia-, operators recommend as being through to the end. good for Lakes seamen! seamen straight regardmg cer- "If you fellows are crazy enough tion. fF' Si THE �Friday, DeceroJ»et S, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Paga Five Shipping Rises, But Mobile Has Enough Seamen Lakers Begin Winter Lay-Ups in Port Buffalo By CAL TANNER By CHRIS HENDRICK MOBILE—As we reported last week, shipping has just begun to pick up here after a bad lull of nearly a month. BUFFALO—The Port of Buf­ falo is once more 'oack to her normal grain storage capacity of iwenty-eight million bushels v/ith the reopening of the Mon­ arch Elevator. This particular elevator had been closed for three months along with three others, due to drop in grain movements, and was the last to reopen. Even though we've had an exceptionally nice Fall, old man Winter finally hit port bringing some six inch'e.s of snowfall v/ith hirn. This weather change indi­ cates that the Great Lakes sailf;^t'"dr fr close. First of the winter fleet to lay-up with storage grain is the Midland ship, SS J. C. Williams. Another Midland ship, the SS J. H. Macoubray has just com­ pleted her last trip of the sea­ son. The old familiar "West Shore" that we all know so well has changed hands. It would certain­ ly have been a change not to see her somewhere along the creek feeding a hungry bunker. This means that she's had a re­ prieve from her scheduled trip to the gra^•eyard. At the present time, we're still up in the air regarding how many ships will winter in port. Rumors have it t.hat anywhere from 25 to 60 ships will lay-up here this winter. However, we'll have to wait a while longer to count them, and hope that they plug the port with storage grain ships. It would do many of the Great Lakes seamen good to see the nuinber of new faces coming to the SIU Hall to inquire about joining up. At the rate we've been going this past year, it should only be a couple of years before the entire Great Lakes is all SIU. So far, v/e've voted two Hsnna ships in Buffalo, and both lined up well for the SIU. New York Shipping HoUs To Stoady Pace, Payoffs And SigihOns Koop Port Rolling During the past seven days, we have ci-ewed up five vessels and had two payoffs. For the coming week things continue to By JOE ALGINA look pretty fair with three Alcoa ships and two or three Water­ NEW YORK—We can't say man Liberties scheduled to take that things are any bether here on full crews. than they were last weelt, but So, all in all, things are the situation isn't any worse. brightening up in Mobile. Business and shipping continue To prevent anybody from get­ to be fair with enough ships pay­ ting wrong ideas, however, let off and signing on to keep us me hurry to tell you that we have enough men on the beach busy. to last well into December. As X said last week, bookmen If you're heading .south for better winter shipping, detour around Mobile—for a while any­ way. V/e'll keep letting you know how things are. We had a visit last week from General Organizer Lindsey Will­ iams and got all Uie latest dope on the organizing campaigns go­ ing on in vai'ious companies. We hope that Brother Williams will be able to get down this way again in the near future. can still get a ship without too much difficulty. The wait on the beach isn't too long for men with ratings, but unrated permitmen have to figure on wait­ ing awhile for a ship. V/e had some very good pay­ offs this past week. One excel­ lent payoff was the Cody, Alcoa. According to the crew the Mate was a good man to work with and the rest of the officers co­ operated v/ith the crew in every­ thing. I am happy to report that the three men v/ho had been in jail BIT THE DUST charged with disorderly conduct But, like all good things, it is while helping get a group of at an end as the Cody is now Culinary and Restaurant Workers on her way to the boneyard. An­ organized have been released. other good ship goes into lay-up. These Brothers had been held The Rosario, Bull Lines, and on the beach here about three the Minnesota wound up trips in weeks, but after the restaurant New York this week and were owner in the case signed a un­ no problem to the boarding pa­ ion contract he agreed to drop trolmen. Both were good ships the charges. with excellent crews. One thing we have been, hap­ The crew of the Joliet Victory, py to note is the dcrease in the which also had a fine payoff, nunjber of gashounds and per­ brought to light and took action formers at payoffs lately. on a beef in their Engine De­ I hope that the bulk of the partment. membership is beginning to rea­ A few of the men in the En­ lize that being sober at the pay­ gine Department had missed off is a pretty important thing their watches on several occa­ in any voyage. sions. It became a sore spot to the men who had to double up for them 30 they went OJ; i ecord to fine the offenders. Of course, if the men had made arrangements for someone else to stand their watches, no action v/ag taken; but 'his was not the cu.se most of the time. The guilty ones wore slapped with fines ranging up to $25 which the rest of the crew hopes will put an end to the v/hole business. They have a legitimate beef in this and it is up to the crew to penalize the men re­ sponsible. It's just as the crew on this ship felt: They like to get ashore in good ports too, but v/ith ir­ responsible crewmembers bolt­ ing over the side as soon as tire ship ties up, the rest of the gang gets stuck with all the Bremen S&ore Leave Tli® Military Government i» Bremen, Germany, is now iggning pasees for shore leave to personnel aboard mer­ chant vessels calling at that port. All hands must carry these cards on their person when ashore in Bremen, Is­ sued by the Captain of each ship, they bear the name of the crewmember and his ship. When receiving your pass, make certain it has your name and ship correctly, otherwise you may be picked up and detained unnecessari­ ly until you can be properly identified. GALVESTON — Shipping con­ tinues to improve in this port over v/hat it was a few weeks ago, but we still have .sufficiciiit men to crew all ships that will hit the port during the month of December. upon investigation, proved to be only a rumor. One of the ship's officers had told the crew that the slopchest was inadequate, but when we looked into it we found that it contained more stores than the average. The Ships Delegate and crew agreed with the Patrolman on Slowly but surely the ships :this, so the beef evaporated. are beginning to move a little The Jackson paid off in fine faster making the wait on the shape. It was as clean a payoff beach a little easier. It will lake as we ever expect to have in this a full-fledged shipping boom be­ neck of the woods. Po.ssibly, one fore we can send out a call for of the big factors aboard the Jackson was the fact that the more menentire crew was composed of We bad two payoffs Ihjg week: book members. the James Jackson, Vvaterman, The Skipper of the Jackson came in, paid off and signed on was left in a German hospital immediately; the Puenta Rills, American Pacific, paid off but and the crew, at the payoff, gave hasn't called for a crew as yet. him a vote of confidence and wished him speedy recovery. BEEF VANISHED They al,so turned to handsome­ In transit we had the Sealy for their Brotber.$ in the Ma­ train New York; Fort Erie, Paci­ rine hpspital by donating $58.70 fic Tanker: Bull Run, Sag Har­ as a Christmas present. bor; Fort Hnskiijs, Pacific Tank­ Two of the erew from the ers; and the Fairport, Water­ Ja.Gksoii, Walter Brightwell and manJack Kelly, piled off at the pay­ The Fairport produced the on­ ly beef among the transits which, off and have decided to home­ CHANGES MADE We paid off .several I.stbmian ships this week and for the first time in that company's history, when those ships sign on they will begin operating under union working rules a.nd a full con­ tract. The new agreement is a fust class piece of goods and worth .. UWD dojl 1 all the waiting and sweating. The men on tlisse .ships have waited a long time for a full contract and they got every­ thing tliey wanted. The new set­ up will mean greater earning power for the crew. Today, more than ever, that means a hell of a lot. 1 can't help but comment on the sad situation facing the East­ ern coast this winter. We have been told there will be an oil shortage; in fact, we are begin­ ning to feel it already, but who, I wonder, were the masterminds behind the sale of needed tank­ ers to foreign governments. There must be some red faces in Wash­ ington. They yelled about surplus tan­ kers so long that the govern- • sold the biggest' stead it here on the beach until ment finally after Christmas. percentage of them. Now they have to do a flipflop and start GOOD TURNOUT looking around for extra ships to CHICAGO — Another famous Voting in the election is go­ make up for the storage. snip will pass into the limbo of ing along well with a good per­ By the time they agree there Lakes lore and legend with the centage of votes already cast, is a shortage and start pulling scrapping of that grand old ivfosi- of the bookmembers hit­ tankers opt of the boneyard, it's lady, the former "'See-and-Bee". ting the Hall have made it one going to be awfully cold in oil- She's sc'hediiLed to be tov/ed to of their first duties to cast their heated homes. I guess a fireplace Milwaukee soon, .nnd will be ballot. Having done their duty, is the only sure things these '/crapped at that port. they then head for the Dis- days. For 29 years, the "See-andjatcher. Bec" was well known to thou'sNOT AT PAYOFF ands of tourists on the Lakes. On the organizing front, John­ An item wliich is often mis­ Finally, with the advent of ny Ward is being- kept busy interpreted in our agreements is World War II, the grand old covering all the Tidewater and that pertaining to wages and lady donned a coat of gray, and Cities Service ships in this re­ subsistence in traveling. The way became the first side wheeler gion. it works is like this: When you aircraft carrier in maritime his­ He tells me that the AFL is payoff and receive your trans­ tory. out to sign its first contract portation cash, your wages and More than ten thousand naval among the oil refinery worlc- subsistence for time in travel pilots learned carrier operations ers, and expects it to be down is not included. from her super-iinp'.sed flight When you reach the port of deck- To the Navy she was on paper before Christmas. Good signing on, you must report to known as the "Wolverine." luck to them. We can use more the company office or agent After the war's end. United of this in Texas. within 30 days where this money States Maritime Commis.sion of­ There is not much more to re­ will be paid you. ficials had to make a weighty Some fellows have paid off decision. Should she be recon­ port from this Gulf port except that old Jack Frost is still keep­ under the impression that their verted to passenger operation or traveling wages and subsistence sJiould .she be scrapped.' ing his distance from this port, were included in the payoff. This They finally decided upon and everyone around here had isn't the case, so go after that scrapping, and so passes another a swell Thanksgiving. money due you. famous SIU ship. Galveston List Takes Care Of Job Calls By KEITH ALSOP work. The men on the Joliet Victory should be GO.nnmer}ded for their stand on this abuse. Old 'See-And-Bee' Diie For Scrap Heap �Page Six THE SEAFARERS LOG Gassed Skipper Guns Seaman On Smith Thompson Friday, December 5, 1947 Comforts Of Home Here's an interior shot of the spacious SIU Hall in Tole­ do. which the Union maintains all year 'round at 615 Sum­ mit Street. A comfortable reading room, facilities for card playing and letter writ­ ing, plus a roomy meeting place ere among the many ad­ vantages of this Hall. If you live in the Toledo area, drop into the well-equipped head­ quarters in that city. During the winter months a wellheated and spacious rendez­ vous is available for the use of all Seafarars. Drop in, and bring your friends. You are al­ ways v/elcome. By CHARLIE STARLING SAVANNAH — Things finally have started to move in this port, and to prove it we had two payoffs, the SS Felix Grun­ dy and the SS Smith Thompson, both South Atlantic.'We squared the beefs right on board. However, on the Smith Thomp­ son we had something that was a little more than a beef. The Captain shot Seafarer Jones in the neck. It should come as no sui-prise to anybods'- that the Coast Guard pulled the Captain's papers. He'd been gassed up at the time, and was, in fact, a real gashound. Seamen have been called gashounds and performers and worse for a long, long time, but on this occasion it was the Skipper j and the Second Mate who put! on the show. They stayed gassed throughout the trip. Good ShippiEig, Clean Payoffs In Baltimore NEAR DEAD By WM. CURLY RENTZ That was the way it was un­ BALTIMORE — Shipping has til Brother Jones was found Ij^been good here for the past two ing in a passageway almost dead with a bullet in his neck. The weeks and there is every reason Second Mate began rushing to think that it will stay good at around with a bottle of iodine. least through the coming holi­ He was going to fix Jones up. Now I am sure that a little io­ days. With a lot of men wanting dine would do a pistol slug in a 'to stay on the beach for Christ­ guy's neck a hell of a lot of mas, the picture is pretty bright. good. We paid off 11 ships and sign­ The crew ran the Second Mate right out of the ship's hospital ed on four. We'll be signing on before the Chief Mate took over. more next week and there are The latter took the Captain's plenty of ships due in Baltimore. guns away from him and locked The payoffs included two Ore him and the Second Mate up for a day and a half. Brother Jones Line ships, two South Atlantics, was put in a hospital on the two Alcoas, two Bulls, a Robin, a other side. Waterman and a Pacific Tanker. 'When the Skipper was called NOTHING PENDING up before the Coast Guard all he could say was that he never We signed on two Ore Line By HERBERT JANSEN knew what happened or how, ships, a Bull and a South Atlanand that Jones was the finest tice. We've also had a number CHICAGO — Shipping has seaman he had. He found out of ships in transit. been fair in the past week, al­ what happened all right, when There were some beefs on most though tapering off somewhat as he lost his papers. of these ships, but everything the regular sailing season nears Naturally, the crew wouldn't was settled without any trouble. it's end. The Tanker Westcoat sail with the Second Mate either, By and large, they were in made her last call of the year, so the Thompson has a new pretty good shape and there is returns to Detroit where Second now as well as a new nothing pending on any of them. she will be laid up for the Wint­ Master. Other Seafarers won't Moreover, the payoffs were er months. have to be afraid of the ship. pretty good, since everybody Still in full operation are the Nobody's going to shoot them. showed up in good condition and sandboats DoviJle, American, That's all been taken care of, and the next trip ought to be the Union didn't lose anything Gilbert and Michigan. They'll on any of the beefs. continue to v/ork full blast until a better one. This is the way things should the Winter ice stops 'em. At the Thompson payoff, the crew chipped in something over be. We all fought like hell for We had a little taste during $200 for Jones' wife and kids. our conditions and we intend to the past week of the weather We all hope that Brother Jones keep them. which Old Man Winter has in will soon be back in the States store for those hardy souls who WANT TO KEEP GOING ready to ship out again. make the Windy City their home There aren't many men on the in the Winter. Now some of the beach here because the shipping warm weather boys will start has been good. Most of the men thinking of tropical climes, and here are actually new faces who head south with the birds. Members whose gear has have arrived to ship out fast. Here at the Chi'cago SIU Hall, been held for more than three our Winter preparations con­ The talk around the Baltimore sist of getting ready for the months in the fourth floor Hall is mostly of the tanker coming pinochle gajnes and bull drive and of organization in gen­ baggage room of the New sessions which the boys all love. eral. York Hall are advised to call Some of the gang have already "What company are we going for it immediately, or notify brought in their own cards and after next?" is the question all the Hall where they wish if stashed them away. Could be the Brothers ask. "Let's get sent. they prefer their own brand! everybody under the SIU ban­ Crowded conditions make ner and let's get the commies NMU'S LAST TRY off the waterfront everywhere," it impossible to hold gear According to a recent Pilot they say. longer than three months. All item authored by the NMU pres­ All in all, everything is in ident "Holy" Joe Curran, the effects remaining unclaimed very good shape in the Port of NMU is going to make one more after three months will be Baltimore. If that needs any desperate, do-or-die attempt to sent to the owner's home via further proof, let me point out organize the Lakes. We refer express collect. that if there is a gashound in to Joe as being "holy" due to town 1 can't find him. The gas- the fact that he's got religion Gear without addresses hounds stay away from here. since disavowing the NMU com­ will be disposed of otherwise. They know we keep an eye mies. peeled for them. If the NMU is not successful Great Lakes NMU Falling Apart At Seams Men Turning To Seafarers For Protection Unclaimed Gear (and what Lakes seamen in their right minds would think of join­ ing the practically defunct and strife-torn NMU?) then they will turn over their membership to some . CIO shoreside union such as the Oil Workers Union. This would really be the pay­ off! However, it reveals only too plainly the bankrupt tijinking of Joe Curran and the other misleaders of the National Maritime Union. One group would give the seamen over to Joe Stalin's tender mercies, and the other would transfer the seamen to some shoreside union! What would the Oilworkers or anj' other shoreside union like the Steelworkers or Autoworkers know about the problems and beefs of the seamen? How can anyone except seamen know the problems of seamen? LET MEMBERS DECIDE If Joe Curran or any of the other pie-hungx-y officials of the NMU had the welfare of the Great Lakes seamen at heart, they would say, "The NMU is finished on the Great Lakes, and we should let our Lakes members decide for themselves what to do." But they know only too well that the vast majority of the small NMU membership on the Great Lakes would want to af­ filiate with the SIU Great Lakes District. After all, these men know what Union leads on the Lakes when it comes to getting improved conditions and wages. Good union men in the NMU are soon going to have to make up their minds about dropping the dying NMU and joining with the SIU Great Lakes District. It's going to take the strength and solidarity of all union-mind­ ed men on the Great Lakes to fight against the open shop op­ erators of the LCA and their tool, the LSU. The SIU Great Lakes District has already made great strides in organizing the Great Lakes. If we continue at our present pace, it should only be a matter of a couple of years before the efftire Great Lakes is organized under the banner of the SIU. Keep It Clean! It is the proud boast of the Seafarers International Un­ ion that an SIU ship is a clean ship Let's keep it that way. Although most of the crews leave a ship in excellent con­ dition, it has come to the at­ tention of the membership that a few crews have vio­ lated this rule. So they have gone on record to have all quarters inspected by the Patrolman before the payoff, and if the conditions are un­ satisfactory, he has the right to hold up the payoff until everything is spic and span. Remember that the Patrol­ man can only have repairs made if he knows what has to be done. Cooperate by making up a repair list be­ fore the ship docks. Give one copy to the Skipper, and one to the Patrolman. Then you'll see some action. �THE Flrids^. DitCMiber S, 1947 Philadelphia On The Lookout For New Hall Us Hat Watei? When your ship has been out of ho< water for over fwehre hours inalce sure thai this faei is reeonted m the Engine log book. It win save a lot of trouble when your ship hits port. later. If you are in port when the boilers give up the ghost, notify the HaR hnmediately and a Patroiman wiH hancBe the matter with the com­ pany. Don't wait until the ship is half way across the ocean before you send word; let out a yell before your ship leaves port and the mat^ ter will be settled at once. SEAFARERS LOG Page Seven Tankers Bring Good Shipping To Boston, Fulfilling Agent's Cautious Prediction Both were scheduled to payoff ture caffs for paying off two 'the same day and time at Port­ tankers coming in foreign and BOSTON—As cautiously pre­ land, the Hood River alongside another West Coast ship—all by By BILL HIGG3 dicted in my last week's article, the dock and the Choctaw in Tuesday, December 2. PHILADELPHIA — Shipping .shipping has finally taken a ithe stream. On the presumption Beyond that we don't make in this port has picked up con­ sharp upward turn and' the Hall that the two-week trip would any predictions: at any rate the siderably since our last report Ls emptying rapidly. be cleared up in jig-time, the Dispatcher's list of available men to the LOG, we are most happy As usual, most of the jobs Hood River was hit first. should be rather small by that to declare, and that is just the available were on tankers—on However, the port overtime time. way we will try to keep this two of the.se, the SS Choctaw beef was described by the com­ port rolling along. A suggestion under Good and Trail and the SS H.ood River, pany as the result of a "sitWelfare was tossed our way this Ernest Tilley, our Patrolman, fifty-five men obtained jobs. do-wn" strike in the port of Gal­ week which merits a little mill­ had a busy week on the water­ The SS Choctaw Trail, out veston. Therefore it took a lot ing over by everybodje front. The Monroe, a Bull Line almost eight months, paid off of time and inve.stigating to get It was pointed out that prac­ wagon, paid off and he observes without trouble. On the other at the truth of the matter, and tically all the acts of irresponthat the Delegates had her in hand, the SS Hood River, out to ascertain the cau.se of the .sible mernber.s which are detri­ fine shape. In fact, the payoff a couple of weeks, had a port so-called "sit-down" strike. mental to the Union and an was a pleasure. overtime beef that t-ook several BOSUN FHftlD annoyance to their shipmates hours to square away. We also had the Mansfield, a It finally developed that a 24- ore committed either at sea, or, Luckenbach wagon, and Jacobs, hour delay was caused by the chiefly, in foreign ports of call. the SUP man in Baltimore, came actions of the crew in Galveston, It was suggested that the ships over to help Tilley handle her. who had decided to wait for a delegate cannot very well con­ Jake, I might point out, gives shoreside Patrolman'.s ruling be­ trol the irresponsible few unless us splendid cooperation when we fore assenting to the arbitrary and until he is recognized by are a bit overloaded here. He's firing of the Bosun, who was be­ the crew as a duly authorized always glad to come over and ing di.-reharg'fid without notice, representative of the Union Vvith By BLACKIE CARDULLO help payoff an SUP ship. without cause, and without trans­ the status of shoreside Patrol­ MARCUS HOOK — Shipping will introduce really tops the portation back to the port of man. There have been several ships here in transit. They had beefs has picked up in this port. In Taft-Hartley Act. It v/ould make engagement. EXTRA PAY The beef was eventually set­ of several kinds both major and fact, everything picked up all it a federal offense to prohibit He should be properly instruc­ a worker from going to his job. tled with concessions on both minor which Tilley handled to at once. ted in his duties and powers— sides, ina.smuch as two v.u-ongs the entire satisfaction of the WANTS "EQUITY" and lie should be paid a premwere com.mitted: first, the man­ For Thanksgiving dinner we crews. ner in which the Bosun was dis­ In other v/ords, if you stopped got hit with four ships which SCOUT FOR HALL a scab and talked him out of charged, and. second, the man­ just about cleaned house. .scabbing the FBI would be ner in which the rest of the With things going along nice pounding at your door.-Or if you crew protested the discharge. In addition, we put 40 men and smoothly and the weather It is axiomatic that two did anything at all to stop him not too bad as yet. we are try­ to work on longshore jobs this wrongs never can make a right, you would he breaking the law. ing to patch up the holes in this wreck. The boys on the latter and all hands were instructed dilapidated Hall before the snow work knocked down about $150. In Hartley's own words: "What as to their rights and duties in gets shoulder deep to a tall we are endeavoring to do i.s the event they should ever be­ which means that at the end of giraffe. write equity into the labor law.s." come involved in a dispute of a Ihe week there will be a bunch Right now, jmu could swing Yes, Mr. Hartley, we believe similar nature. of live wires around here. a cat by his tail, turn him loose you are trying to write equity But by tire time the foregoing Now that shipping is tough into the labor laws, but equity was settled amicably, the gang in any direction and he would have an even chance of not most of the time, this long.sh'ore for whom? Would we be show­ on the Choctavv' had decided to hitting the wall, the cracks and work comes in handy. It certain­ ing prejudice if we stated that get paid off and get along home ly solves the problem of how to you are not writing it for the —and who could blame them ium wage for assuming the pos­ crevices are so many. ition; even the companies co'uld We are also scouting around keep from going broke on the unions? But enough of Mr. Hart­ after the run they had just com­ be induced to contribute a share beach. ley. pleted. Incidentally, only fifteen a bit for a better place to rent of tlie extra wages, because they of ttie original crew still re­ We see where our good friend or buy and we hope that in the For the information of all conwould have 'every right to be­ near future we get a better Hall Congressman Fred Hartfey of cenmed'. Brother Labrosse did not mained with the scow at the j lieve that his presence aboard New Jersey, of the famous or lose his seaman's papers for the termination of articles. for the boys here. would discourage "gear grabbers" As Brother Sweeney pulled Tlie Union was called on la.st militant stand he took on the alongside in the launch the boys and the guys who figure they can f week to assist the Waiters and death of Dale Johnson. were lowering their gear; but stick someone else for their Waitresses Union, AFL, in a beef EAfANClPiiflnft YDV watches in foreign ports. Brother Johnson, you will re- .the Pumpman had time to pass IMOaSE SUKVe&l they had going not far from the The principle of this idea caff from- Labrosse's article in on a disputed overtime beef be­ Hall. Our boys were on the picworked very well on unorganized fore pulling away. ketline in nothing flat. Mass pic­ the LOG, died on the way into siiips, since in most cases the If he should read this column, keting won the beef and won it Puerto Rko, and Labrosse charg­ he will be pleased to know that SIU organizer aboard was look­ fast. ed that his life might have been Brother Sweeney collected C3 ed up to by the rest of the SLICE OF CREDIT saved: had his case been liandled hours for him, which he can col­ crew as having official status. lect by writing to the Paymaster My well-meaning friend is differently. Mr. Davis of the Waiters gives of Pacific Tankers, Inc. convinced that it could have us a big slice of the credit for Our good friend Plumstel came GOOD SHIPPING equally good results on our or­ making the company see the running into the Union Hall and , Shipping was particularly good ganized ships. At any rate, it light. And Fll' say myself that wanted to ship in a hurry. We for the Deck Department this makes for some deep thought for more splendid cooperation was past week, as three of the pay­ those who are fed up with the never had anywhere. infamous Taft-Hartliey Act, made don't know just why, but we offs were West Coast ships. Dr. Jekylls of continental U.S. When our boys were asked to a speech the other night at have an idea. P'lumstel and Three other tankers on coast­ ports who become Mr. Hydes help, it was just another case of S-warthmore college near here. Paul Armould have been shang­ wise runs, called in for replace- as soon as thev clear the threeHe e.xplain.ed the Act, we read. haied. the old STU spirit. ments. And the immediate fu-'mile limit. Bill Brown, our Dispatch Kid, TOPS T-K LAW states- that he wishes all his friends- and old shipmates a Hap­ • Now why does Mr. Hartley try py Turkey Day. And, while this to explain the Taft-Hartley Act may reach you a little late, let to the exclusive Swarthmore the only language that they By JIMMY HAWKERS We had two Cities Service me say that all of us here in tlie students who' ddn't know what seem, to understand, that the ship tankers in durin.g the last few Port of Brotherly Love wish all a day's work is, don't have to JACKSONVILLE — The Zach- would not sail without the propda,y.s. They were the Chiwawa our S3DU Bijothers everywhere a work for a living, anyway and aiy Taylo-r, South Atlantic, hit 01' repains being made. and the Paoli. A few of our men don't know what the unions Happy Thanksgiving. this pfii't last week with more managed to get jobs aboard these LATE AWAKENING have done for the working peo­ beefs than I've seen on a ship in scows, in spite of the local fink ple? I'll bet he didn't get any many a day. When the Taylor was still who crews their ships. •opposition. there two days after she w:i.s She needed new mattresses, due to sail, they came around to. It is usually a tough job for We, the membership of the pillows, toasters and percolators, men to get joKs on these ships, see our side of the dispute. SIU-SUP' here in Marcus Hook but the Company didn't seem to Everything they could secure but when we find an opportun­ wish that Mr. Hartley would agree with the crew and the was put aboard, and a rider was ity to do so wo grab it. Both of come down to pay us a visit shoreside officials in this matter. attached to the articles stating tliese .ships have already voted, and prove to us that his pet' law We settled most of the beefs that the men could payoff if she but the fight is far from being is not a slave-labor Act. immediately, but getting the new didn't get the remaining sup­ over. We also see where Mr. Haiflley supplie.s aboard was a differ-ent plies beforre sailing from the If you get a chance to take a stales that he expects to intro­ matter. We .wrangled with the States. job aboard a Cities Service slxip, duce additional labor legislation company's representative for a The crew stuck together take it and hold on tight. It's a when the Congress starts its, day or so, but nothing was done throughout this beef and proved little rough now, but it's gravy, regular session in January. for the crew, once again that a solid front will in the future with an SIU con­ tract. One of the points whkh he Finaffy, we showed them, in win any bat;le. By JOHW hfOGAlT Marcus Hook Picture Brightens, Longshore Jobs Take Up Slack ilacksonville Halts Run-Arouiid On Bepairs m �THE SEAFARERS Page Eight Lakes Seamen learn Only SlU Gives Security LOG Friday. December 5, 1947 New Hall, Jobs, NO Weather Keep Everybody Happy A,:-;.--- •• • . • •Sf:'" • II By EINAR NORDAAS By EARL SHEPPARD DULUTH—Since the clearing up of the season's first big storm on the Lakes, the more than sixty ships which were tied up here for a while have practical­ ly all moved out, and the har­ bor area is fairly clear once again. First of the Browning ships to be laid up is the SS Crescent City, and she's in the shipyard at Superior. Lay-up work on her is supposed to be finished around December 15. One of the Midland ships, the SS Michael Gallagher, hit the end of the dock as she was tying up with her last load of coal. She should be out of the ship­ yard by the time this hits the press. The other six Midland ships are all headed for the Lower Lakes with loads of storage grain for the Buffalo area. According to reliable sources, the last load of iron ore will leave this area around Decem­ ber 2 or 3. Then we'll settle down for the long Winter wait until navigation opens up next April some time. NEW ORLEANS — Shipping here is on the climb once more and things look as usual with ' very heavy shipping during the holidays—at a time when the majority of the Brothers would like to take a breather and re­ lax around the Christmas din­ ner. We had a total of 11 payoffs here last week and three coast­ wise ships hit port in addition. This activity so relieved shipping that when we consider the re­ ports coming in of the number of ships due to payoff through­ out the month we can say that the whole shipping problem has been taken care of—temporarily. Brother L i n d s e y Williams, General Organizer, is in town and we are working out a policy for an organizational program for the Marines Allied Workers. With some hard work, this im­ portant brancn of the SIU can be expanded to a large hard­ hitting outfit and be an out­ standing a.sset to the Seafarers. The MAW held their second meeting November 26, and are now going to be meeting twice a month. Good progress is being shown at these affairs and there is lively interest in them. We have taken title to our new building here and we ai'e shap­ ing it up to move into it. How­ ever, it may be sometime after Christmas before we can move in as we have to do a little re­ modeling. Those things take time, you know. You can bet your life she will be a beauty when we get her squared away. SMOOTH SAILING The Alcoa Corsair is all-out for an educational program. Copies of the Shipping Rules and Constitution and By-Laws are hung in the mess halls so that the Brothers can study them anytime. The picture ab­ ove shows the Brothers off duty attending an educational meeting, and at the right is a shot showing the Brothers re­ laxing after the strenuous ses­ sion. Bottom picture shows members of the Stewards De­ partment, Cooks and Waiters, preparing to serve a meal to the passengers of the Alcoa Corsair, The same food is served to the crewmembers. These pictures and the in­ formation about them was sent in by Rocky Benson, '47 SIU GAINS During the year 1947, the SIU Great Lakes District has made many gains, but the report won't be complete until the results from the Hanna and Wilson elec­ tions are in. Lakes seamen have • learned to look to the SIU for leadership in winning improved wages and conditions. In addition, many of these sea­ men have learned that they need something more than periodic improvements in wages and con­ ditions. Lakes seamen have found that they need security. They need the right to go back on the ship they laid up, and they need freedom from fear when ship­ ping on the Lakes slows up. These men know that the only way they can secure job secur­ ity and job seniority is through the protection of. an SIU con­ tract. For that reason, thousands of Lakes seamen want the SIU on their ships. However, security and SIU contracts on the Lakes are not going to be won without a struggle. The Lake Carriers As­ sociation has been in business for almost forty years, with pow­ erful lobbies in Washington and all of the State Capitals in the Lakes states. Does anyone think for one moment that the LCA will give un the open shop without a bat­ tle? With the full support and backing of the Lakes seamen, the SIU Great Lakes District can and will whip the open shop op­ erators. That day is fast ap­ proaching when th SIU can match it's economic strength against the many millions of the By BEN REES LCA and their lobbyists. NORFOLK — Shipping contin­ Then, and only then, wUl the ues to be good in the Port of Lakes have the strength and Norfolk, particularly for permitsolidarity of the SIU to bring men, there not being enongh SIU security, representation and bookmen to fill all the jobs we've conditions to the entire Great been having. Lakes. P.S. The following Brothers The ships paying off in the should write for their mail: Al­ last two weeks were the Rut­ ton Oakman, Michael Sullivan, gers Victory, the George Chaffee, A1 Clark, Thomas McGuire, Wal­ the Mayo Brothers, the Robert ter Brannan and Herman Gon- McBurnie, the Grover C. Hutch­ lick. inson, the William Carlson, the MORE DOUGH NOW The bakery strike here is about over, if what we hear about doughless days is correct, with the Bakers Union coming out on top by winning the great majority of its demands. Of course, several of the more reasonable minded bakeries sign­ ed up a while ago and there has been a little bread to be had. But we know that many a cook book was purchased by enter­ prising housewives during the beef. Wonders will never cease! You remember we told you about the rains here this fall. Well, believe it or not, the sun came out at last, and for several days now the weather has been what it's supposed to be in New Orleans. Disregard anything we said previously. A day like today makes us forget all those bad ones. Norfolk Shipping Holds Up; Future Looks Bright Robert Forbes, the James Fenimore Cooper, the Robert Crosby and the DeSoto. Most of these vessels crewed and sailed with about 25 percent bookmen, the balance being permitmen and tripcarders. The Grover C. Hutchinson, or "Jolly Rover," came in as usual —in tiptop shape all around, clean, happy and satisfied. For a Patrolman, the "Rover Grover" means a good dinner, good coffee and writing a few receipts. All her crew is paid in­ to 1948. It looks as if shipping would continue good. For instance, we have four South Atlantic vessels due to arrive next week. We have in port the Coral Sea of the Coral Shipping Company, a new outfit contracted to the SIU. She just finished a four month trip. She was crewed in Tampa, in the land of oranges and sunshine but was scheduled to be paid off here December 1. On Performers The membership has gone on record to prefer charges against all gashounds and performers, as well as the men who willfully destroy or steal ships gear. The SIU has no place for men who ruin the good conditions the Union wins for them. Take action in shipboard meetings against men guilty of these things. �Friday, December 5, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Nine SBIPS' MINUTES AND NEWS CREWMEN OF THE SS GOVERNOR GRAVES Barry Skipper Badly Needs Pact Interpreter Possessing an inflated ego and an air of self-importance bor­ dering on the ridiculous, the skipper of the William T. Barry set himself up as the final auth­ ority as to what could and could not be done aboard the ship— regardless of the Union contract To him, Master of the vessel meant just that—and more. He felt he was the master of the ship and all within its bulkheads including the crew — nothing could take place without his ap­ proval, at least that's what he told the ship's three delegates. He made it plain to the men that the contract meant little to him when he called the men into his office and bluntly told them that he absolutely forbid union meetings on the ship with­ out his knowledge and consent and claimed the privilege of at­ tending all meetings held. CLEAR IT WITH ME Going further, he stated that in the event he allowed meet­ ings to take place, he was to re­ ceive a copy of the minutes. In stunned silence the dele­ gates heard him bellow pointlessly of his authority as Master. No overtime in general; no clean­ ing of quarters, heads, showers or rooms if they called for the payment of overtime. The skipper cited Article 2, Section 9 of the contract as authority for his brash ruling. It reads: "Nothing in this agreement is intended to, and shall not be construed to' limit in any way the authority of the Master of other officers, or lessen the obe­ dience of any member of the crew to any lawful order." With that one clause he mistakingly thought he could dis­ miss the rest of the contract. Quickly recovering their com­ posure, the delegates let the skipper down, deflating his ego like a punctured balloon. UNION SECRET Deck Delegate G. R. Walker lashed out at the skipper by telling him that for him to give the Captain copies of the min­ utes would be a violation of the Union oath requiring that all Union matters be kept secret from unauthorized persons. Y. S. Worrell, Engine Dele­ gate, quickly followed up the attack by notifying the Captain that when the ship arrived in port a Patrolman from the Union would notify him as to the ex­ tent of his power over the crew. The report of what took place in the Captain's office was re­ ported to the LOG in the min­ utes of a shipboard meeting. Whether the meeting was held with or without the approval of the ship's master wasn't men­ tioned. The Barry has since paid off and is out at sea again, so it's logical to assume that the skip­ per found the real interpreta­ tion of the contract at the pay­ off—^but not the .way he wanted it. BlOWS Ift After Rugged Voyage Loaded With Mishaps The trip the MV Cape Horn made last summer from New Orleans to the south coast of Brazil and back was no picnic, according to the detailed account of the This photo was taken immediately after last membership meeting aboard the Waterman ship prior to its arrival in the Port of Mobile Oct. 15. Cameraman was Bill Langford, Stew­ ard; picture was submitted by Clete Clark, who stated that there were only a few minor beefs during the voyage and all were satisfactorily settled at the payoff. Crew Aims To Scour Fiske When a new crew signed on the SS John Fiske, Overlakes, in Baltimore for a trip to Le Havre the boys found the vessel in pretty bad shape for an SIU ship. What was moi-e, they didn't get much cooperation from the Old Man about doing anything to clean her up although the Baltimore Port Captain signed a statement which he left at the Del Norte Men Donate To SIU Patients In N.O. NEW ORLEANS—Crew mem­ bers of the Stewards Depart­ ment aboard the SS Del Norte, one of Mississippi's three cruise ships operating out of this port, pread a measure of cheer among their less fortunate brothers con­ fined in the local Marine Hospi­ tal, according to an announce­ ment by George Moran, Stew­ ards Delegate. A total of $43.00 was collected from the group on "V' vage No. 6. Each of the following men con­ tributed one dollar to be dis­ tributed among the SIU patients: •Victor Bottazzi, Faust Bottazzi, William Faust, Anthony Alleman, Raymond Proudfoot, Jose Castellon, Ben Fitte, Joe Kotalik, Thomas Kotalik, Adel Rowe, Majorie Evans, Vincenzo Marconi, Sam Marcus, William Murphy. Edna .TohariR.son, T.eslie Sigler, Henry Lae, Peter Hammer, Delbert Steele, Rich­ ard Martinez, George S. Moran. Also Osmand McMahon, Woody Warren, Gordon Walker, Charles Pecoraro, Felix Savoy, Francis Fletschinger, H e n r i k Hansen, John Fontan, Cecelia Cervantes, Thomas Landry, Sam Florence, Ivan Durling. Also Norman Corley, John Smith, Shelton Long, Moses Milano, Alfredo Duarte, Lloyd Wet­ zel, N. G. Nassar, Patric Orr, R. J. Flynn, and Frank Cacioppe. Hall declaring what necessary painting and minor repairs would be taken care of at sea. In fact, the Skipper seemed to be more worried about his stand­ ing with the Company as a slow man with a dollar than about the welfare and comfort of the Crew. "I would like to have this ship cleaned up," he told the Ship and Deck Delegates, "but this is my first trip with this Com­ pany and if I go back in with a lot of overtime I will lose my job." four-month voyage contained in the personal log kept by M. O. Carroll, Chief Steward. The trouble started when the ship's plant broke down about noon June 2. Dinner that night was cold. There was no fresh water, the toilet and bath facil­ ities were useless and, of course, there were no lights. And that was the way things were to be for a longer time than Chief Steward Carroll cares to remember, for the plant broke down again June 10. The Horn, which is chartered to the Mississippi Shipping Com­ pany, was headed for Santos, but some way had to be found and found quickly to get her into Recife on the Brazilian hump, which was the nearest port. Al­ though the ship was just fioating, and the crew was putting out cans to catch rain water and keeping a fire in an oil drum on the fantail to make coffee, the Captain refused to radio for a tug to take her in. Instead, he chose to wait for the SS Louis McLane, a Liberty ship, which didn't show up until June 13. From here on, Carroll's diary reads like the record of a tough voyage under canvas a hundred years ago. Surprisingly enough, though, he constantly stressed that the passengers took the trip's rigors quite cheerfully. Cape Horn crew had to cook and eat what little food they had out on deck when plant broke down. no speed and the iceboxes work­ ed poorly. And just as she put into Santos the plant broke down again! The Horn was in Santos three weeks which were rugged ones for the crew. On August 10, she arrived in Paranagua. Got there without a breakdown, too. Trouble was they had to stay there 16 days. Then she proceeded to Rio Gran­ de do Sul and finally to Porto Alegre where the consignees for some automobiles the Horn was carrying were surprised if not NOT ENOUGH BAD TO WORSE exactly pleased to find them, He said that the galley, which The McLane finally got the as Carroll put it, "bent and was in terrible condition, only Horn into Recife, although the dinged and covered with oil." needed to be partly painted, and line broke once and everybody After a second call at Rio that a good sougeeing would be was drinking brackish water, Grande, the Horn finally headed enough for the recreation room but they did not arrive there north for home. By then it was and mess hall. until June 22. To make matters September. Two days out, she The Crew couldn't agree with worse, the Horn foundered on a ran into heavy seas and began him but was unable to do much rock in Recife harbor and the "rolling like a barrel," CarroU about it. The main trouble was bump was bad enough to gire wrote and wondered if he ever that the Skipper was fixing up^ the Horn a bad list to port and would see New Orleans. The an extra room for the Purser j to necessitate a layover until temporary patches in her side, while holding out on painting July 14. put on in Recife, had every­ the Crew messhall and quarters. The layover was a pretty sad body worried. For one stretch, At a shipboard meeting it period. The Captain paid out she only made about 70 miles finally was voted to invite the some subsistence when the Dele­ a day with the screw out of wa­ Captain to a special meeting to gates straightened him out a ter most of the time. But on discuss the ship's condition and bit, and the launch service September 10, things began to wasn't too bad, but conditions improve. what to do to better it. aboard continued to be terrible. Things went on all right from To make things a little bit worse, then until the arrival in New Mess On Deck the food went bad. Part of Car­ Orleans on September 26, a fact roll's entry for June 30 reads: for which everybody was thank­ "... the meat was going very ful. Even so, there were a few bad, the fish also was very bad. hitches. The vegetables had just started PLENTY HOT to go. I had about 3,400 lbs. of meat, thrown overside today. It One was a niixup over where seems a shame to have such a to dock in Trinidad. Another lot of good American meat go was the terrible heat encountered bad. We have lights and water in the Caribbean which at one tonight. They got one boiler go­ time reached 131 degrees in the ing now, but the di'inking don't galley and, Carroll noted, had taste so good." everybody aboard in a pretty July 5, he noted as follows: bad humor. "The toilets on the shelter In view of the history of the deck here are in a hell of a voyage, Carroll's final comment state, they cannot be flushed, and should be viewed as an under­ they stink." statement. "Well, we have ar­ HERE WE GO AGAIN rived in New Orleans at last," Another view of outdoor Things weren't too much bet­ he wrote, "and it surely looks mess on the crippled Cape ter when the Horn finally got good from here. Everyone is Horn. under way for Santos. She had.anxious to get ashore." �Page Tea THE AF ARERS LOG Friday;. December Sir 1947 SlU Ships' Minutes In Brief MONTEBELLO HILLS, July 6 —Cfeacirman L. ConticeBo; SeezeJary C. Bronhorsf. Deck Delegate reported deefc gang soogeemg in Ste^Wrds department passageway^. Beef settled to satisfaction of all. Suggested circulation of reading material. Good and Wel­ fare; Suggestion that fines be levied for minor infractions of messroom conduct. List of fines to be posted on bulletin board. One minute of silence for Bro­ thers lost at sea. S. 3, t. FHAWKLIN K, LANE. OcL 12 ship not be permitted to leave —Chairman Emile Degan; Secre­ the States with less than seven tary V. A. Lawsin. Delegates re­ days' supply of shore bread ported minor beefs. New Busi­ aboard. Motion by C. Shaw that ness: Brother brought up on a repair list be made up in trip­ charges and after discussion from licate. Motion by C. Taylor that the floor he was fined $50. Good ship not leave States with less and Welfare: Suggestion t li a t than 75 days' stores aboard. Mo­ crew donate a minimum of one tion by Taylor that ship have dollar to men in marine hospital. general fumigation. Chairman reminded crew that S. t £ any member drunk at payoff will TAG KNOT, (date not given) be fined $10. One minute of si­ Chairman James Finch; Secrelence for Brothers lost at sea. tai'y Paul Sauers. New Business: WILLIAM T. BARRY. Oct. 5 —Chaorasui. D. F, McKmnif Secnfcttery C«rE New Btoiness: Motion by Worrell that the Patrolman be contacted as to the possibility of secrarimg more fans for the use of the unlicen­ sed personnel). It was brought out by Brother Worrell that the Captain stated to the Delegates that there would be no Union meetings held on his ship at any time without his consent and, further, he had the privilege and would attend any Union meet­ ing held. Captain later asked for minutes of meeting. Walker dteciined to give hira copy on the grounds tJiat he would be vix> lating his pledge to the UnioCT to keep all Union matters secret from unauthorized persons: ( ( 1 THOMAS CRESAP. Sept. 22— Chsirman Rolf XJ^aziiel; Secretary Dan Kennedy, Recently received copy of new agreement was dis­ cussed pro and! con. Motion by Kennedy to recommend Elwood Trainer for a pro-book—Motion carried. Kennedy reported that the Captain and; Mate are happy over the work being done by the deck department men. i THE F5«ST THf?EE MONTHS THE SEAFARERS HASOBSAWIZET* SEVEN COMPANIES THROUGH THE EPFORTS OF SHOREStDE AND VOtUNTEER ORSAMIZERS . THERE ARE MANV OTHER UNORSAMiZED OUTFITS - DEEP SEA,TUG, AND INLA>4D WATER - TO BE GOTTEN ; So SEE THE ORGANIZER. OR, PATROLMAN AND GIVE THE UNO^ - AND YOURSELF- A BETTER FUTURE i Discussion over inadequate slopchest. Chest lacks shoes, seaboots and raingear. Prices too far out of line. List of needed repairs drawn up and approved. i t 1 Good and Welfare: All members EDITH, Oct. 4—Chairman Jean to observe posted rules for keep­ Piniarski; Secretary Louis S. ing laundry clean. Delegates to By HANK Hisso., Delegates Reports accept­ get together and arrange a If j'our ship hasn't a librai'y of books and magazines or if you ed. Good and Welfare: All per­ weekly schedule to spot soogie want that old library exchanged for a new one drop in or phone mits examined and men aboard laundry. One minute of silence the American Merchant Marine, Library Association, 45 Broad­ 5. S. X for sixty days are to be asked to for Brothers lost at sea. way. New York. Their phone is BO 9-022&... Since it was re­ payoff. SEATRAIN N E V/ JERSEY. i. S. -3. quested. McMahon's Bar, a favorite hangout for our Moran tugi 3 i FAIHISLE. Oct. 26—Chairman Oct. 26 — Chairman W. Deal; 'ooatmen-, will be receiving some Logs every week... To oldDEL MAR. Aug. 18—Chairman Richelson; Secretary Pawel. Secretary Joe Martinez. Dele­ timer, Brother W. R. Bloom: How's tlie landlubfoing life in Joseph Gagliano; Secretary Ger­ Delegates reported on progress gates had nothing to report. ard C. McGoey, Stewards and in securing needed repairs in New Business: Motion to 'elect Brooklyn treating you? ... That Brooklyn citizen, Brother Chris­ Deck Delegates reported all in their departments. New Busi­ new ship's delegate as present tian Rasmussen, was in town last week. How's everything with order. Engine Delegate reported ness: Motion by Chrapcynski delegate is leaving at end of you? ... Fj om down in Chalmette, Louisiana, Brother J. Von disputes involving overtime and that crew not sign on again- un­ run. Twitchell elected new dele­ Holden, the oldtimer in retirement, just sent his best wishes far requested that he be relieved of til needed repairs are made. gate by acclamation. Motion car­ good health and good sailings to' all SIU brothers. He was fortyhis duties and delegate. Good and Copies of decision to be given to ried to contact Mate and see if eight years old recently. Happy and peaceful days to you and Welfare: All necessary precau- Captain,. Company and Patrol- protectives can be more freely may your memories of days and voyages past be just as salty tions to be maintained to pre- inan. Good and Welfare: Cook issued. Motion carried that D'ele- and enjoyable as when they wei'e in operation! ... -S, 4 4 'vent any fires beginning from suggested that card players stay gales contact Captain in refer­ Bxother Charles Watson, ciiizen of the Bronx, just came 'carelessness. Steward agreed to ^ ^ut of messhall while it is being ence to time off in port due to int.a townv after flying in from Venezuela... It seems that some issue sufficient ash trays for iirformed permit quick turnaround. Good and Marine hospitals are now and then treating merchant seamen each- messhall. Q£ shipping rule restricting Welfare: Decision to see that better. One brother came in and toM us about the good service it 3; t the length of time they can stay crew's drinking fountain is re­ he recefved from the Mtsrrne Hospital. Httoson and Jay. After FORT STANWIX. (Date not aboard the ship before piling offi paired. examining him. the doctor asked if he had arches for his feet. given)—Chairman Hoppy; Secre­ 24 4 When the doc heard the negative anewer he replied that he tary Lyius. Motions carried: ' BELGIUM VICTORY. (data sure needed them. Then he sent the SIU brother to some surgi­ erewmesB- membership to see nol given)' Chairman H. Clarke; cal house where tliey worked on hie feet and gave him a Steward to order percolators for 'Secretary H. W. Ryan. Delegates pai3r of Icether steel arches which would have cost tlie SIU crewmess; membership to see reported on number of books brothmi about thirty five dollars aceordrng to the guy in the i about cleaning fresh water tanks and permits in their depart­ I suzgieal houeer—if he had to buy them elsewhere. .and cementing same. Good and ments. New Business; Motion by Welfare: Repair list to be turned 44 4 Hunt to create ship's fund by as­ Brother Aussie Shrimpton was in last week, cheerfully argu­ in by all departmental delegates. i t t Brother Kenney elected to conMARION CRAWFORD. Sept. sessing each erewmember 25c: ing with Brother Paddy McCann about one voyage. Brother tact the Merchant Marine Li- 14 — Chairman H, O. Tenant; Good and Welfare: Repair list Shrimpton, a poet, - Steward and a newly-wedded Seafarer, had brary Association in Boston to Secretary Neil A. Birky. New made up and approved. Election removed his dignified mustache from his face, which makes him have books put aboard the ship. Business: Harold Sonnenberg of delegates held. J. Dominques look yesuTS younger; we believe... We have just discovered that elected ship's delegate. Good and elected Engine Delegate; V. Wii- that oldtimer Brother "TJnele Otto" Preussler is famous for his Welfare: It was pointed out that sczafc elected Stewards Delegate. "golden brown biscuits," among other choice cookings... Brother some of the men have been im­ iOne minute of silence for Bro­ A. Goldsmit, another oldtimer, came in and requested that our SIU weekly newspaper. The Log, be sent to all steamship com­ properly clothed while in the thers lost at sea. panies, especially those not contracted to the SIU, so that these messhall. Motion carried that people would® know all about the SIU policy, militancy- and ac­ ,any members found to be negli­ tivities ... To Brother Duane A. Gardiner in Oklahoma: Those gent in keeping messhall clean Logs are coming your way Here are some oldtimers who may is to be reprimanded and habit­ t 3 1 still be in town: H. Higham, Roman Tel'esford, Isaac Miller, W. J. CASA GRANDE. Oct, 30 — ual offenders to be reported to Heidy, H. Peterson, M. Figuerea, J. Gates, A. Amelia, J. Kelley, Chairman Troy Thomas; Secre­ the Patrolman in first port J.. Flaherty, R. Berlund... tary Howard Emerson. Howard touched. Discussion on rusty 4 4 4 NEWS ITEM: Representatives of the steamship industry Emerson. Deck Delegate, report­ water being used for laundry purpo;ses. and. marilune labor groups are preparing material for hearings, ed all in order; Petfe Jomides, STEEL FHiBfHZrATOa. Sept. being called by the Maritime Commission, scheduled for Jan­ Black Gang Delegate, reported 30—Chairman) D", C. Eoddaj Sec3. k S.­ uary In San Francisco on -.vages and •wnrlting conditions on no beefs; A1 Befiislein. Gtevvards MARION CRAWFOHD. Qci. 6 seiary W, E, Gannon. Kenneth government-subsidized merchant ships. Enactment of the Delegate, reported ever ything —Chairman H. O. Tenant; Sec­ Marpie elected as Deck Dele­ House of Representatives Bill 4307' would include seamert okay. New Business: Repair list retary Neil A. Birky. Good and gate; Di Gl. Riodiciia elected Engine among the employees not exempted from Section 13 of the to be made up and turned in. Welfare: Repair list made up Delegate and Clarence Storey Fair Labor SlcmdUrds Act of 1938. In addition to providing a Following men show^ good quali­ and approved by crew. Motion made Stewards Delegate. Duke forty hour week for seamen, the bill also would amend the ties and recom.rnended for pro- carried that an order be placed Liivingaton: elected .ship's dele­ definition of vrages to provide that board and lodging would books: Horace Douglas. Leon for new eq,uipment. A vote of gate for business between ship not be included in the minimum wage scale. Honeycutl and Gale Atkins. Mo- j thanks made to the Steward, land Uhion Hall. New Business: lion carried that three delegates .Neil A. Birky. and his depart­ Motion that a radio be installed 4 4 4 NEWS ITEM: The National Pfetroleum Council called on the contact Cqptain to procure more ment for the commendable per­ in crew's messroom.. Motion that milk." formance of their duties during .shipfs delegate see about a nevi government to release some of the 1'37 oil tankers' which remain the voyage. Motion carried that library for the ship. Good and tied up in the possession of the U.S. Maritime Commission. A ser­ GEORGE DAVIS, (date not ship's delegate contact the Cap- Welfare: Ship's carpenter to ious- petroleum shortage is imminent, particularly in the Atlantic given)'—Chairmen' B. Sanchez; tain in regard to a draw to be make a bread box. One minute seaboard area', if idle government-owned tankers are not released Secretary J. Redden. New Busi­ given out immediately upon ar- of silence for Brothers lost at promptly from tiie-up and' reconditioned and repaired for immed­ iate service, the council said. sea. ness: Motion by J. Rinius that rival in Galveston. CUT and RUN �Friday, December 5, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven THE MEMBEBSHIP SPEAKS STOPPED OVER IN SAN JUAN Get Your Story In The LOG Some mighty interesting stories of shipboard meet­ ings, sea rescues and just plain every day goings-on have been coming in from SIU members out at sea. But the LOG would like to hear from more of the fellows, because there's more going on that's just as interesting and beneficial to the mem­ bership that we don't hear about. Crewmembers of Ihe SS Wild Ranger as they appeared recently during a call at the Puerto Rican port. Photo was taken by W. E. Edgerton and submitted by Brothers Cham­ bers, Parrish and Clausen. Gateway City Almost Heaven To the Editor: The Waterman squirrel cage, the SS Gateway City, pulled into Mobile for repairs and the crew had to pay off there. It was too bad, too, for it was a great time we had on the Gateway. We must say that the Stewards Department was the life of the ship and there never was a dull moment aboard or among the crew from the time we left New York all the way to Germany and back to Mobile. We must admit the funsters were Saloon Messman Joe Sul­ livan, Chief Cook Ramon Moldbnodo and Galley Utility Lichtenstein known as "Dutch." These three always had a laugh and a joke and helped to pass the time with their funny an­ tics and actions. MUTT AND JEFF Also on deck was Alfred Perring, AB, who is six feet four inches tall and Milton Awall, AB, who is about five feet seven. These two were the Mutt and Jeff of the ship, the big and Log-A -Rhyth m s All it takes is for one oi more of the crew to put it down on paper and send it to the Seafarers Log, 51 Bea­ ver St., New York 4, N. Y. We don't care if it i?n't fancy, just jot down Ihe facts and we'll set them up in your story. If you luivo any pictures, so much the better — send them alovg. little of the crew. And they LOG Brings Back China Memories To provided laughs galore. All told, we are sorry we must SIU Man In Army all go off in different directions to different sections of the coun­ To the Editor: try. Having been in the Seafarers The Crew of the International Union for about a SS Gateway City year before joining the Army, I became very interested in the Crew Of The Madaket SEAFARERS LOG. I would like to know if you Endorses Chief Steward would send it to me at my Army To the Editor: address. At the present, I am re­ We, the undersigned book mc", ceiving it at home but as I representing every member of didn't get home very often, I the crew aboard the SS Madaket, would like to have the address heartily endorse the candidacy changed. In the November 14 issue I of William Jenkins for Stew­ saw the picture of Brownie and ards Department Patrolman in Blackie's Diamond Bar. While the Port of New York. Jenkins has served as Chief aboard the Hook Hitch in 1945 Steward on this vessel for the and 1946 I stopped at the Dia­ last 18 months. His executive mond Bar many times. It was ability and general intelligence nice to see the picture of Brown­ have made his service invalu­ ie and Lil. Kinda of makes me want to see a bit of Shanghai able. again. , We wish him the best of luck and hope he is elected. Crew of the Madaket Pvf. Martin W. Powers Fort Monmouth, N. J. Sailing On Isthmian Ship !Vlinus Work Rules Was Hard To the Editor: We've sent in the minutes of the three meetings v/e've had on this ship, the SS Queens Victoiy, Isthmian, since we left Baltimore, October 12, but there are some things I want to point out in addition. First off we'i'e bound for the Persian Gulf and the weather, so far, has been ideal. On this ship, we have 11 full bookmen, three pro-books and 23 permitmen. First stop after Baltimore was BrookLm where we went to load some of our cargo. With regard to the Biooklyn layover, I want to thank Patrol­ man Jerry Lichtman for the splendid cooperation and the good information he gave me while this ship was docked in Brooklyn. Also, I want to thank Patrolman Ray Gonzales for helping me in the last-minute details just before sailing time. SHIP'S DELEGATE At this point I'd better tell you that I was nominated and elected Ship's Delegate. I never was Delegate before, and I was kind of perplexed as to my duties. Thanks to Jerry again. He put me straight. Well you can imagine for yourself what kind of a predic­ ament I really am in; first-time Ship's Delegate on an Isthmian ship on its first-time sailing "with a Union crew the majority of whose members never has known what a union is or what it stands for. In the first meetings, I put them on the ball, with the help of the other bookmen of course. And I'm going to try to hold them on that ball. All the ships officers are for the Company and I mean the Isthmian Company. As you know we are working without working rules, and the officers 'Star Messman' The Ship's Steward By FRANK PAYLOR SS Thomas B. Reed have a book of Company rules. Brother, do they u.«e it. NO USE I keep trying to use the Wat­ erman rules, but no soap. Bro­ ther, they are company men and the Isthmian book is all they know. But I'll keep plugging away until we hit the States. By that time I hope we will have our agreement signed. (Editor's note: We have it.) Overtime is our biggest beef right now. The next biggest is our food which does not come up to par. Moreover, the Stewa:d, another Company man and a permitm.an as well, stands for the Company's ideals. Asking you again to say thanks to Pat, Jerry and Gonzalez for me. Anthony J. Tanski Ship's Delegate SS Queens Victory BROTHER PASSES TIP ON PAYOFF IN FOREIGN PORT To the Editor: During our recent trip to Tri­ este aboard the John Gallup, one of the crew, Brother Dave Al­ bright, was hospitalized with an infected hand. Because of his being removed from the ship, the matter of paying him arose. The Coast Guard told us of a ruling by the Allied Military Government in Trieste that a man cannot be paid off in U. S. currency. They said that if the man de­ manded his pa3', he would have to be paid in Italian lira but he could suspend his payoff and draw in liras what he needed while in the port. Later, when he arrived in the States he could have the bal­ ance due him in United States currency. The Coast Guard asked m.e to pass this information along to other Seafarers so that there would be no misunderstanding should the occasion arise where SIU members are forced to pile off in an Italian port. B. Graham (Copy also submitted by W. Young) They Finally Made It The Steward has a thankless job Trying to satisfy a hungry mob Of Americans, Swedes, Italians, Greeks For vrocks and weeks and weeks. If it's pia they get—they wanted cake. When it's turkey—it should have been steak. It it's broiled—why wasn't it fried? Not a man will admit he's satisfied. When it's medium-well—they like it .rare: "Who in hell made up this bill of fare? We wants eggs fried in butter—not fat. Give us this—why don't we get that?" You "belly-robber" is the crew's favorite term For the poor Steward—they'd like him to squirm. But he doesn't mind, he never gets sore. Just smiles and asks them to have some more. Then the strangest thing happened to this crew. The thin got fat and the short .ones grew; .Was it the food? "Hell, no," they'd say- Nature intended us to be this way. Now here's the part that's really a shame: As time went by the ship gained fame. Her name became a symbol of cheer And men would come from far and near. To the Editor: FCot>! -AT'S WOT DOES IT' But it was always at mealtime when they came For this outrage. Who was lo blame? Why the Steward, of course—who else would you say. Let's give him hell, then call it a day. Caption accompanying this photo of unidentified brother aboard SS Smith Thompson said he is the "star messman" of the South Atlantic fleet. Cameraman was Eugene A. Piniarski. Would like you to send the LuG to my home, as my folks like very much to read each issue. They've asked me every time I've been home to make sure they get on the mailing list but up to now I've forgotten each time. This time I'm making sure I carry out their request. Frank Radzvila Wilkes Barre, Pa, (Ed. note: And we'll make sure the folks receive the LOG.) �"WPP THE S E AF AHERS Page T«ce}ve Skipper Calls In T-H Act As New Ally To Fight Crew To ii» Editor: A lot of fellpws have felt that the Taft-Hartley Act is just something that Congress has passed to ham-string labor but hasn't been too efl&ective as yet and may not be used at all by individuals and companies. To these fellows, Fd like to point up the sentiments of the Master aboard the Zane Grey, Isthmian. During our last trip which took us to the Persian Gulf, the Skipper let us know that the Taft-Hartley Act was something he welcomed with open arms. Once while I was protesting the food situation and pointing out that there had been a vio­ lation of the Union contract, he threw up his arms and yelled "Unions don't mean a damn thing. The Taft-Hartley Act will protect me in anything I may undertake." BONING UP I guess by the few examples I have listed here it is quite obvious that the guy is not in his right senses, but that is not unusual to find in skippers to­ day. This guy would not stop at anything to violate the Un­ ion contract and abuse the men. We have to keep sL.pping ihese guys cown, and they know we nave a sircng weapon in our union contract. But we can't just cit back and wait for the pay .fl and a patrolman to put these guys in their place; someday, tliey're going to go all out, with the aid of the Taft-Hartley Act, and attempt to smash our Un­ ion. If we keep our noses clean now and fight every attempt to weaken our contract, we can win that battle when it comes. We just have to be ready for that fight. It will probably be our toughest fight, but by re­ maining strong we can put guys like the Zane Grey's skipper in mothballs. Jack Giller Send in the minutes of your ship's meeting to the New York HelL Only in thai way can the membership act on yone reoommendntionn^ •Ad then tho nsiAttton cen be printed in the LOG for the beneiit of "UI other SIU crews Hold those shipboard meet­ ings regularly, and send those minutes in as soon ai possible. That's the SIU way! To the Editor: I have read the SEAFARERS LOG many times and would like to have it sent to my home regularly. I am not an American, but a Dutchman aboard a Dutch ship. I am a member of the General Netherlands Seafarers Union in Holland and would like to be­ come a member of the Seafarers International Union. I don't know if a Dutch sea- AFTERMATH OF TEXAS CITY DISASTER man can be a member of an American union or not, but I would like to get all the details if it is possible. I have now been sailing twoand-one-half years in the Neth­ erlands merchant navy, but con­ ditions are very bad. I am paid about $10 a week or 25 guilders in Dutch money. Aboard the ship I am third Steward with ten of twelve pas­ sengers. We receive very little money to pay for our clothing, shoes and other items. I ask you for tlie LOG because there is much within its pages for me to learn. I would like to pay for it but I don't know if I can do so because in Holland we have no American dollars. I hope you will be able to do something toward my becoming a member of the Seafarers In­ ternational Union. P. J. Seur, Amsterdam, Holland (Ed. Note: Thanks for the compliment. Your name has been added to the mailing list and you should be receiving the SEAFARERS LOG soon. It will, however, not be pos­ sible for you to join the SIU as we have confined our ac­ tivities to the United States and Canada. We are not at­ tempting to enlist seamen of other countries at the mbmment as the American seamen already in our ranks are suf­ ficient to take all jobs that come up.) While he was all wet in be­ lieving that the Taft-Hartley Act would protect him in keep­ ing the two-pot system he had installed on his ship, this serves to point out that this guy is reading up on the Law and in­ tends to use it whenever and wherever he finds the oppor­ tunity. This was a minor incident and one which only drew a laugh when he threw Senator Taft and his fellow union-wrecker in­ to the picture; but guys like MEMBER'S WIFE this can be dangerous now that Congress has given them some LAUDS LOG ammunition. AS INTERESTING Getting away from Taft and Hartley, the Skipper made it To the Editor: known that he had another ally: I have been taking the LOG the Coast Guard, and where he for a little while. I have read them and like them very nmch. It carries a lot of interesting in­ formation. Attention Members On the firet' run of fhe Seatrain New York into Texas CUy. Texas, following Ihe waterfront levelling blast. Seafarer Bill Dargen shol these pictures show­ ing the destructive effects of am­ monium nitrate. My husband belongs to the i SIU and he will not join any other, so you see it must be the best union of all. I have moved fiom the old ad­ dress and wouM like for you to send me the LOG to my new address. Mrs. Flocine Adama Mobile, Ala. didn't have the government on his side he relied on his stooges aboard ship to do his bidding and make life miserable for the crew. Three times he called in the Coast Guard for petty reasons and it pained him greatly when no one was hauled off the ship to stand trial. When he got no satisfaction from the Coast Guard, he pulled a few tricks of his own. In addi­ tion to the t.wo-pot system, un­ der which we were fed ham and eggs while topside enjoyed steak, he issued almost impossible or­ ders such as one whereby he wanted the crew to remove all tarpaulins and place them aft be­ fore the ship docked. Then, just for the hell of it, Friday, P«c«mber 5, 1447 Dutch Seafarer Likes SIU Send Thnee Minutes Methods, Desires To Join he told the Purser to give a sick man an injection of plain water instead of medicine. When we confronted the jerk, he admitted giving the Purser the order saying it was a joke. Some joke—the victim of his practical little prank is now su­ ing the company. WILL TRY ANYTHING LOG Above-r-The steel shell of what was once the Monsanto Chemical plant. It was here that the ex­ plosion occurreci taking a terrific toll of lives. At left—The Wilson B. Keene lies half-submerged at its char­ red pier. Both pictures were snapped from the Seatrain New York. (Editor's note: While you're at sea have the LOG sent to your family.) Each man who makes a donation to the LOG should, receive a receipt in return. If the Union official to whom a contribution is given does not make out a receipt fox the money, call this to the attention of the SecretaryTreasurer. J. P. Shuler, im­ mediately. Send the name of fhe of­ ficial and the name of the port in which tho occurance took place to the New York Hall, 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. Deck Stalwarts Ship Boosts Held Unfair To Beached Men To the Editor: In view of the recent letters to the editor that have been published in the LOG concern­ ing promotion aboard ship, I would like to express my opin­ ion on the subject. And it is plainly this; I am personally against ship­ board promotions for the follow­ ing reasons: It not only breeds animosity and trouble among shipmates but it keeps the man on the beach, who is waiting for a rated j-ob, ftom knowing v/hether or not his job is ever going to be called in. By that I mean that if a man is waiting in the Hall for a Chief Cook's job and a ship comes in needing a Chief Cook but the Second Cook takes over, then the man on the beach has to take the Second Cook's job. And so on in. every department. This means, too, that Stew­ ards, Chief Cooks, and Bosuns arc going to have to start at the bottom all over again every time they change ships. I am sure the unrated men can see the disadvantages in this al.so. They should be able to for the simple reason that the uitrated men of today will be rated men tomorrow and I am sure they wouldn't want to start all over again from the bottom aboard a ship. They wouldn't want to sail that same ship until someone Avith the rating they want, gets off. I feel if we change this rule we will have better sailing for all. Robert H. Maupin P..S. My best regards to Brotham Joe Shea, G, W. ChampUn and that grand bunch o£ shipmetes front the Canadian Dis­ trict of the SIU who were with me aboard the SS Dominican Victory on its wild and wooly trip to India. R.H.M. (Ed. nole: The subject of shipboard promofiens discuss­ ed by Brother Maupin is one that is evoking considerable discussion, both pro and con, among the membership. Any decision that is finally made in the shipping rules will have to be reached through a refer­ endum vote by secret ballot, according to the provisions of our Constitution. Meanwhile all. hands with a viewpoint on this question should express thentselves. The LOG urges alt Seafarers lo submit their views fox publication. This is the most effeetiire means: of reaching the entire Union, membership. Mait your leflM to the SEAFAREltS LOG, 81 Beaver Street, New York 4, M.Y.) Taking, a breather from a work stint on deck, Murray M.. Blum crewmemhers Blawitt Pexkine> Ai Scranmxza a»d Pascei Scramuxza look with varied expreesiona at the camera. Shot was made by Paul Fevnandez during the., ship's run to Rio De Janeiro. �THE SEAFARERS Fiiday, December 5, 1947 LOG Active Seafarer All About A Slick Bird And How He Found Cuba ic. y . Page Thirteen Plane Travel Rated Second To Ships For Return To U.S. To the Editor: ' the crew of another of our ships, arriving in India about a month It is not sound business to To the Editor: after we did, had been flown to help your competitor—ask any Frisco and paid off a week or There is a certain parrot down in the island of Cuba who businessman. When Am.erica so before us. Picsults? That crew is probably sitting on one leg, scratching his feathery head, commenced giving birth to a had lost more than a month's mumbling to himself in Spanish and trying to figure out why railroad system, our once-great pay, perhaps several, as the it had to happen to him. canal system suffered. availability of passenger ships This same parrot, only a few days before, was peacefully The canals were stupid. They is very limited in the Far East. riding around on a native bumboat down in Cartagena, Colum­ helped the railroads. That's how They lost probably must sub­ bia, enjoying a quiet parrot's life, and was content with it, we the C&O and others got their sistence difference while await­ assume. But, as they say, into every life some rain must fall— starts, and eventually put the ing ship in India; and the prob­ even a parrot's. And the day that Pacific Tankers ship SS Casa canals out of business. ability of hundreds of dollars Crairdc sailed into Cartagena, a little rain fell into his. The old baloney that "canals It seems that after a little deal between one of the crewdon't pay" was thrown up as a difference in ship's fares. members and the native bumboatmen was made, the Parrot had What did I lose in being for­ Avo Runno, who sails as a smokescreen. The canals did pay. a new owner. And lie suddenly found himself being hoisted up ced to accept plane rates cross That's v/hy the railroads spent onto the deck and hustled into an empty room all by his lone­ Deck Engineer, has been a millions to 'ouy them up and continent to New York? Three membeT: of the SIU since 1942. some. days, four days subsistence and He has laken pari in prac­ close them down. I well remember how the price over twenty dollars in fare. THREE SQUARES REGULARLY tically every strike action What other results are there? from the day of his joining. of coal jumped in Washington, He strutted around and soon accustomed himself to life Brother Runne believes the B.C., where it no longer came In the case of the crew flown aboard the sliip, ate his three squares regularly and didn't even SIU'E militancy has been re­ by mule-drawn canal boats down from India, these men were back complain about the service. Of course, if he had, nobody would sponsible in a large measure the C&O Canal from Cumber­ in SIU Halls taking jobs from have understood him anyway because he spoke only Spanish. for the great strides the Union land, but by dirty, smoky freight someone else. When the offi­ And we think he Icnew it. cers and men of a Victory ship has made in the maritime in­ trains. Now all went well and we put to sea, that is, until the dustry. Those canal boats. Brothers, cut their trip in this manner, Skipper found out we had a passenger. That uncharitable soul were like our ships—combined I for one month, it is the equivaimmcdiafely called for the Chief Officer, and the conversation jobs and homos—only tlie can- lent to taking four years work went something like this: Mister Mate, get rid of that Parrot!" Saj^s Log Is 'One allers owned them, like we away from one mian. And so the Mate dutifully passed on these orders in no un- Of The Best' Americans used to own our ships I'll bet there are a lot of you certtiin terms to the proud owner of the parrot. Now as you a century ago. boys on the beach right now know, there are certain laws about parrot's being brought into To the Editor: who wish you could get paid for STILL FIGHTING the United States and our customs, men frown heavily on people Please accept my donation to sitting pretty in a good hotel or wlio disobey them. Which is, no doubt, what the Skipper had in the BOG. It is one of the best That battle stiil goes on, as sailing half-way around the mind when he issued his order. He didn't want a fine assessed papers I've read yet. any up-state New Yorker can world as a passenger. I know on his ship and his crew possibly quarantined. I would also appreciate it if tell you. Vanderbilt's Panama you do, because I'm on the beach In the meantime, the Chief you would send the LOG to my Railroad long held up the build­ too, and I'm not exactly a tripOiTicer was having a heated dis, home in Chicago. ing of the Panama Canal. The carder, either. cussion with the parrot's new I would like to catch up on Railroad Lobby still fights the i IN OUR INTEREST owner about cruelty to dumb my reading when I get back building of the much needed ofr-ASAIW 1 animals, Spanish-speaking parfrom this rum-and-coke run I'm Nicaragua!! Canal, a matter of Furthoi'more, all that transpor­ i~ot's and the like. But nocdle.ss on. I thank you, and you will, interest to all seafarers. tation money ought to be going to say. it was soon decided in I am sure, take up this matter. Believe it or not. Brothers, I back into the shipping industry, favor of the Chief Officer that idn't sit down to talk about John Bruno didn tire parrot would go over the canals versus railroads. I just (Editor's note: The matter side. wanted to get across an idea. has been taken care of. Inci­ Thej' say that hauling coal by IGNORANT OF FATE I dentally, this Brother has the train, instead of floating it down right idea. Have the LOG sent Now the SS Casa Grande was by canal is progress. Muruv 3usi.y • j t.o your home so that you can It is "progress" for the guy New York-bound and at a fast keep track of Union members who scoops the profits and can speed of 14 knots. At the mom­ ent she was passing the sunny, palm tree-studded island of and activities wherever you winter in Florida, but not for Cuba. As it was only about a mile offshore it was decided that are.) the working stiff who has to the parrot could easily float in with the current to shore in a buj'' the coal. Why not be really matter of hours. Another discussion followed and a decision was progressive and ship the "black made to disembark the parrot, who of course, knew nothing diamonds" by plane and shoot the price up some m.ore? about it yet. Each man who makes a A raft was hastily built. Parrot, cage and raft were dropped Well, Brothers, that's it—Ships donation fo Ihe LOG should over the side with a hearty "bon voyage," for the parrot. It was against planes, which brings me not to airways and railroads. receive a receipt in return. around to the matter of airthen we learned that parrot's, too, can swim because he fell out Our interest lies with the ship­ If the Union official to whom of his cage on the way down. He lost no time in getting back transportation for seamen. pers as a whole. a contribution is giv^en does aboard the raft, which was to be his new home for many long, Most of our agreements call When one Skipper cuts annot make out a receipt for for second-class transportation by dreary hours. ulher's throat by paying such the money, call this to the On the way down and on his mad scramble to get aboard ship and first-class by train money to an antagonistic in­ aftention of the Secretary(though our delivery jobs usu­ the raft he did a lot of squawking and loud protesting, and as dustry, he hurts his own indus­ Treasurer. J. P. Shuler, im­ ally call for first-class passage we didn't understand Spanish we're not sure, but we gathered mediately. by ship), plus base pay, plus try. Can't the short-sighted iool he wasn't happy about the whole affair. realize that, although today he Send the name of the dfsubsistence. The last we saw of our unfortunate parrot, he was safely may have to pay another ship­ ficial and the name of the Many shipping companies, afloat on his raft back in our wake. He had just finished check­ ping com.pany, tomorrow another port in which the occurence when they have no- available ing his food ration and was taking a bearing on the nearest company will pay him? took place to the New York ship of their own, foist air trans­ point of land. I know a lot of you fellows Hall, 51 Beaver Street, New portation off on seamen, claim­ We hope he'll be happy in his new home. He should be be­ York 4, N. Y. ing it's first class and after put­ only think about getting home cause Cuba is a wonderful island—so the sailors say. ting us in such a position that when you are homesick. Then, Don D. Brown, SUP we're compelled to t.ake it in too, a lot of guys think they're bigshots if they can say "Oh, I violation of our contract. What's the result from our just flew in from Turkey." Personally, they'll never get angle as Union seamen? Let's me into one of those damned take some examples: • old rule, it's best to show a litnever made a mistake. And a To the Editor: hunks of tin to go bumping into mistake may be deliberate or it tie consideration for others, at DELIVERY JOB If each and every member may be accidental. Ci r c u m - least as much consideration as a mountain. I think I'm a lot read back issues of the LOG stances rule the manner or view­ we want for ourselves. smarter to come home at my I recently delivered the first and read and studied the SIU point from which a man on leisure on a ship as a passenger, If you are wrong in some­ of a fleet of six ships to Bom­ constitution there would be only charges is judged, a fact in line thing, be big enough to admit it. bay, the second coming in a daj- as I've done three times out of an occasional trial committee in­ with the SIU Constitution. Gen­ Act like this and you will merit or so later. We were on pay for my last five trips. Think it over. stead of the many we now have. erally tlie truth comes out and the consideration for your views nearly a month in Bombay, part G. W. (Bill) Champlin Nevertheless, a trial committee's impartial justice is dealt to all. you want. Remember, it doesn't of that time on subsistence. We job, it should always be remem­ But why be brought up on take a genius or a saint to con­ were a full month on pay as bered, is to help the individual charges when on most occasions cede a point or acknowledge an passengers by ship to San Fran­ brought on charges and to keep they can be avoided if a little error. cisco. him from making an even great­ forethought is exercised. So take "Sir Charles" We were entitled to a hand­ If you don't find linen er error than he already has a little advice, and keep out of (Ed. noto: The writer of Ihe some cash difference between the when you go aboard your made. foregoing letter, suggests that prices of first-class and what was trouble. ship, notify the Hall at once. It is not the committee's job For one thing, never act on a copy of it be presented to available. A telegram from Le Havre, or to jump on a man, but to clari­ impulse. For another, don't take any SIU member brought up From there the members of Singapore won't do you Any fy the issue, correct the mistake it upon yourself to make all the on chattg^ befSore a trial oom- these two crews scattered to sorod. It's your bed and you and straighten out the man decisions between right and miftee. "Sir Chartee" is the Vancouver, Galveston and New bars to lie in it. charged. wrong if there are others who name by which he is faitiilanr- York by ah- transport. In Frisco we fotrnd oirt that Now the tnan never lived who ought to be heard. To cite the ly kifOWHr) T Attention Members Admitting Wrongs Keeps You Out Of Jams I ATTENTION! �THE Page Fourteen SEAFARERS Friday, December 5, 1947 LOG Report Of Quarterly Finance Committee (Continued jrom and negligence of duty on the part of some officials as brought out in this report, that the Union itself at this time is in the best condition of its entire histoi'y. Conclusion We have as assets in the Atlantic and Gulf District an all-time high of over $1,000,000.00. We have in­ In closing this report, this Committee wishes to creased the number of jobs and contracts under our point out several things. 'We realize that this Quar­ jurisdiction to the highest point ever known. We have, terly Finance Committee has gone further in actions since March, 1947, in spite of a continually decreasing and recommendations than the average Quarterly revenue, succeeded in not only putting our Union on Finance Committee usually does. The reasons for our a paying basis where the expenditures are well with­ actions and recommendations are simple. in the income, but have actually, at the same time, We are of the opinion that any abuse of Union increased our general operating fund by over $80,000.00. rules and regulations by any ofl'icial should be brought This means that with the exceptions as notecT ir: to the attention of the membership. We further be­ this report that the officials of the Union have been lieve that at any time that the Union expenses can doing a damned good job of handling the member­ be reduced that they should be. ship's affairs. The membership, after all, is the one who loses or We cannot simply rest with this, however, for to gains in the proper or improper administration of guarantee continued successful operation and protec­ any Union. Therefore the reason for calling to the tion of our Union, we must, at all times, correct any direct attention of our membership those things whicii fault that we may see in the Union's structure. We we feel are excessive in expenditures or neglect • must continue calling to the attention of the mem­ Union duties by any official. bership any failure to carry out duties by any offi­ Seafarers can appreciate the fact that the SIU is cials. Only in this way can we hope to continue on our one of the few, if not the only Union, wherein such criticism can be made and presented to the member­ coLirs'e towards a greater SIU. ship for their consideration and action. Fraternally submitted, This Committee feels that it is only fair that we bring out what we consider faults in the handling VAL JAMES, 7803 of the Union's business and finances. LEONARD LEIDIG, 44180 It is to be pointed out that in spite of the faults MICHAEL ROSSI, 209 any now existent SIU Branches. The basis for closing such Branches would be so that in closing any Branch, the welfare of the membership will not suffer. I (>) Donations To Seafarers Log This Committee has studied a communication from members on an SIU ship wherein they complained that the amount of money they donated to the Seafarers Log was not the actual amount that was posted in the Honor Roll Donation List that is carried weekly in the Log. This matter is of great importance to the Union and in the future, all officials should stand instructed to issue proper receipts covering the amo­ unts of such donations. In the event this is not done and any official is negligent in issuing such proper receipt for full amount. Headquarters, upon proper notification of same, is to prefer charges against that particular official. Any •official so charged shall then appear before a regular New York ne,adquarters Meeting to face charges. The Committee feels that in view of the fact that the Seafarers Log's expenses arc quite large, that all Log donations made by the membership aids greatly in the continued publicot of our paper. Therefore the necessity ot making such recommendations on this matter. Possibiiities Of Closing SIU Branches In view of the decrease in ships' traffic in various Ports, and the necessity of reduction of expenses as much as possible, this Committee recommends that the Secretary-Treasurer cause to be made as soon as possible a survey as to the advisability of closing The Way To Latrar Solidarity BOSTON INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS J. Carey, $2.00; J. Riddle. $1.00; A. Nina, $1.00. SS BIENVILLE L. Perciballi, $2.00; N. Richie, $2.00; M. Kurkemelis, $2.00; G. O'Rourke, $3.00; F. Dykstra, $1.00; T. Wypior, $1.00; F. DeMasi, $2.00; R. Yantz, $1.00; R. Crigg. $1.00; R. Cavanaugh. $1.00; T. Sims. $1.00; O. Jones. $3.00; F. Litsch, $2.00; J. Morgan. $2.00; H. Dean $1.00; j .Bell, $1.00; C. Howell, $1.00. NEW YORK INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS David Talbot, $1.00; J. Taylor, $3.00; J. Paszek, $3.00; B. F. Trottie, $2.00; J. Pisano. $1.00; N. E. Pappas, $2.00; F. P. Dymerski, $1.00; W. Renny, $1.00; A. Tuur, $3.00; L. C. Jones. $1.00. SS YORK J. Rivera, $1.00; H. A. Hamilton, $1.00; T. R. Bourque, $1.00; C. H. MacQueen, $1.00; H. W, Rjon, $2.00; W. \V. Woodill, $1.00. SS C. FIELDS R. Kessler, $2.00; F. Casaseo, $1.00; F. Stickler, $1.00; G. .Vlanning, $3.00; J. Roll, $1.00; B. Stalsworth. $1.00; E. Zedaker, $2.00; N. Bathia, $2.00. SS AFONDRIA M. Boyles, $1.00; F. J. DeOliveria, $1.00; B. D. Douglass. $1.00; C. W. Spencer. $2.00; B. Llawez, $2.00; S. Lelacheur. $2.00; 11. N. Moody, $1.00; D. 3. Gardner, $1,00; B. Pritiken, $1.00; V. Silva, $1.00; E, C. Ray, $1.00; J. Mirrer, $5.00; C. S, Cipri.Tno, $2.00; A. Hibel, $1.00; Jessie F. Reid, $2.00. SS J. WANAMAKER E. 1, Cozier, .$2.00; Gunnar Gillberg. $5.00; P. Young, $4.00; M. S. Sospina. $3.00; Panayotis G. Kalmoutis, $5.00; Oscar Beltran, $5.00; G. E. Tennyson. $5.00; H. M. Scaalegaaro, $2.00; R. Nevala, $3.00; Virgil Guv Cambell. $5.00; Chee Chew Lee, $5.00; Lou Po. $5.00; F. Bansuelo. $3.00; J, H, .McKecver, $3.00; C. Kava, $4.00; V. E. Monte, $1.00. SS LILLINGTON C. Solloway, $1.00; J. Fant, $1.00: C. .M. DlH.:kstook, $1.00; L. 1. Everett, $1.00; A. E. Smith, $2.00; H, M. Righelli, $1.00; J. Kane, $3.00; F. F. Russo, $3.00; M. Streiffer, $5.00; E. Bolgin. $1.00; James H. Smith, $2.00; I. Le^ $5.00; W. J, Stephens. $5.00; A. Samera, $2.00. SS MANDAN VICTORY L. Salazar, $1.00; S. Hernandez. $1.00; S. Weiss, $1.00; C. Hassel, $1.00; J. L. Cherry, $10.00; W. B. Aubrey', $1.00; R. McMa.'ius, $1.00; H Glassmeyer, $1.00; F. W, Keeley, $1,00; D B. Sacher, $1 00; A, Zalewski. $3.00; A Diaz. $1.00; L. Buggjewski. $5.00; to J' *5.00; L. C. Marsh, $2.00; H. Pinkwasser, $1.00- A L Patajczak, $3.00; L. Olano, $2.0o'; R. Garcia, $1.00. OH Soundings! Unless there is a decided change in procedures, manj; Masters are bound to get vindictive and take punitive action against their subordin­ ates, both licensed and unlicensed. We have been receiving an increas­ ing and alarming number of complaints where Masters have been forced to pay fines assessed against them because the vessel carried contraband cigarettes which have been found by custom inspectors and for which everyone denies ownership. We caimot agree that the Companies are right in deducting these fines from the Master's wages, yet in many cases, this is exactly what is taking place. We have already entered some suits through the courts to recover the amount of jjiese fines which have been deducted from Masters' wages and will continue to do so. The writer feels that if the Master is the agent of the owner, the principal is responsible for the actions of his agent. This, of course, does not prevent him from taking individual ac­ tion against his agent if he so desires, but in taking such individual action, he will be forced to prove either negligence or fraud which, in most cases, cannot possibly be proved because it doesn't exist. We have had many Masters who have caused contraband searches to be made, who have posted notices in several places, who have given individuals personal warnings and have made individuals sign state­ ments that they do not possess or have not broughr aboard at any time any contraband articles; in fact they have done everything possible to protect the interest of the vessel. Nevertheless, contraband cigarettes have been found and the vessel fined. The problem, however, of absolving the Master from this indi­ vidual responsibility is nor the final solution. The final solution is the elimination of all such "black market" activities atid it devolves upon everyone to cooperate in such a program. DISCIPLINE ABOARD VESSELS Since the elimination of the United States Coast Guard's punitive powers on last June 11th, an action which was .spearheaded by our Organization, discipline aboard vessels has been improving by leaps .and bounds. This has n'ot been achieved simply because the U. S. C. G. is out of the picture, but because some Organizations have been making a realistic effort among their membership to weed our undesirables, to di.scipline thos'C needing disciplining and have embarked on an educa­ tional prtjgram of great merit. The writer wishes particularly to call your attention to the action of the officials of the Seafarers International Union by their repeated and continuing articles in the Log, official publication of the SIU. This publication is widely read in the industry and particularly by the mem­ bership of the SIU, and a free subscription of same is granted to any member of the Masters, Mates and Pilots who writes for same and requests it. The writer particularly v(ishe$ to quote from a very recent The solidarity and cooperation of affiliates of the AFL Maritime Trades Department has been proven beyond any shadow of doubt, but additional evidence was added Ihis month by the article, above, written by Captain William C. Ash, Secretary Business-Manager of Local 88, Masters, Mates, and By Capt, Win. C. Ash article which appeared in the issue of October 10th on Page 9: "Let us not forget one important fact, hower, and that is that the Skipper is the master of his ship at sea. . "Regardless of what arrangements we make, neither the company nor the Union can take precedence over his authority, and none of our efforts are intended to usurp his authority. We cannot narrow down his jurisdiction." Whenever any dispute or misunderstanding arises aboard any ves­ sels where the unlicensed personnel are members of the SIU, repre­ sentatives of our Organization and their Organization meet aboard the vessel and settle the problem instantly. The writer can honestly say that in every case to date, the disputes have been settled to the complete satisfaction of the MM&P. This does not mean, however, that the SIU does not call to our attention cases where members of our Association are at fault. They do immediately and are very meticulous in giving us the facts accurately and honestly. And where such facts have been presented to us, we have taken the necessary action to protect their interests, ai^d will continue to do so. In the same connection, the writer wishes to state that our relations with the NMU are also very good and that we have never had any difficulty settling any individual, disputes in their con­ tracted ships. It is just that because of the considerable amount of internal dissention within the NMU, which now exists, they have not embarked on such a solid program as our own AFL affiliates in remov­ ing the gashounds and performers aboard ship who cause us most of our headaches. USCG JUST WAITING Be assured that in the next Congress, the U.S.C.G. will have intro­ duced, in their own behalf, legislation to reinstate the effectiveness of their "Hearing Units." As before, we will do our utmost to prevent the passage of any such legislation and we honestly believe that we will this time have more effective ammunition to present than in our previous sessions. The fact that disciplinary problems are disappearing from our Vessels is the biggest proof that we do not need the Hearing Units. Keep up the good work. Remember that your officials are capable of dealing with the offi­ cials of other organizations on a very satisfactory plane and can achieve far better results than by taking things into your own hands. Hie unlicensed unions have agreed with our position. No crew is going to vote a Master or Mate off a vessel. If they have complaints, they are going to make them to the officials of their own union. Those complaints are relayed to us and we, together with the officials of their union, will decide if there is any merit in any complaint. Pilots, and a national vice-president of that organization. The article appeared in the Local 88 News. Captain Ash has seen the way cooperation works out, and in his column he advises the licensed Deck Officers to submit disputes between the licensed and unlicensed personnel to the two unions involved. �THE Friday, December 5, 1947 SEAFARERS Page Fifteen LOG BUIJJ^TIN 62.38 Dowdy, Clarence H 10.26 2.36 Dowdy, Jos. V/ 2.32 .85 Dowell, G. S. Jr 6.09 j 15.06 Dowleajm, James 4.80 . .59 Bowling, William 37.37 14.86 Bowling, Wm. S 15.24 16.56 Down, A. A 5.14 1.05 Downes, J 23.82 5.74 Downey, Dennis E 1.19 501 HIBERNIA BLDG., NEW ORLEANS, LA. .... 24.79 Downey, James ....j. -46 44.99 Downey, John P 11.66 The following is a list of unclaimed wages and Federal Old Age Downie, J 7.35 40.13 5.73 Downing, Marcus A Benefit over-deductions now being paid by the Mississippi Steamship Com­ i . 52.15 21.78 Downs, Charles L pany covering the period up to December 31, 1946. 3.89 .94 Downs, Raymond F 26.60 Men due money slioiild call or write the company office, 501 Hiber- Dows, J. N 5.05 2.48 16.26 nia Bldg., New Orieans, La. All claims should be addre^ed to Mr. Eller- Dojde, Dennis Arthur 6.75 21.00 ••Doyle, John G busch and include full name, Social Security number, Z number, rating, 6.07 10.13 Doyle, Leo A. Jr date and place of birth and the address to which the money is to be sent. Doyle, Odis L 1.40 11.20 5.07 3.27 Doyle, P 6.61 Donaldson, William, Jr. 26.40 Deimond, Milton 1.42 Dick, Hugh ... 6.52 ' Doyle, Tho-mas J . 2.20 25.76 Donett, George L Dcrosier, Frederick 33.60 Dick, Norman J 6.28 iDozier, Erne.st Charles .... . 3.96 11.68 Donnelly, Elmer C Dciier, Chalmer E 88.92 Dickens, William K 3.54 Draft, E . 7.12 5.24'Donner, Richai'd E .45 Dickens, W Dei-th, Albert F. F Drake, Hugh A 26.24 . 8.40 OllDonohue, James J .59 Dickenson, K De Shane, Charles E : Drake, LeRoy Jr .01 SS STEPHEN LEACOCK .50 .84' Doclem.se, W 74'Dooley, Lawrence P Dcsjardins, Raymond C... .. 12.90 ; Drake, WiUi-am D (South Atlantic SS Co.) 14.46 47.11 jDickerson, Austin F. 4.94^Doolin, Bobby F Desmond, Timothy .. 28.46 i D;-aves, Robert Tb.e crowmembsr-.s Desmond, Timothy E 15.59 26.62 Dickey, C 1.40|Doran, Francis Y ! Dressier, Fred .76 have overtime coming for the Desmoulins, B. B . 11.74 22.05 Dickey, Richard E . .60! Doran, Thomas B Drevzry. John .. 16.17 vo3mge which ended Dec. 2, and De Souza, Alfonso 6.65 12.14'Dore, Eugene N 10.92 Dieffenwierth, Daniel Driggers, Paul W 10.05 may collect at the company of­ 2.13 Dierinck, Emericus 62 Dorgan, Maron Des Santo.s, A. L 01 iDriscoll, Edwin C 3.90 fice, if they haven't already- Dutenbeck, H .29 13.04 Dormady, Gerald P. . 31.13' Dietrich, C. H 1 DriscoU, Robei-t 4.00 done so: Walsh, 16 his; Nash, Detje, Henry P 16.44 1.07|Dorer, Harry E 20.06 Difalco, Guido 16 hrs; Boddin, 3 hrs; Randozzo, De Treitas, F 13.80 23.85 Digialcomo, Vincenzo P... 39.67 ^ Dorman, Manuel Dale 3 hrs; Ciicus, 2 hrs; Fuller, 2 hrs; Devane, George R. 2.23 3,16 Digrnos, Ciriaco 9:66 Dorr, William W. Jr. . Luckoes, 1 hr; McMahon, 1 hr;, Deveau, Bernai-d J. 14.20 4.45 Dijestis, Gilberto 40,Dorrough, Charles Ramirez, 1 hr; Sharp, S'i; hrs; Devesus, G 30.89 1.-40 i Dill, Ernest Marion 1.48 Dorsatt, Banks Will . JOE F. SMEGELAK Repsholt, 3 hrs; Mendiessi, 2 Devlin, WRLiam E. 8.39 9.99' Dill, Henry S 2.64 Dorsey, Edwin R or SMIGELSKI hrs; Erickson, 2 hrs; Snook, 2 Devries, Peter .45 1.49 Dorsey, Floyd J. Jr. .. 23.07 Dilliand, Durwood Get in touch with the record hrs; Fidalgo, 2 hrs; Bers, 2 hrs; DewaiJly, H. L. .41 .79 j Dillman, Albert J 8.95 Dotson, S. R department, SIU . Headquarters, and Schultz, 11 hrs. 4.83 .13'j Dillon, Robert V 2.34 Rottalo. Pascuile S Dewar, John B. 51 Beaver St.. New York, N.Y. .33 1.80 Dimodugno, Nicholas 6.49'Doty, G. G Dewar, R. D. .. 8.86 36.00' Dinass, George 8.11'Doucette, Donald E Dewey, W. F ISTHMIAN STRIKE 2.23 .94! Dineen, Clarence E 20 'Doughert.v, C. J Dewitt, Leo E., Jr. DONATIONS 17.99 1.34jDmgledin-e, John A 19.47'Dougherty, Henry L BALTI.MORE 14 North Cny St. •Dewbury, E J. N. Agati $25.00 70.25 46, Doughetry, John T 12.00 ' Dinicola, Anthony P Calvert 4539 Dey, St£>nley D 5.00 11. L. Harris . 24.26 38.781 Dougherty, Joseph R. BOSTON 27« State St. DezeTle, Joseph B. .02 Dinne, John 20.00 C. C. Ravitch 11.14 Bowdoin 4455 Dial, D. O 4.20 Doughetry, Louis F 5.94 Diperi, Vincent Peter 10.00 I Jose Rodriguez BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. 5.13 E. A. Reilly Dipopola, J 9.90 Dougherty, M 10,00 Dial, Merlin B 1.37 Cleveland 7391 10.00 3.56 Louis DeGangc Dippon, George F 1.50 Douglas, Chas Diaz, A. G 1.42 CHTCAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. M. Townsend 20.00 22.24 Bail, Randolph E .94 Dougla.ss, C. L 7.57' Superior 5175 Diaz, Edward 4.00 4-39 J. T. Schimoler 22.24'Douglas, Louis J CLEVELAND 1014 E. St. Ciair Ave. Diaz, Rafail 24.89 Dirado, Anthony J. Sabella 10.00 Main 0147 Diaz, 60.00 Gunnar Manse 8.64;Douglas, Peter G 20.00 Salvadore 16.52 Dislers, Eloferijs DETROIT 1038 Third St. 17.40 C. F. Hahn 10.00 Disney, Edward E 2.84'Douglas, R. E Diaz. Vincent 21 Cadillac 6857 Lion K. Quinones 10.00 .46; Douglas, Willie 12.88 Dittmer, Herman 20.62 DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St. Diblasi, Charles 6.00 5.99 C. H. Carter 1.37 Douke, Wallace F. Melrose 4110 Dick, H. A 49 Dixon, Clifford C. A. L. Bennett 6.00 28.99 J. E. Meyer GALVESTON SOS'/a—23rd St. Dixon, F 2.00 J Dove, Allen L. 1«;00 Phone 2-8448 11.57 L. C. Barnes Dixon, George W 9.58|Dowa], J 3.00 HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. 2.88 T. J. Baker 12.00 Dixon, James H 94 Dowd, Frank .. Phone 58777 Dixon, Orinon W 11.20 JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St. Dixon, Ray M 1.40 Phone 5-5919 J. F. ANDERSON MARCUS HOOK 811 Market St. Dixon, William R 10.36 A package is being held for Chester 5-3110 Doa, Vincenzo 4.13 MOBILE 1 South Lawrence 'St. you at the baggage room, 4th The SEAFARERS LOG as the official publication of the Sea­ Doarski, Josepli S. 1.37 Phone 2-1754 floor. New York Hall. farers .Tnternational Union is available to all members who wish Dobbins, David J. 8.04 MONTREAL 1440 Bleury SU & MIAMI 10 NW nth St. to have it sent to their home free of charge for the enjoyment of DobJer, Mai-vin 1.37 JACK D. BURT NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. .90 their families and themselves when ashore. If you desire to have Doborkalski, Myron T. You are reque.sted to contact Magnolia 6112-6113 the LOG sent to you each week address cards are on hand at every Dobronicli, Sidney J. . 46.48 NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. Louis A. Tabares, c/o Seafarers Dobson, Au.slin M 2.37 SIU brandi for this purpose. HAnover 2-2784 International Union, 51 Beaver NORFOLK .• 127-129 Bank St. St., New York. Docampo, Ermlle ]6.25j However, for those who are at sea or at a distance from a SI'U Phone 4-1083 O'Qdd, Charles E '62.43 hail, the LOG reproduces below the form used to request the LOG, S. 4. 4 PHU-ADELPHIA 9 South 7 th St. Dodd, Horace G., Jr 7.91 which you can fill out, detach and send to: SEAFARERS LOG, 51 J-AMES L. OSBORNE JR. Lombard 3-7651 Dodd, Nevin Wilson 3.28 •Beaver Street, New York 4, N.Y. PORTLAND m W. Burnside St. You)- mother asks you to get 8.23 Beacon 4336 in touch with hei- at 1023 13th Dodds, Marvin C. PLEASE PRINT INFORMATION Dodds, P. J RICHMOND, CaHf 257 Sth St. .33 Avenue, South, Minneapolis 4, Rhone 2.499 Dodif, Harold 11.57 To die Editor: SAN FRANCISCO 105 Market St. Minn. Dodge, Marshall 8.48 Douglas 25475 4 4 4 Dodge, Marshall A. 3.12 I would like tke SEAFARERS LOG mailed to the SAN JUAN, P.R, ...252 Ponce de Leon WM. T. DUNCAN Dadson, R. W. . .33 San Juan 2-5996 address below: Please inquire at 6th floor for Doc'st, 'George SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. 1.72 wallet that has been found. Phone S-172S Doetsch, Melton B .48 SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. Name Doktor, Tadensz 3.47 FRANCIS Vi^RRITY Main 0290 Dolan, L-eroy 1.59 TAMPA 1809-1811 N, Franklin St. Get in touch with Lou GlattStreet Address ... Dolan, R. J 11.04 Phone M-1323 horn, 2040 E. Dauphin St., PhilT^ILEDO 61.5 Summit St. Dodese, Raymond 20 GarfiaU 2-112 .adelphia, Pa. He is holding j'our Dolese, Sidney L 7.12 City State WILMINGTON .440 Avalon Blvd.j gear for you. Domingue, Casimir 14.74 Terminal 4-3131 4 4 4 Dominski, Floyd 49.02 VICTORIA, B.C 602 Boughton St. Signed BERNARD CURRAN Garden -6331 Domic, Roy 1.04 Your brother- Ray is anxious VANCOUVER iSSS Hamihon St. BcMk JNO. 29.87 for you to get in touch with himi Dorumer, Edwin E. Pacific 7824 at Forbes Road, Bedford, Ohio. jDonahue, Jack 2.38 De Mart, Frank J. Dembrowski, Theodore Demers, Marcel J Demkovitcli, Frank J. . Demmary, Arnold Demuth, Joseph E De Neville, F De N. vUle, F Denifo:!, Dana Doyle .. Dennis /u'am John Dennis, Cailin peiuiy, Leonaj-d L. Dunton, Edward F Denzark, R. D De Olivcra, M. C De Paz, Phillin Depcw, Clvde A De Pietro, Anthony De Pietro, Prisco De Priest, Billie De-rkum, Edward Unclaimed Wages Mississippi Steamship Company MONEY DUE NOTICE! SiU NALLS ' PERSONALS Notice To AH SiU illiembers �THE Page Sixteen SEAFARERS LOG Friday, December 5. 1947 Report Of Quarterly Finance Committee November 28, 1947 We, the undersigned duly elected Quarterly Finance Committee, elected at the regular meeting in New York on November 19, 1947, to audit the quarterly finance report from March 30, 1947 through June 28, 1947, do hereby state that we have checked the bank statements for all funds under control of the SecretaryTreasurer against the weekly financial reports and the report of the Certified Public Accountant, for the first and second quarters for the year 1947 and have found that the funds were properly accounted for and in order. We examined the deeds of the two buildings pur­ chased for the Union; one in New Orleans and one in Mobile during this period. We find them in order and that the money was drawn from the Building Fund to pay for both buildings. We made test checks from the various Branch week­ ly financial reports and found their receipts were listed correctly and corresponded with the SecretaryTreasurer's weekly financial report, and that they were recapitulated properly. We made test checks from the financial reports for the first and second quarte]:s of 1947 with dues record cards and found they were being properly posted. We checked all financial transactions of the Union that are handled through the Secretary-Treasurer's office for the first and second quarter and find them to be correct. We find that the officials of the Union are properly bonded for the year 1947 and that the bonding sys­ tem for messengers in different ports that has been inaugurated for this period provides much better security for the Union's money and funds. We accompanied J. P. Shuler, Secretary-Treasurer, to the Federation Bank and Trust Company (Federa­ tion Safety Deposit Company) and together with him examined the bonds and found they were bonds having maturity value of $243,500.00 for which the SIU paid $180,190.00. We, the Committee, recommend that inasmuch as the SUP Books, Great Lakes District Books and Canadian District Books are still on hand as stated from the last Quarterly Finance Committee, that they be bundled up and sent to the various District Head­ quarters direct and that they be distributed to the Atlantic and Gulf District Ports by the SUP, Great Lakes and Canadian District, as needed, and that a separate financial report be made up on all dues and assessments collected for these Districts and sent directly to their Headquarters. In addition to those items concerning the financial structure of the Union as listed above, there are various other matters which this Committee has in­ vestigated. To present those matters in as clear a manner as possible to the membership, they will be dealt with ceriatim. They are as follows; Money Loaned To Members During 1946 General Strike There is an inequity of .$600.00 between the Ac­ countant's balance and the Secretary-Treasurer's bal­ ance which has been carried since the General Strike of 1946. This inequity was caused by money loaned to various SIU members during the strike and which has not yet been repaid to the Union by them. We recommend that this inequity be eliminated from the Accountant's balance and that when the money is repaid by those members owing same, it shall be channeled into the General Fund and receipted for same. We further recommend to avoid losing this $600.00 in loans that the Secretary-Treasurer cause to be posted a notice calling to those members' at­ tention who owe such money that this be paid as soon as possible. Discrepancy In Former New Orleans Agent, J. Steely White's Accounts There is a discrepancy in the balance carried on the Secretary-Treasurer's financial report and the New Orleans Branch financial report totaling $960.46. This discrepancy was first brought to light after a robbery which occurred in the New Orleans Branch in June, 1947, had been committed. In order to re­ lieve the present Port Agent of New Orleans, E. Sheppard, of this discrepancy, as well as Headquarters, it is therefore recommended that Steely White, who was the elected Port Agent of New Orleans at the time this discrepancy occurred be held accountable to the Union for this amount of money. We further recom­ mend that White immediately proceed to the Port of New York and explain to the Secretary-Treasurer the reasons, if any, for this discrepancy so that the Secretary-Treasurer, in turn, may inform the mem­ bership of same. »TT»TTTTT»««T««»TTITmtT»TTT»IT»TIXTXTT On this page starts the Quarterly Financial Statement and the report of the Auditing Com­ mittee. It is important that every SIU member read this report so that he will know the exact status of the Union at this time. Many changes have been made since the 1946 Agents' Conference recommended a program de­ signed to cut expenses, while at the same time continuing the high speed organizing campaign and services to the membership. Certain other changes are due to be made in the coming year. This report outlines what has to be done, and what is in the cards for the future. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Money Owed To Union For Sale Of Cars The records show that the former Port Agent in Philadelphia, James Truesdale, purchased a 1940 Buick Sedan from the Union for $565.00. The record further shows that he has paid only $555.00 to date, il»aving a balance due of $10.00. Since Truesdale left office as a result of being defeated in last year's Un­ ion election, he has neither entered any SIU Hall, according to reports nor has he shipped out. In view of the fact that he has made no attempt to repay this $10.00 to the Union and the shortage still exists on the Union's books, we therefore recommend that this debt be marked off as a bad debt. The Union records show that William Simmons, present San Francisco Agent, bought from the Union a 1941 Buick Sedan for .$600.00. The record fuither shows that of this .$600.00, Simmons has only paid half, leaving a debt of $300.00. We recommend that Sim­ mons immediately commence payment of this debt to the Union, as soon as possible. Per Diem And Travel Expenses For The Port Of Savannah The records show since March of this year, that the Port of Savannah has run up an absolutely un­ reasonable amount of per diem and travel expenses for trips to Charleston, South Carolina. Although the Secretary-Treasurer has repeatedly instructed the Sa­ vannah Port Agent, C. Starling, to reduce this ex­ penditure, it has not been done to any noticeable extent. In view of the fact that there are very fewships going through the Port of Charleston, we rec­ ommend that C. Starling or no other Savannah Offi­ cial, under any circumstances, are to make any trips which entail the necessity for such expenses. Further, we recommend that in the event it is necessary for the Union's welfare that an SIU Repre­ sentative be sent to the Port of Charleston, that the Secretary-Treasurer be empowered to appoint an offi­ cial to go into the Port of Charleston from either Norfolk or Savannah to take care of any immediate emergency. This committee reitei-ates that in no event is the Savannah Agent to submit any bills to this Union for travel and expense unless he has written authoriza­ tion in advance by the Secretary-Treasurer to spend such money. Expenses For The Port Of Boston The Union's records show that although the income of the Port of Boston has decreased to the point where Headquarters has had to send money to the Port of Boston to defray Branch expenses, the actual operat­ ing expenses of Boston, in the meantime, have not decreased accordingly. We therefore recommend that the Port Agent of Boston, J. Mogan, reduce the per­ sonnel on the Union's payroll in the Port of Boston by one person immediately. Expenses For The Port Of New York The Union records show that although the income of the Port of New York is approximately the same as this period last year, the amount of work has been reduced. This is accountable to the fact that at this time last year, the officials were doing a tremendous amount of work in the Isthmian fleet, where no in­ come was derived for the Union. Through the signing of a full Isthmian contract, the bulk of this work will be eliminated to a great percentage. We therefore recommend that the Port Agent of New York, Paul Hall, reduce the personnel on the Union's payroll in the Port of New York by one person immediately. We further recommend in addition to the immediate lay off of one person, that Hall immediately make surveys and rearrange work so as to lay off a second man. Expenses For Headquarters Office Due to the inception of ne'w file systems in Head­ quarters, the records of the Union work in the Headquarters Office are now up to date. Although the amount of work has not decreased any, we feel, nev­ ertheless, that due to the good condition the Union's records are now in, that it should be possible to reduce expenses in Headquarters Office. We therefore recom­ mend that Secretary-Treasurer, J. P. Shuler, reduce the personnel on the Union's payroll in Headquarters Office by two persons immediately. We further recommend that iMtOc laying off these two persons immediately, that the Secretary-Treasurer make surveys arid rearrange work so as to lay off two more persons. Expenses For Organizational Staff While the records show that General Organizer, Lindsey J. Williams, has complied with the Head­ quarters request to reduce expenses, we feel that fur­ ther reduction may be possible. We therefore recom­ mend that Williams immediately check on the Or­ ganizing Staff and Organizing expenditures and im­ mediately make whatever reductions are at all possi­ ble. We further recommend that once this is done, that Williams then make a report to the membership on same. Expenses For Baltimore The records show that the income and expenditures of Baltimore, as in comparison with other SIU Ports of the same size is out of proportion. For instance, the Ports of Baltimore, Mobile and New Orleans, while having the same average of income and shipping, differ in expenses and personnel. We therefore recom­ mend that the Baltimore Agent, W. Rentz, immediate­ ly lay off one person. Weekly Branch Financial Reports The records show that the Secretary-Treasurer has officially notified all Ports that financial reports ac­ cording to our constitution, must be sent in weekly from all Branches. In spite of this, the record further shows that the Ports of Jacksonville, Savannah and Tampa, have at various times been negligent in send­ ing in these reports. In some cases, this time is as great as four weeks. This is a direct violation of the constitution and this Committee recommends that upon concurrence of this report that any Agent who does not submit his financial reports on time, then his action shall be considered as tantamount to his resignation. Case Of John "Hogge" Hatgimisios At the request of Secretary-Treasurer, J. P. Shuler, we have investigated the case of this man. We find that while serving as an elected official in the Port of Baltimore, he was put in jail and kept there for several months due to a beef developing from the 1946 General Strike. This man later stood trial for murder in connection with this beef and was acquitted by a jury. In view of this man's splendid Union rec­ ord and of the fact that the beef he was arrested for involved the SIU's strike in 1946, we therefore rec­ ommend that he be paid actual wages for such time as he was wrongfully held in prison. Telephone Bills This Committee has investigated the expenditures as pertains to the use of telephones. One expense we feel should be eliminated immediately is the practice of the Union to pay phone bills run up on various persona] phones for some officials for carrying out Union business. Although this practice has been in operation for approximately 8 years, this Committee feels that it should be stopped at once. The Committee does not question the payment of these past bills, as we feel that the payments of such bills previously were justified and acceptable to the membership. We do feel, however, that in some cases this privilege has been abused. Therefore, to guarantee the elimination completely of any unnecessary ex­ pense to the Union, we recommend that immediately upon the concurrence by the membership in this re­ port that no such bills be paid in any event in the future. The Committee points out that on an overall basis, the phone bills of the Union are far greater than we feel should be. This has been a recognized fact for a period of time. We therefore recommend that all Port Agents be instructed to see to it that this is stopped. We further recommend that in no SIU Atlantic and Gulf District Port shall any bill that is run up by the Sailors Union of the Pacific be charged to the SIU. The Committee points out that on the West Coast, where there are SIU Representatives, they likewise are not allowed to use telephones at the expense of the SUP. (Continued on Page 14) � 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 December 5, 1947 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 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. IX, No. 49 Description An account of the resource Headlines MORE CREW GO TOO DEFENSE OF YOUTZY,BOUTWELL SIU OKAYS FOREIGN RELIEF,DEMANDS US SHIPS BE USED MC SELLING TWO-THIRDS OF US RESERVE FLEET TO FOREIGH COUNTRIES FILLING CLAIM FOR JOBLESS BENEFITS SIMPLE PROCEDURE NMU IS "PRACTICALLY DESTITUE"SAYS STONE IN EMERGENCY REPORT FRISCO SHIPPING LOW;STEER CLEAR OF GOLD COAST LAKES OPERATORS TRY PHONY RUMORS TO STOP SIU SHIPPING RISES BUT MOBILE HAS ENOGH SEAMEN LAKERS BEGIN WINTER LAY-UPS IN PORT BUFFALO NEW YORK SHIPPING HOLDS TO STEADY PACE PAYOFFS AND SIGN-OND KEEP PORT ROLLING GALVESTON LIST TAKES CARE OF JOB CALLS GASSED SKIPPER GUNS SEAMEN ON SMITH THOMPSON GOOD SHIPPING,CLEAN PLAYOFFS IN BALITIMORE GREAT LAKES NMU FALLING APART AT SEAMS MEN TURNING TO SEAFARES FOR PROTECTION TANKERS BRING GOOD SHIPPING TO BOSTON,FULLING AGENT'S CAUTIONS PREDICTION PHILDELPHIA ON THE LOOKOUT FOR NEW HALL MARCUSE HOOK PICTURE BRIGHTENS LONGSHORE JOBS TAKE UP SLACK JACKSONVILLE HALTS RUN-SROUND ON REPAIRS\LAKES SEAMEN LEARN ONLY SIU GIVES SECURITY NEW HALL,JOBS,NO WEATHER KEEP EVERYBODY HAPPY NORFOLK SHIPPING HOLDS;FUTURE LOOKES BRIGHT CAPE HORN BLOWS IN AFTER RUGGED VOYAGE LOADED WITH MISHAPS CREW AIMS TO SCOUR FISKE REPORTS IF QUARTERLY FINACE COMMITTEE THE WAY TO LABOR SOLIDARITY Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 12/05/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log