http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/b3d572973fcd60b35827fbfd9d6f0836.PDF 0094cd4091669ca168bc8ab5d3795bee PDF Text Text Official Organ, Atlantic & Gulf District, Seafarers International Union of NA VOL. X NEW YORK, N. Y.. FRIDAY. NOVEMBER 5. 1948 Registration Ruies Okayed By Members Aftei- thorough membership discussion, uniform registration rules were adopted for all A&G Hall at regular branch meetings the evening of November 3. The rules, through previous action, had been in effect in New York since early October. These rules, which provide that men shall register in job groups, stem from a membership demand for registration uni­ formity made to the last Agents Conference. Recommendations were first worked out by rank-and-file port committees last June. In July, a Headquarters rank-and-file com­ mittee sifted, clarified and form­ ulated them. The tentative new rules were then submitted to the member­ ship for further suggestions and clarification. They were dis­ cussed at meetings and were printed in three issues of the LOG. •Under the new rules, the Deck, Engine and Stewards Depart­ ments each are divided into three groups for purposes of registration. Men may throw in for any one of the jobs listed in the group in which they are registered, provided, however, they have the necessary qualifi­ cations. The rules are intended to pro­ tect the unrated jobs, to provide for handicapped men, to give ihen incentive to sail in top rat­ ings and, above all, to eliminate the inequities resulting from vaiying rules in the several ports. No. 45 \t The Phonies The Dewey-Warren combine, hard-riding boosters of the Taft-Hartley Law, rode into oblivion this week, leaving behind their redfaced supporters—some of whom were "labor leaders." The reward expected by these piecards for "good and faithful service" to the little man with the moustache will never come. Actually, the reward would have been a-wave of "investi­ gations" into many unions by the Washington boys after the first of the year. Now these antilabor finks* hatchets must go into cold storage. It was a mighty tough blow to more persons than the bankers, pollsters and newspaper publishers. Company Union Is Latest Dodge Of Cities Service Cities Service has a new trick —a company union. For about a month now the company has been circulating among its crews a slick bit of literature which combines a "notice" to Cities Service of the "independent"* union's existence with a deceptive argument point­ ing to the new oi-ganization's dubious virtues. Obviously the company is acting largely from fright in making this desperate attempt to ward off the SIU. Cities Service is expected to use the company union's mem­ bership list as a hiring reference. In other words, anybody who re­ fuses to sign up will have a tough time staying aboard a Cities Service ship—until after EARLY VOTERS IN A&G ANNUAL ELECTION In all Atlantic and Gulf District ports this week Seafarers were turning to the highly important task of choosing officials to serve the Union in 1949. In the port of New York, early voting was heavy, with men in photo above being among the first to cast their ballots. HAVE YOU VOTED YET? Transportation Rulo Reopened For Discussion The Union recommendation for Because of some objections or misunderstanding of the reasons broad discussion of the transpor­ for the newly-adopted transpor­ tation rule is based on the view tation rule, the entire question that, by giving all hands an op­ has been reopened for member­ portunity to state their position, ship discussion and possible fu­ the issue will become much ture action, with the SIU urging clearer, thereby making it easier all members to express their for appropriate action to be taken. views. The need for a fuller under­ The transportation rule pre­ standing of the transportation sently in effect is the result of rule, and further Membership ac­ membership act ion, following tion on it, was prompted by the recommendations made by the objections of several members. Negotiating Committee last REASONS August. Three sound reasons were of­ The Negotiating Committeejs proposal, which was adopted by fered for the new transportation regular membership meetings, rule. First, the Negotiating Com­ said that members entitled to mittee pointed out that, since the transportation money must ac­ SIU had fought so hard to win cept it and pay off the ship, and the transporation clause in its replacements shipped from the contracts, failure of crews to take the money might indicate Union HaU. In urging a full airing of the lo the companies .that the clause subject, the Union especially re­ was unimportant. Consequently, commends that the members the danger existed that the op­ voice their opinions, pro and con, erators would refuse in the fu­ through the medium of the SEA­ ture to renew this important FARERS LOG, so that the clause, and would have strong widest audience possible may be arguments in their favor. Second, because of the job reached. shortage in the maritime indus­ try, the new transportation rule was seen as an effective aid in broadening the employment pos­ sibilities for all hands. With crews of ships affected taking the transportation money and al­ lowing a new crew to be shipped from the Hall, the turnover in jobs would be greatly increased. Third, the company's would be encouraged to add ships to their runs, thus increasing the num­ ber of jobs available to Union members. Response to the request for viewpoints thus far has brought forth a considerable number of letters, on both sides of the question. Many of them have been published in the past sev­ eral weeks. All letters received will be published, insofar as space permits. Cities Service Tankermen Cities Service is starting a company union in a belated effort to beat off the organizing campaign of the SIU. The immediate aim, through the medium of company union petitions, is to separate the pro-SIU men from their Union shipmates. To counter this vicious move, all pro-SIU men on Cities Service ships should take the following steps: SIGN THE PETITION FOR THE COM­ PANY UNION, IF ASKED TO. STAY ABOARD THE CITIES' SERVICE SHIPS AND VOTE FOR THE SIU. the company is brought under full SIU contract. For this reason Seafarers sail­ ing Cities Service vessels should sign up for the company union immediately to protect them­ selves against the blackball. Di­ rector of Organization Lindsey Williams announced this week. ARTFUL Cities Service does not admit that it is attempting to form a company union. The literature being handed out to crewmembers is unsigned. However, the artful wording of the arguihent supporting the move could have come only from the company. Moreover, head­ quarters of the new organization is in a building in Linden, New Jersey, which is almost wholly occupied by lawyers. The new union is called the Citco Tankermen's Association, which is pretentiously shortened to CTMA, and it purports to represent all the unlicensed per­ sonnel of the Cities Service fleet. Apparently there is no argument about certain ratings being "sup­ ervisors" under the Taft-Hartley Act. The "notice" to the companythere are topies of the notice for each of Cities Service's 16 ships —proposes that CTMA elect an executive committee "who in turn shall select an executive secretary and treasurer duly elected by the members as a whole at a regular meeting held aboard their respective ships by unanimous vote." What actual constitutional pro­ cedure this legal double-talk pre­ scribes defles analysis. However, there is little doubt but what the company would manage to rig. any and all elections by one trick or another. MALARKY The only logical explanation for Cities Service's promotion of a company union is that the company is afraid of the SIU. If that is the case, the company is too late. Misleading statements and out­ right falsehoods about the SIU, which is identified as an "out­ side union," are evidence of the company's fear. The phony argu­ ment by which CTMA's alleged virtues are advanced abounds in malarky. Naturally, the Union Hiring Hall comes ia for heavy attack. It is implied that most men who sail tankers love them so much that they want to sail nothing else, and resent being "forced" to take jobs on dry-cargo or pas­ senger ships under the rotary shipping system. WHOPPER This is, of course, nonsense. No Seafarer is forced to take the first job that comes along. The rotary system gives him first crack at a job in his rating when his shipping card comes due. If he likes tankers and wants to wait for a tanker, to do so is his privilege. The biggest whopper in the company propaganda is the state­ ment "No union has as yet been certified by the National Labor (Continued on Page. 7) �Page Two THE SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District SEAFARERS LOG Friday, November 5, 1948 OH Afiiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. 267 Thfi Democratic Way This week two things are giving a perfect demon­ stration of how the Seafarers International Union works. Voting for the election of A&G officials commencec on Monday, November 1. Seafarers lined up before the ballot boxes in all ports to express their preference in •democratic SIU style. They had every opportunity to study the qualifica­ tions of the men who had been nominated by the member­ ship for office. Two weeks before the voting began, the LOG ran thumb-nail biographies of the candidates based on statements submitted by the candidates themselves. In addition, the LOG ran pictures of all candidates (ex­ cept two who neglected to send in the passport photo­ graphs which had been requested). No candidate re­ ceived a more favorable display than any other. The voting will continue through D.ecember 31. When it ends, the results should be as perfect an expression of A&G opinion as is humanly possible. This is democracy in practice. The other example of SIU democracy is the cur­ rent discussion, pro and con, of the Union's new rule on transportation. This rule was voted into effect by the membership on the recommendation of the Negotiating Committee. However, since its adoption some members have concluded that the rule as it now stands should be clarified. Hospital Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegates by post­ card, giving your name and the number of your ward. Mimeographed postcards can be obtained free at the Social Service desk. The rule has been brought up at regular meetings up and down the coast and for the past several weeks, has been the subject of a lively debate in the LOG. In this issue, several letters for and against the new rule appear on page 13. It is quite possible that the entire question of transportation eventually will be re­ submitted to the membership, depanding on what the R. HUTCHINS L. McKRANE members themselves wish to do. At present, all motions These are the Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, C. ATHERIVE have been tabled until the matter has been thoroughly as reported by the Port Agents, These Brothers find time hanging S. ZEIRLER aired in the LOG. heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by X ,X X writing to them. The LOG will continue to publish as many letters NEW ORLEANS HOSP. on any or all sides of the transportation issue as space ^per­ BOSTON MARINE HOSPITAL J. N. HULL F. J. CONNOR J. DENNIS mits. All members are urged to send in their views. The R. BINIOS VIC MILAZZO S. C. TAREMAN P. FALEMENO Union's transportation rule is the membership's own rule. WALTER E. BEZANSON T. RIEGO IVAN SIVIT It is the Union duty of anybody who has an opinion about THOMAS W. RITSON P. L. SAHUQUE E. W. GETER . it to speak up. JULIUS HENSLEP E. DANCY O. O. MILLAR JOHN J. GEAGAN A. M. LIPARI C. COLLETTI Important as the elections and the transportation JOSEPH E. GALLANT H. S. TUTTLE T. A. PUKKI rule are in themselves, they are not as important as the ^ a X G. M. GRAY C. B. SHIPMAN manner "in which the SIU acts upon them. BALTIMORE MARINE HOS. E. JEANFREAU A. COSTILLO J. ZIMMER F. CARDOZA J. P. THRASHER The strength of the SIU has many sources. One of L. F. COOK A. NORMAN the most important—perhaps, indeed, the primary source RALPH FREY G. O'ROURKE F. SORIANO —is the membership's constant adherence to completely JOHN FITZSIMMONS J. L. GREENE D. D. D'ALTKOY F. BECKER democratic principles. J. SMITHE F. SANTINO , R. PURCELL G. D. BRADY C." H. HEISS Whether it is a Union election, a proposal to change C. SIMMONS O. HOWELL 4". 4*. 4* 4* registration or shipping rules, or any other matter which L. G. LINTHICUM C. W. JOHNSON F. R. MILLS MOBILE. HOSPITAL affects the membership, everybody has the opportunity E. BROADERS A. R. KING V. P. SALLINGS to voice his opinions. W. HAFFNER P. W. STRICKLAND M. C. MURPHEY J. E. CEPHAS It is the SIU's thorough democracy which in the T. C. HICKEY A. WARD Y. MCMILLAN D. E. SMITH end has been responsible for the Union's ability to plow A. E. WEBBER E. A. C. McALPIN M. ATKIEWICX R. GIERCZIC C. HLOVER through the obstacles which beset all maritime unions. E. W. GONYEA K. A. PARKS B. WECK When the SIU makes a decision, it is the member­ C. C. FRITZ W. R. GREBE H. LAWRENCE ship's decision. No Union can move againt its enemies E. C. LAWSON R. A. HACKER E. LEARY •J. BASCH with a close-knit, hard driving organization unless its T. F. OLIVER R. McKAY XXX N. ROMANO C, V. WARNING policies and -rules represent the will of the membership STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL J. E. TIENSIUM F. S. GRUMPIER arrived at through democratic processes. R. T. WRIGHT S. LeBLANC XXX Because the SIU does things the democratic way, it R. E: LANSDELL L. KAY GALVESTON HOSPITAL R. N. McGEE B. BIGGS can face with confidence any problem that may arise. NICK NIKANDER ANDY HOURILLA H. WEBBER In short, the democratic way is the SIU way! J. GIVENS A. ACOSTA C. HELM Men Ihw In The Marine Hospitnls �Friday, November 5^ 1948 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page TbxM What la Future For Diesels In Maritime? have proved reliable, efficient it would like to have more if The writer of this article, John Bunker, is a retired mem­ the Maritime Commission had and economical. Long-debated by shipboard en­ ber of the Atlantic and Gulf District who sailed SIU ships not already sold all it had. Most successful operators of gineers as well as operators and diesel ships are those companies, through and after the war. While still, a member of the SIU. While the employment field for designers has been the question like Sun Oil, which can support he wrote the pamphlet "The SIU At War," commemorating diesel engineers is still limited in of whether or not the American a shoreside gang of trained me­ the heroism of SIU crews during the war years. Presently, the big-ship field, there should merchant marine should go in chanics, to service the engines Brother Bunker is the maritime reporter for one of America's be plenty of job opportimities more heavily for diesel power. leading newspapers, "The Christian Science Monitor," and among the small ships, for con­ when the ships arrive in port The question is of particular after a long voyage. This serv­ is writing a history of the merchant seaman's contribution struction of river towboats and interest to young men at sea who ice helps to eliminate vexatious to the war effort. harbor craft is proceeding fast. are looking toward the future, and expensive breakdowns ,at It won't be long before steam and wondering if specialization sea. towboats on the mid-westem flags, as previously mentioned, saving was in consumption. in diesel will advance them in Anyone who has sailed down that Mississippi was able to buy rivers are almost a thing of the Mississippi found that it also past. their profession. below on a diesel ship knows the only five diesels. There were no V saved some in crew wages on the The best answer at present to peculiar traits these engines have When, and if, the once-big more. diesels over the steamers, de­ any query regarding prospects of going haywire, just when These five have proved very spite the fact that diesel engi­ coastal trade is revived, some for dieselization in our merchant everything seems to be operating successful according to Mr. Le­ shipping men predict it will be neers and oilers get premium with the use of specially de­ fleet is that old French expres­ like a charm. They are compli­ court. pay." Not needed, of course, are signed, diesel-powered vessels sion "comme si, comme ca"; or cated masses of moving parts in firemen. The diesel ships also able to compete with low-cost CONSUMPTION SAVINGS "maybe, yes; maybe, no." comparison with the relatively saved money on maintainance highway trucking. If this proves In some branches of the mer­ simple steam system, either re­ After 14 months of operation, detailed log book data and ex­ and repairs. chant marine there are decided ciprocating or turbine. to be so, the internal combus­ pense records '-show that these trends toward more diesel use; From a study of actual cost tion engine will find a wide use PERSdNNEL NEEDED in others, steam power is still Getting trained diesel person­ ships spend less for fuel than a figures, says Mr. Lecourt, the and provide hundreds of jobs steam vessel on the same run Delta Line has foimd its diesel in what has traditionally been king, and it doesn't appear now nel, the Sun Oil and other diesel as' though diesel engines will owners find, is a hard job. A despite the higher cost of diesel fleet to be both economical and the most important segment of fuel oil over bunker fuel. The reliable, the inference being that the American merchant marine. vei-y soon replace it.' lack of experienced operating en­ As England, 'Norway, France, gineers -is another deterrent to Holland and other European na­ more general acceptance of the tions push the rebuilding of their diesel in the American merchant war-battered merchant fleets, the marine. emphasis is on the use of inter­ It's a "hen and the egg" pro­ nal combustion engines in place position. Without a reservoir of The National Msritime Union is learning fast that people who live in glass houses shouldn't of oil or coal-fired boilers. Ex­ skilled mechanics to draw from, throw stones. cept for liners and the large pas­ shipping firms don't want to in­ For years the CIO maritime outfit has been trying to conceal from its membership the senger-freighters, steam is riding vest in diesel equipment. And untidy state of altairs in their own house by wildly chcirging that the SIU engaged in backdoor a back seat in postwar European without an ample supply of shipping, played up to the shipowners, and used undemocratic methods." ship construction. jobs, the steam engineer There were other charges just as absurd. But they were convenient sops to drop on the NOT IN AMERICA doesn't choose to invest in confused and abused NMU membership. In this country, however,^ the lengthy schooling to learn the Now, however, as the smoke clears, the corruption and sordidne'ss that has been rampant intricacies of the internal com­ in the NMU for years is coming to light. And the NMU is emerging as guilty of the very practices contrary is true. Our shipyards are now work­ bustion engine. with which it had attempted to smear the SIU. ing on a sizeable program of new Had there been a large number In the face of mounting dissatisfaction with the internal situation in his union, NMU presi­ liners and tankers, tujs and mis­ of Diesel ships added to the dent Joe Curran advised members to state their beefs specifically. of American cellaneous craft. Of these, all emergency fleet He received a solid answer in a' letter from NMUer Darwin Deen, Bjook No. 62660, which the large, seagoing types will be cargo carriers during World War was published in the Pilot of October 22. A section of Deen's letter, pointing up some of the powered by high-pressure, geared H, it is likely that many ex- "rotten practices" in the NMU, appears in the cut below. In the rest of his letter, not reproduced steam turbines. Not a diesel Navy men with diesel experience here, the NMUer offers proposals for the correction of the malpractices he believes "may wreck would have been attracted to the our union." among them. These ships, when completed, merchant service, for the Navy The record shows conclusively that the SIU, which has consistently led the way on the will carry at least 250 engineers, operated a stupenduous numbers waterfront in racking up gains for all its membership, has its house in order. It is the NMU. all of whom, incidentally, will of diesel vessels during the war. which is—by its membership's admission—all fouled-up. have to be trained in operating It had thousands of dieselpowered landing craft alone, be­ high pressure plants. PILOT—OCTOBER 22, 1948 Inasmuch as operators have se­ sides mine sweepers, tugs, escort lected steam for these vessels craft and many other auxiliaries most of which are being built on similarly powered. 2. Squealers have been made out of private account for the major oil The larger landing craft had Union members by the company showing plants' of a size comparabe to companies, and which will prob­ favoritism to individuals. ably set the pace for future ship some merchant ships and voy­ S. Cliques have been -built up on some construction in the tanker field— aged all over the world, so the Bhip.s which invariably center around i there is not much possibility of engineers on these vessels had no company stiff. This creates a home for Now th'at the elections are over and diesels putting up serious com­ lack of practical experience. a few seamen, but a hell for the ma­ the task of putting our house in order petition for some years to come. FOREIGN FLAGS jority, and acts as a stopper on sincere is beginning, we must understand tiie With the great expense re­ Union activity. Despite early wartime plans to basic faults that led to some of the rot­ 4. And oncb a company stooge, th'ese quired for design and investment dieselize a part of the Victory ten practices of the past. -President Cur­ anti-Union elements misuse the system in steam plants, vessels owners ship fleet, the Maritime Commis­ ran mentioned recently in "Passing the of rotary shipping by taking advantage are not likely to do an about-face sion confined its installations to Word" that the membership should uring of loopholes in our Shipping Rules, and experinient with diesel. up specific cases. The practices of browna few C-class freighters, all,of 5. Many brothers who hold ratings J And diesel engines for most which have found ready buyers nosing toward company officials, fonnaqualified by the U. S. Coast Guard are] American companies amount to since the war. tion of cliques on ships, kicKbacks of prevented from shipping in these ratings' various kinds, individuals scheming to byjust about this—an experiment. Many of them are now calling by fantastic company demands on dis­ pas.s the rotary shipping system, and the Experimenting is costly. Steam in American ports, mostly under charges. A qualified man, who has knock­ fear of a member of expressing himself, plants are tried and proven. the Danish flag, the Danes being ed himself out on examinations is com­ on board ship are not in the nature of Diesels foi> many operators are smart enough shipping men to • pelled to ship in a lower rating and try isolated... cases. If and when these and to get a promotion. As if this wasn't not. know a good thing when they other anti-Union practices can be proven, bad enough, officers have developed a bad SOME EXCEPTIONS see it. As soon as these diesel they are dealt with. But, by their nature, habit of picking "fair-haired boys" so There are interesting exception freighters were put on sale after they are difficult to prove. that he usually has to bro-wn-nose to the war, the Danes and others The presence of these "performance.s" to this, however. get a prqihotion—which leads us right does not mean that the NMU is on the A few diesel freighters were gobbled them up with gusto. back to point one. rocks. Far from it, we are still the lead­ Stanley M. Lecourt, research built by the old Shipping Board While we recognize the right of a : ing maritime Union and the mem­ and were run successfully in the engineer for the Mississippi company to bar incapable, or unreliable bership has proven itself by dear think­ overseas trades for many years Shipping Company, has recently performers, the reputed blacklist of 5,000 ing in the recent elections. However, if men in one company is a direct threat by a succession of companies, presented a very interesting these bad practices are permitted to to the .security of our Union. This means finally ending up with the Amer­ analysis of results the Delta Line continue, they wilf increase in number the personnel director selects the sea­ ican Pioneer Line just before has had with its fleet of CIA-type and may wreck our Union. These evils men, not the rotary shipping system. diesel cargo ships. The report World War II. prevent the development of our full re­ All these things ilndermine the ability They were, according to re­ may encourage other lines to sources of solid, militant, trade union, of the Union to act as a representative ports, good vessels. And, it must think much more seriously about participation which is potential within organization, a defender of the membecbe remembered, great improve­ the advantages of internal com­ each member. ahip. In order to right a wrong we must ments have been made in sea­ bustion power. Tfhese practices make possible the mo­ the company was understand it fully. going diesels, since these ships When nopoly of key jobs by elements who may I. Licking the boots of company of­ were built shortly after World awarded the right to operate not be competent, and who hold them ficials .exists because the companies have ships to West Africa last year, War I. by piece-off and kowtow. The presence built up a great deal of undue power. The Sun Oil Company has it carefuUy considered the my­ of these poor Union elements prevent a Through the blackball system and di.sforceful and unified action-on beefs. They been successful with Diesel ships, riad vessels available in the crimination the seaman is pressuredi into lower our working conditions. with a fleet that includes some laid-up fleets, and finally decided kowtoiring.^ 8,200 hp tankers driven by inter­ to buy six diesel ships. nal combustion engines. The So many of the government's company says these ships, in­ small war-built fleet of diesels cluding one built back in 1823, had already been sold to foreign By JOHN BUNKER Member Exposes NMU Practises Shipping Rules: A Program To Develop Job Security 'M �Page Four T'H^ S E A F A R E R S Heavy Balloting Is Reported By A&G Branches Voting for 1949 officials started off with a bang Monday morning, November 1, and continued to pile up high votes throughout F;^da7, NoveinlMic 5, 1^8 LOG WHAT ttWHK QUESTION: A shipowner recently made several proposals for ^'building up" the merchant the week. marine. Included was a suggestion that seamen be encouraged to join the Naval Reserve. Indication were' that even a What do you think of this proposition? larger turnout than in 1947 could be expected, according to reports GUSTAVE R. BREITWEG, OS: from all Branches. Balloting EDWARD SAUL. FWT; will continue till December 31, I have three years in the The whole thing has a fishy r choose the 33 Officials who smell to me. Anytime a ship­ Army and I don't feel like be­ wHl administer Union affairs for owner comes up with a plan ing dragged into something like that again. With three years in which he says is for our benefit, the next year. the SIU behind me, I find I Jobs on the baUot are five less I think we'd better be on our like things just the way they than last year, in line with the guard. The shipowners would are. The Union has a lot of vets, Union's economy program. Sixty- probably like to see us under many of them Navy men, and military discipline, while they one candidates are on the ballot I don't think any of them wish are free to conduct their busi­ running for these jobs (biograph­ to put themselves under the ness as usual. They'd have an a ical sketches, pictures and conunand of the Navy again. iron hand over us and would in sample ballot were carried Navy .officers, the spit and polish darn sure be able to eliminate Memthe LOG for October 22) of military command, and the bers may vote for men not on overtime. It looks to me like this general harsh discipline would is a plan to break down the or­ the ballot by writing in _the de­ be no easy way to live. This ganized labor movement in the sired name in space provided. suggestion, should it be taken maritime industry. And, natural­ Full bookmen in good standing ly, I don't like it. I'm not used up, coupled with the Taft-Hart­ can cast their ballots "in any to shipowners looking out for ley Act, would most certainly A&G Branch during all work my interest. put an end to maritime Unions. days through November and December, upon showing their books to the Committee in ' < ANGELES Z. DEHEZA, St.: HILDING PALMQUIST, AB: charge. Z think the whole idea is a That Navy business, I don't It is the duty of each to exercise like it. The Navy has a funny lot of hooey. It sounds like a his privilege to vote, and to style of doing things to my way little trap to take the bread out make certain he is represented our mouths. If we fell for it, of thinking. There's too much by men of his choice. A heavy the next thing that would hap­ "Yes, sir" and "No, sir" in the membership turnout will enable pen is that they'd be taking Navy. They herd you around those elected to take office con­ away all our gains that we've like a bunch of kids. I .saw fident of the backing of their fought so hard to win during them doing it during the war. Brothers. They tell you how to do every­ the past several years. Once thing including what you know that happened it would be the already. There's a right way to end of freedom for the seamen. do everything and a Navy way, You can be darn sure the ship­ I found out. And any Navy stuff owner is not thinking about our would be bad for the Union. I'd welfare when he suggests that rather have things the way they we join the. naval reserve. I prefer to have the merchant ma­ The wind-up of an intensive are with the Union Hiring Hall, rine remain completely in a ci­ organizing drive among the un­ Union Patrolmen, Union Dele­ vilian. status. We'd be mighty licensed crewmembers of the gates, Union rules and no Navy. sorry if we fell for this scheme. Virginia Ferry Corporation's Va. Ferrymen Will Vote Soon ships will come on November 16-18 when the men will choose between representation by the SIU and no union. Two hundred members of the three ierries, now operating on the Little Creek-Cape Charles, Virginia run; will register their votes during the three-day per­ iod at polling places located at both ends of the ferry run. The announcement of the el­ ection ca'me from the NLRB trial examiner in the Norfolk district, following recognition of the SIU's petition for an elec­ tion to determine a bargaining representative. The SIU will be the only union listed on the bal­ lot. Several years ago the SIU was active within the ferry fleet, but was curbed from bringing the men under the SIU banner when the State of Virginia took over the ships and operated them until recently. Notice To Crews : l! • No. SIU Crew is lo pay off any ship until the crew's quarters and equipment are as clean as any Seafarer likes lo find a ship when he first goes aboard. Patrolmen have been instructed that the crew's quarters must be ab­ solutely clean before a pay­ off will be allowed. Please cooperate with your officials in carrying out this member­ ship order. WILLIAM MAUCK, OS; I have already put in my stint in the government military ser­ vice. I have an honorable dis­ charge from the U.S. Marine Corps, having served from 1943 to 1945. That shipowner's idea might sound good to some guys, but there might be plenty be­ ll hind it that would mean no good for seamen. Once the guys were i in the naval reserve, things would probably be different. And if they worked out like they did in the Marine Corps, I don't think the plan woitld have any advantage. for seamen. The men would- be getting the short end of the stick all the time— and you'd have to like it, too. EMIL PASZEK, Oiler: I don't think this would be a good plan. That is my opinion after 20 years .of sailing on Pol­ ish, Swedish, Norwegian and American vessels. The men who go to sea in the merchant mar­ ine do so because they are in­ terested in it as a civilian occu­ pation. If they didn't, they would probably have enlisted in the Navy or Coast Guard. If the shipowners plan was adopted it would change seafaring from a civilian job to a military affair. Then all the freedom that the civilian worker now has would disappear. No seaman would want that to happen. D. GIANGIORDANO, AB: I believe we should let it go as it is, for in the first place although they start out with a request, they will end up by it being required. I don't believe in the Navy running things, be­ cause as has been proved in the past, whenever they are in charge they ignore the interests and rights of labor. I've sailed with a lot of ex-Navy men, and they are not up to par with merchant men. Even those who have sailed as Mate on merchant ships for fifteen years usually can't steer in an emergency. If we ever had to go on strike the Navy would move right in on us and break the strike. JAMES L. MEEKS, FWT: I disapprove of the idea al­ together. They've always claim­ ed that we were civilians and we have been treated as such throughout and after the war, especially insofar as war bene­ fits and compensations were con­ cerned. I don't see why we should now be encouraged to join any military reserve organi­ zation. Since we are in a civi­ lian-managed industry, classed as civilian workers, I want to be free to come and go as I wish—the same as any shoreside civilian worker is free to do. I lost three ships as a civilian seaman in the war. I don't want to 00 into the ^aYy now. �Friday, Noyambar 5. 1948 Page Fire THE SEAFARERS L O (Bs Port Baltimore Shipping Good, Should Remain So For Few Weeks By WM. (Curly) RENTZ Job Boom Has San Jaan Combing Beacb By SAL COLLS glad. None of us like strangle^ holds round our necks, especially Union seamen. But when there are jobs to be filled, and when there are no permitmen to send to them, and when there at® full-bookmen with the ratings for the neces­ sary jobs, and when these same full-bookmen are on the beach, drinking and dancing and mak­ ing merry, or Rosie, or Carmen, and make no effort to come to the Hall and take a job to help out—well, Brothers, I suppose I had better stop right here before I blow my top and start using some fine old full-bodied lan­ guage. TANKER ARRIVES Last Thursday, October 28, a T-2 tanker wallowed in and tied up at the Army docks across the bay. No one paid much atten­ tion to her, until two SIU men showed up at the Hall with hos­ pital slips off her. We found out she was- a tanker in the pro­ cess of being organized. She was just going to be in port for a few hours, was going to take three months' stores, and then head out again for Aruba SAN JUAN — The shipping picture in the port of San Juan right at this moment, I am happy to state, is excellent. If any more jobs are called in, I don't know where we'll get the men. We've combined the beach and bars for the bookmen, and we've had to* collect the permits from the permitmen, and issued oi*ders for them to hang around the Hall, and be ready to take a ship at a minute's notice. I don't know what's getting in­ to the boys. They're paying off ships in San Juan, Ponce, Mayaguez, Fajardo, Guanica, almost every point on the island that boasts of a port, open or closed. It can't be spring fever—not in November! Maybe it's the call of the tropics, the call of sun­ shine and rum and pretty sunbrowned girls. Anyway, what­ ever it is^it's had us in the Hall jumping to keep the ships crewed up. GETTING THE SHAKES The three grandfolks of the Bull Line fleet, the Monroe, the Dorothy and the Emilia have been in Juan this past week. Old as they ^re and hot as they are it makes them a bit of a problem to keep crewed up. One ordinary seaman, whom we shipped to the ! Emilia, rode her round the island to the next port, then gave his TAMPA—A full crew sent to notice and piled off. the Governor Kilby and replace­ He told us at the Hall he just ments to several others made for couldn't stand the vibration. He good shipping here this week. said if he made a trip on her, The ships replacements went he'd end up with the St. Vitus Dance! Even Tony Veira, our to the Bessemer Victory, Winslow Homer, John Lawrence and the Daniel Lownsdale, all Waterman; and to the Mae of WA^ A -HOT AMP Bull Line. On the Alcoa Ranger, in for a WIFf PUMPED AIM payoff, thei-e was not a single disturbance on the ship; no drunks, no performers and all in order for the boarding Patrol­ man. The few hours of disputed overtime were quickly settled. The only thing resembling a beef- was the desire of several men to make another trip after having accepted transportation. All hands, however, paid off and Patrolman and an engine man several were able to ship back himself, admits that, when a re­ aboard. placement is called in for the En­ So far this week we have had gine Department on any of the the Canton Victory for Water­ three he can feel the blast of heat from the Engine Room man. Tomorrow the Winslow Homer comes back in, and later right through the telephone. this week we will have another , SNOWED UNDER Waterman ia for a payoff. This At this point, I'm going to stick points to a coming week of good in a few words on union patriot­ shipping. P&O's Florida is now in Jack­ ism. The last couple of weeks sonville for overhauling; follow­ we've been snowed under with ing that she will go on a threecalls for jobs on half a dozen or trips-a-week schedule. While more ships, as I've said before. this ship is in drydock a pay We've collected the permits. raise is expected to be negot­ We've said to the permitmen: iated. you're going to take this scow, FEW OLDSTERS and you're going to take that P&O hasn't come into line one, etc. And then suddenly, we with the rest of the contracts found ourselves out of permits, yet, but this should come into and still with ships crying for line within a few days, as no men., Now, what I want to say is great difficulty is expected in ^his: there is nothing in the Con­ hammering out a new agreement. Oldtimers have been scarce stitution of the Seafarer's Inter­ national Union that states a full around the Hall as of late. They hookmember can be made to never seem to come around until take a ship. And I for one am they want a ship—then they're and the Argentine. Anyway, to make a long story short, we lo­ cated the necessary replacements, an AB and an OS and dispatched them to Bonce and a long, long cruise,' Ships calling at the port of San Juan in the last ten days have been the Dorothy, Emilia, Monroe, Suzanne, Rosario, and the Arlyn—all Bull Line Scows. We also had the Waterman Morning Light and Monarch of the Sea. We've shipped thirty-five men to those ships—with the majority of jobs going to the Engine De­ partment. From the looks of things shipping will be tops on the island until Christmas. Men have been flying down from the Atlantic ports—mostly permitmen, and we've been able to get them out in a day or two. There's been plenty of Bull Line shoregang, too. The boys on the beach have been drawing up a set of shipping rules for shoregang jobs, patterned after the official A&G rules. They ex­ pect to bring them up at the next general meeting for action to be taken by the membership. Busy Week And Hopeful Future Heartening To Tampa Seafarers 0A\o gone with the wind. At present the "oldster roster" reads: Joe Wi-ead, Nevin Ellis, Morse Ells­ worth, A1 Driver and Uncle Otto Pruessler. These men have just paid off a ship and are taking a rest. Also found at moments here are several members of the Florida's Stewards Department, all waiting for her to return to Miami. Three of these boys are J. W. McCranie, George Burns and Mario Reyes. Voting on the officials for 1949 isn't going too fast right now due to the good shipping, however, we hope to set an all-time rec­ ord for the port come December 31. BALTIMORE—On the basis of .days. Several Calmar, Isthmian, scheduled arrivals for this port, j and Waterman intercoastals that shipping should be very good come in here are now tied up.' for the next two weeks at least. We have Isthmian's Steel Ma­ If it is as .good as it was dur­ ker crewing up here this week. ing the past week, when we had She was towed down here to eight payoffs and eight sign- a shipyard from Boston. She is ons, there'll be no complaints all set to go out on the com­ from this quarter. pany's Far East run, although So far six ships are due to ar­ she may be changed to the pine­ rive, and they will keep us busy apple service, on which Isth­ with the payoffs and sign-ons. mian already has about nine Two of the ships are under the ships. transportation rule and that There seems to be divided means new crews. The arrivals opinion on the subject of the will be Waterman, Isthmian and transportation rule. It seems Bull Line ships for the most that the men who are backing part. ^ the rule are offering pretty The past week's payoffs were strong arguments in its favor. the SS Kenyon Victory and They say that it is fair to every­ Steel Director, Isthmian; Mae body, and provides more equal and Edith, Bull; Belhore, Mang- shipping opportunities in face of ore, Cubore and Oremar, Ore. the shortage of jobs. And, although it occasionally Signing on were the Cubore, Bethore, Steel Director, Oremar, may be tough on a couple of Kenyon Victory, Mae, Edith and guys, this same rule will later work out to their advantage. Helen.. ONE LEMON SPEEDS JOBS All payoffs were okay, ex­ It may hurt .some guys at, a cept the one on the Kenyon particular moment, but in the Victory, whose crew had signed long, run, they will find that it on on the West Coast. They gives everybody a chance to ship were practically all permits, and out much sooner. Because of the their conduct was anything but general shipping picture the up to our Union standards. proper way to look at this rule Their actions gave topside, is from the angle of the general which was getting wind of welfare. everything that was going on, If it is a good rule for the plenty of opportunity to ask membership as a whole, it ia what the hell kind of union good for each and every memcrewmen they were. I ber. You may not like it at one It's a good thing for several particular time, but later when of the crew that they were not [you've been on the beach awhile members of the A&G District and you get a chance to ship or they sure as hell would have [ out because of it, you'll be had charges pressed against darned glad the rule is in effect. them. As you can see from the list of ships above, quite a few Ore line ships have been paying off When your ship has been and signing on. We are getting out of hot water for over all bookmen for these jobs. The twelve hours make sure that men have been taking to them this fact is recorded in the like hotcakes. Engine log book. It will save SPURT COMING a lot of trouble when your At one time it was rather ship hits port later. difficult to crew these ships and If you are in port when we're glad to note the change the boilers give up the ghost, in the men's attitudes. These notify the Hall immediately vessels are damned good setups and a Patrolman will handle for men wanting to make a the matter with the com­ short run. They're back in port pany. Don't wait until the every 28 days. So, if anybody ship is half way across the wants to ship out fast on one ocean before you send word: of these scows, let him come on let out a yell before your down to Baltimore. When the West Coast strike is ship leaves port and the mat­ settled, we look for a spurt in ter will be settled at once. activity in this port within 10 No Hot Water? Galveston Expects Fair Shipping To Hold By KEITH ALSOP GALVESTON — The, favorable shipping conditions for rated men in this port during the past month swerved downward last week, but should bounce right back up again. Prospects for these men for the coming two weeks are fair. One payoff and one sign-on marked the week's activity, with the SS Ir.vin Cobb of South At­ lantic the scene of both events. She came into, and left from. Port Arthur. FOUR IN TRANSIT She brought in a beef that was the result of a misunderstanding about the tank tops. This was due to the fact that all but a few of the men weren't familiar with the contract. Several of our contracted ships called in transit during the past week. They were the Seatrain Texas, the Jean LaFitte and the Claiborne, both of Waterman, and the tanker New London. Only the Claiborne had a beef, and that was a minor one. Straightening it' out was just a matter of giving the men the score on the contract. On the beach at the present time are several oldtimers, in­ cluding Stew Monast, Walter Brightwell, Curley Darley and Sam Perason. PROTEST TO MAYOR One day last week, 14 men— not all of them members of the Union—were picked up by the police for "loitering" in front of the Hall. It seems that our next door neighbor, who runs a furni­ ture stoi-e, doesn't like the idea of the men standing in front of the Hall and has been calling the police, saying that the men had been "making i-emarks" to pass­ ing women. We lodged a strong protest with the Chief of Police and Mayor. We pointed out that there are others besides the Union rnembers standing around the Hall, and that if they were "loitering" then the same thing is going on in many other public places through the city. The men were released, no one was fined, and the Chief and the Mayor were very courteous in handling our beef. The list of men in the Marine Hospital includes these Sea­ farers: Nick Nikander, J.'Givens, R. Hutchins, L. McKrane, C. Atherive and Szeirler. Outside of the fact that the weather here in Galveston is very nice, there's nothing else to report at the moment. �THE. SEAFARERS LOG Page Six No Change In Mobile Shipping; Taiks With Aicoa Progressing Friday, Korembar S, 1948 PATROLMAN SAYS: SWELL CREW By CAL TANNER Shipping Surge Ends Stalemate In New Orleans MOBILE — No change this Brothers E. M. Cullinan, J. GleaWeek in the shipping picture—' son, J. H. Dinkins, F. Saucier, A. By EARL (Bull) SHEPPARD A. Rankin,' William Marshall,' D. things are still moving slowly. NEW ORLEANS—Shipping' hit Jones, N. Ayler, A. Glassner, W. what appeared to be a low ebb Four payoffs and four sign-ons Manley and Jack Avery. during the past two weeks; in were the extent of this port's IMPROVEMENTS fact, we had only one payoff last business. The sign-ons included week. This week, however, looks In the very near future, we two vessels that came in here on a great deal brighter with sev­ continuous articles. All payoffs will be starting renovations on eral scheduled payoffs coming our building. While these im­ up. ^ and sign-ons were transacted in provements are being made we After being becalmed for more good shape. will be short on space. There­ than a week we can look for­ In the payoff section were the fore, we urge all hands having ward to brisk sailing for at least Claiborne, Azalea City, Monarch baggage in the Mobile Hall to the next month. pick it up right away. The lack The latest SIU recreational de­ of the Sea, all Waterman, and of space will only be a tem­ vice—and it came-in very handy the Clipper, one of Alcoa's crack porary condition. during the slow spell of shipping passenger wagons. Of these, the Ultimately the work will re­ —is a movie projector. The ma­ The pride of a proud ship is the Stewards Department Azalea City went into the yards sult in greater accommodations chine, alowg with a good deal of of the SS Canton Victory which will be running coastwise for all hands. Men having gear for extensive repairs. film and equipment, was gen­ for Waterman from now on. Back row (left to right): Viera. here will be doing their Broth­ erously donated to the Hall by MM; Osborne, MM; Labrosse, MM; Sacher, Utility, and ON THE WAY ers a favor by speeding up the members, mostly from the pas­ bacey, MM. Front row: Rununel, Chief Cook; Meshover. Third process if they will call for bag­ senger ships. All of the Brothers Ships taking off from this port Cook; Muller, Steward; Suttler, Utility; Ruada, NCR. gage immediately. here on the beach extend their this week were the Governor Discussion between your Union thanks for this most appreciated Brandon, headed for Japan and NEW YORK —Anybody who foul-ups who were thrown off gift. and the Alcoa Steamship Com­ Korea; the Claiborne, bound for pany on a passenger-ship agree­ saw Waterman's SS Canton Vic­ in this port. Only two other men The Educational Meetings, Germany, Belgium, Holland and ment are under way. Represent­ tory when she paid off at the got off, so you can see that which were inaugurated several end of a trip to Europe and everybody liked the thought of weeks ago, have been well at­ France; the Clipper, going out ing the SIU at the sessions back saw a honey of a vessel. staying on her. tended by oldtimers and new­ on her usual Island run, and the are Assistant Secretary-Treasurer In the first place, she was Incidentally, the Canton Vic­ comers alike. A lot of good ideas Monarch of the Sea, which will Robert Matthews, New Orleans spotless from the engine room tory will be the first ship on came out of the meetings and call at Puerto Rican ports. The Port Agent Bull Sheppard and up. You could have eaten your Waterman's new service from more and better ideas are ex­ latter two are on continuous ar­ your Mobile Agent. dinner off the floor plates of the New York to Miami and Tampa. pected as the meetings get into ticles. A full report on contract dis­ engine room if you'd been of a This means that this service, Other activity in this port cussions will be made through mind to. The ship was that operated by Waterman's subsidi­ full swing. BIGGER, BETTER stemmed from the visits of three the Secretary-Treasurer's office' clean. ary Pan Atlantic, will be off to contracted vessels on in transit and will appear in a future issue She carried a crack crew in a good start. We are looking forward to calls^ The Alcoa Pioneer was of the SEAFARERS LOG. all departments, except for two James Sheehan bigger and better meetings and, over from New Orleans, and from all indications we are going came in in good shape. Down to get them. from the East Coast was the Several oldtimers have tied up John Laurence, while" the Del in town and are giving the ship­ Aires was in after a run from By JOE ALGINA in; the Nuttall, Alcog, and the Thos^ ships don't tarry long. ping board a calculated goingthe Texas coast. Seatrader, Mar-Trade Corpora­ Like the subways they get up over every day, looking for the NEW YORK — Nothing has Our hospital list for this week taken place during the past week tion — these ships took almost and get. The Organizers, through one berth they want. reveals the following to be in to change the shipping picture complete crews. a lot „ of back-breaking work, One is Brother Charles Tannethe Mobile marine hospital: W. in this port—it is still moving The Seatrader, from lay-up, brought those ships under con­ hill, inr search of a B.A.-bound Haffner, J. E. Cephas, Y. McMil­ along at a fair pace. It's not took men in all ratings. Coupled tract. It is our job to make sure ship. Jimmie Crescitelli is here lan, A. C. McAlpin, C. Hlover, fast enough to suit us, but at with ships in transit calling for that the ships sail with full after serving as Steward on a scow that came in from the B. Week, H. Lawrence, E. Leary, the same time the tempo is men, we did not do too badly crews aboard. You may be full up to here Mediterranean recently. Another, R. McKay, C. V. Warning, and enough to move some of the in the shipping column. F. S. Crumpler, Maybe shipping will be better from pleas to "get out and vote," is Pete Dravis, known to some members off the beach. Others on the beach, but ready While the sign-ons were but next week, as the payoffs were but this plea is not in behalf of his friends as Pete the Greek, of any Washington eager beaver; came in on a Waterman ship and able to ship out. include ' three—the Marine Runner, Rob- of greater number than the Week's sign-ons. They were the instead, I want to urge all mem­ from Tokyo. Alcoa Polaris, Nuttall, Alcoa; bers of the Union to go up to All men, -the regulars, shortSeatrains New Jersey and Hav­ the polls in the A&G Halls and timers, and now-and-thens, are ana; Mostank, Federal Motor- cast their ballots for the officials'in full approval of the weather, I It's wonderful. ships; Julesburg, Terminal Tank­ for 1949. ers, Inc.; Hilton, Kathryn, and Evelyn, Bull; Steel Architect and \! By E. B. TILLEY Steel Seafarer, Isthmian; Teal and Afoundria, Waterman; and BOSTON — At long last, the sailed for Searsport, Maine, to Rubin Mowbray, Rubin. By EDDIE BENDER Port of Boston has a payoff to load potatoes, Two of the ships mentioned, report—thanks to the transpor- Another payoff in this port There are many Seafarers who course, you need to check on the Mostank and Julesburg, are tation rule now in effect. Conse- took place aboard our good ship will soon be called into the your strike clearances, too. With quently, we were able to ship SS Yarmouth, of the Eastern ours thanks to the work of the armed forces. Regardless of all of these things in order, you out a full crew with one swoop. Steamship Lines, which is be- Organizing Department. Right whether you enlist to beat the will be issued your retiring card. This great event is the sub-1 up for the winter now they are doing us a lot of draft, or whether you are Such retirement is only for ject of considerable talk and nionths. She was escorted last good.drafted, it is a sound policy to bookmen, however. Permitmen enthusiasm up here in the Bean-'week by tugs from her berth at OKA"Y ON JDECK retire your book. In that way, are advised to contact Head­ town. Oldtimers on the beach Central AVharf to the yards of On one of the tankers there no matter how long you are quarters. This can be done recollect that the men who went the General Ship and Engine was a beef caused by the Mate away, you will be in good stand­ either in person or through the aboard the ship for the sign-on Works, in East Boston where being on deck. This would have ing with the Union. mail. Permits are not accepted were the first full crew to be she will remain until spring. been a sound beef had the ship You can always reactivate for retirement. However, consid­ shipped out of this port in two DON'T HURRY! been a dry cargo job, but on your book upon release from the eration is being given to men years. It appears we had better re­ tankers this is perfectly legiti-1 armed services. All that you about to don the uniform. The ship which enjoys this peat a bit of advice we passed- mate. Many of the crew were have to do is produce your re­ Make sure, therefore, that your distinction is the SS Noonday, along in these columns some not experienced tankermen and tiring card, your service dis­ permit is placed in the Armed a Waterman job, which is the time ago. Don't come to Boston did not know that a Mate is charge, and enough money to Forces File, before you leave for first to go on the "spud run" unless you are well-heeled and supposed to be on deck while pay for the current month's dues, the service. that we have been waiting so have plenty of heavy gear. the ship is loading, unloading, when requesting your reactiva­ Permitmen turning in their patiently to see get started. And while we're at it, don't and While cleaning tanks. tion—plus any assessments that permits in good standing will be Rumors are that there will be forget that the Port of Boston is This, however, is the only time • might have accrued while you allowed reinstatement upon their two or three more ships put on going all-out to make Cities he should be around. At sea were in retirement. release from the service. Of this run for the winter and, be­ Service an SIU company. We while doing routine soogeeing, It is simple to retire your book. course, the discharge comes in lieve me, we sure can use them keenly understand what such a painting, scraping, and so on, You can do this in person, or handy to prove your where­ up this way. development will mean to the the crew has a beef if the Mate through the mail by sending in abouts. Make sure that your re­ The Noonday paid off in good Union and to this port. is continually breathing down your book to Headquarters with quested reinstatement is made shape. There were no overtime Now that voting is under way, their necks. a request to put it in retirement. within 30 days after your release beefs, no delay of any in the I would like to urge all hands This is beginning to sound 1 Your book vjill always be ac­ from service. payoff. However, there were a to cast their ballots. You can like a tanker column, but there cepted for retirement as long as • Once approved for reinstate­ few personal beefs on board, but vote in any Hall of the SIU six is one more matter to get across you are paid up in your dues ment, it will be required of each I think they were taken care of days a week. Don't fail to vote before signing off—-and that is through the current month, along permitman so approved that he by the ones involved. and then come around after the importance -of - getting down with - all assessments and any pay up in full all back, dues and The sign-on procedure was election and wonder "how did to a tanker pronto when the job fines,- if any have been imposed assessments that have accrued smooth and the Noonday has so and so get into office," is taken off the board. on you for infraction of rules. Of'during his absence. New York Shipping Shows No Great Change Boston Has Payoff And Sign-On, Thanks To Transportation Ruie / From The Sixth Deck �THE SEAFARERS ^Friday, November 5..JIS48 Philly Thanks Organizing For Shipping Gain By LLOYD (Blackie) GARDNER PHILADELPHIA—Things were all hustle and bustle around here last week as we experi­ enced a minor shipping boom for this port. ' After weeks of little or no activity, this change just about changed the com­ plexion of things—^for the time being, anyway. Four .ships payed off in Phila­ delphia last week and they signed on again. First to payoff was the SS Alexandra, a Carras T-2. She paid off cleanly and smoothly. Next was the SS Longview Victory, Isthmian. There was a little disputed overtime, but it was squared away fast. Only trouble of any account on this scow was caused by a clashing of personalities among various crewmembers. Then came the SS Strathmore, a Liberty tanker. She was quite a headache for all concerned. There was no sadness in this port when the Strathmore de­ parted. DREAM PAYOFF The final payoff of this fastmovmg week was the SS, Lake George, a US Petroleum T-2 tanker. She was a piecard's dream. Aboard were a fine crew of Seafarers coupled with a good bunch of topside Joes, which easily added up to make a firstrate ship. There was very little overtime disputed and all was squared away, with everyone happy. Sure, we had a great week here and we just about ran out of top rated men. These payoffs bring home a point very strongly. Three of the four ships that paid off are the result of the success of our organizing drive in the past year. In other words, the organiz­ ing drive is making itself felt in so far as this port is con­ cerned, at least. And it has given the Port of Philadelphia a tremendous boost. Certainly this is one good reason for our membership to back all organiz­ ing efforts of the Union with all their power and cooperation. Matters of interest that are chief topics of conversation in this port at the moment are; 1. The We.st Coast longshore and shipping tieup. 2. The start of our annual elections for officials to serve the A&G District during 1949. 3. The national rat race for political pie. 4. The progress of the Cities Service drive. All hands are showing a deep interest, and are awaiting a successful conclusion to this organizing campaign as soon as possible. LOG Morning After Twenty N^hts In Bmeem lilllBlliif lliiiilliiirf ' • -''-V' "w •<> Optical Plan Saves Money For Seafarers NEW YORK—The 98 Seafarers who took advantage of the Un­ ion-sponsored optical plan dur­ ing the past year saved them­ selves upwards of a thousand dollars, .demonstrating the wis­ dom of the SIU's move to se­ cure competent, low-cost ocular service for the membership. The remarkable savings by men requiring examinations and eye glasses are revealed in the annual report filed with SIU Headquarters by the Union Op­ tical Plan, 152 Fourth Avenue, New York City, an organization which services many of the more progressive unions in this area. The report covers the pe­ riod from October, 1947, through October, 1948. Of the 98 men serviced by the plan, 90 were fitted with glasses after examination. The other eight men were advised by the plan that they did not need glasses, 107 PAIRS This is whed Seafcurer Felix J. Curls says about the picture he drew: Some of you boys are imdoubtedly wondering what this is all about. Well, it's very simple. That is. if you understand surrealism. If you don't, here's what surrealism is: a modem movement purporting to express the sub­ conscious mental activities by presenting images without order or sequence, as in a dream. It's just possible that I haven't followed the rules of that modernistic group exactly as I should have in this morbid layout, but that only means I've gone them one better. I'm ultra­ modern. I've created things I don't understand myself. The title is "Dissipation, or I See Myself in the Mirror on the Morning After." Now bear in mind that everything in the picture is symbolic of something. For instance, the highball suggests a highball. It's as easy as that! Note the hand of death removing the eiicephalon from the po' fellow's cranium. (Those of you who are interested in ophthalmoscopic and callosomarginal subjects should appreciate the allusion.) Next, we observe the wedding ring on the gal's thigh. That is to illustrate my contention that all marriages, under the circumstwces depicted, are founded on a purely physical basis. The broken cross symbolizes Christianity, crushed under the weight of such debauchery. And everything else you see resembles what it represents, or vice-versa. The snake? HelL 1 don't know. I haven't figured that one out yet. I am reminded of the feUow who was idlely daubling various shades of fuel oil on a board one day when a zealous art connoisseur happened by. seized the mess, gave the boy 2,000 bucks and won first prize in a modem art contest. (Ed. Note: We're ready for that highball.) Company Union Latest Disruptive Move By Cities Servire (Continued from Page 1) Relations Board as the sole bar­ gaining agency for the unlicensed personnel sailing Cities Service • Oil Company tankers," As every Seafarer knows, the SIU has been certified as sole bargaining agent for seven Cities Service ships, as the result of an overwhelming five-to-one vote in an NLRB election. As soon as an election can be held on the company's remaining ships, the SIU will be certified for the entire fleet. Page Seven In an attempt to make the company union seem like a swell deal for the working seaman, CTMA's literature tries to cite the success of the Esso Tankermen's Association in the Stand­ ard Oil Company of New Jer­ sey's fleet. No mention is made of the fact that you whistle for overtime on the Esso ^hips. The Esso fleet is the "No Over­ time Fleet," if you get up against an Esso Mate or Engi­ neer anxious to make himself a reputation, you can find yourself working 16 hours a day without any overtime at all. It's differ­ ent under an SIU contract, CTMA PFFT Cities Service thought up the company union a little too late to be effective, however. In the first place, the new union could not possibly be placed on a bal­ lot for at least a year to dispute the SIU's claim to the seven ships for which certification al­ ready has been won. And the new union is too late to be placed on the ballot in the election to be held on the other nine ships in the Cities Service fleet. What will render the CTMA completely unable to operate will be the fact that every man aboard a Cities Service ship who is for a legitimate union, the SIU, will sign up for the com­ pany union just to protect him­ self, Cities Service will be un­ able to tell them from anybody else, and one of Cities Service's main purposes will be defeated. In the end, the CTMA can't win anyway. During the past year, 107 pairs of glasses were supplied to Sea­ farers, the report shows, indi­ cating that several of the men purchased more than one pair. Total cost of examinations and glasses was $655.25, while the average cost of each pair of glasses purchased from the .plan by SIU members was only $6.12. The price of the glasses in­ cludes the fee for examinations. On the basis of the costs out­ lined in the Optical Plan re­ port, combined cash savings to SIU members participating in the program can be conserva­ tively estimated at more than a thousand dollars. Last year the SEAFARERS LOG received reports from many Union members stating that tiiey had been paying from $15 to $20 for glasses purchased from private sources, while in some cases the prices paid ranged as high as $30, depending upon the location of the shop, how quick­ ly the Seafarers needed them and similar factors. ACTION TAKEN This situation led to the adop­ tion of a resolution by the mem­ bership at a regular meeting in the spring of 1947, urging Head­ quarters to investigate the pos­ sibilities for providing members with competent professional ser­ vice and glasses at moderate costs. After careful and thorough study of many groups offering such services. Headquarters found that on the basis of repu­ tation, facilities and prices, the Union Optical Plan could offer most to Seafarers. Among the many labor organizations the UOP services are many locals of the International Ladies Gar­ ment Workers Union, AFL. The Union Optical Plan's pro­ gram for union members is open to all SIU men and their fami­ lies, All that is necessary in or­ der for., a Seafarer to prove his or his family's eligibility is to show his Union book when he goes to the UOP's offices at 152 Fourth Avenue, southeast corner of 14th Street, There is no membership fee or charge of any kind to either the Union or individual other than cost of examination and price of glasses. -it �Page Eighl THE SEAFARERS LOG FViday. November 5, 1948 SHIPS' MINUTES AND NEWS Race Men Ask Standard Slopchest On All Ships RUBY GARCIA IN ONE OF HIS 80 FIGHTS A suggestion to put an end to that old bugaboo, the sub-standard slopchest, through standardization of items as to number and quality, has been made by the crew By ROCKY BENSON of the SS Cape Race in express resolution adopted at a re­ their thanks to the SIU Negotiat­ ing Committee for the contract cent shipboard meeting. The men of the Cape Kace in recently signed with the opera­ their resolution note the fact that tors; others expressed apprecia­ SlU-contracted ships are stored tion for the excellent chow according to the whims of vari­ served by the galley gang. A ous port stewards with the result special vote of thanks went to that often low-grade brands are Chief Cook Wendt "for going out included but the price to the of his way to help make this a most pleasant voyage." crew is that of Grade-A items. The answer to the shortcom­ To conclude the meeting a ings they have found in South minute of silence for Brothers Atlantic's storing of ships and lost in the war was observed. the practices of other companies in the past, reported in the Photo shows Ruby Garcia, right, taking the best his pages of the LOG by irate Sea­ farers, is to '"have the SIU meet opponent. Juste Fontaine, could offer. Blow had no effect as with the operators and draw up Ruby went .on to win the fight. Bout took place a couple of a standardized storing list with years ago in Pittsburgh at the height of Ruby's career. It was strandardized brands for all SIU the first loss for his opponent—a protege of Frilzie Zivic— ships." The brands to be se­ lected, the Race men state, in 18 bouts. should be the finest obtainable. A far cry from the roughAt the meeting, which was chaired by Brother Joe Weridt house, hard timing type of and recorded by E. B. (Mac) skipper too often encount­ McAuley, the resolution, which ered on SIU ships is the Cap­ follows in its entirety, was tain of the Alexandra, Caradopted: "We the imdersigned, being ras Incorporated tanker, ac­ Roberto (Ruby) Garcia, well-known 29-year-old duly qualified members of the cording to a letter presented Seafarer and former welterweight fighter, was killed on Seafarers International Union do to the skipper by |:he crew, hereby make the following res­ a copy of which was for­ September 26 in a fall from the gangway of the SS olution: Kyska in Honolulu, the* Pep, featherweight titldholder "WHEREAS, SIU- contracted warded to the LOG. LOG learned this week. until last week. The Alexandra's Captain, vessels are being stored accord­ George Papaolis, the crew stated Born in Puerto Rico in 1919, Brother Garcia, who had a ing to the whims of various port in its message, . has gained the wide circle of friends and sup­ Brother Garcia, a bookmember, stewards; and "WHEREAS, The quality of heartfelt thanks of every man porters among Seafarers^ and sailed in the deck department the stores on board the.se ship i.s aboard for his cooperation fight fans, had been a member and while ashore made his home inferior, including low grade but throughout the trip and the con­ of the SIU since 1947 when he in New York with his aunt, Helen Fernandez, whom he high price merchandise in the cern he showed to a SIU man retired from the ring. during his illness. listed as his next of kin. slopchests; and A real battler with a record Further, the crew noted that of over eighty fights since 1940, In the SIU he is survived by "WHEREAS, The Union should go on record to have a standard­ if there were- more men like Brother Garcia had fought such a cousin, Julio Bernard. ized storing list with standard­ Captain Papaolis there would be name fighters At the time of Garcia's death, as Beau Jack, ized brands on all SIU ships; and better understanding between former lightweight king; Chalky his fellow crewmen aboard the "WHEREAS, We, the crew- crews and officers. The Alexan­ Wright, former featherweight Kyska raised the sum of $210 members of the SS Cape Race, dra men concluded their state­ champ; Ike Williams, present which was forwarded to his do hereby mge the necessary ment with the comment that lightweight champ, and Willie family in Puerto Rico. Union officials to meet with the they hope that future crews will steamship companies concerned reciprocate the Captain's good and negotiate for such storing will. lists with top quality brands to The message, which was signed be listed and specified by name; by the entire unlicensed crew, is as follows: therefore "We, the undersigned members "BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, of the SS Alexandra, wish to SEATRAIN NEW JERSEY, cording Secretary John Young. That subject to further member­ express our heartfelt thanks to Sept. 12 — Chairman Herb Minutes of previous meeting ac­ ship approval the officials meet with these companies in you as master of the Alexandra Knowles: Recording Secretary cepted. Ship's Delegate reported for your cooperation in making John Burg. The Delegates Re­ all in order except for beef about the near future." this a pleasant trip for all con­ ports were accepted. Motion car­ food. Motion \mder New Busi­ HIT THE DECK cerned. ried under New Business by ness to take action to have the Signing the resolution were "As a gentleman your attitude Mitchell, seconded by Stickney, to cramped living quarters of the Arthur Reinholdt, Joseph Zuk, of fair play toward the men un­ ask the Union Officials to move Stewards Department rectified. Joseph Wendt, R. B. McCorkel, der your command is to be ad­ the Hospital to the spare room Motion to call Union Officials E. B. McAuley, William J. Nich­ mired; your concern for our midships, so that the present aboard as soon as ship gets in, in olson, J. W. Pinge, J. B. Henley, Union brother who became ill ho.spital can be used for crew's order to straighten out beefs heand W. G. Breedlove. during the trip gained the re­ quarters and relieve the conges­ fore . payoff. Carried. One min­ Following the adoption of the spect of the entire crew. tion that now exists. Motion that ute of silence for departed resolution, the meeting went into "If there were more men like if the company doesn't take care Brothers.. Good and Welfare, where several you, we are sure there would of the mattresses and fans, the be better understanding between Hall be contacted about taking the officers and crews. We hope action to force the issue. Car­ that our Union brothers in fu­ ried. Under Education, Brother ture crews will show the same Knovrle* gave a short talk on If you don't find linen attitude toward you that you Union policy and the importance ft ft ft when you go aboard your have shown to us. We hope that of the $10 General Fund Assess­ JEAN LA FITTE, Sept. 10— ship, notify the Hall at once. we will be able to be together ment. One minute's silence for Chairman Melvin Kleiber; Re­ A telegram from Le Havre or again on another ship some day. lost Brothers. cording Secretary Chester SkaSingapore wdn't do you any "We close with the wish that 4^ ft t . kun. The Stewards Department good. It's your bed and you you will enjoy the best of luck, and may God speed you on your ALCOA POLARIS, Sept. II— Delegate , reported one NMU have to lie in ir. future voyages." Chairman Stacy -Masters; Re­ {Continued on Page 9^) SS Alexandra Skipper Wins Crew's Praise Ruby Garcia, Former Boxer, Dies In Plunge From Kyska MINUTES OF SIU SHIP MEETINGS DIGESTED FOR EASIER READING ATTENTION! How is your IQ, Seafarex-s? See if you can answer these 10 questions. Score: 6—fair, 8— very good, 10—tops. One point for each question. 1. How many buildings does the SIU own? 1. 4 2. 5 3. 6 4. 10 2. What is the name given the money used in Peru? 1. cruzeiro 2. peso 3. sol 4. bolivar 3. What is the length of the SS America? 1. 663 feet, 6 inches 2. 692 feet, 2 inches 3. 705 feet, 8 inches 4. 710 feet, 6 inches 4. In 'what month of 1948 did Smith and Johnson sign the new agreement with the SIU? 1. March 2. May 3. July 4. August 5. In what month was the new Hall in New Orleans opened? 1. May 2. Jime . 3. July 4. September 6. What wage is paid the Eva­ porator Maintenance Man on an Alcoa ship? 1. $231.07 2. $237.29 3. $241.05 4 $257.03 7. What are working hours' of the Night Cook and Baker on a cargo ship? 1. 2:00 AM to 10:00 AM 2. 3:00 AM to 11:00 AM 3. 12:30 PM to 8:30 AM 4. 10:00 PM to 6: AM 0. Wlxo won tlie baseball world series in 1945? 1. New York Yankees. 2. Brooklyn Dodgers 3. Detroit Tigers 4. St. Louis Cardinals 9. 'What month in 1946 did the United Financial Employes Strike against the Cotton Ex­ change? 1. February 2. March 3. April 4. May 10. Whose picture is on the new dixne? 1. Washington 2. Lincoln , ' 3. F. D. Roosevelt 4. Truman Answers to quiz on page 11. AHENTION! The slop chest is your cor­ ner store while you are at sea. You can't take your trade someplace else if the slop chest doesn't have what 'you'naed. �Friday, November 5, 1948 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Nine Digested Minutes Of SlU Ship Meetings (Continued from Page 8) member signed on in Cherbourg. Motion to have the Ship's Dele­ gate see the Captain for larger cigarette ration, and to ask for a larger draw in the States. Un­ der Good and Welfare the Deck Department was asked to clean up water in passageways after washing down. Members were asked to leave the messroom in better order. One minute of sil­ ence for Brothers lost at sea. 4. 3;. t SEATRAIN HAVANA. Sept. 15 —Chairman J. Hammond; Re­ SEATRAIN HAVANA. Sept. 7 cording Secretary W. Gardner. —Chairman Frank Walaska; Re­ J. Savant was elected Ship's cording Secretary W. Gardner. Delegate. V. Kickirillo was The standing of the member.ship elected Engine Delegate. The was reported by the Delegates. Deck Delegate repoited the No beefs, Under New Business, shower scuppers were not work­ motion carried that Wiper, who ing properly. Under New Busi­ was told by First Assistant to ness the newly elected Dele­ pay off, should stay on till he is gates were given a vote of con- fired with just- cause shown. The ^dence. Under Good and Wel­ Ship's Delegate was asked to see fare it was asked that the Ship's the First and* Chief about this Delegate see the Port Engineer matter. Under Good and Wel­ about changing location of laun­ fare a repair list was handed to dry tubs. More night lunch was the Delegates. The crew was requested and it was pointed out asked to cooperate in keeping that there should be separate the the messroom clean, and in plates for each watch. All were keeping linen and cots picked up. asked to cooperate in keeping One minute of silence for de­ the messhall clean. One minute parted Brothers. of silence was observed for de­ 4i 4 i parted Brothers. JULESBURG. Sept. 18—Chair­ man S. F. Brunson; Recording Secretary Alonso "Lulu" Horsey. The Engine Delegate asked that permits be substituted for non­ union men as soon as possible. Mo­ PETROLITk Sept. 10—Chair­ tion carried upder New Business man Maher; Recording Secretary that the bunks be fixed in the Bishop. Motion carried to post next port. Motion by J. A. Cave the pi-evious minutes. The that fines be imposed for leaving Ship's Delegate asked that a cups in messroom. Under Good letter be sent to the Negotiating and Welfare the case of the Committee thanking them for the Wiper was discussed and it was splendid work in obtaining the asked that he leave the ship. Hiring Hall. Motion carried that General discussion included the Ship's Delegate contact the cleanliness of ship and repairs, Purser and/or the Captain and i One minute of silence for find out what kind of money was Brothers lost at sea. used when Brother Carr was t paid off in Antwerp. Motion by MORNING LIGHT. Sept. 21— Brother Kelpss that whenever the ' chai^man"chaH*i^"EV WeUs; Reship picks up replacements Secrelarv Ralph T. Delegate, as Chairman, the Chief Cook, and the Deck and Engine Delegates. One minute of silence for lost Brothers. 4 4. 4 JAMES SWAN. Sept. 12— Chairman William Epps; Record­ ing Secretary William Fentress. The Ship's' Delegate reported that one man mis.sed the ship in Norfolk. The Deck Delegate reported another man jumped ship in Savannah the day of sailing foreign. Under New Business, motion by Bosun Bil? McNall, second by Jimmy Godsey, not to recommend the peti­ tion of a crewmember for a pei mit. There was a request under Good and Welfare that tlie Dele­ gates see that candy is put into the slopchest next trip. One minute of silence for departed Brothers. t 4. 4> STEEL DESIGNER. Sept. 12— Chairman A. Vazquez; Recording Secretary J. Barnes. The Deck and Engine Delegates reported disputed overtime. The Ship's Delegate said that he had asked the Captain about sougeeing and painting foc'sles, and that it was to be done. He reported a very pleasant trip with no beefs among crew. Brother Vazquez gave a talk on unionism, and the importance of each man carrying his part of the load. Several motions were carried under New Business relating to the payoff. General discussion under Good and Welfare, which included cleanliness and repairs. One minute of silence for lost Brothers. 4 4 4 EDITH, Sept. 13 — Chairman Pat Robertson; Recording Secre­ tary Louis S. Rizzo. The Stew­ ards Delegate reported a beef about the Night Cook and Baker who was drunk and dis­ orderly for nine days, and did not take care of his job. It was recommended that he be turned over to a trial committee in Baltimore. The man pleaded to be allowed to pay off in Boca Grande, and the request was granted. New Business: Woodrow DeHaven elected Ship's Delegate by acclamation. Under Good and Welfare the Crew Pantryman was warned that his permit would be turned over to the next Patrolman if he con­ tinued performing. The crew voted 100 percent in favor of the General Fund Assessment. One minute of silence for lost Brothers. T I Whitley. Minutes' of previous they should be encouraged to accepted, tend our meetings and learn union meanings and activibes rather than. to, be discouraged .benefit oi the ^ men. The rru„ Engine and antagonize . e wan m j^gjgggte reported disputed overto booome I time for late sailing in Mayaguez. disputed overtime reported Maher. that at the next meeting stewards Delegate. Mochairman read the Preamble and tion under New Business to have the Pledge of Obligation of a the PO messioum turned into a full book member, for the bene­ foc'sle for the Electricians. Under fit of the Permit members who Good and Welfare there was dis­ are not familiar with the SIU. cussion on cleaning gear locker Also that a letter be sent to the on main deck and turning in re­ Secretary-Treasurer asking that pair list. One minute's silence the Permitmen of this ship, for lost Brothers. who will have been out for one year, be given all considera­ tion due within* established Union policy. Carried. One 4 4 4 minute of silence in memory of ALCOA POINTER. Sept. 13— departed Brothers. Chairman Matt Newsome: Re­ » ^ cording Secretary R. A. Eden. BETHORE. Sept. 12 — Chair­ man T. M. Jones; Recording Sec­ The previous minutes and the Delegates reports were accepted. retary Ernest Black. Delegates reported on standing of the Brother Newsome a.ske^ that a 4 4. 4. SOUTHSTAR. Sept. 12—Chair­ resolution be passed up and membership. Under Old Busi­ man E. J. Kelly; Recording Sec­ down the coast that any Patrol­ ness it was moved that the case of the Brother who was removed retary Alfex James. The Ship's man coming aboard any SIU from the ship and jailed by the Delegate reported that he had ship make himself known by Immigration Officer, then re­ not been able to get anything presenting identification. Under turned to ship just before sail­ done about the library shelves New Business a* motion was ing time, be taken up with the so far. The meeting went into made ^ that every Department Patrolman when the ship reaches Good and Welfare where there Delegate be informed of beefs home port. The meeting went was discu.<?sion on painting before they are taken to the into Good and Welfare, where foc'sles and making up a repair Ship's Delegate. Under Good and a vote of thanks was extended list. It was decided to take up Welfare there was discussion by to the Stewards Department. It a collectioil to pay for a phono­ Brother McGuffy on care of • was suggested that electric fans, graph. There was a report on porthole dogs, and by Brother toasters, and perfculators be put vermin aboard ship. A commit­ Darnell on cleanliness of pantry. in the messrooms. One minute's tee was appointed Jo deal with Minute's silence for. departed this, composed of the Ship's Brothers. Silence for lost Brothers.' -.•vU. EE TO IT THAT YOUR SHIP'S LIBRARY IS FULLY SroCKE'D _ Wl-TH THE UAJ'.OA/'S E•DUCATlC^/AU //ATERIAL : BOUAJD VOLU/MESOF TMH LOS- A/OPALLTWe UA/IOAJ'S TAMPHLET-S - AMD USE THIS (SEAR IM COM^UMGTIOA/ WITH THE SMlPBoAR'D E.DU<2AT»0/V/ AHEETIN(^S ^ CUT and RUN By HANK Last week shipping was suddenly good and it gave the full house on the second deck a temporary "new look" of brothers leaving for their ships instead of a slow beer, a hot cup of java or a short landlubber's walk. Brother Joe Cabral was one of the lucky beachcombers to grab the Seatrader—bound for Haifa and Mexico... Brother Henry Beckmann writes—"So my shipmate, Harold Farrington, wonders where I'm at. Sometimes I wonder too. I'm strike-bound here in Frisco and looking forward to Waterman's new 'Young America,' at present in a Tacoma ship­ yard. How's Duffy's Bar nowadays? Hope to return to New York after next trip." , 4 4 4 There's a new sea novel called A Convoy Through A Dream, by Scott Williamson, published by Macmillan Co., $3.50... Brother Fred Hethcoat, the oldtimer. writes from Galveston and says that for an SIU brother to be without his Union paper to read every week is like being in the desert without water. 4 4 4 This seems to be mail week. Brother Eddie Mooney suddenly postcards us from Venezuela saying he's finishing his fourth trip aboard the Alcoa Corsair as Chief Steward. He sends his best re­ gards to the brothers on the beach and those volunteering to help other unions in their beefs... The following brothers wiU be receiving the weekly LOG free of cost to their homes: George Gardner of Minnesota, Giles Quinn of Alabama, L. H. Pentecost of Florida, Lloyd Deen of Georgia, Richard Leikas of Arizona, lYancis Petitpas of California, Gene Jackson of North Carolina, Stephen Sopko of Pennsylvania, Frank Ralasia of Pennsylvania, William Parker of Florida, Victor Gilliland of Virginia. 4 4 4 ' A new furnover of oldiimers are in lown and here are most of them: H. Robinson, A. Burgos, J. H, Joy, J. Jaranilla. E. Blaha, John Stefanik, B. Charles. J. Weimer. L. Ellorin. J. Walsh, P. Norton, V. Holton, James Renard. H. C. Peterson, H. Morris. A. Schiavone, G. Bryan, C. E. Brady, J. Meeks, F. Mazet, W. Guenther, M. Ellsworth, Pat Nash. Know any of them? 4 4 4 Although Brother Ray Queen isn't a sea-lawyer he's still taU. tough and technically poetic, since he knows the classic works or the poets and has been versitile enough to have written some poems, too. The poem "He Learned About Women From Her" that we mentioned recently is a line from Rudyard Kipling's poem "To The Ladies," says Ray. By the way, he wants to know who wrote the poem "Inchcape Rock," which is about a ship that ran aground on a rock. Anybody know the post? • i?.P, ' 4 4^4 While more than twelve SIU ships are tied up, the battle of survival in the West Coast maritime strike (now eight weeks old) is changing its tune from the "freeze-up" waltz to a "hot agreement" polka. The MEBA has signed and the MFOWW probably will too. This leaves the CIO Cooks and Stewards and the CIO longshoremen still holding their political pink punching bags. Thus we see how the Taft-Hartley unionbusting law and the communists permanently wiped out thous­ ands of shipboard jobs for the majority of loyal American West Coast seamen—and destroyed the bargaining strength of these, unions. The shipowners wanted this. The SIU stands prepared against any such treacherous future. �Page Tan THE SEAFARERS LOG Fnday, November 5, 1948 SPEAKS Brother Says Patience Is A Must At Meetings NIGHT'LIFING ON "THE GREAT WHITE WAY •>* no chance to be presented to the membership. Under Robert's Rules of Or­ Furthermore, we give no der, it is the privilege of any chance to our Patrolmen and member attending our Union elected officials to answer unfair meetings to make a motion to criticism often mumbled by cer adjourn the meeting just as soon tain members in the Seafarers as the chairman and secretary We give no chance to our per are elected. Hawever, in a demo­ mitmen (who pay the same- dues and assessments as the bookmen) cratic organization such as the when we rush our meetings Seafarers, where it has been the through in the fashion of the policy of our membership to ex­ meeting of October 20th. They tend to our officials the courtesy have no possible chance of of permitting them to complete learning a thing about our Un­ the agenda. Last Wednesday ion structure and policies. That night's meeting unfortunately they deserve attention, surely no was a sharp break from our bonafide Seafarer can deny. sound policy of the past. I say, KEEP STEADY COURSE "unfortunately" because when we begin to rush through meet­ As a member of this organiza­ ings many important issues have tion for over five years, during A quartet of SIU oldtimers toured New York's "Great While Way" recently and at the which time I had the pleasure of Metropole posed for their pictures. Attraction at the Metropole is the floor show that is staged •seeing the Seafarers rise in in the center of the circular bar. Brothers are, left to right—Scotty, Matt Fields, William Wild strength, based on the just policy and Lou Galvani. of having all issues discussed pro and con' at our meetings, I say, let's not veer from the course of making our meetings constructive and instructive. To the Editor: tional costumes made of brightly stayed was approximately 20 feet To the Editor: ^ Up and down the coast in Let's give consideration to our beaded deerskin with their fea­ in diameter. The dirt floor was ^ every SIU Hall the membership elected officials by allowing them I am enclosing some snapshots ther-bedecked head dresses, they covered with a layer of straw is complaining about the cramp­ time to make a full report on taken during my recent risit to ;;;\;th;;*7e"rriSng7"67"course and over the straw rugs were ed conditions. Well, little or all issues. Also, let's keep the the Pendelton Round-Up, an they are all exceptionally easy­ placed that completely covered nothing has been said about the permitmen (our future bookmen) event of some importance to going, peaceful people, but it the straw. Beds were made up San Juan Hall. This little shack in mind before we try to rush most Westerners. I had never does not take a great deal of by placing mattresses against the been to the celebration before, imagination to be thankful that sides of the teepee, with the should be used to keep chickens the meeting through. or pigeons -in—not as a Union Since the beer.joints are open and of course neither had my you are viewing these people Jeet pointing toward the center Hall. until 4:00 A.M., none of us need friends, so it was quite a sight on paved streets in the year 1948, of the tent. There were about be in fear of hitting the sack for us. The little Indian girl rather than meeting them on the six of these beds to a teepee the When we hold a meeting, half with me was one of the "Prin­ western plains in the year 1848. size of the one we stayed in. of the Brothers are out in the without a last cold one. cesses" for the affair. street. The last meeting, I had Bill Dorann Although I was not sorry to TOURIST TRAP The Round-Up is an event to sit in the Dispatcher's chair have had the experience, still I My friends and I lived in asting four days, during which because of the lack of room up was glad when we all got back front. the atmosphere of the Old West Teepee Town during our stay at to town again and into my apart­ is recaptured, at least in part. Pendelton. Teepee Town is a The San Juan Hall is just as ment where there was a bath­ There ware parades through the village of Indian tents which important as any other Hall. In room and hot and cold water streets of the small town of springs up overnight during fact it is the opinion of the available with the turn of the i'endelton, Oregon, and the par­ Round-Up time. Tourists are al­ beachcombers that it is more tap, to say nothing of polished ticipants are dressed in the ways interested in the way the important than any other. Most Indians lived in the old days and floors instead of a straw mat. manner of the early days. of the time there are three or To the Editor: If I attend the Round-Up in The Indians lend a great deal this is supposed to represent just four ships in the port of San This is to inform you that on the future I will have a hotel that. of color and reality to the spec­ Juan, and being good Union room and let someone else have my way to New York, through Anyway, the teepee where we tacle. In fact, in their tradimen, the Brothers attend the the honor of re-living the. old meetings. It is pretty discourag­ Chicago, I stopped and convers­ days with an "Indian Princess." ing to have to stand out in the ed with a picket captain of the Now that it's over with, however, street when you hat^e an inter­ Chicago Typographical Union I can say that I had a wonderful est in your Union and want to Number 16, of 130 North Wells time. catch up on what is going on. I. H, Pepper Most of the Brothers want to Street, Chicago, Illinois. adjourn the meeting as soon as As the squads were changing, possible because they >feel so he invited me to come to their SALTY DICK FAN cramped and uncomfortable. Union Hall. There I met and SAYS FIZZ WON'T talked with Mr. Charles TamBIG EVENT birino, who is their picket com­ CRUMBLE CHOPPERS A new Hall with plenty of mitteeman, and works for the To the Editor: room to hold and conduct meet­ Chicago Herald American. ings and Union business would These men have been out on In reference to an article in mean more to the Union Bro­ strike since November. The TaftSalty Dick's column, "The Voice thers who use San Juan as their Hartley Law is giving these boys Of The Sea" in the Sept. 17 home port than if Don Q rum a lot of trouble and the papers edition of the LOG (Ed. Note: went down to 50 cents a quart. are trying to stop all union "Salty" quipped about certain The new Hall should have funds. This strike is being fought plenty of recreational facilities mostly in the courts. They would soft - drinks "softening the for Brothers waiting to ship out. be very glad to receive the teeth"), I would like to quote As it stands now, we have one SEAFARERS LOG and will send from page" 81 of the October • set of dominoes for all the their own Union literature. Coronet: Brothers on the beach. As for myself, I am heading "Dental authorities say there All you men who ship from for New York today and should is no such thing as 'soft' teeth. here should voice your opinion arrive Saturday. I hope shipping Examination of thousands of in the LOG. If you will do that is good, and that I can get out. teeth shows practically no dif­ 'and let the general membership Here's luck to all of the fellows! ference in structure or chemical know that we're stiU on the composition." C. Sypher map, we might get a new Hall down here. (Ed. Note: The Chicago Just thought you'd like to know. / ^ Patrick Dunphy Printer:^ will begin receiving Brother Pepper stands before a tepee with the Indian n. •— • San Juan, P.H. Irene Lukacs pnncess. . the LOG unr.:?diaiely.) To Ihe Editor: Brother Makes Plea For Hall In San Juan t'-7. Pepper Finds Teepee Life Hard On Paleface Chicago Typos Show Seafarer Strike Set-Up �Friday, Novetnbar 5, 1948 THE SEAFARERS LOG Claims Skipper Is Killjoy Check |t—But Good the slop chest be­ To Otherwise Good Voyage foreCheck your boat sails. Make To the Editor: ; for throwing matches on the deck. But aside from him, the The Department Delegates of crewmembers and officers are a the SS Anni.ston City asked me pretty swell bunch of fellows. to write this letter, which we Vincent (Ke'lly) Keller Ship's Delegate hope will be published in the LOG in order to give the mem­ bership an idea of what it is like aboard one of the oldest Isthmian ships. sure that the slop chest con­ tains an adequate supply of all the things you are liable to need. If it doesn't, call the Union Hall immediately. MEMBERS OF THE SYDNEY SHORT CREW The ship is all right but the Captain thinks he is the Al­ mighty himself. Here are some of the cute tricks that he bulls: He gets up at 5:00 A.M. with a full-dress uniform—white at that — and expounds to the wheelsman the virtues of the Isthmian seamen who sailed the ship before the Union came into the picture. He states that be­ fore men stayed aboard trip after trip; now they get off after each trip as if the ship had some kind of disease. Maybe it has with him aboard! He has stated that he could make the crew work sixteen hours a day if he wanted to. As far as overtime is concerned, there isn't any. The way he puts it, there will be plenty when the ship starts for home. Of course this will be just to make the ship look pretty for the owners when we get back, so that he will get a pat on the back as he is expecting. But for the present the crew has to live on a filthy ship! Four members of the Sydney Short, Alcoa, crew, which recently paid off in New Orleans. Left to right—Chief Cook Mack, Bosun, Chilism and Laverick. Pictures were sent in by Bull Sheppard, N.O. Agent. 4- HANDS ARE TIED Though the Chief Mate is a pretty good guy, the Old Man is holding him back so that he has his hands tied. The ship is in such bad condition that it would make a tramp look like the Queen Mary. The Bosun tried to get the Old Man to give out some overtime to get the ship into shape so the men could live like human beings, but that was no dice. The Old Man won't let him break out any of the gang to clean her up. He keeps telling the Bosun about the company's economy With a n}op and paint brush program—in the meantime, the two Short crewmen give the ship continues to look like a deck a soogeeing and swab­ floating junk pile. The Old Man has even as­ bing. Men are Tony Carreuio, serted that he can log a man AB, and George Gierchic, OS. SIU Men Find Honduran Ship Rugged In Georgetown, B. G. we boarded the Alcoa Pointer on a We take great pride in writ­ visit, and were made to feel at ing to you about an incident in home. After living under the which the unity of the SIU has conditions that prevailed on the again been upheld. A Brother Dolly Madison — namely the Is a Brother regardless whether wages, lack of overtime, poor it be on land or St sea, from the sanitary conditions, and above same ship or another. all the grub—we were not sur­ During the last slump of ship­ prised that the boys felt kind of ping in Mobile, hundreds of I sorry for us. Brothers were stuck on the j Thanks to the swell fellows on beach. Many of these were per- I this ship, headed by "Goldy" jmitmen and of these, quite a few Goldsmith, Chief Steward, our were aliens. mental depression " was immedi­ Every seaman is more or less ately relieved. familiar with the immigration This voluntary action of our laws, and knows that an alien Brothers, was greatly appreciated has but 29 days ashore. Quite beyond what anyone can imagine a few of these found themselves —which goes to prove the unity, in deep water. It was a question benevolence and understanding of a ship or deportation. that the SIU preaches and prac­ Under these circumstances four tices. , alien Brothers — all in good Through this letter we wish to standing—signed on a Honduran express pur gratitude for the ship, the SS Dolly Madison. Con­ unity of the greatest seaman's ditions aboard this ship Were Union in the world! bbviously not anywhere near tl^ Rafael Ganiz Standard maintained aboard SIU . ' Charles T. Ganiz fcohtrdcted ships; but no other Alphonso Teodorini kltefnative was offered. It was Gerard- Ateen a questibii" of having to go. To the Editor: Delegate Wins Medical Aid For Man Skipper Rebuffed To the Editor: This is a harp and barking beef from the Alcoa Pioneer about the hard time some of the crewmembers, v/ho have become ill, have had in obtaining medi­ cal attention. One Brother, the Bedroom Utility developed external hemorroids that were so bad he could hardly navigate. Another Brother, the Utility Messman, fell down a nine or ten rung ladder with a big bag of laundry on his shoulders, and bruised and sprained his back so badly that he could not bend over to take off his .shoes. After much debate between the Stewards Delegate, Jimmie Prestwood, and the Captain, the Skipper finally called a doctor— the Company doctor at that. The medico stated that both men should be hospitalized. However, the next morning when the Brothers were ready to go * to the hospital, he changed his mind, and stated that they were both fit for sea duty. Prestwood, in his capacity as Delegate, then went to the Cap­ tain (sometimes called Preacher Pembrooke) and demanded that the two men be sent to the Pub- Heyward Crew Recommends Trieste For Enjoyable Time To the Editor: We, the crew of the SS Thomas Heyward, wish to de­ clare ourselves as one satisfied crew! Now that we are com­ pleting one of a number of voyages on this vessel, we will start by letting the membership know that we all have a high esteem for the Master of this steamboat. Captain Royace H. Graham of Mobile, Alabama. A Skipper who is tolerant and understanding, he will always have the respect of the entire crew. Now that he is going on vaca­ tion, we wish him the best of luck and a wonderful time. We have found the Mates, too, to be good Joe's, and we want to thank them for their coopera­ tion. And now a word about the crew: The Steward, Jimmy Ro­ wan, has proven to be not only a good Steward, but a friend and Grundy Crewmember Page Eleven lie Health clinic for examina­ tion. The request was emphatic­ ally refused, Prestwood then took the BR to the American Consul in Mon­ treal, Canada, and the SIU Rep­ resentative, Brother McDonald, went along. Later that evening the BR was taken to the Public Health clinic. The medico there stated that both men were okay for sea duty, but that they should take it easy. He instruct­ ed the Utility Messman to have his back strapped very tightly for quite a while. The vessel then went to Hali­ fax. A day before departure, the BR doubled up in a spasm from the pain in 'his back. Prestwood was called into the foc'sle and upon .seeing the Brother in such pain and unable to talk, he went immediately to the Skipper and 2nd Mate, and requested an am­ bulance at once. The Captain said that he had an appointment with the doctor at 2 P.M. It was then 12:15 P.M., and Prestwood insisted that the boy needed medical attention at once and not an hour or two later. When he asked the Cap- \$ THERE- A •pOCTOT^ IH •Wt£--rtOU^£-/ pal. In the galley we have A. M. Hakelberg, Chief Cook; J. W. Eichenberg, Night Cook and Baker, and Jimmy "Knot Head" Jackson, Third Cook. No beefs, no complaints. The food is tops. We have just left Trieste which we found to be a swell port wher^ we all had a fine time. We recommend it to all for wine, women and song. It can be seen from the draw list of this vessel -that the crew of the Thomas Heyward bought their share of stock in the fair city of Trieste. tain's permission to take the man to the hospital or to a doc­ tor, he was given an order to leave the man alone. After some exchange of words between the Steward and Prest­ wood, the Captain gave his per­ mission. When the doctor saw the man, he ordered him hospi_ talized. SCALPED 'EM I The Utility Messman, after be­ We were very fortunate to ing taped up around his back have several tonsorial artists and belly, has stayed aboard and aboard. Inclosed is a photograph tried to do his work; but will that gives a sample of their probably liave to hit the hospi­ handiwork on the way over. tal upon arrival in the Stales. A Anyone wishing to risk the few other incidents have occur­ shears of these artists—who are red in regards to medical atten­ all book members—may contact tion; but we will take those beefs into the port of payoff them aboard ship. We will hit the States in a along with this one. typical SIU ship: in good shape SET-UP A FARCE and without beefs of any kind. Brother Editor, the medical Larry Bergren, set-up on this ship is really a Engine Delegate farce, and the SEAFARERS LOG Jimmy Slavin. is our way of informing the Deck Delegate whole membership. The 2nd Willie Forney. Mate, who handles the medical Stewards Delegate chest, seems to have the feeling James Eichenberg, that he is paying for the sup­ Ship's Delegate plies out of .his own pocket. If one of us should happen to break a leg, he is apt to give you three CC pills and then break your arms doing hand­ 1. 5 buildings springs to the rest room. From the look of matters, we'd sug­ 2. sol gest that we paint a hospital 3. 663 feet, 6 inches cross on the'port side, starboard side, and on the smoke stack 4. August and the Charlie Noble (if we 5. July had one on this tub). Otherwise things are going 6. $237.29 fairly smooth, except the usual and very rancid beef that is 7. 2:00 AM to 10:00 AM always on this vessel: namely 8. Detroit Tigers the dictatorial policies of the Chief Engineer. 9. March J. H. Gleason 10. F. D. Roosevelt Black Gang Delegate Quiz Answers Anthony (Tony) Parker, crewmember of the Felix Grundy, gives the photog­ rapher e big smUe. Tony is one of two Parker brothers in the Union, his brother Gil­ bert being an SIU oldtimer. ..•w® I •Sjjl �Pag» Twrtvv TUE SEAFARERS Retired Member Asks Draft Status Of Wartime Seamen Friday, NoTembtr 5/19t8 LOG GUESTS AT "DIRTY DICK'S" IN NASSAU wm To the Editor: of our famous generals during the I am a retired bookman of the _ invasion , , of . Normandy, and , SUP, but I have done most of afterwards about the work the my shipping on SIU ships and ."merchant marine did m supplyon the East Coast. The war in-,^"® the men that hit the beaches? would suggest that since this terrupted my plan to go to' 'bill is open-for amendment, that go back to school. some of the men that are in­ I have been, however, receiv- terested should write to their •ing the LOG for over a year j Congressmen. But don't ask them now and I want to say that I j think it IS a fine paper, well found out they will get no more adapted to the needs of Union information than they could get seamen both on shore and aboard from the daily paper. ship. I find it an excellent way . Herbert M. Widdowson to keep in contact with what (Ed. Note: As things now the SIU is doing, as well as to keep track of some of them stand the status of each indi­ men that I shipped with and vidual seamen, active or re­ tired is entirely in the hands vessels that I sailed. of his local draft hoard. A Before I go any further number of articles have been though, I would like to state Entering into the gay whirl of Bahama society. Bob High published in recent issues of the purpose of this letter: I am and Frenchy Ruf take in a festive evening at the well-known sure that most people have heard the LOG on this subject. The Nassau nitery, "Dirty Dick's." In the note which was enclosed the phrase, "Write to your con­ July 30 issue carried the story with the picture, their companions were described at "sea­ gressman." Well I did just that of the action of our Secretaryworthy friends." Brothers High and Ruf were crewmembers of and requested an answer to a Treasurer in wiring President the Evangeline at the time. question I think is of interest to Truman urging him to "in­ most seamen. I asked that sea­ struct Director of Selective men who have served as much Service to grant draft exemp­ time on the ships as others serv­ tion to U.S. seamen who ed in the armed service be sailed our nation's vessels and classed as exempt from this new thus kept democracy's life­ taxpayers burden known as the lines open under enemy fire in Selective Service Act. Well, the World War II." physicians and pretty nurses To the Editor: (On the front page of the answer that I got was a fine made their improvement almost It is about time that Brothers miraculously fast. example of evasion, or else he LOG for Sept. 10 is an ar­ just didn't know what was going ticle giving the information ashore found out about the As for the Steward Depart­ that the matter is being left maiden voyage of the SS Steel on in Congress. ment, we have yet to find out to the local boards.) STILL IN DITHER for whom we are working—the Voyager. It seems that no one knows Things went swell all the way Steward or the Captain. The Steward has been with Isthmian as yet what the status will be Asks Friends over to Arabia, but after arrival for many years and is so indoc­ for merchant seamen living on To Write Him a couple of Brothers became trinated with their anti-union shore whether they have their To the Editor: very sick. One AB who was policies that he is almost beyond certificate of continuous service I have been in the hospital quite ill with yellow jaundice hope. The Captain winds him or not. So now I am doing what I here at Brighton since May 28, waited in the intense heat be­ up every morning and he goes should have done in the first 1947. Time is heavy on one's till he runs down, then heads off place, namely write to the LOG hands while recuperating, and fore being admitted to the hos­ to bed. where I know I will get the |-I would enjoy very much hear- pital. Another Brother, after SCRATCH ONE score, if any information is ing from SIU members and haying the Mate and Master use their phony remedies for two friends. Drop me a card br let­ available on the matter. The Saloon Pantryman drop­ Will we be subjected to the ter if you have a spare mo- weeks, become so sick that he ped and broke a couple of dishes was sent to the hospital too. Brass Hats' control again as we ^ ment. and was informed by the Mas­ After being admitted to the ter that every such incident J. C. Hensley were in World War II? Do the U.S. Marine Hospital hospital, both found conditions shortens the life of the SIU. Brass Hats in the Government extremely up to date. Fine Down below the officers have no Brighton. Mass. forget what was said by one more authority than a first trip Wiper. The Chief Engineer prac­ YOU <5UY$ ALWAYS TALK ABCHJT THf FAI^ tically lives in the engine room, , YOUW GONNA HAVE-.WELL,I ALREADY GOT MINE!! ACCORDING TO HINV. and has to okay even the most FfRT/LE IN TH' Vi?RU)... LAST YEAR IITH' MARSHALL PUM trivial orders before then can RAKED 20,000 WJSHELS OF T0MAT(£?f5 816 AS PUWKINSr CAN GET ALONG ON be executed. Thus the Oilers AND 5,000 TON 0'WTATOES BIOOER'N'STUD UNKS... MDW JUST WHAT COMES have the same problem as the TAKIAlYHfRD OF LIVESTOCK-WHY 160T ORE COW FROM HIS FARIYV... men in the Stewards Department ALONE THAT GIVES 2S GALLON OF MILK A DAY— , THE m SCIENTISTS COME FROM ALL OVER TO STUDY in that they never know for HER.....OFCOUI^E MY WIFE MANA6CS MY PLACE whom they are working the First WHILE I'M AWAY-MY ESTATE IS Assistant or the Chief Engineer. , CALLED-ROCK CANDY ACRES"— At first it was not surprising \ NOW TAKE MY POULTRY.. ETC,ETC. to see the Captain on deck, but ' it didn't take the Bosun long to THAT AIN'T A FARMget this straightened out. THAT'S A Well, fellows, it is getting late MONOPOLY \ and this message has to be in the ON THE \ o mail very shortly, so will sign PRODUCE off. M.ARKET. Crew of SS Steel Voyager Port Said. Egypt Racing Tankers By WANDERING SEAFARER Here's to the racing tankers Beating up the coast. Loaded with gas for the cities. To these I give a toast. Here's to the crews who man them. On these modern life depends: The millions of cars on high­ ways. All these the tankers tend. Through storms and calms They plunge upon their way To God-forsaken oil docks Where towns are miles away. The seamen on the tanker decks Gaze wistfully on the shore. As the Mate posts up the message. "We sail in four hours more." Voyager's Divided Command Makes Maiden Trip Rugged Ah, restless are the tankers As they shuttle on the coasts. Full-laden with sinews of power— To the crews I raise a toast. Oh. hearts and home are far away. Though they be e'er so near; There's no time for a shore leave To visit loved ones dear. It's in and out. It's up and go! Forever on your way; The power .and heat for our cities— No time is there to stay. So here's to the tanker crew­ men. Here's to their lonely lives. Here's to their wives and children. Here's to the SIU drivel On Overtime To insure payment, all claims for overtime must be turned in to the heads of de­ partments no later than 72 hours following the completion of the overtime work. As soon as the penally work is done, a record should be given to the Department head, and one copy held by the man doing the job. In addition the depart­ mental delegates should check on all overtime sheets 72 hours before the ship makes port. J Praise Staff Of San Juan Hospital To the Editor: We would like for you to print this article in the LOG; We, the patients of the US Marine Hospital at San Juan, Puerto Rico, thank the crew of the SS Morning Light, of the Attention Members! All applications for unemploy­ ment insurance in New York City must be made through the offices at 277 Canal Street, in­ stead of the District offices, at formerly. Waterman Steamship Company, for their kind attention at the time that we needed.it, and espe­ cially for the cigarettes and fruit they brought us. Thanks to the US Marine Hos­ pital Doctors M. S. Cashion, Springer, Lemon, and Coca-Mir, and to the Staff Nurses and em­ ployees, we are getting the best of treatment and attention; Thanks to all. R. Seijo Eugene B. Holmes William Sullivan Rafael Torres Juan R. Pagan » James R. Gamer IF MY URGCAUY HU6BAND W^ULD fTAY HOMF mETEAD PLAYING THE ABSENTEE LANDLOW,I MIGHT BE ABLE TO GET SOlAEfHiNd DONE AROUND THIS ROCKBOUND PLACE. me ni(«A-scABU| COUNTRY BEFORE.. ITMU6T HAVE BEEN CARRIED IN BY S<W.EOilEj^H^ECTeD VYITH A Yf (imilE, BACK ff mK CWDY iUCftESl SClEHTlSrl �Friday. Novembar 5. 1948 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Thirteen Membership Comments On Transportation Rule Fairisle Crewmembers Seek Time Extension In Ruling To the Editor: Since the Union rule calling for men to take transportation money and pile off after a trip ending in a port other than the payoff port went into effect, many opinions pro and con have been express­ ed in the LOG and at membership meetings. On this page is a sampling of member­ ship opinions. Argu­ ments for and against the rule are given al­ most equal space. Bro­ thers having points to add on the subject are urged to write to the SEAFARERS LOG. Believe Sacrifice Small, Gain Great Under SIU Rule department—be allowed to sail To Ihe Editor: get their ships back to the port on each SIU ship, so as to give of signing on. But if we let the As th^ LOG requested the them .a break in these tough We have been reading the let­ transportation clause lapse by opinion of SIU members regard­ times. ters in recent LOGs registering not taking our money, the com­ ing the transportation clause in kicks about the transportation We believe that each member panies will be glad to forget the new contract, we of the should be allowed to sail foreign ruling and as near as we can about it. Stewards Department of the SB for a period of at least sixty figure it all boils down to this: Fairisle wish to express our ver­ days when transportation is in­ It is plain to see that in the A lot of guys seem to think they sion of that clause. majority of SIU payoffs no trans­ are going to be in for onevolved, and not longer than six month trips, and two months on portation is involved. But in Shipping has been very slow, months on coastwise or near-for­ those where it is involved, the the beach from now on. as we all know, and it has been eign ships or intercoastals. present ruling requiring all to The fact of the matter, how­ necessary for some key men, Two short foreign trips will ever, is quite the opposite. Most take their transportation money such as Cooks, Stewards and take a little longer than sixty ships are on regular runs. Be­ and re-register at the Hall, first Bakers to remain on the beach days, but at least the member sides, since the contract calls for of all insures that the company for six or eight weeks. will have a few dollars to take the company to pay the trans­ fulfills the full meaning of the When they ship out after that home. On coastwise ships portation of the crews back to contract without getting any period—and it often is even he wiU have " the choice of at the area from which they ship­ kickbacks; and secondly it longer—they usually leave debts least two calls in his home port. ped, the companies do the best means a greater job turnover and In submitting this opinion, we and obligations which are diffi­ they can at the present time to resulting benefit to shipping cult for them and their families hope it will be of help in work­ generally. ing out a solution that will to adjust. We understand that this clause benefit the membership as a ALL BENEFICIAL works for the welfare of the whole and clear up the present Every one of these results is members as a whole, which is misunderstandings. beneficial to the Union. Every To the Editor: takes away that for which we Robert D. Phifer Unionism at its best; however, one of them is fair to one and fought: job security. Where does T. Herein the Union stands for job security, I first went to sea in the year all alike. If you happen to be the vacation clause do us any P. H. LaCoste and a member in good standing 1929. Things were bad in those one of the few Brothers asked good now if this ruling stays in Ralph Weeks should have the right to work at times, but as the years rolled at some time to get off a ship effect? I, as well as a lot of John Dawning his trade for a reasonable length by, the seamen's unions grew when you would rather make others, might as weU give up stronger, and conditions and of time. I another trip, just remember that foreign runs and stay coastwise. wages began improving. Job We feel that this ruling will you have the same chance to be EXPRESS VIEWS security, vacation clauses, over­ drive members into other lines one of the Brothers helped off time, and the unheard of time If enough men will write into of employment, and force a lot off on Sunday at sea came into the LOG expressing their views the beach by it. of brothers to retire their books. being. it might come to a head so that Let's not undermine the spirit This we feel is not good for the But now as I write this I am we can change this provision. and smooth operation of our Union. Yet it must be cealized sore as a boil over the part in It is my opinion that we should agreement by making 60 day or that under the present conditions the new agreement providing at least leave it up to each man 90 day exception. If you happen many cannot support their fam­ To the Editor: ilies or pay their debts. Considering the current dis­ that we have to get off the ship if he wants to accept or reject someday to be one of the few cussion of the transportation when transportation is involved. the transportation; or at least Brothers asked to make this SEES SWITCH-UP ruling, it is felt that by speed­ We give permitmen 60 days on we should give a man 90 days small sacrifice of getting off, just If a bookman joins a ship in ing up the turnover on the coastwise ships, and a round on a ship. I urge every member remember that it is a mighty the Gulf, after waiting for .six or ships a more equal distribution trip iri foreign runs; but we now to write to the LOG and voice small sacrifice compared to the sacrifices that have gone into eight weeks, and makes a short of jobs is achieved which is fair put ourselves—^that is bookmen his opinion on this matter. —in the same position. Suppose A lot of the members who building of our Union and its to all and increases the job se­ foreign trip and returns to New voted Yes for this didn't know we sign on in Boston on a fast conditions—and very possibly is curity of the membership as a York or Philadelphia, he must, run to Europe and pay off in what they were voting for. Let's small compared to the sacrifices at present, get off with his trans­ whole. portation money. In most cases, Therefore, we, the undersigned, Mobile. This will be a trip of rectify this mistake, and not we may all have to make in the however, he will not have hage agreed that all men who about 29 days. We have to get have the NMU laughing at us future to maintain them. for the foolish thing we voted enough money to afford to re­ are offered transportation to the off as well as the permitmen. Let's train our guns on Union* for. T. Fleming This part in the agreement turn to his home port, so this original port of signing on shall conditions, and then stick by puts a Gulf crew in the Coast accept it and pay off of the them. , ^ FIVE BRIGHT SPOTS ON THE HEYWARD ports, and a coast crew in the ship, thus giving the rest of the Trevor H. Little Gulf, membership a chance to make a Jessie F. Helms Of course it would be selfish living. Blackie Colucci for a man to stay on one ship signed by: Robert J. Sojka for an unreasonable length of Daniel W. Lippy. Michael J. time when there are many book­ Pugaczewski. Harry E. Mossburg. men and permit men (who will Jr.. Clyde W. Baumgardner. Otto someday be full members) on the F. Shumacher. Robert R. Newell. beach and at their wits ends. Clyde Baumgardner. Jr.. Robert Incidentally, we would like to L. Miller, Robert J. Aumiller. ill recommend right here that at Jacole Cook. Dorsey Paugh. least three permits—one in each Says Security Is Lessened Feel Measure Boosts Security Through Turnover Say New Rule Brightens Job Picture In Ports Voices Opinion Asks Six Weeks Allowance In Enforcing Rule To the Editor: Hi r I illil To the Editor: Brother Shelly White, by­ passed in last week's Inquir­ ing Photographer, says he's happy aboard ship when the quarters are comfortable and tka crew level-headed. Good food. too. is' a morale booster, he says. In my letter on transportation payoffs that was printed in the LOG of July 2, I stated that the shipping rules should re­ quire a man paying off with transportation to register and get his job off the board SIU style. Instill think that the resolu­ tion should stay as it is, for we have fought a long and hard battle for the present condition; but an exception should be made in cases where the trip has been less than six weeks. As things have worked out under current shipping condi­ tions, a man often has to wait very long time to get a ship and it often Avorks a real hard­ ship when he has to get off at the end of an unusually short trip. Hanzy M. Robinion sis siis mm Baring their pales to the sim. five Thomas Heyward Sea­ farers attest to the "tonsorial artist" on the ship. Looks like the barber is a guy who believes in going whole hog. The boys are identified as. left to right, back row—^Andreshak. DM; Don Johns. Pantryman; utd J. M. Eichenberg, Night Cook-Baker. Kneeling are Jimmy Sla'vin. AB; and "Knot Head" Jackson. 3rd Cook. It seems to us that the mem­ bership has a mighty good thing in this ruling that requires those who have transportation coming to take it and re-register at the Hall. It is fair to all alike, for if the ruling catches you short one trip by creating more jobs on the board, it will help you out the next time you are on the beach. So let's not toss it aside just because there are a few beefs. Chances are those who squawk now when they are asked to re-register will be beliind it, too, when they realize how much it means to the total job picture in the Branches. It's a good move that let's every member have an even break, is our verdict! Let's keep it. F. Hatgimisios Knul Fyhn P. J. McCama 1 �Page Fourteen THE S E A F AH E RS Friday, November 5. 1948 LOG 'Deep Sea Fotogs' Click On Cape Race Going a step further than the average photographyminded Seafarer, a couple of the lads aboard the SS Cape Race have rigged themselves a small but complete. photo­ graphic enterprise equipped to handle all operations, from the "shooting" of subjects to the delivery of enlarged prints. The shipboard studio is owned and operated by the partnership of Bill Nicholson and E. B. (Mac) McAuley. •• - ..^1^ jill V When the two Seafarers decided to combine their talents and knowledge, they aptly named the business the "Deep Sea Photo Service." Brother McAuley's picture-taking should be familiar to readers of the LOG. In the past few years he's come up with some highly dramatic sea shots. Last year, in fact, "Mac" scored a neat photographic scoop aboard the tanker Newhall Hills, shortly after she was cut in two by an explosion touched off by a collision with a small craft in the English Channel. Lensman McAuley's shots were bought up by a photo service and were seen the next day by millions of newspaper readers throughout the U.S. So far, the "Deep Sea Photo Service" is happy to report, pictures taken aboard the Cape Race have a very peaceful note—^somewhat like the ones appearing on this page. The Nicholson-McAuley firm is specializing these days in portrait and candid shots. "Hold still, please.". Even the Galley Gang smiles ior the Cape Race's "Deep Sea" lensmen. Kneeling (left to right): J. Lancaster, Steward; W. J. DownSr MM, and Joe Wendt, Oh. Cook. Middle row (left to right): Bill Ranew, Saloon Pantryman; Johnny Coxwell, Saloon MM; "Mac" Skiltlethorpe, Galleyman; "Whitey" Pittman, BR. Rear row (left to right): Joe Wilszak, Nt. Cook and Baker; Clyde Kriss, Second Cook, and J. W. Short, Crew Pantryman. l-fciv While other half of the team clicks camera shutter. Brother McAuley (center). Oiler and Ship's Delegate, puts on a Sunday smile. He's flanked by "Rags" Reinholdt (left), FWT, and L. W. Davenport, Second Assistant. These Cape Race poker players put their cards on the table—and smile when they do. Starting with beaming "Hunkie" Wilszak (nearest camera), seated clockwise around table are Whitey Pittman, Jack Henley, Tex Ringo and Joe Wendt. K-'' IB' I fx.'^ Even the fotog gets in the pic. Bill Nicholson (left), a Chief Electrician, replaces, field coil with the aid of Bill Holloway. Lads look pooped because they had been working 26 hours to finish job before vessel left Bremen. And here are the old pros in action. While Brother Nicholson (right) sets up lights and arranges camera position, partner McAuley prepares to tajce light reading with photo­ electric mefer. The "Deep Sea" boys know what they're doing. �T HE S E A FAR: ERS LOG Friday. I^OTember 5. 1^8 NOTICE Marymar Crewinen POINT VINCENTE Page Fifteen Seamen Have Fair Chance Of Deferment From Draft M/V TAG KNOT JULY, 1948 Will any and all crewmembers Will any of the crewmembers All men whe were who were on board the above who were on board the MV By JOSEPH VOLPIAN vessel when it salvaged and Tag Knot, of the American crewmembers of the SS Special Services Representalive towed the SS Evergreen State, Hawaiian SS Co., on or about Marymar, Calmar SS March 16, 1947, when Carroll on or about August 7, 1947, Inquiries on seamen's status in out that he would lose both his after she lost her propeller 1980 E. Cardwell was killed aboard Company, in July, 1948 the draft continue to pour into labor and a big financial invest­ miles East of Cape Henry, Vir­ said vessel, please communicate are urged to get in Headquarters, and the answer to ment, and would thereby suffer ginia while en route from Rouen, with Herman N. Rabson at the touch with Ben Sterl­ all, of them remains the same: great hardship. France, to Hampton Roads, kind­ offices of Benjamin B. Sterling, It's up to your local draft board. If a draft board drafts a seaman ly get in touch with Abe Rap- Room 1711, 42 Broadway, New ing, 42 Broadway, New In other words, nobody can be with a war record anyway, ha paport at the offices of Benja­ York 4, N. Y. It is important York City. This con­ guaranteed exemption from the still has a chance to miss the min B. Sterling, Room 1711^, 42 that F. H. Garreison, Bosun; H. draft because he is or was a Army, by appealing the decision Broadway, New York 4, N.. Y., Lagan, Carpenter, and R. M. cerns a matter of the merchant seamen even if he to a review board. either by mail, phone or in per­ Curtice, Chief Mate, contact the greatest importance to sailed throughout the war. To the appeal board he can above office in regard to this son. Important. the Union. If any are claim skill in a vital defense in­ However, this does not mean matter. 4. 4. dustry, namely seafaring, and unable to get to New that merchant seamen are auto­ can declare 4 t GREAT ISSAC that he stands ready matically drafted. Some draft CHARLES McMAHON York, they should wire to return to the sea in a national boards are exempting men who Will any and all crewmembers The seabag you left aboard the who were on board the 'above SS Noonday is being held for or call Mr. Sterling. sailed through the war and can emergency. bring a Certificate of Substan­ If he is sailing at present, he vessel when she salvaged and you in the Boston Hall. His phone number is tially Continuous' Service, or are can claim deferment on the towed the T-2 Tanker, SS Casa 4 4 4 DIgby 4-7830. exempting seamen on other ground that he is already work­ Grande, after her main engine J. ARAYA. No. 39948 grounds. On the other hand, ing in a vital industry whether burned out off the Virginia See the Bookkeeper, Sixth some draft boards are paying no he sailed during the wgr or not. Capes on December 9-10, 1946, Deck, 51 Beaver Street, to pick attention at all to a seaman's war and towed her into Norfolk, get up receipt number c-75593. There are still rumors that record or anything else about seamen with war records will in touch with Abe Rappaport him. at the offices of Benjamin B. eventually get a blanket deter­ GILBERT G. PARKER No seaman should be discour­ Sterling, Room 1711, 42 Broad­ ment. But we have been hear­ Write home as soon as pos­ way, New York 4, N.Y., either sible. Your mother is worried aged, however, ju.st because he ing these rumors since the draft by mail, phone, or in person. and would like to hear from receives a notice from his draft act was first passed and little Important. you. 410 Pack Avenue, Savan­ board to report for a physical store can be set in them. examination. nah, Georgia. The rumors did not prevent a HERE'S WAY merchant seaman with four years 4 4 4 JOHN H. GOOLDY NEW YORK Here is the way seamen should of war service from being the Your mother is very anxious go about claiming deferment. first man drafted in New York SS TRINITY SIU, A&G District F. Bloom. $3.00; E. Fritz, $2.00; T. to have you contact her. There are several clauses in the City. F. Hale. $6.00; H. J. Mathiesen, $3.00; 4 4 4 The best thing any seaman can BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St. draft act which give seamen a W. Bcnish, $5.00; J. E. Rivers.B $5.00; TONY KIISKA William Reiitz, Asent Mulberry 4S40 do is follow the procedure out­ chance to avoid doing 21 months H. Ekker, $6.00; Wm. H. Bausinger, BOSTON ' 276 State St. Contact your friend, Paul Lee, in the Army, whether they sailed lined above. $2.00; K. A. Kasemets, $8.00; 1. E. C. £1 B. Tjllcy, Agent Richmond 2-0140 Carolusson. $2.00; A. Fancellu, $5.00; 3626—O Street, NW, Washing­ in the war or not. Dispatcher Richmond 2-0141 E. C. Eaton, $5.00; C. Nowakunski, ton, D.C. GALVESTON 308'/i—23rd St. If he did sail between Pearl $4.00; W. L. Dolberry, $5.00; E. R. Keith Alsop, Agent Phone 2-8448 4 4 4 Harbor and V-J Day, a man Perez, $5.00; L. C. Barnes, $3.00; W. MOBILE . 1 South Lawrence St. GEORGE W. HALLENBECK should be sure he has his Cer­ Irvin, $7.00; J. R. Cleater, $5.00; R. E. Cat Tanner, Agent Phone 2-1754 It is important that you con­ tificate of Substantially Continu­ Haney, $3.00; J. Livanos, $2.00; M. NEW ORLEANS 523 Bienville St. Melis. $7.00; J. K. Robson, $10.00; A. tact Curtis and Warren, Attor­ £; Sheppard, Agent Magnolia 6112-6113 ous Service, which he can ob­ Myhre, $6.00; W. McCullough. $7.00; neys, Coxsackie, New York, re­ This week six more compan­ NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. tain from the Maritime Commis­ F. J. Morris. $7.00; J. Valenti, $?.00: ies signed SIU contract renewals, garding the estate of your Aunt, Joe Algina, Agent HAnover 2-2784 E. H. Lecer, $7.00. • sion. This certificate is the mer­ NORFOLK 127-129 Bank St. calling for the wage increases Catherine E. Hallenbeck. SS COLABEE chant marine equivalent to a Ben Rees, Agent Phone 4-1083 and other gains won in Sep­ P. Emil, $3.00. 4 4 4 discharge from the Army or PHILADELPHIA. . .614.16 No. 13th St. SS KYSKA tember from the Atlantic & Gulf JOSEPH T. VAUGHN Lloyd Gardner, Agent Poplar 5-1217 Navy. R. D. Niedcrmeyer, $2.00; . A. Uhler, Ship Operators Association and Please get in contact with SAN FRANCISCO 85 Third St. A seaman can protest that he $3.00; W. H. Howell, $4.00: P. C. Du­ Sieve Cardullo, Agent Douglas 2-5475 val, $2.00; S. Yurgawicz, $5.00; F. Jeanne. She is very anxious to volunteered for the merchant five tanker companies. SAN JUAN, P.R 252 Ponce de Leon Bonefont, $2.00: H. B. Cook, $2.00; A. hear from you. Rentz. The Seatrade Corporation service during the war in the Sal Colls, Agent San Juan 2-5996 Obannion, $3.00; J. A. Pilutis, $2.00; 4 4 4 signed both the tanker and the SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. same spirit in which he might A, Borjer, $2.00; E. R. Ceccato, $5.00; DON J. PEURALA dry-cargo agreements, since it Charles Starling, Agent Phone 3-1728 have volunteei-ed for the Army, A. Danzi, $2.00; G. McCall, $3.00; S. Your mother's new address is TAMPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin St. operates both types of ships. E. Walsh. $2.00; R. W. Larson, $3.00; Navy, Coast Guard or Marines, R.. H. Hall, Agent Phone M-1323 10th Street. She Wm. H. Moody, $2.00; T. F. Shea, 1306 South Signing tanker agreements and perhaps that by so doing HEADQUARTERS. . 51 Beaver St., N.Y.C. $5.00; R. L. Allen. $2.00; S. Volpi, would like very much to hear were Philadelphia Marine Cor­ he had to forego to school. HAnover 2-2784 $1.00; R. LiPari, $2.00; A. A. Wil­ from you. poration, American Tramp Ship­ If he left the sea at the end liams, $1.00; C. Nelson, $2.00; E. TocSECRETARY-TREASURER 4 4 4 ping & Development Corpora­ co, $2.00; R. Carriz, $2.00; I. J. Ramos, Paul Hall of the war, he can say that he GENE ASHTON $2.00; T. D. Reilly, $2.00; C. Collins, tion, Metro Petroleum Corpora­ DIRECTOR OF ORGANIZATION Norman Currier asks you to had to start life all over again tion, U.S. Waterways and Palmer $2.00. Lindsey Williams SS STEEL RECORDER communicate with him at 927 just as did a veteran of the Shipping Corporation. ASSIST. SECRETARY-TREASURERS J. Pranski, $5.00; H. Nickolso^, Amsterdam Avenue, New York. armed services. Robert Matthews J. P. Shuler $5.00; J. Rubinskas, $2.00; S. Celeste, Negotiations are now in pro­ We have advised one former Phone—Monument 3-1134. Joseph Volpian $1.00: T. F. Mungo, $2.00; W. BanowSeafarer, who is building a house gress with the remaining com­ 4 4 4 ski. $2.00; C. M. Peterson, $5.00; W. and who has been called for his panies which have not yet G. .Adams. $3.00; F. A. Griffin, $2.00;. WILLIAM G. ADAMS SUP Wm. H. Hall, $1.00. Write your sister at P.O. Box physical examination, to point'signed for the new increases. HONOLULU 16 Merchant St SS LOYOLA VICTORY 1793, Oakland, California, or call Phone 5-8777 P. J. Galla, $1.00; K. J. Weekes, PORTLAND lll'W. Burnside.St. $1.00; J. O. Miller, $2.00; D. J. Ro- HUmbolt 3-8900. Beacon 4336 malo, $1.00; C. W. Maynard, $1.00; M. 4 4 4 RICHMOND, Calif. 257 Sth St. McMillan, $1.00; E. F. Bobinski, $5.00. LAWRENCE GIGLIO Phone 2599 The SEAFARERS LOG as the official publication of the Sea­ SS EVANGELINE NICHOLAS SAZIO SAN FRANCISCO 59 Clay St. J. H. Dubose, $2.00; B. High, $3.00; farers International Union is available to all members who wish Contact Attorney Ben Sterl­ Douglas 2-8363 J. Bernard, $2.00; F. Peskuric, $1.00; to have it sent to their home free of charge for the enjoyment of SEATTLE 88 Seneca St. S. C. While, $2.00; W. V. Masi, $1.00; ing, 42 Broadway^ New York, their families and themselves when ashore. If you desire to have Main 0290 V. L. Burke. $1.00. concerning the settlement of your the LOG sent to you each week address cards are on hand at every WILMINGTON ..... ,440 Avalon Blvd. SS CHRISANTHY STAR case. Terminal 4-3131 T. Saizarulo, $6.00; E. Krell, $10.00; SIU branch for this purpose. W. Lewis, $5.00; F. H. Ostle, $5.00; T. However, for those who are at sea or at a distance from a SIU Tichenor, $10.00; R. Russell. $5.00; C. Gt. Lakes District hall, the LOG reproduces below the form used to request the LOG, Konstantaras, $10.00; Kyqie, $10.00; L. BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. Cleveland 7391 E. Brown, $3.00; A. P. O'Neil, $10.00; which you can fill out, detach and send to: SEAFARERS LOG, 51 CHICAGO, III 3261 East 92nd St. F. J. Albre, $2.00; A. B. W. Hansen, To speed up as much as Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. Phone: Essex 2410 $5.00; P. Prevas, $5.00; D. Faugh, possible the appearance in CLEVELAND 2602 Carroll St. $5.00; S. Brenna, $10.00; J. M. Burk, PLEASE PRINT INFORMATION I Ihe LOG a digest of fheir Main 0147 $2.00; D. Johnson, $5.00; W. J. Westcott. $5.00; R. SIpe. $5.00: J. Cook. DETROIT loss Third St. shipboard proceedings all Cadillac 6857 $4.00; W. V. Horton, $5.00; H. Witt, crews are advised to send To the Editor: DULUTH 831 W. Michigan St. $3.00; D. W. Lippy, $5.00. copies of their minutes direct • SS JAMES JACKSON I would like the SEAFARERS LOG mailed to the Melrose 4110 J. C. Reynolds, $2.00; E. Bergerson, to the Ediior« Seafarers Log, TOLEDO 615 Summit St. Garfield 2112 $2.00; W. L. May, $2.00; F. B. Shinault, 51 Beaver St., New York address below: $2.00; W. W. Davis, $2.00; J. S. 4, N. Y. Ebanks, $2.00; G. C, Rosa, $2.00; R. C. Canadian District Name Port Agents should also Schram, $2.00; A. Morgensen, $2.00; forward their copies of ship's C. H. Foster, $1.00; H. A. Thomsen. MONTREAL 1227 Philips Square minutes to the LOG as soon Plateau 6700—Marquette 5909 $2.00; J. L.. Ward, $2.00; R. Kehrly, Street Address PORT ARTHUR 63 Cumberland St. $2.00; W. Vandervlist, $5.00. as possible after receiving SS JEAN PORT COLBORNE 103 Durham St. them. State A. Gregory, $2.00; C. E. Carroll, City Phone: 5591 Any other material relat­ $2.00; C. J. Madison, $1.00; S. Hernan­ TORONTO lllA Jarvis Street ing to the voyage, such as Elgin 5719 dez. $1.00; D. C. Candia, $1.00; F. A. Signed VICTORIA, B.C 602 Boughton St. Stephens, $1.00; A. J. Menendez, $1.00; stories, pictures, letters, etc.,^ Empire 4531 A. Miranda, $1.00; J. Reyes, $1.00; C. can be sent in with the^ VANCOUVER 665 Hamilton St. Rodrigues, $2.00; W. E. Carr, $1.00; J. Book No... minutes. Pacific 7824 Alston, $1.00: J. N. Jessen, $2.00; C. I. Personals SlU HRLLS Six More Companies Agree To Wage Boosts Notice To All SIU Members Time For Minutes Wright. $1.00. • /•.•Si. /''-i �THE SEAFARERS Page Sixteen LOG Friday. November 5. 1948 Membership Views On SIU's. New Transportation Rule SAYS IT'S. GIVE AND TAKE To the Editon jof fairness, it seems to me that There are two ways to look "If Union at the transportation ruling whereby a man getting transpor® ^ tation must get off of the ship, f° ® ^ First, there is the viewpoint of homesteads a ship m these the guy on the ship who has ® f' job and wants to make another ® ® ^ T Y® pooled their trip. And second, there is the "°"®YJ viewpoint of the man on the regt beach who is probably pretty ^ *he guys are drinking beer. broke, and who has been sweat­ But there is another considera^ing out the job calls while ships tion than that of individual fair­ occasionally come in, payoff and ness.. There is the fact that the. sign on, without taking too many Union has fouglit for and gotten the transportation clauses in our replacements. contracts on the basis that the Not many seamen sail steadily company owes a riian the cost the year around without chang­ ing ships now and then and tak­ of his. transportation back to his ing a rest in between. However, home port when the .ship's ar­ terminated in anotherI know that it is.pretty disap- ticles are termmate pointing to get set on a good ship, and feel like making another run to save up a little'®"'^ then stay on the ship, they dough, and then find that you' have to get off. • really need the money for. transT, . J. . ' . , [portation. This undermines the on th the, Union's position in bargainirig Tavoff does have a^for this clause-which in thi 7 there are end means many thousands o.f 1 -.onough'd^uars for' the -membership as to carry him for a while. On a whole top of that he has his tranipor-j go it looks , to me that from standpoint there is ^ bettor no choice but to protect our hMoV • t contracts, 'give our Brothers ~a beach who is waiting to take break, take our transportation his place when he f)iles. off. jdoifgh, and pile off. So purely from the standpoint peie Roaoh- Keep Transportation As Is. Seafarer Urges Members To the Editor: We have been reading the last fev/ issues of the LOG, and it appears that a few guys sure must hate to get off a ship from the squawk ttiey make when they are handed a fat roll of bills labelled . "transportation money." What in hell is the matter with these guys? Don't they know that this isn't working any hard­ ship . on anybody, but simply making shipping faster for all hands? In the first place, only a small percentage of 'ships pay off where transportation is involved. This is because most SIU ships are now operating in regular trade runs. The crews normally • are not entitled to transportation at all. Suppose you can get transpor­ tation, what happens then? By the present Union rule, you make the trip, collect, the. tranaportafion money — which, inci­ dentally, is something the SIU fought bard through many yeajs to get—go to the Hall, and grab another ship. Sure, there's more turnovoi'. But the more turnover there is, the more jobs there are on tlic board.. TRANSPORTATION BATTLE Doesn't the whole membership realize by now that after many years of struggle we finally have forced the shipowners' to pay transportation to crew members who are entitled to it? Trans ­ portation was not always paid to seamen. It represents victoi-y in one of the major battles of SIU^ history. Then there's the question some fellows raise: "Well, why not take the transportation money and ' stay aboard the ship?" That's no different from taking n piece-off from a shipowner, that'a all. Also, it gives the shipowner a chance to make one hell of an argument in every negotiation session for stopping the payme.ut of transportation entirely. There you ha-ve the sad stoiy. Yes, sometimes taking the money and getting off works's little dif­ ficulty on a fellow after a short trip. But if he takes the money and throws in for a new job he is doing the entire member^ip a favor. SAYS KEEP IT Furthermore, let's not try to make a lot of special exceptions about trips of 60, 9ft or 100 days, ^e rule as it is a good rule. We shoiild have had it all the time. Let's not give it up now. We noticed several headlines on page 5 of the LOG for Goto-, ber 5. They ran like this: "Mobile Shipping Takes A Slight Turn For The Better;" "Conditions Good For Galveston Rated Men;" "New A&G Trans­ portation Rule Gives Needed Boost to Philly," Now tell us. Do you suppose that those headlines, could have been written in the LOG if our new transportation rule had not been in effect. The answer is "No." • The SIU, according to our Headquarters Reports, is the only union today in which there is nearly one contract job for every Union book. That means, Broth­ ers, that we do not have to worry so much about a job that we have to run the risk of losing our transportation riders by changing our present system. UNION SECURITY Some men have also raised an ­ other, issue. They say that not making a man get off after .i*u takes transportation money vvould give him greater, "se­ curity." Just remember this. Every Seafarer's security is his Union and its Hiring Hall. The moro jobs come through the HiriAg Hall whether or not the ^nsportation rule is involved; the more security all of us have. Let's all put our shouldcra be ­ hind full Union security. LcVi# get behind the job of maintain­ ing our wages and our condi­ tions, and let's keep our present transportation rule, which is-that if a man is entitled to trans­ portation he must take it and go| off, and then re-register at thOi HaU. Robert L. Nash CREW TAKES SIMILAR VIEW To the Editor: think this woiild only be fair td We, the undersigned members the majority of our members of the SS South $tar, do hereby who are at sea. We do hereby relate an ex­ strongly oppose this new amendinent to the transportation rider ample of what this new amend­ in our'present agreement, which ment would mean: Take a man requires that all members must who nas been on the beach for accept tran^ortation and get off at least 60 days. He. takes a the ship, regardless of the length ship going to a European port for an estimated trip of from of the trip. This amendment counteracts thirty to forty days. The man our hard won gains for transpor­ is probably in debt for half of tation money, which we gained his payoff before he starts. He in 1946, and thereby makes it arrives back in the States to a Virtually impossible to obtain va- port in another transportation Obtion pay, and makes our zone, and has to accept trans­ vacation clause in our agreement portation and pile off the ship in accordance to this new amend­ absolutely useless. We therefore reconmend that ment. no radical changes be made in OTHER OPINIONS? ' the transportation rider in our This man has nothing tp look agreement, or shipping rules, forward to but going right back without n ballot vote being taken into debt again. Therefore, we up and down the A&G coast would like to "know how other over 'a period of 60 days. We members feel-in regards to this amendment.- • We hereby recom­ mend other Brother members to clarify their feelings by writing the SEAFARERS LOG. We CALLS RULE UNFAIR to recommend that all names signed To the Editor: below be printed in the LOG, and that a copy of this letter be In the LOG for October 8th, J posted on aU notice boards in read with interest-the two let­ SIU Halls up and down the A&G ters concerning the transporta­ coast. Signed: tion clarification in our recent Edgar G. Bukrman, Alexander agreement, and wish to say that janes, James H.' Nelson, Robert I heartily agree with these men. Woodward, -Robert M. Godwin, . I also feel that a man should Charles R. Gilbert, William M. be able to .stay aboiurd a vessel Todd, Henry Lanier, John Shushould he so desjre, since a man kas, J. E. Baixinger, J. W. so often is in debt when he gets Mason,.-IsmaeI Galarcs, F. Danan, a ship and cannot possibly pay John V. Rooney, C. O. Mreguy, up and live, if Jbe is pulled off R. O. Carter, C. W. Palmer, Jack within six or eight weeks. D. Brown, Rolvland R. Williams, Job security is one of our John Ulas, Peter M. Desposito, fundamental principles of Union­ Harry Porter, Valentine Beneism, and there cannot possibly part, Marion J. Akins, James J. be security tmtil the clarification Boland, Louis A. Romero, Arza is amended to allow" a man at Smith,. Edwin R. Fitzgerald, John least ninety days on a vessel. . Cohul, Robert G. Hauptfleich, Everyone knows that. We must George Santo. use the trial and error method of' getting • these little things NO AGREEMENT straightened out. A thing might look good on paper but in pracr : I have been on the beach here in New Orleans for-three weeks, tice will not prove practicable. I wish to thank our negotiat­ and have not seen one copy of ing committee for a splendid the agreement in the Hall, conse- '-contract and do not wish to leave quently there is hardly anyone , the impression that I am not in who knows that this is part of : agreement with them, but this is our agreement. one exception. It- is the consensus of opinion I feel that this could be m this port, among the member­ changed very easily, and should ship that I have contacted, that be changed: for to do so would we -should write in and voice not violate the body of the aglree- our opinion in this matter, and it ment. This matter is merely a is suggested that this is the most clarification which somehow unpopular clause in our new con­ doesn't seem to' be right. A man tract. should have his, right io make a C. XL Cuntmings decent living. 2;^"bexsW l^iscusS ifcot ctiui sTdovesitle.WRITE •Xo -p-iE SEAFARER I-OG !! ••••J • � 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 November 5, 1948 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. X, No. 45 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES COMPANY UNION IS LATEST DODGE OF CITIES SERVICE REGISTRATION RULES OKAYED BY MEMBERS TRASPORTATION RULE REOPENED FOR DISCUSSION WHAT IS FUTURE FOR DIESELS IN MARITIME? MEMBER EXPOSES NMU PRACTICES HEAVY BALLOTING IS REPORTING BYA&G BRANCHES VA.FERRYMEN WILL VOTE SOON PORT BALTIMORE SHIPPING GOOD,SHOULD REMAIN SO FOR FEW WEEKS JOB BOOM HAS SAN JUAN COMBING BEACH BUSY WEEK AND HOPEFUL FUTURE HEARTENING TO TAMPA SEAFARERS GALVESTON EXPECTS FAIR SHIPPING TO HOLD NO CHANGE IN MOBILE SHIPPING;TALKS WITH ALCOA PROGRESSING SHIPPING SURGE ENDS STALEMATE IN NEW ORLEANS NEW YORK SHIPPING SHOWS NO GREAT CHANGE BOSTON HAS PAYOFF AND SIGN-ON THANKS TO TRASPORATION RULE OPTICAL PLAN SAVES MONEY FOR SEAFARERS PHILLY THANKS ORGANOZING FOR SHIPPING GAIN COMPANY UNION LATET DISRUPTIVE MOVE BY CITIES SERVICE RACE MEN ASK STANDARD SLOPCHEST ON SHIPS ON ALL SHIPS SS ALEXANDRA SHIPPER WINS CREW'S PRAISE RUBY GARCIA,FORMER BOXER,DIES IN PLUGE FROM KYSKA DEEP SEE FOTOGS' CLICK ON CAPE RACE SEAMEN HAVE FAIR CHANCE OF DEFERMENT FROM DRAFT Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 11/05/1948 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1948 Periodicals Seafarers Log