American Seal if t, SIU Jobs Expand With New RO/RO Seafarers Will Crew USNS Charlton, MSC1s Latest Prepositioning Ship

SIU members soon will sail aboard the U.S. Military Sealift Command's newest prepositioning ship, the

USNS Charlton (pictured at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Co.). Christened in San Diego, the 950-

foot ship is almost complete and is slated for sea trials in April. Page 3. Allied Adds Sea Raven

Allied Transportation Co.'s Sea Raven is running, signaling addi­ tional opportunities for Seafarers. The articulated tug and barge, recently launched after refurbishment, transports chemicals to and from ports between the Gulf Coast and New York. Among the first Seafarers to sign on the Sea Raven are Captain G.W. Urban (left photo) and Chief Engineer Walter Jarvis (right). Page 3. Merger Voting Ends Runaway-Flag

Voting ended as scheduled on January 31 in the pro­ Cruise Lines: posed merger of the SIU and the National Maritime Union. Balloting began on Another Fine, December 1. Among the Seafarers casting a vote were inland Cook James More Mishaps Neuner, pictured at the SIU hall in St. Louis. Page 2. ------Page 3 Tax Tips for Mariners Voter Registration Data ______Page14 President's Report Voting Ends on SIU-#MU Merger

Register and Vote Tallying Committee Will Report to Membership This new year has so much potential and possibility for all of us. Voting ended as scheduled on January 31 in the pro­ New ships-with their new jobs for Seafarers-will come on line posed merger of the SIU and the National Maritime throughout 2000. As we all know, the addition of Union (NMU). Balloting began December 1. The next step is the eJection of an SIU tallying these vessels did not appear overnight. For years, committee consisting of six full book members (two the SIU and the rest of labor worked with the mar­ from each of the three departments). They will be itime industry, government officials and members elected at the membership meeting February 7 in of Congress to make this happen. Piney Point, Md. The committee members then will Many of you know how long it took for the count the ballots and prepare a report to the rest of Maritime Security Program to go from an idea to a the membership. law. Original legislation was proposed to the A similar election took place during the same Michael Sacco Senate in 1992. Committee hearings were held. time period in the NMU. SIU officials met with industry representatives and As reported in previous issues of the Seafarers legislators to craft a measure. The proposal was modified and amend­ LOG, if the members of both unions accept the reso­ ed several times before the House of Representatives and the Senate lution, then a merger committee (consisting of offi­ passed the act, then President Clinton signed it in 1996. cials from the SIU and NMU) will continue its work During that time, one presidential election and two congressional to draft the specifics regarding seniority, job securi­ elections were held. The White House went from Republican to ty, training and other topics. Democrat, while the Congress changed from a Democratic majority Additionally, as noted on the ballot, the merger to one led by Republicans. would require changes in the SIU constitution. Those We kept the Maritime Security Program alive during those five amendments would be presented to the membership during the regularly scheduled officers' election in years, thanks to your voluntary donations to SPAD. Those donations late 2000. helped open doors so SIU officials could meet with members of SIU members at the New Orleans hall said the Congress to discuss the need for maritime legislation and its impor­ mechanics of the balloting went well. tance to the citizens of their districts as well as for the whole country. "It was very smooth," stated Chief Steward SPAD is just one important factor in this procedure. Joseph Birke. "I was given the paperwork to vote The other is your participation in the election process. with, and the envelopes. I put my vote in one enve­ The year 2000 is a presidential and congressional election year. lope, then sealed it in the other and mailed it myself. Americans now are deciding whom they want to lead the country It was a good process." over the next four years. The presidential primaries are under way, Recertified Bosun Hugo Dermody described vot­ while races for other elective positions are just getting started. Chief Steward Edward Tully (left) is ready to vote at ing as "easy going. I hope everybody voted. Seafarers, pensioners and their families have always been active in the SIU hall in Piney Point, Md., after receiving mate­ Everything here was well-marked and easy to under­ all aspects of politics. They meet with their elected officials, write rials from SIU Port Agent Edd Morris. stand. The decision should be easy, too." them, call their offices and get involved in the campaigns of those who stand up for our issues. Seafarers, pensioners and their families also register and vote. MarAd Increases U.S. Vessel Count Post-election surveys taken in the last couple of years have shown a greater percentage of union households voting than the general Change More Accurately Assesses Size of U.S.-Flag Fleet population. Union members know the importance of electing men and women The official U.S.-flag vessel count will better reflect the num­ who understand their needs and concerns and will fight for them. l ',~. W,m•rburu .. Ii ;uh: bv \:•·"5~~ Concerning this upcoming election, just look at some of the issues ber of crafts available to handle frp•· anJ IC\11..L", t->•.Ht commerce because the U.S. already being debated among the presidential candidates: Social Maritime Administration (MarAd) Security, education, Medicare, health care and the minimum wage. will include tugs, barges, ferries These are topics that affect all of us. and other work vessels. While these issues are making the nightly news shows, Seafarers "It is time to reflect in our continue to ask candidates what they think about the vital role the numbers the true size diversity of U.S.-flag merchant fleet plays in national defense and the economy. the U.S. fleet," MarAd Admin­ Thanks to you, our concerns continue to be heard. And, because of istrator Clyde Hart told the you, new ships are being built with Seafarers climbing the gangways. Washington, D.C. Propeller Club Now is the time to make sure your voice is heard. Make sure you last month in announcing the are registered to vote. On page 14 in this issue of the Seafarers LOG Department of Transportation is a chart with a state-by-state breakdown of when registration ends, agency's new system for figuring the number of vessels sailing when primaries are held and when polls are open. Don't wait until MarAd Administrator Clyde Hart explains a chart showing how the the last minute; check your status now. under the American flag. Department of Transportation agency will include more vessels and If you aren't registered, do it now. If you are registered, make sure In the past, MarAd's "U.S. barges in tallying the size of the U.S.-flag fleet. family members and friends are, too. If not, take them to the voter Merchant Marine Data Sheet" registration office and get them on the rolls. Let them know their listed only the number of large, • 29,545 cargo-carrying vessels every administration since its vote counts. If they don't believe an individual vote makes a differ­ self-propelled, deep-draft ships of which 2,948 are larger than passage 80 years ago. In these within the U.S.-flag fleet. ence, tell them about the pro-labor candidate who was elected to the 1,000 gross tons; days of the new century-here, Effective immediately, the report Virginia state senate last year by fewer than 40 votes out of thou­ • 1,491 passenger vessels now- it remains relevant for -which will be issued at least _America's economic health and sands upon thousands cast. Or recount how union members worked twice a year-will continue to (including ferries) with the together in California in 1998 to tell their friends and neighbors how combined capability of carry­ its national security." include what had been counted Hart noted critics of the cabo­ Proposition 226's "paycheck deception" wouJd limit the voice of and add many other vessel types, ing more than 410,000 peo­ tage laws always ask if the mea­ working people in the political process. That measure went from 70 from large oceangoing barges to ple; sures are necessary and fair. percent of the population in favor of Proposition 226 in February to a riverboats and ferries, as long as • 5,446 tugs and towboats; 54-46 defeat of the measure in June. they are active. The new calcula­ • 1,424 crewboats, including oil He answered by pointing out The stakes are too high to sit at home (or on ship) and say "my tions reflect the changing nature industry supply and utility more than 40 nations, including vote doesn't matter." If Seafarers followed that feeling, we wouldn't of the industry, including the use vessels; the major economic powers of have the Maritime Security Program and all of these new jobs. of integrated tug/barges in place • 25,698 barges and 613 pow­ Europe and Asia, have similar I thank those of you for your continued involvement-for voting, of cargo vessels. ered vessels moving cargo on laws to protect the interests of writing letters, calling, talking with your elected officials and donat­ "The new product we are inland waterways; their citizens. "Let me quote [U.S. Air ing to SPAD. Let's keep up the good work and stay active in 2000. introducing today is more com­ • 409 vessels sailing in foreign prehensive, more illuminating trade; Force] General Charles and will provide a sounder base Robertson, commander-in-chief Volume 62, Number 2 February 2000 • 2,443 ships and barges in the for businessmen and analysts to of the U.S. Transportation domestic coastal trade; and The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org determine trends and act accord­ Command. He said, 'Without the ingly," Hart noted during his • 206 ships and barges operat­ laws requiring the use of U.S.­ The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published month­ ing on the Great Lakes. January 13 presentation. owned, -built and ~rewed ves­ ly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, The head of MarAd pointed Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Jones Act Support sels for cargo movement between out the U.S.-flag fleet is com­ U.S. ports, the U.S. maritime Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899- posed of "about 38,000 vessels While announcing the new 0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland industry-a critical member of that Americans can depend upon system for calculating the fleet's 20790-9998 and at additional offices. POSTMASTER: our defense transportation sys­ to deliver the goods they need size, Hart touched on several Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way tem-would wither. And mar­ Camp Springs, MD 20746. and want. The diversity in this other issues during his 30-minute fleet is no less amazing. Nearly address. itime readiness would be severely Communications Director, Daniel Duncan; Managing 37,000 of these vessels are cargo He reaffirmed the agency's degraded, if not crippled.' Editor, Jordan Biscardo; Associate Editor/Production, carriers actively engaged on our strong support for the Jones Act "The Jones Act protects U.S. Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative nation's waterways." interests and that's ethical enough Support, Jeanne Textor. and the Passenger Vessel Services The updated figures which Act-the nation's cabotage laws. for me," Hart stated. Copyright © 2000 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD reflect the fleet's size as of "The Jones Act has been a cor­ All Rights Reserved. January 1, 1999 include: ner of the U.S. maritime policy in Continued on page 4

2 Seafarers LOG February 2000 Maritime Agenda Awaits Congress Efforts Being Considered to Strengthen U.S.-Flag Fleet/or New Century Maritime issues are among the team from the House of hancement Act, addresses several deductions arisir1g from confer­ creating incentives for new, mod­ many topics on the agenda as leg­ Representatives and the Senate tax issues. One part of the bill ences or other meetings aboard em ships to be registered under islators return to Capitol Hill for proposed legislation to make the would extend the existing income U.S.-flag cruise ships. the U.S. flag," added Breaux. the second session of the 106th U.S.-flag fleet more competitive tax exclusion for Americans In introducing the National The measure also was intro­ Congress. in international commerce. working overseas to U.S. mer­ Security Sealift Enhancement Act duced in the House as H.R. 3225 Along with bills dealing with "The elected officials want to chant mariners. Another calls for (S. 1858) to his colleagues, Sen. by Reps. Jim McCrery (R-La.) raising the minimum wage, make sure American-flag ships the owner of a U.S.-flag vessel John Breaux (D-La.) said he did and William Jefferson (D-La.). strengthening Social Security and can compete worldwide," noted operating in international trade to not want to exempt the owners of While hearings are expected to Medicare, providing funds for Terry Turner, SIU director of gov­ be able to fully deduct that ship in U.S.-tlag ships from paying U.S. be held on the bills during 2000, public school construction and ernment relations. "They are look­ the year in which the vessel is income taxes. Rather, he was none had been scheduled in either looking at more affordable health ing for a way to level the playing acquired and documented under seeking to "alleviate the tax bur­ the House or the Senate as the care for all Americans will be field between U.S.-flag shipping the American flag. Other compo­ den on the U.S.-flag fleet. Sea/are rs LOG went to press. measures seeking to strengthen and foreign-flag operations." nents would include "alternative "The Congress must take Another matter of concern to the U.S.-flag merchant fleet. That measure, known as the minimum tax relief' on shipping aggressive action to preserve our the American maritime industry Late last year, a bipartisan National Security Sealift En- income and expand the expense fleet of U.S.-flag vessels, while is the need to find a funding for­ mula that will permit the contin­ bers sometimes find themselves ued dredging of America's har­ For Runaway-Flag Cruise Workers, shipped home or living on a few bors and shipping channels. dollars a day in sick wages while Congress has been considering waiting for care." how to fund harbor and waterway Another concern Frantz noted, maintenance projects that will be It's Anything But Smooth Sailing is mariners paying for their jobs, such as the Norwegian Cruise fair to all who use the nation's NY Times Spotlights Crews' Hardships; Line kitchen worker who paid a waterways. This debate has been month's wages (about $400). going on since the Harbor "Those at the bottom of the Maintenance Tax was ruled un­ 2 FOC Lines Make Other Unwanted News heap are most likely to have paid constitutional by the U.S. Two Miami-based, runaway­ in pollution fines that the compa­ the U.S. avoid paying taxes or a fee to get their job, to have paid Supreme Court in 1998. flag cruise lines seemingly cannot ny last year agreed to pay. adhering to this nation's labor or their own air fare, to know the Maritime interests will be try­ stay out of the news. • Shortly after midnight on environmental laws, last month's least about their rights and to have ing to gain more funds for the Since late December, Royal January 12, the Carnival ship Times piece (written by Douglas little chance for advancement," Title XI shipbuilding loan guar­ Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Celebration caught fire and drift­ Frantz) concentrates on the crews. Frantz wrote. antee program, which was used Lines have racked up more nega­ ed for six hours in the Caribbean. "Long hours and subsistence The writer added that the run­ throughout the last decade to con­ tive publicity, continuing a fairly According to press reports, the wages are part of their contracts, away-flag cruise line issues have struct in U.S. yards commercial constant pattern that started with more than 1,500 passengers were as is the threat of being fired with­ caught the attention of some vessels sailing under American the Ecstasy fire in 1998. told remain in place, due to limit­ out notice or cause," he wrote. members of Congress. They have and foreign registries. The latest fiascoes: ed lighting. The story mentions that described the companies as oper­ In the mid- l 990s, the govern- • On Christmas Eve, The New • Several passengers are "record number of passengers are ating "inside our waters and out­ Continued on page 4 York Times published a front-page threatening legal action in the packing bigger and grander side our laws." article examining the working wake of Carnival's pricey "mil­ ships," and the runaway-flag conditions of crew members on lennium cruise" aboard the companies are raking in huge runaway-flag passenger ships. Paradise. Engine problems financial rewards. Carnival, for The lengthy article-reprinted in reportedly forced the ship to instance, pockets $2.8 million per Union Welcomes several affiliated newspapers­ change its itinerary, and as a day in profits. detailed how some of the mariners result, many disgusted passengers Crew members aren't sharing pay for jobs that often consist of flew home to the U.S. from the in that windfall. Frantz reported long hours, low wages and little to Bahamas. that the mariners, often from Allied's Sea Raven no recourse. Some of them have posted Third World nations, "routinely The SIU recently gained new jobs when Norfolk, Va.-based Allied • In mid-January, Royal complaints on the internet, at work 80 to 90 hours a week with­ Transportation Co. added the articulated tug and barge Sea Raven to its Caribbean agreed to pay $3 .5 mil­ http://www.starshiptravel.com/co out extra pay" for hours exceed­ fleet. lion to Alaska in a settlement to a mplaints.htm. One described the ing the contracted amount. Some The unit carries a crew of eight. It transports chemicals to and from civil lawsuit. The settlement Paradise trip as a "floating night­ earn as little as $50 per month, ports between the Gulf Coast and New York. stemmed from Royal Caribbean's mare." though they can earn more Allied acquired the vessel approximately one year ago. The tug dumping of hazardous materials While many news reports in the through tips. underwent "mostly cosmetic" repairs in Norfolk, while the barge "was in Alaskan waters, and it is in past 12 months have focused on Inadequate medical treatment rebuilt in Baltimore," noted Jeffrey Parker, vessel operations manager addition to the record $18 million how runaway-flag cruise lines in is another key issue: "Crew mem- at Allied. The Sea Raven has a 24,000-ton carrying capacity. It is 530 feet ROIR01s Sea Trials Scheduled for April long, with a 76-foot beam and a 7,200 hp engine. USNS Charlton Signals New Jobs for Seafarers The USNS Charlton, a new roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) ship which soon will be crewed by SIU members, is slated for sea trials in April. The 950-foot vessel was approximately 85 per­ cent complete as of late January. San Diego-based National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASS­ CO) in December conducted a ceremony during Among those crewing the 530- which the vessel was released into the harbor. foot unit are (above) AB/ Tanker­ One of 14 new builds scheduled as part of an ini­ man Gary Reynolds, (below) AB tiative to bolster U.S. sealift capability, the USNS William Hudgins Jr. and (bottom) Charlton has 390,000 square feet of cargo space. It Cook/OS Robert Mathews. will be assigned to the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), carrying prepositioned U.S. Army equipment, vehicles and supplies to key loca­ tions worldwide. As with most of the other recent new builds in the strategic sealift program, the USNS Charlton is named in memory of a Medal of Honor recipient. U.S. Army Sergeant Cornelius H. Charlton is a posthumous recipient of the U.S. Army Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during battle in Korea in 1952. The keynote speaker at the christening was Major General Mario F. Montero Jr., U.S. Army assistant deputy chief of staff for logistics. Other speakers included Rep. Brian Bilbray, (R-Calif.); Vice Admiral Gordon S. Holder, commander of MSC; Rear. Admiral Dennis Gilbert Morral, U.S. The articulated tug and barge Navy program executive officer for expeditionary Seafarers will crew the USNS Charlton later this Sea Raven, a chemical carrier, warfare; and Richard H. Vortmann, president of year. The prepositioning ship is the newest vessel in represents new employment op­ NASSCO. MSC's fleet. portunities for Seafarers. February 2000 Seafarers LOB 3 ,______...______- - ~------·- - . - - - ~

Sea-Land Seafarers Welcome Sacco, Tellez SIU1s Baltimore Nall Relocating to Essex St.

Seafarers in Baltimore can look forward to a new SIU hall open­ ing there sometime this spring. The facility, located on Essex Street, will replace the current hall, located on East Baltimore Street. It is a one-story buiJding with a loft office in the back. Most recentJy used as an art studio, the structure is 2,400 square feet. It is situated in a more modem and generally more appealing area than the existing hall. Modifications to the newly acquired property are needed to facilitate efficient operations. They are being scheduled through the Baltimore Building Trades, AFL-CIO. Mobile Of I icial Harold SIU members aboard the Sea-Land Express (top photo) and the Sea-Land Quality (two photos below) recently welcomed SIU President Michael Sacco and SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez aboard the ships in Port Elizabeth, N.J. The union officials and crew members discussed the proposed SIU­ Fischer Passes Away NMU merger and other issues affecting Seafarers' livelihoods. Sacco is pictured fourth from the left Longtime Mobile, Ala. port in photo above. Tellez second from left. official Harold Fischer passed away on September 4, 1999 fol­ lowing an extended illness. He was 83 years old. Brother Fischer joined the SIU as a charter member in December 1938 in his native Mobile. His book number was Fl. After sailing in the engine room, he came ashore in 1943 to work in the Mobile hall. He Harold Fischer served in the Army from 1944 to 1946, then returned to the SIU as an official in the south­ was when many Mobile-area ern Alabama port. retirees attended Brother Except for a stint in San Fischer's funeral. "There were Francisco from 1950 to 1953, so many of them, I couldn't Brother Fischer was assigned to believe it. They even wrote a SMPPP Administrator Provides Plan Update Mobile until his retirement in special tribute to him which one 1978. member read. He definitely was Editors note: The following million in employer contributions plan equally. "He was not just liked by the a union man," Mrs. Fischer article was written by Lou Delma, with another $52,000 in partici­ For example, let's assume the members of this port, he was said. administrator of the Seafarers pant contributions. total account was valued at $5 revered," recalled SIU Mobile Besides Mrs. Fischer, he was Money Purchase Pension Plan. It The plan is pleased to million and the account was to Port Agent Ed Kelly. "He would survived by his daughter, three is an update for plan participants. announce once again that our earn 10 percent or $500,000. Let's do anything for anybody." grandchildren and two great As we begin the new century, investment manager, Morgan further assume that participant Z His widow, Nellie, told the grandchildren. He was buried at the SMPPP is taking steps neces­ Stanley Dean Witter, has reported had $5,000 deposited in his or her Seafarers LOG how grateful she Pine Crest Cemetery in Mobile. sary to send year-end account that annualized earnings on the name. Since $5,000 is .1 percent summaries to all participants. As account are 12.86 percent with a of the total account, that partici­ always, these summaries will be total return from inception pant would earn .1 percent of the MarAd Changes Way of Counting U.S. Vessels in the mail before the end of through December 31, 1999 of $500,000 earned or $500.00. Continued from page 2 which included his predecessor March. 34.36 percent. Although those Furthermore, if plan expenses retired Admiral Albert Herberger, Meanwhile, we thought it numbers are unaudited, they amount to $200,000, based on Other Topics of the many Title XI loan guaran­ would be a good time to recap reflect an accurate representation 5,400 participants, each partici­ tees issued by MarAd during the exactly how the plan works and, of how the account is doing. pant account would be charged He noted with pride the effort 1990s for vessel construction and in the process, hopefully answer While the plan continues to approximately $37.00. under way to build two new pas­ shipyard modernization. any questions that still might grow, we have been successful in Direct contributions to the plan senger ships in an American yard. Finally, Hart proclaimed safe­ remain on this plan. keeping expenses in check as for an established account are per­ (These are the two American ty would remain "our North Star" As you probably know, the operating expenses directly attrib­ missible; however, the plan can­ Classic Voyages ships announced within the industry. plan has only been around since utable to the plan are approxi­ not accept contributions in excess in the April 1999 issue of the "We should all be proud of the June 1996. Since its inception, the mately 4.2 percent. of 10 percent of a participant's Seafarers LOG, which will sail in exacting safety and environmen­ number of participants has Earnings on the account will gross annual income. For this rea­ the Hawaiian trades under the tal standards that our nation jumped to nearly 5,400 partici­ be distributed to participants son, it is difficult to accept a United States Lines' banner.) demands of the maritime industry pants at year-end. based on each individual partici­ deposit from an individual with­ He said MarAd is working in shipbuilding and repair, in Plan assets, including both pant's account total, as it com­ out detailed information, because with the rest of the Transportation realized and unrealized income, pares to the overall account total operations on the sea and the when the payment is received we Department to implement a blue­ are over $6.2 million. During the on a percentage basis. Expenses waterways. Likely have no way to tell if the print to meet the nation's trans­ "America has the best 3.5 years that have passed, the directly related to this account are payment exceeds that 10 percent plan has received more than $5.8 allocated to each participant in the portation needs by the year 2020. mariners and finest ships and maximum allowable by law. He reminded the audience, shipyard personnel in the world. However, payments will be accepted if they are accompanied Marine Cooks & Stewards by a current pay voucher verify­ Maritime Issues on Congressional Agenda ing that the contribution is within Continued from page 3 the guidelines. As always, pay­ Pension Increases by 14o/o ments through a vacation deduc­ ment funded the program at $50 The Board of Trustees of the Both the lump sum payment tion can be made by signing the million, which equates to $1 bil­ Marine Cooks & Stewards and the 14 percent adjustment required authorization form lion in new construction. How­ (MCS) Supplementary Pension will be included with each eligi­ which can be obtained at any port ever, the U.S. Maritime Admin­ Plan recently approved the fol­ ble participant's pension check or writing to the Plan Office. istration budgeted only $6 mil­ lowing benefit improvements, as issued no later than February All participants should have lion for Title XI in Fiscal Year recommended by the plan actu­ 2000. received a Summary Plan 2000 and is proposing the same ary: The letter sent last month to Description Booklet. If you do not amount for FY 2001. • Effective January 1, 2000, all plan participants noting the afore­ have one or would Like a new one, Congressional retirements made present and future pensioners mentioned benefits, also pointed please contact the Plan Office at news during the holiday recess. or pensioners' beneficiaries out that "all future applications 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Among the Legislators announcing will receive a 14 percent ben­ for the MCS Supplementary MD 20746. For account balance they would not run for reelection efit increase. Pension Benefit must be submit­ inqumes please call Basil was Rep. Herbert Bateman. The • All current MCS Sup­ ted to Plan headquarters at 5201 Castrovinci, Associates at 1-800- nine-term Virginia Republican, a The chair of the House Merchant plementary Pension Plan pen­ Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 485-3703. For all other inquiries longtime supporter of the U.S.-flag Marine Panel, Rep. Herbert sioners or pensioners' benefi­ 20746. This change will not have on the Plan, please contact the fleet, is the chairman of the House Bateman (R-Va.), announced he ciaries will receive a one-time any effect on the issuance of Plan at above address or call 301- Merchant Marine Panel within would retire at the end of this ses­ lump sum payment of $500. monthly benefits in the future." 899-0675. the Armed Services Committee. sion of Congress.

4 Seafarers LOB February 2000 dropping since the 1960s, but showed an increase from 17 .8 to Union Membership Increases Again 19.1. Union membership in the pub­ lic sector also grew by 152,788. New Data Shows Largest Growth in 20 Years The percentage of public sector More and more workers are growth eclipsed the entire 1998 The federation of trade unions, joined SEIU. workers who have a union saying, "Union, yes!" union membership growth of to which the SIU is affiliated, Some of those gains are offset decreased slightly, from 37.5 per­ cent to 37.3 percent. Union membership increased l 01,000 public and private sector pointed out that much of the by retirements, plant relocations More workers are forming by more than 265,000 in 1999, workers. growth was due to more workers or closures, and other factors. unions because they want a say in according to figures released The percentage of private sec­ forming unions in the last few Similarly, AFL-CIO Organizing issues that affect them at work, January 19 by the Bureau of tor workers who have a union years, and some was due to Director Kirk Adams pointed out such as wages, benefits and work­ Labor Statistics. That marks the also remained statistically steady, growth in the economy. that in order to continue growing ing conditions, according to largest annual membership stopping the decline since 1978. At least 600,000 workers orga­ (as a percentage of the work recent polling and reports from growth in more than 20 years. "We're turning the corner, but nized unions in 1999, according force) in a rapidly expanding organizing campaigns. The number ofunion members we're not at our destination yet," to internal AFL-CIO and affiliate economy, unions must organize "As low-wage, service and in the U.S. increased from 16.21 said AFL-CIO President John J. union data-an increase of more between 500,000 and a million temporary jobs increase, many million to 16.48 million. In addi­ Sweeney. "Today's data indicate than 25 percent over 1998. Some workers per year. Americans find themselves with­ tion, the percentage of U.S. work­ that our renewed emphasis on unions had their best organizing In some sectors, last year's out benefits or a steady pay­ ers who have a union remained helping working people form year in recent history. Nearly growth represents a combination check," the federation noted. steady at 13.9 percent, reversing a unions is having an impact. Our 50,000 workers joined both the of organizing and an increase in "Unions are a way for workers to trend of decline and despite challenge for the future is to UAW and the IBEW, for exam­ union jobs. In construction, for tum that trend around and ensure strong overall job creation. remain focused and to broaden ple, and more than 150,000 instance, union density has been they gain in prosperous times." Union membership increased our efforts. It's crucial for unions by 112,493 in the private sector, to continue to grow if working nearly double the size of the only men and women are going to Census Will Impact Congress, States other such annual increase in two have a stronger voice in the issues decades. The 1999 private sector that matter to them most." At Stake: Assigning $185 Billion in Annual Federal Funds Election Day isn't the only dozens more. Additionally, local Census Schedule* period this year that promises a governments and businesses use Indy Makes History deep and broad impact on the information. Mid-March: Deliver census question- American politics. The U.S. Constitution requires naires The 2000 census, commenc- a nationwide census every 10 April 1: Census Day At Pearl Harbor Yard ing April I, will be the basis for years. All census information March-May 2000: census takers visit reapportionment next year of submitted by individuals is confi- housing units in rural and remote areas seats in the U.S. Congress and in dential and is not shared with any to drop off and/or pick up forms state and local legislative dis- other agencies. Late April-Early July 2000: census takers tricts. Based on population shifts, There are two types of census visit housing units that did not return cen- some states as well as their leg- forms: short and long. The short sus forms islative districts may gain or lose form asks seven questions and October-November 2000: All field work representation. takes about 10 minutes to com- completed Census data also is used in plete, according to the Census December 31, 2000: Apportionment allocating approximately $185 Bureau. Approximately 83 per- counts delivered to the president billion in federal funds each year cent of households receive the -money earmarked for such short form. April 1, 2001: All$tates receive redistrict- ing counts projects as road and transporta- The rest receive the long form, tion planning, school construe- covering 34 subjects and requir­ *Source: U.S. Census Bureau Following two weeks in dry dock, the SS Independence resumes its tion, housing development and ing 40 minutes or so to complete. week-long cruises to fi ve ports of call in the Hawaiian islands.

The SIU-crewed SS Independence underwent routine maintenance Shipboard Seatare rs Can Be Counted I last month in Hawaii, but in one respect the upkeep proved momen­ As was the case IO years ago, SIU members who Unlike in 1990, however, mariners aboard ships tous. are aboard ship on Census Day (April 1) may identi- sailing to, from or between foreign ports will not be The cruise ship became the first commercial vessel ever in a regu­ fy "home" as a place ashore or the vessel itself. counted as part of the U.S. overseas population. This larly scheduled dry dock at the U.S. Navy's Pearl Harbor complex. In According to the Census Bureau, "Crews of U.S. change essentially was made because of logistical 1985, the SIU-crewed SS Constitution (the sister ship of the flag merchant vessels engaged in inland waterway difficulties in counting all U.S. citizens overseas (not Independence) was docked there for emergency repairs. transportation are counted at their usual onshore res- just mariners). SIU-contracted shipowner American Classic Voyages said the two­ idence (the place where they live and sleep most of Those mariners sailing to, from or between for- week tune-up benefited the company, the Navy and the State of the time when they are onshore). eign ports will be counted at their usual onshore res- Hawaii. "Crews of U.S. flag merchant vessels docked in a idence if they report one, or otherwise on the vessel. "A local docking means that the Independence does not lose a week U.S. port or sailing from one U.S. port to another The bureau was scheduled to mail census materi­ of service in transit to and from the U.S. mainland for repairs, as it did U.S. port are counted at their usual onshore residence als by late January or early this month to U.S.-flag in 1997. The U.S. Navy leases a dock that would otherwise have been if they report one (the place where they live and sleep shipping lines, in sufficient quantities . to provide idle, and local workers and suppliers benefit from the project's positive most of the time when they are onshore) or otherwise every mariner (and passenger) with a chance to be on the vessel." counted. economic impact," the company stated in a press release. The inspection and repairs employed 700 Hawaii workers. Launched in 1951, the Independence was refurbished in 1994 and Former SUP President Dempster Passes Away 1997. An American Classic Voyages subsidiary, United States Lines, later Paul Dempster, for­ this year is scheduled to launch the reflagged and modified Patriot. mer president of the The company also has contracted for two new l,900-passenger cruise Seafarers-affi 1i a ted ships slated for service in 2003 and 2004, respectively. All of those Sailors' Union of the vessels will be crewed by Seafarers. Pacific (SUP), passed away December 17 in a Concord, Calif. hospital. Paul He was 71. Union Squashes Y2K Bug Dempster Dempster served as SIU headquarters, which the next few weeks, it will be SUP president from 1978 includes the union plans and very minor." to 1990. He also had been president of accounting departments (among The Y2K bug stems from the the San Francisco Central Labor Council others), apparently went unaffect­ widespread use of two digits, and the San Francisco AFL-CIO Port ed by the once-dreaded Y2K bug. rather than four, to signify the Maritime Council of the Maritime Trades Management information sys­ year in some software applica­ Department. tems (MIS) personnel at the tions, hardware chips and com­ He joined the SUP in 1949 and sailed Camp Springs, Md. facility long puter databases (for example, as a bosun and AB. ago initiated preventive measures 12/22/99). Programmers, infor­ "Paul was a down-to-earth, reliable aimed at thwarting potential Y2K mation specialists and many oth­ guy who was very strong in negotia­ problems. Those steps included ers had warned of potential diffi­ tions," stated retired SIU Vice President installing various Y2K compliant culties in the year 2000 when the West Coast George McCartney. software, reworking the phone year is "00" and some computer Dempster, a native of Hawaii, served system and modifying the inter­ based systems cannot differenti­ in the U.S. Marine Corps during World nal mechanics of the medical ate it from 1900. War II. claims system. According to news reports, He is survived by his wife of37 years; "Thus far, we haven't experi­ most Y2K glitches through early his daughter; two sisters; and three enced any . Y2K problems what­ January had been fairly minor. grandchildren. soever," said Wally Schmidt, the But that success came at a cost­ According to Dempster's wishes, his Retired SIU VP West Coast George McCartney (right) union's MIS director, in mid­ worldwide, literally billions of ashes were scattered at sea from the deck serves as a pallbearer at Paul Dempster's funeral December 23 in Concord, Calif. January. "We're reasonably con­ dollars were spent on preventive of the Matsonia. fident that if anything pops up in Y2K efforts. February 2000 Seafarers LOG 5 Quam Connects with Apprentice Program Territory's Gov't Seeks Employment Boost Residents of the westernmost designed to facilitate Guam­ mum of 90 days. That span is United States territory will have anians' enrollment in the center's divided into thirds, allowing stu­ an enhanced opportunity to begin unlicensed apprentice program. dents to work in all three depart­ a career in the U.S. merchant This endeavor is very similar to ments. manne. one in which Alaska has partici­ Finally, students return to the The government of Guam, pated since 1997. school for the third stage, which working with the SIU and the In carefully examining the involves department-specific Paul Hall Center for Maritime benefits of such a partnership training. Upon graduation, the Training and Education, is estab­ between the territory, the union Seafarer is shipped out to work as lishing a recruitment system and the school (located in Piney either an ordinary seaman, wiper Point, Md.), Guam Governor Carl or steward assistant. T.C. Gutierrez- along with sev­ Open since 1967, the school eral other Guam officials--exten­ offers not only entry-level train­ sively toured the Paul Hall Center ing, but also more advanced in late December. U.S. Rep. vocational upgrading courses for Steny Hoyer (D-Md.), whose dis­ experienced mariners. It also pro­ Discussing the school's 33-year history as a major employer in south­ trict includes the training facility, vides academic support and fea­ ern Maryland are (from left facing camera) Guam Governor Carl T.C. Gutierrez, Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan, and U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer also took part in the tour. tures a college degree program. (D-Md.) during a late December tour. In mid-January, an estimated The Paul Hall Center last year 1,000 Guamanians attended a opened a state-of-the-art fire seminar on the island about the fighting and safety school near unlicensed apprentice program. the main campus. (Guam's population is approxi­ Among those accompanying mately 155,000.) Governor Gutierrez last month to The program's curriculum is Piney Point were the following divided into three phases. During Guam officials: Attorney General the first segment, which lasts 12 John Tarantino; Senator Eloy weeks and takes place at the Bermudes (a U.S. Naval Acad­ school, students receive class­ emy graduate and former execu­ room and hands-on training that tive manager of the Guam Port covers basic seamanship and Authority); Joe T. San Agustin, familiarization skills. administrator of base realignment During the second phase, and closure; and Jerry Yingling, apprentices serve aboard US.­ executive manager of the Guam flag merchant vessels for a mini- International Airport Authority.

The opening last year of the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School (below), part of the Paul Hall Center, has proven extremely ben­ eficial for numerous classes, including the unlicensed apprentice cur­ riculum. Observing a demonstration December 27 at the modern cam­ pus are (from left) U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-Md.), Guam Governor Carl T.C. Gutierrez, Paul Hall Center Safety Director Jim Hanson and Guam Senator Eloy Bermudes.

THEY SHOULD KNOW: While researching the program, Guam officials chatted with students enrolled in the Paul Hall Center's unlicensed apprentice program. Reminder Notice As part of the existing standard freightship and tanker contracts, Seafarers may qualify for an extra vacation day per month. However, the contracts department reminds SIU members that in order to obtain this benefit, they must secure and compfete a "tour of Mobile Hosts Feb. 25 Ceremony duty" form when signing off the vessel. This one-page form, available aboard the ship, should be signed by the master with the ship's seal. It is the member's responsibility to keep the form until filing for vaca­ Honoring Memory of Leon Hall tion benefits. The extra vacation day will be paid to any eligible SIU member who successfully completes his or her tour of duty without injury or Active and retired Seafarers along with their illness and who files the correct paperwork. If the Seafarer already has collected some vacation pay prior to successfully completing his families and friends are invited to a February 25 or her tour, then the extra day will be awarded on the last vacation dedication at the SIU hall in Mobile, Ala. in mem­ check, once he or she completes the assignment and meets the ver­ ification requirements. ory of the late SIU Vice President Leon Hall. Refreshments will be provided. CG Sets Drug Test Rate Hall passed away in 1992 at age 72. At 50 Percent for Y2K The ceremony's starting time had not been deter­ The U.S. Coast Guard recently announced that it will maintain a mined as this issue of the Seafarers LOG went to minimum random drug testing rate of 50 percent for merchant vessel crew members throughout this year. The agency reported that the press. Please check with the Mobile hall at (205) 1998 results (the most recent available when determining the 2000 Leon Hall standard) were positive 1.68 percent of the time. 4 78-0916 for more information. Federal regulations require marine employers to conduct random drug testing programs for covered crew members on inspected and uninspected vessels.

6 Seafarers LOG February 2000 Among those pictured aboard the LNG Aquarius in Japan are Chief Cook G. Williams, SA Joseph Welle, P. Kasim, SA C. Washington, AB J. O'Shaughnessy and Bosun Zaine Basir. Applying muscle to their task are Recertified Bosun Jamie Miller (right) and two ABs aboard the USNS Sisler.

Servicing Se0;[arers Overseas Crews Discuss Merger, Otherl01portantlssues SIU crews in Japan, Singapore, Diego Garcia positive response," noted Ruiz, referring to the pro­ and other overseas ports welcomed SIU posed merger of the SIU and the National Maritime Representative Steve Ruiz to their respective ships Union (see story, page 2). throughout the month of December. "They all seemed very happy to see a union offi­ Ruiz met with Seafarers aboard the eight LNG cial on the ships," he added. ships (Aquarius, Aries, Capricorn, Gemini, Leo, The proposed merger of the SIU and NMU was a hot topic aboard the Other subjects discussed among Ruiz and the LNG Taurus during a recent shipboard meeting. Among those attend­ Libra, Taurus and Virgo); on the Buffalo Soldier, ing are (from left) QMED M. Hill, QMED J. Orr, GUDE Norman American Cormorant and Cape Jacob; and aboard crews included the Alaska Tanker Co., the reflag­ Barbosa, Recertified Steward Judi Chester, Recertified Bosun Dan the USNS vessels Potomac, Anderson, Phillips, ging of the LNG ships, and the various new vessels Marcus and AB D. Bates. Watson, Baugh, Yano, Sisler, Shughart and coming under SIU contract. Gilliland "The LNG crews gave a vote of thanks" to SIU "The main thing on the crews' minds was the President Michael Sacco and SIU VP Contracts merger, and an overwhelming majority gave a very Augie Tellez, Ruiz added.

As was the case aboard many other SIU­ contracted ships, the steward department on the James Anderson worked to create Posing for a photo aboard ttie USNS Potomac in a homey holiday atmosphere at sea. Singapore are SA Liana McKinney, SA Luis Gonzalez, Helping get the job done are SA B. Chief Steward Norman Cox, Bosun Sean Ryan and Chief Fermin, SA Ibrahim Taha, SA E. Alaa, Cook Pamala Hagler. Chief Steward M. Watts, Assistant Cook M. Walter and GUDE A. Mohamed. Left: Chief Electrician Ronald Paradise (left) and Bosun Edwin Rivera attend the meeting aboard the Phillips.

Prepositioned in Diego Garcia, the Pvt. Franklin Phillips is a good feed­ SIU Representative Steve Ruiz answers Seafarers' ques­ SERVICE WITH A SMILE: Aboard the LNG er thanks to the galley gang that includes Chief Steward James Kidd, tions aboard the Cape Jacob. Listening are Chief Cook Capricorn (from left), Chief Cook Rafael Chief Cook A. Mohammed, Cook/Baker C. Jones, SA C. Nunez-Avila, Marco Guevara, Oiler Gregory Carroll, ABT. O'Brien and Cardenas, SA Gloria Melluish and SA Antonio SAM. Thomas and others. AB R. Trainor. Perez welcome a camera-toting guest.

February 2000 Seafarers LOS 7 HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM STEW ARD DEPT MN MARlNE COLUMBIA THUR NOV 25 1999 Sea -arers COMMANDING OFFICER CAPT JOHN T SCOGGINS ME N U B R E A K F A S T CHILLED FRUI JUICES SLICED FRESH FRUITS ASSORTED COLD CEREALS BREAKFAST POTATOES BREAKFAST PASTRIES EGGS COOKED TO ORDER HOT CAKES FRENCH TOAST GRJLLED BACON GRJLLED HAM HOT GRITS HOT OATMEAL Celebrate CHOICE OF OMELETTES EGGS BENEDICT (HAM BAC CHEESE ONIO PEPPER CRAB) EGGNOG L U NCH Pictured from left to right, SA Othman Saleh, FRENCH ONION SOUP W/CH/ CROUTONS Steward/Baker James Dunne and Chief Cook John ASSORTED COLD SALADS&MIXED RELISHES Huyett offer a Thanksgiving meal featuring traditional SHRIMP & CRAB COCTAILS dishes and more. ROASTED TURKEY W/DRESSING & GRAVY Holidays BAKED HAM W/FRUIT SAUCE RICE PILAFF GLAZED YAMS MASHED POTATO GREEN PEAS SUMMER SQUASH BROCCOLI Steward Departments Marine Col11mbia HOT COFFEE COLD MILK FRUIT DRINK HOT TEA PECAN PIE PUMPKIN PIE JELLO PUDDING PETITS FOURS HARD CANDY ASSORTED NUTS Give Extra Effort DINNER LEFT OVERS FROM LUNCH To Provide PLUS ROASTED PRIME RIB WIAU JUS AND MANY HAPPY RETURNS Scrumptious FROM JOHN &JIM &OTTMAN Shipboard Fare

As Thanksgiving gave way to Christmas and New Year's Day, SIU steward depart­ ments continually utilized their skills, creativi­ ty and enthusiasm in preparing holiday feasts for fellow crew members. Pictured on deck is Several of those vessels contacted the Bosun Greg Hamilton. Seafarers LOG to commend the respective galley gangs. Some of the photos they submit­ Chief Pumpman Ron Gordon works up an ted, along with others from the holidays, are appetite while helping keep the equipment operating. shown on this page and the next one.

SAVE ROOM FOR DESSERT: Bosun Tony Sabatini enjoys Thanks­ Steward/Baker Dunne (right photo) is in a dicey situation while SA Saleh has an idea for giving dinner. decorating the treetop.

Recertified Bosun Marvin Zimbro Sulphur Enterprise lends a hand during meal preparation.

Fist-size shrimp were on the Thanksgiving menu.

"'J..r•·f'·p fTtLn'K,~GIV!;VG D < l5 :>iOVEMllF.R Jm !SULi'RL'R F..~IU'IUSE .4P :um~. • CltABCAU. ·~ ~~~~, • m.in:u onn"l..'t Wll'iG. OA• HUT1tAtt"GOO.'l. " T£1UYAKJcmt.~. ~.:r-o~kOIL ::::::~ C:Ol'Ol>it(>~ ~ • AVOCAD05ltllf..L ~:® .. .. ~"-WRDll:OU.. GNGLR.&OU., • cv.111u1aou. ~ SUFOOb CllOWnM ilM 'ift'O:.'ft'O.!I 1110UP. L'TRHS ~JlT.\U,\lilTHilOLU..'\"•.US&. OkllUO llUJ'ftUCOfil TO OttDPW111! ~ acruw.. S'fn:C'T.-SlH:Ta !W)Tf&rfUl'.CJtA& ~lJlt.:£."l'l.f.&!'RLU~J'RJ'QJUCi, .OASTTOMTl'ftkl!'YWml~~GC-...VY:_.~-U\JC'S. ~RA.~Jr--~·UA~!ioTIUWt:nll!{t.Awa_~ SfiV"'1'SlLClroAHSTYLE. ~E~°'A'~-'"(Lsno°':~~o. Credit for the Thanksgiving goodies on the Sulphur :;R! :~~ ==~~ Mn..PKf!Th. •WG~OG. Enterprise goes to (from left) Chief Cook Jimmy Cordova, ~n\ll'i.-Ab DDART~i"-"'158Jfll(; Cla'!W Jl.~lio"f. A '!l!)('K 80 __, Steward/Baker Nee Tran and SA Trinidad Sanchez. M..lL'TJn"l.. 1ll''\JGC1Vf'fr.. Eyeing the menu choices are DEU Justin Ravnell (left) and Recertified Bosun Marvin Zimbro.

8 Seafarers LOG February 2000 Wilmington ITB Philadelphia

No SIU-crewed ship may have faced more difficult cir­ cumstances near the holidays than the !TB Philadelphia. As noted in letters from AB Sharing holiday sentiments aboard John Bellinger and Captain Matson's Manulani are (from left) SA Nicholas Colavito (see page Tim Ellis, Port Agent John Cox and Chief Steward Lorraine Brayman. 20), the vessel engaged in a challenging voyage deliver­ ing food aid (37,000 tons of Each Christmas, a large, grain) from Portland to two bearded man in a red and ports in North Korea. white hat visits Seafarers in Because of various unfore­ Wilmington, Calif.-usually seen difficulties, "the dis- Bosun Terry Cowans (left) and charge took 30 days, longer AB John Bellinger eagerly antici- several hours after Santa by far than was projected," pate the Thanksgiving spread. makes his rounds. Port Agent noted Bellinger, who provid- John Cox (pictured in these Crowley Seafarers Engine Utility Deso Hrboka, AB Mike Privette, Mate Hank Scott and Mate Barry ed these photos. "During the four shots) continued the tradi­ Schuffels welcome their jolly visitor. entire stay, communication tion in 1999. was severely restricted. The strain was especially great on the steward department, as the Philadelphia carried seven extra people to operate the machinery for the dis­ charge. "Additionally, large groups of customs and immigration officials as well as officials from the port On the Sea-Land Patriot are (from left) Electrician Bozidar Baul, often arrived with little Pictured from left to right are AB John Emrich, AB Mitchell Santana, AB Matt Bevak, Port notice, and expected to be Cook/Baker Mohamed Hussein AB Herman Moningka, Port Agent John Cox, Bosun Bobby Garcia, AB Ray Vicari and AB fed." (right) and Chief Steward Agent John Cox and Captain Don Hamrick. Bruno Kalmeta. The ship left Korea a few Thurman Johnson ready the days before Thanksgiving, meal. and crew members "enjoyed a spectacular Thanksgiving dinner, due in large part to the creativity and squirreling ability of Chief Steward Thurman Johnson and Cook/Baker Mohamed Hussein, wrote Bellinger. GI bal "This will be Mohamed's last voyage. The officers and crew presented him with a certificate of appreciation and Mariner a modest cash gift to express their gratitude for his fine work under trying circumstances. Mr. Hussein is such a fine baker that when the bread from shore finally ran out, the quality of life aboard actually improved, as delicious fresh breads, rolls, pastries and cookies rolled forth from Mo's oven. Lucky are we who sailed with him, and we wish him happiness on the beach. "Also, the entire crew has shown once again that long More than 100 people, including crew members, company officials and hours and difficult straits do not slow down American guests, turned out for the Christmas luncheon aboard the cable ship merchant mariners." Global Mariner. Chief Steward Lanette Lopez (behind the camera) worked with (from left) SA Syed Murtaza, Chief Cook Antony Bach, SA Suzanne Santora, SA Husain Salah and Cook/Baker Walter Schoppe as well as Bosun Thor Young and Splicer/Joiner Nelson Poe in ready­ ing the succulent cuisine.

Sea-Land Patriot

Beef Wellington is one of many holiday menu choices on the Sea­ Land Patriot.

RUDOLPH'S GOT NOTHIN' ON THIS ONE: Unlicensed Apprentice Justin Baker (class No. 597) puts the final touch on temporarily red­ nosed Brooke Dement at a holiday gathering inside the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, in Piney Point, Md.

February 2000 Seafarers LOG 9 Pensioner James M Smith had only one 18-inch port that was taking care of the animals, like that!" We both dashed for the said, "Ah leetle," and held up her joined the SIU in Baltimore in opened on the after deck and a making sure they had food and engine room. I flipped the main fingers pinched together. August 1939, right out of the small electric fan. I thought, this water and cleaning their stalls. He lighting breakers and the ship went We were soon sitting at a side­ l"YT...... ,,--.r...... ,,...... ,...TT""".._ Marine Corps son-of-a-gun is going to be a hot had an endorsement on his sea­ dark. walk cafe drinking coffee and as a corporal one! man's certificate that I had never The German U-boat lay off the laughing while struggling with the and as an I had been told at the union hall heard of: Cattleman. A seagoing harbor and fired at us for 15 minutes language barrier and enjoying each expert of50- that the ship was hauling bauxite cowboy! It was something he did before the local armed forces got other's company. After about an caliber from Dutch Guiana on the coast of "off watch" and was paid overtime their coast defense guns in action hour, I indicated that it was time machine guns. South America to the port of accordingly. and drove them off. The Nazi gun for me to go (we were sailing at He sailed dur­ Mobile, Ala. Bauxite is a gray, I felt very uneasy about sailing crew was aiming primarily at the dawn.) When I stood up to leave, ing WWII, the dusty, gritty mineral that is the in those submarine-infested waters oil tanks and refinery at the edge of Elita, still chattering in Spanish, Korean con- main ingredient in making alu­ with the animals. One look at their town and except for that first round, took my arm. I caught the word J. Melford Smith flict and the minum. When loading and dis­ large brown, trusting eyes and the none of them came close. By late "paseo" (walk), so we started to early part of charging bauxite, the dust covers thought of what would happen if the next afternoon, the local long­ walk east along the beach road. It the Vietnam the entire ship. The ventilation fans we got hit made me first angry, shoremen had gotten the cargo was a beautiful spring night with a war and upgraded at the union s must be shut down to protect the then sad. We humans were respon­ ashore, we had cast off the mooring full moon and a cool breeze from school in Brooklyn to third assis­ machinery, but the bauxite gets in sible for the present conditions and lines and were sailing around the the Caribbean. When we came to tant engineer. your food, your hair and your nose. could take care of ourselves. For Venezuelan coast to La Guaira. the edge of town I said to myself, This article recounts a voyage If you are sweating, you soon look the horses and cows confined in As we rounded the peninsula, Elita must be a country girl if she he took in 1942 aboard the SS like a gray ghost. their stalls, their terror and panic staying close inshore, I was Lives this far out of town. Alcoa Pathfinder. It was a miserable cargo to would be ended only by their death informed by the engineer on watch After about a quarter mile she alking down the dimly lit transport but a vital one for the war by drowning. I vowed that if we that there was a smell of burning asked me something in Spanish dock at midnight, I could effort. I had never refused a job survived this voyage, I would get insulation near the main switch­ that I didn't understand. We con­ W hear the hum of the gen­ becau e of the conditions or dan­ another ship as I did not want to be board. I soon located the problem tinued strolling down the road erators through the steel hull of the gers, and I had sailed on some real around when that happened. and found a circuit breaker that hand in hand with Elita asking the ship while I was still 100 yards rust buckets, so I stowed my gear Captain Dumke, who had made was overheated. It was one of the same question every hundred yards away. The ship was loaded down and crawled into the comfortable this trip several times, said the breakers for the steering gear or so. Finally, while I could still almost to her plimsol marks, so the bunk for a few motors, which see the lights of the town, I gangway had only a slight incline. hours sleep. was a vital piece stopped and sat down on a stone Carrying my sea bag and tool It seemed of equipment. I culvert while I figured out what kit, I went up the narrow gangway only a moment decided to she was saying. At last it became to the deck. At the top of the gang­ until the oiler on change the cir­ clear to me that she did not under­ way, the mate had posted the sail­ watch was cuit breaker stand that I was a seafaring person ing board with a sailing time of knocking on my immediately, on a ship! Elita was asking "How 0500 and the date: 2/28/42. door saying "It's even though I much farther is it?" When we met Stepping onto the deck, I was zero four thirty would have to the next time, we laughed about it. stopped short by a strong odor that Elec, we're get­ work it "hot," The next morning, heading had been long forgotten- the ting underway in which was 240 down the coast to Paramaribo, smell of horse manure! I must be a half hour volts. Dutch Guiana, I thought, how frus­ dreaming, I thought. With a war -and the cof­ I removed trating to not be bilingual in a going on, we couldn't possibly be fee's ready." I the defective hemisphere where 21 out of 23 carrying a load of horse manure to mumbled thanks breaker and countries speak Spanish. In India I some port overseas. Maybe some and got dressed, installed the had Learned a little Bengali and in general or admiral had started a rose buckled on my Often sailing unarmed, U.S.-flag cargo ships were at great risk through­ new one. the Philippines a little Tagalog garden somewhere and was using tool belt, shoved out World War II-as evidenced in this 1942 photograph of an American Tightening the along with their Spanish. I decided ammo ship whose entire crew perished. his clout to get some fertilizer. a flashlight in last nut, the then and there to start studying Casting aside such disrespectful my back pocket wrench slipped, Spanish as soon as I could find a thoughts about our fearless leaders, and headed to flew out of my good study book. I walked aft on the port side and the engine room to make sure the worst danger lay in our passage sweating hand and landed across But as Robert Bums, the Scot discovered the farm-like odor was circuit breakers for the anchor through the Yucatan Channel, the the bus bars which carries the main poet, said, "The best laid schemes coming from a dozen wooden windlass and the aft warping winch narrow waterway between Cuba load from the generators. The eye­ of mice and men gang aft agley." stalls lashed securely on deck. were in the "on" position on the and the Yucatan Peninsula. He searing flash from the short circuit Due to the exigencies of the war, I They contained four thoroughbred main switchboard. They are used timed our passage through there at blinded me temporarily and soon found myself in the islands of horses and eight cows. For an old by the deck gang to pull in the night. We would go to maximum knocked the generators off line. the South Pacific for the duration. Ohio farm boy, this was truly a mooring lines securing the vessel speed, zigzag wildly in the dark The ship drifted without power, Studying Spanish had a very low sight to behold! I had milked my to the dock. night and stay as close to shore as and an onshore wind pushed us priority where each voyage was a share of cows and spent more time I introduced myself to the l st possible without running aground. toward the rocks less than a mile matter of survival. I regret that I than I cared to admit looking at the assistant engineer, who was warm­ And with the fathometer offi Its away. Our engine crew reacted never did learn it. ... south end of horses going north. I ing up the engine, grabbed a cup of pinging would be heard by enemy quickly to the emergency, and we aramaribo is the capital of never expected to be so closely coffee and went up to the bow to sound gear. soon had the generators back on Surinam, which is a Dutch associated with them while plying stand by the anchor windlass con­ Though he was a grouchy old line and the ship underway again. I Pcolony. The buildings are my trade as a seagoing electrician trols in case something should hap­ cuss with never a kind word for had almost accomplished by acci­ Dutch style and though English is in the U.S. merchant marine. pen while the ship was docking or any of the mates, he stayed on the dent what Adm. Doenitz's sub­ spoken, the main language is I had signed on at the United undocking. It's a part of the job I bridge all night and saw us safely marines had failed to do. Dutch. We didn't have time to go States Shipping Commissioner's enjoyed- unless it was raining. through. a Guaira was a pretty little ashore as the mine where we were office the previous afternoon, but Before getting my marine electri­ Our first port of call was town nestled at the foot of to load bauxite was 25 miles up the this was my first time aboard this cian's certificate, I had sailed in the Maracaibo in the Gulf of Lthe coastal mountain range. Surinam River, and the river pilot new type of vessel. It was called a deck gang as an AB after putting Venezuela, where we had some It serves as the seaport for Caracas, was waiting. C-1 A cargo ship and was just a in my time as OS. Those ratings general cargo to discharge. To the capital, which is about I 0 miles As we wound our way up the year old. The ship had no guns, are a holdover from the days of enter the port, there is a narrow by road over the steep and rugged river through the dense jungle, and her only defense against attack sail but are still used. channel with a swinging mountains. The Venezuelan people branches and vines would some­ was a speed of 16 knots. On this awn was breaking, and the bridge/gate which opens on a large were very friendly toward us times scrape alongside. Monkeys run there were no armed escorts city was coming to life as lake with many oil platforms dot­ "Norte Americanos." and colorful birds of all kinds available. D we moved slowly out of the ting its surface. The gate is pulled After I finished work for the screeched and yelled at us for dis­ Although America at times has dock area and into Mobile Bay. open and closed by a small tug­ day, I walked uptown to the city turbing their habitat. It was a prided herself on being a major Soon we were passing Fort boat. The port was closed from square. There was the usual cathe­ unique experience for us deep sea maritime nation, we have never Morgan on the tip of Dauphin dusk to dawn because of possible dral on one side and a small park sailors. had a national maritime policy. Island, whose huge cannon had enemy action. in the center. Many of the towns­ The mine had a conveyor sys­ Except during periods when our fired at Admiral Farragut's fleet of It was late evening and already people were enjoying the evening tem that was extended over the nation was at war, our leaders have gunboats in 1864 when he made dark by the time we got our ship in the square, including some strik­ ship's holds. The powdery bauxite allowed our merchant marine to that famous remark "Damn the tor­ moored to the dock alongside a ingly beautiful girls, most of whom poured off the concave conveyor deteriorate almost to the point of pedoes, full speed ahead." Now, as warehouse just inside the gate. were accompanied by a chaperone. belt into the hold, throwing up non-existence. we entered the Gulf of Mexico Chief Engineer Hardwick and I My walk around the square was clouds of choking dust. The heat But in 1942, we were in a state where the submarines of Hitler's were sitting on a bench on the aft interrupted by a really Lovely girl was almost unbearable, but there of national emergency, and there "Thousand Year Reich" were lying side of the deckhouse. We were who flashed me a big smile as I was a little breeze blowing up the was a mad scramble to build and in wait for us, we could say the having an after-dinner smoke and strolled by. Since there was not a river so I turned in that night with crew ships to supply the armed same thing. talking when there was a bright chaperone in sight, I stopped to my fan sucking some of that air forces. The enemy was sinking We brought our ship up to full flash of light in the outer harbor. talk, though my Spanish was very into my room. During the night them far faster than they could be speed and started a zigzag course The chief said, "I wonder what limited. the wind shifted and I awoke with built, and we were losing the expe­ to Maracaibo and La Guaira, idiot is signaling to get inside the "Hola! Senorita, Que pasa? a choking sensation, unable to rienced seamen to man them. Venezuela. While making the five­ harbor this late at night." Como se llama? (Hi, miss, what's breathe. Turning on a light, I dis­ Along the East Coast, the lights of day voyage, I learned that some Before I had a chance to reply, happening? What's your name?) covered myself and my room com­ the cities were being used by wealthy businessman in Venezuela there was a terrific explosion and "Elita" she said with a sweet pletely covered with a heavy coat­ German submarine crews to silhou­ was starting a ranch and had the end of the warehouse disinte­ smile, followed by a long string of ing of bauxite dust and my fan ette our ships, making them easy ordered the finest breed of animals grated. The animals were crying Spanish. I hadn't the faintest idea making it look like a Sahara dust targets. Our losses were appalling. from the States. This was the sec­ with fear, and some shrapnel hit what she had said after her name, storm. Bauxite dust does not taste Locating the electrician's cabin, ond shipment, and there were two the stem of the ship. I said, "Chief, so I asked "Habla Englais?" good. I found it was well furnished but more on order. One of the sailors I've never heard a ship enter a port She shook her head no, then Continued on page 17

10 Seafarers LOG February 2000 __ ..______...._...,_.______- --·-

i · Ii .II ~ .....,, ,.

Leap at the Chance for a College Scholarship Are you putting off applying $15,000 to study at a four-year quired of all applicants in order to Deadline Nears for college because you just don't college or university. be considered for a scholarship. The completed applications have the time-or the money? Who Is Eligible? Materials Needed MUST be mailed and postmarked Well, this month both those ON or BEFORE April 15, 2000. problems may be solved! Since Scholarships are available to Transcripts and certificates of Those who have applied for an this is a leap year, which means Seafarers, their spouses and graduation are needed, as are let­ SIU scholarship in the past and February has an extra day, it will dependent children (pensioners ters of recommendation from were not selected are encouraged give you more time to do all those are not eligible). Additional eligi­ individuals who have knowledge to apply again this year, provided things you wished you had more bility information may be found of the applicant's character, per­ they still meet all the require­ time to do. in the 2000 SIU scholarship pro­ sonality and career goals; scores ments. And one of those things is to gram booklet. Just fill out the from the College Entrance So ... don't let a Jack of time or sit down and apply for an SIU coupon below and mail it to the Examination Board (SAT) or money prevent you from further­ scholarship. address listed. Program booklets American College Test (ACT) ing your education. You have an Since the union began its also are available at all SIU halls. exams; a photograph of the appli­ extra day this month to leap for scholarship program in 1952, In addition to the application cant; and a certified copy of the the chance at a scholarship. Don't • many Seafarers and their family form itself, other items are re- applicant's birth certificate. let it pass you by. members have been awarded higher education grants and gone r------, on to realize their educational lease send me the 2000 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, COMPLETE THE COUPON goals. Pprocedures for applying and a copy of the application form. This year, as in the past, the AT RIGHT AND MAIL TO: Seafarers Welfare Plan will pre­ sent seven scholarships. Three of Scholarship Program the awards will go directly to Seafarers. One of these grants is Mariner's Social Security Number ______Seafarers Welfare Plan for $15,000 for use at a four-year institution of higher learning. The Street Address 5201 Auth Way other two awards designated City, State, Zip Code ------Camp Springs, MD 20746 specifically for SIU members are $6,000 each for use toward two Telephone Number ______years of study at a community college or vocational school. This application is for: D Self D Dependent The remaining four grants will be presented to spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, Each of these scholarships is for 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 2100 L------FebTuary 2~0 SeafaTel'S LOG 11 TAX TIPS FOR SEAFARERS TAXTIPSFO HOWTO PREPARE bank's routing number. Line 66c equipment they personally own but their local Social Security indicates the type of account, and use when on a ship performing their Administration office or calling the Presented on these two p ATAXRETURN line 66d is the taxpayer's account work duties. The purchase of Administration at 1-800-772-1213. number at the bank. work-related clothing and other gear, It usually takes about two weeks to handy tax tips that have Step I. Get all records together. When tax returns are filed electron­ as long as it is truly for work and not receive an SSN. mariners. Included are th • Income Records. These include ically, a refund will be received in about paid for by the employer, are likely to any Forms W-2, W-2G and 1099. 3 weeks, or in 2 weeks if it is deposited be considered tax-deductible. Dependent Child Credit: Effec­ 1999 and where to get • Itemized deductions and tax cred­ directly into a savings or checking tive for tax year 1999, taxpayers who its. account For a charge, many profes­ Deducting Work-Related C',ar have a qualifying child who is a U.S. Expenses: Use of a personally-owned citizen and for whom the taxpayer • Medical and dental payment sional tax return preparers offer elec­ WHERETO GE records. tronic filing in addition to their return automobile in work-related travel can may claim a dependency exemption • Real estate and personal property preparation services. If an individual result in deductible expenses. Two and who is less than 17 years old, are tax receipts. prepared his or her own return, a pre­ methods can be used to compute entitled to the child tax credit The General Information: • Interest payment records for items parer or transmitter in their area can automobile expenses-either listing a amount of the credit is $500 per 1-800-829-1040 may be called ti child. such as a home mortgage or home file the return electronically. For a list of standard mileage rate or determining questions 24 hours a day. equity loan. who can file a tax retnrn electronically actual cost On the tax return due April 17 of this year, the IRS is Credit for Higher Education Publications: • Records of payments for child care in any given area, call the IRS toll-free 'IWtion: Individuals may be able to so an individual could work. number, 1-800-829-1040, and ask for accepting a standard mileage rate of Call 1-800-829-3676 to order curr 32.5 cents per mile (for 1/1-3/31) take the "H0 PE" credit for tuition the Electronic Filing Office. publications. Step 2. Get any forms, schedules and 31 cents per mile (for 4/1- and related expenses paid for oneself, or publications necessary to assist in 12/31). Parking fees and tolls can be spouse or dependents to enroll at or Walk-In Help: attend an eligible educational institu­ filing the return. IRS Publication 17 WHAT ARE added when using the standard IRS representatives are availabl mileage rate. If using actual expens­ tion (i.e., college or graduate school entitled "Your Federal Income Tax try to help with tax questions that c: for Use in Preparing 1999 Returns" CONSIDERED es, information must be available on or vocational training). The HOPE is the most comprehensive guide the DEDUCTIONS all operating-related costs for the credit provides a maximum allowable To find the location of an IRS office agency has issued this year. Most IRS vehicle, including interest, insurance, credit of $1,500 per student for each States Government, Internal Reven AND CREDITS taxes, licenses, maintenance, repairs, of the first two years of postsec­ offices and many local banks, post Telephone Help: offices and libraries have publications depreciation, gas, oil, tolls and park­ ondary education. For qualified designed to provide individuals with Personal Exemption Amount: The ing. In either the standard mileage expenses paid after January 1, 1999, The IRS is prepared to answer qu information on correctly filing tax deduction for each exemption-for rate or the actual cost method of taxpayers can take the "Lifetime taxpayer information service, public returns. the individual, his or her spouse and determining car expenses, accurate Leaming Credit," that is a credit of can be ordered. dependents has increased to $2,750 20 percent of qualified tuition ex­ records should be kept The IRS rec­ The federal Tele-Tax system h Step 3. Fill in the return. per person. In 1999, the exemption ommends keeping a log book or penses paid by the taxpayer for any deduction for high income taxpayers diary listing all expenses related to year (after that date) the HOPE cred­ about 150 topics. 1-800-829-4477 i Step 4. Check the return to may be reduced or eliminated if their travel. Only work-related expenses it is not claimed. This credit is not When calling from a touch tone ph make sure it is correct. adjusted gross income exceeds cer­ not reimbursed by an employer can limited to the first two years of post­ repeat the topic and the letter "C" tain threshold amounts. secondary education. Also, no credits Step 5. Sign and date the return. be claimed. To listen to a directory of topics aftet are available for expenses of a stu­ Form 1040 is not considered a valid s.andardl>eWdim.Hmlncraad: Deducting Work-Related Meals dent in any year that tax-free distrib­ 123. You can also check the status return unless signed. A spouse must The standard deduction, or dollar When 'Ihlveling: Workers in trans­ utions from an education IRA are This telephone service is availabl also sign if it is a joint return. amount that reduces the amount that portation are allowed a special rate used to pay the student's expenses. time). is taxed, has increased for most peo­ Step 6. Attach all required forms on the meal allowance of $38 per day ple (see box below to the right). Student Loan Interest: Taxpayers and schedules. Attach the first copy in the continental U.S. and $42 per day Personal Computer: Because of this increase, it may be to may be able to deduct up to $1,500 of of Copy B of Forms W-2, W-2G and outside the continental U.S. Otherwise an individual's benefit to take the interest paid after December 31, 1998 Access the IRS 's Internet Web Si 1099R to the front of the Form 1040. the IRS standard meal allowance is standard deduction this year even if for qualified education expenses for forms, instructions and publication Attach all other schedules and forms generally $34. In some locations it is oneself, spouse or dependents. The questions; search publications on-1' behind Form 1040 in order of the that person has itemized deductions $42, and in Hawaii and Alaska it is in the past. deduction is allowed in figuring attachment sequence number. If tax computed differently. Tiavel expenses, withholding allowances using their adjusted gross income. is owed, attach the payment to the Personal Interest Deductions: including meals, can only be deducted requests for help via e-mail; and si front of Form 1040 along with Form For 1999, personal interest cannot be if directly related to one's work and if they Individual Retirement news by e-mail from the IRS Digita 1040-V (original only). Write name, have not been reimbursed from any deducted. Personal interest includes Accounts: Send IRS Written Questions: address, phone number, social secu­ interest on car loans, credit cards and other source. rity number and form number on your • Education IRAs-Taxpayers Written questions regarding the personal loans. Limit on Itetni7.ed Deductions: check or money order. can contribute up to $500 each District Director (listed on the tax In 1999, itemized deductions may be Interest on Secured Loans De­ year to an Education IRA for a person limited for individuals earning more with the letter. Rounding Off to Whole Dollars: ductible: Interest paid on mort­ under age 18. The contribution is not than $126,600 of federal adjusted Cents may be rounded off to the gages or investments is 100 percent deductible. Earnings on the contribu­ gross income (or $63,300 if married nearest whole dollar on the tax deductible. tion will be distributed tax-free pro­ and filing separately). return and schedules. To do so, raise vided that they are used to pay the Union Dues Deduction: Union amounts from 50 to 99 cents to the Earned Income Credit: A beneficiary's postsecondary educa­ next dollar. For example, $1.39 dues, including working dues, are tion expenses. However, the exclu­ deductible only if they exceed 2 refundable earned income credit becomes $1 and $2.50 becomes $3. (EIC) is available to certain low sion is not available for any year in percent of adjusted gross income. Hthey Federal law prohibits employers income individuals who have earned which the HOPE credit or the Fast Refund: do, only the portion over the 2 per­ from the wages of mariners workin income and meet certain adjusted Lifetime Leaming credit is claimed. cent is deductible. SPAD contribu­ Specifically, the law [46 USCA Taxpayers are able to request gross income thresholds. For tax year Also, no contribution may be made tions have never been deductible. wages due or accruing to a master, direct deposit of their tax refunds by 1999, an individual does not have to by any person for the same beneficia­ member of the crew on a vessel e filling out lines 66b, 66c and 66d on Oub Dues Deduction: No deduc­ have a qualifying child to be eligible ry during any year in which a coµtri• their Form 1040. Line 66b is for the tion is permitted for club dues; how­ for this credit if certain conditions are bution is made to a qualified state coastal, interstate or non-contiguous ever, dues paid to professional or met Different credit percentages and tuition program. provisions of the tax laws of any public service organizations are phase-out percentages are provided wealth, or a subdivision of any of th STANDARD • Roth IRAs-The maximum deductible for business reasons. based on the taxpayer's income level hibit any such withholding of the w total yearly contribution that can be DEDUCIION and the number of qualifying children the coastwise trade between ports · made by an individual to a Roth IRA Deductions Subject to 2% of eligible, if any. The maximum credit pursuant to a voluntary agreement is $2,000. Roth IRAs are subject to This is the standard deduction Adjusted Groa Income: These allowed is as follows: Taxpayers with The law, however, does not exe income limits. The maximum yearly chart for most people. If a tax­ include investment advisory fees, income less than $10,200 and no taxes. Mariners, just like any other contribution is phased out for single payer is 65 or older or blind, trustee's administrative fees, legal qualifying children - $347 maximum their obligations to the government taxpayers with an Adjusted Gross there are additional standard expenses that are paid to produce tax­ credit; taxpayers with income less than Each state has a set of criteria Income (AGI) between $95,000 and deductions. (Note that the per­ able income, safe deposit box rental and $26,928 and with 1 qualifying child - resident of that state. A seaman sho $110,000, for joint filers with an AGI sonal exemption deduction is tax preparation fees. $2,312 maximum credit; taxpayers she is unsure about residency status. between $150,000 and $160,000, and $2,750.) with income less than $30,580 and For example, in California d Deducting WOik-Reiated &penses: for married filing separately with an with 2 or more qualifying children - California State Board of Eq Expenses associated with a seaman's AGI between $0 and $10,000. Filing Standard $3,816 maximum credit. If the seaman-despite the fact that he work may be considered tax de­ Although the contributions are not year-was a resident of the state fi Status Deduction ductible. However, no expense can be earned income credit reduces the deductible, the distributions may be consideration the fact that the se deducted for which a seaman has income tax liability below zero, a tax-free depending on when and why tained a bank account in a Califo Single ...... $4,300 been reimbursed by the employer. refund will be granted by the IRS. they are made. Additionally, each state has es Married filing Tiavel to the union hall to register or Taxpayers should use form 1040, schedule residents of that state must pay a joint return or travel to the union's designated med­ EIC to see if they are eligible • Penalty-Free IRA Distribu­ ual earned income from a source Qualifying widow(er) ical facility to take the required physi­ for the credit tlons-The additional 10 percent t.ax penalty on an early distribution Many states allo~ a credit in the with dependent cal and drug tests are examples of Dependent's Social Security from an IRA may not apply if you if that person has already paid taxes children ...... $7 ,200 expenses which are work-related but Number: Each dependent must pay higher education expenses for If any questions arise rega Married filing not reimbursed by the company. have a social security number (SSN). yourself, spouse or your children or niariners should telephone t separate return ....$3,600 Members of the galley crew may Individuals may get an SSN for their grandchildren. The tax also may not state in which they reside. Head of household ..$6,350 deduct the costs of knives and other dependent by filing Form SS-5 with TAX TIPS FOR SEAFARERS TAXTIPSFO

12 Seafarers LOG February 2000 RSEAFARERS TAX TIPS FOR SEAFARERS!

apply if you pay expenses related to in return for services). ges of the Seafarers LOG are the purchase of a home by a first­ TAX PLANNING TIPS • Tier 2 and supplemental annu­ een prepared especially for time homebuyer. Only $10,000 dur­ ing the individual's lifetime may be ities under the Railroad Retirement Selling Your Home'? new deduction amounts for withdrawn without a penalty for this Act. purpose. The tax law gives homeowners a special tax break on capital gains realized additional information. • Lump-sum distributions. on the sale of a principal residence. If you have owned and used a home as your principal residence for periods totaling at least two years out of the last • Gains from the sale or exchange five years before selling, you generally can take advantage of this break to OTHER TAX (including barter) or real estate, secu­ exclude up to $250,000 of gain ($500,000 for joint filers). People who fail to INFQRMATION rities, coins, gold, silver, gems or meet the ownership or use test or have claimed the exclusion for another INFORMATION other property (capital gains). home within two years of the sale may qualify for a partial exclusion. Don't forget capital improvements. H you find yourself with unexpected Private Delivery Services: Tax • Accumulation distributions from r general information. IRS staff answer taxable gains on your home sale, check your records for overlooked cap­ returns and extensions can be mailed trusts. ital improvement expenses you've paid over the years. The costs of capi­ through private delivery services such tal improvements, such as adding another bath, garage or family room, are as Airborne Express, DHL • Prizes and awards {contests, raf­ added to your basis in the home and, thus, reduce your taxable gain. Worldwide Express, Federal Express fles, lottery and gambling winnings). nt and prior year fonns, instructions and and United Parcel Service. • Earned income from sources Reinvesting Your Dividends outside the United States. Forms of Payments: One can Make sure you count any reinvested dividends as part of your tax basis pay the Internal Revenue Service • Director's fees. when you sell the stock you bought through a dividend reinvestment plan. in many IRS offices around the coun­ through credit cards, debit cards, The dividends were taxed to you when they were originally paid. You don't ot be answered easily by telephone. charge cards, cash, bank check or • Fees received as an executor or want to pay tax on them twice. The same holds true for mutual fund dividends look in the phone book under "United money order. administrator of an estate. you had automatically reinvest.eel.

• Embezzled or other illegal State Taxes income. stions by phone. Through the agency's WHICH RECORDS Many state income tax laws are based on federal tax rules. So, the strategies you use for your federal tax planning may work with your state tax planning tions covering all aspects of tax-filing TO KEEP as well. Be aware that Some states allow two-earner couples who file joint federal returns to file Keep records of income (such as WHICH INCOME NEED s recorded tax infonnation covering separate state returns when it is advantageous. Check your state's rules. If receipts), deductions (for example, NOT BE REPORTED you have a choice, calculate your tax both ways and use the method that the IRS's automated Tele-Tax system. canceled checks) and credits shown produces the lower tax. Also, you may be considered a resident of-and owe ne, the letter "R" or number "7" will on the tax retum, as well as any The following kinds of income do taxes to-two states if you own two residences in different states. Ifyou sell a r number "2" will cancel the message. worksheets used to figure them, until not need to be reported on the fed­ the statute of limitations runs out for eral tax return: property in another state at a profit, generally you owe that state taxes on the introductory message finishes, dial your gain. f your refund. that return, usually 3 years from the date the return was due or filed, or 2 • Benefits from government welfare from 7:00 a.m. until 11:30 p.m. (local years from the date the tax was paid, programs. If the filing of Form 4868 and the whichever is later. However, it is rec­ subsequent four-month extension to OVERSEAS AT TAX TIME ommended that all records be kept • Jones Act settlements for injuries, pain, suffering, medical costs. file does not provide the individual for about 6 years. with enough time, he or she can then Should a Seafarer find himself e at www.irs.ustreas.gov to: download file Form 2688, known as or herself overseas and seeking Change of Address: If an individ­ • Maintenance and Cure. ; see answers to frequently asked tax "Application for Additional Exten­ ual has changed his or her address IRS forms or assistance, U.S. e by topic or keyword; figure your • Workers' compensation benefits, sion of Time to File U.S. Individual embassies and consulates are from the one listed on that person's last insurance, damages, etc. for injury or Income Tax Return." Another option -4 caJculator, send them comments or tax return, IRS Form 8822 should be equipped to provide some tax­ sickness. open to the person seeking more payer-related services. At a up to receive the latest tax issues and filled out and filed with the agency. time in which to file is to write a let­ Dispatch. • Disability retirement payments minimum, IRS forms are avail­ Death of a Taxpayer: If a taxpay­ ter to the IRS stating the reason the able at all U.S. embassies and {and other benefits) paid by the extension is necessary. er died before filing a required return Veterans' Administration. consulates located in: returns can be sent directly to an IRS for 1999, the taxpayer's personal rep­ An individual seeking an exten­ sion is advised by the IRS to file Berlin, Germany rm). Include a social security number , resentative {and spouse, in the case of • Child support. a joint return) must file and sign the Form 4868 before filing Form 2688. • return for that person. A personal • Gifts, money or other property Copies of Form 4868 are avail­ • Caracas, Venezuela representative can be an executor, inherited or willed. able by calling the agency's toll­ London, England administrator or anyone who is in free number which is dedicated to • • Dividends on veterans' life charge of the taxpayer's property. tax form requests (800) 829-3676. Mexico City, Mexico 'RS MUST PAY insurance. Also, the form is available from all • COME TAX main IRS branch offices and from Nassau, Bahamas • Life insurance proceeds received the IRS web site at • because of a person's death. from withholding state and local taxes WHICH INCOME www.irs.ustreas.gov. And if a • Ottawa, Canada aboard U.S.-flag ships. Seafarer finds himself or herself over­ TO REPORT • Amounts received :from insurance Paris, France 1108(11)] provides that "no part of the because of loss of the use of a home seas, he or she can obtain the form • from any U.S. embassy or con­ officer or any other seaman who is a In addition to wages, salaries, tips, due to fire or other casualty to the • Riyadh, Saudi Arabia gaged in the foreign, coastwise, inter­ unemployment compensation, extent the amounts were more than sulate. trade shall be withheld pursuant to the capital gains, dividend payments the cost of normal expenses while liv­ It is im.portant to bear in • Rome, Italy , territory, possession or common­ and other income listed on the fed­ ing in the home. m.ind that th.£ filing of Form 4868 m, but nothing in this section shall pro­ eral tax return, the following kinds of requesting an extension does not • Sao Paulo, Brazil s of any seaman who is employed in income must be reported. • Certain amounts received as a get one off th.£ hook from. having the same state if such withholding is scholarship. to pay any taxes due. Form 4868, • Sydney, Australia • Jones Act settlements for lost when sent in, m.ust be accompa­ tween such seaman and his employer." • Tokyo, Japan. pt seamen from paying state and local wages. nied by all tax monies due th.£ citizens of any given state, must meet FILING U.S. governnumt frmn th.£ indi­ f the area in which they live. • Amounts received in place of vidualfiling the extension. wages from accident and health plans determine whether an individual is a AN EXTENSION (including sick pay and disability pen­ d check with a state tax office if he or sions) if employer paid for the policy. IRS Form 4868 can be used to ask g the early 1970s, a case before the • Life insurance proceeds from a for a four-month extension to file IRS alization stated that a merchant policy cashed in if the proceeds are Form 1040A. An individual request­ was on a ship for 210 days of the more than the premium paid. ing an extension is under no obliga­ tion to explain why the additional / r tax purposes. The board took into owned a home in California and main- • Profits from corporations, part­ time is needed. Filing of the form TAXES DUE .a-based bank. nerships, estates and trusts. gives an individual until August 15, blished conditions under which non­ 2000 to file his or her 1999 federal ortion of state tax if such an individ­ • Endowments. tax return. The IRS will contact the ased in that state. individual directly only if the request APRIL 17, 2000 • Original Issue Discount. ount an individual must pay the state for an extension is denied. in another state. • Distributions from self-employed To extend the period of time in plans. which one can file a tax return, that individual must correctly fill out Form • Bartering income {fair-market 4868 and pay all of the tax value of goods or services received monies due. SEAFARERS TAX TIPS FOR SEAFARERS

February 2000 Seafarers LOG 13 ------~~~~~~~~~~~~ -- - ~ -

2000 promises to be a very exciting election year. The president of the U.S., as well State l'tl•ar1 Dates ••II as members of the House of Representatives and the Sen­ ate, will be determined this rater legistratio• leadll•es November 7. In order to vote, you must be tot Be•eral Electlo•: registered. The chart below lists some important dates and times you need to know in order to register and to exer­ Taesd111, llore•bet 1, 2100 cise your right to vote.

Primary Date State Registration Deadline(s) (Presidential I Congressional) Polling Hours ALABAMA 10 days before an election June 6 (Cong. runoff date - June 27) 8 am- 6/8 pm ALASKA 30 days before an election Conventions May 19 (R); May 20 (D) I Aug. 22 7 am - 8 pm ARIZONA 29 days before an election Feb. 22; March 11 (Dl/ Sept. 12 6 am - 7 pm ARKANSAS 30 days before an election May 23 (Cong. runoff date - June 13) 7:30 am - 7:30 pm CALIFORNIA 29 days before an election March 7 · 7 am- 8 pm COLORADO 29 days before an election March 10 I Aug. 8 7 am - 7 pm CONNECTICUT 14 days before an election March 7 I Sept. 12# 6 am - 8 pm DELAWARE 20 days prior to general election; Feb. 5; Feb. 8 (R) I Sept. 9 7 am - 8 pm 21 days prior to primary election DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA 30 days before an election May2 7 am - 8 pm FLORIDA 29 days before an election March 14 I Sept. 5 (runoff date - Oct. 3) 7 am - 7 pm GEORGIA The 5th Monday before a general primary, general March 7IJuly18 (runoff date - Aug. 8) 7 am - 7 pm election or presidential preference primary. The 5th day after the date of the call for all other special primaries and special elections HAWAII 30 days before an election Caucus March 7 (D); May 19 (R) I Sept. 23 7 am - 6 pm IDAHO 25 days before an election by mail; 24 days before May23 8 am - 8 pm an election in person, or election day at the polls ILLINOIS 29 days before primary; 28 days before general election March 21 6 am - 7 pm IN DIANA 29 days before an election May2 6 am - 6 pm IOWA Delivered by 5 pm 10 days before state primary or general Caucus Jan. 24 I June 6 7 am - 9 pm election; 11 days before all others. A postmark 15 or more days before an election is on time KANSAS Delivered 15 days before an election April 4 I Aug. 1 617 am - 718 pm KENTUCKY 28 days before an election May 23 6 am - 6 pm LOUISIANA 24 days before an election March 14 I Nov. 7 (runoff date - Dec. 9) 6 am - 8 pm MAINE 10 business days before an election or delivered March 7 I June 13 6/10 am* - 8 pm in person up to and including election day MARYLAND 9 pm on the 5111 Monday before an election March 7 7 am - 8 pm MASSACHUSETIS 20 days before an election March 7 I Sept. 19 7 am - 8 pm MICHIGAN 30 days before an election Feb. 22 [Caucus March 11 (D)] I Aug. 8 7 am - 8 pm MINNESOTA Delivered by 5 pm 21 days before an election; Caucus March 7 I Sept. 12 7 am - 8 pm * also election day registration at polling places MISSISSIPPI 30 days before an election March 14 (Cong. runoff date - April 4) 7 am - 7 pm MISSOURI 28 days before an election March 7 I Aug. 8 6 am - 7 pm MONTANA 30 days before an election June 6 7 am/noon* - 8 pm* 1 NEBRASKA The 4 h Tuesday before an election or delivered May 9 718 am - 718 pm by 6 p.m. on 2nd Friday before an election NEVADA 9 pm on the 5th Sat. before any primary or general Conventions May 19-21 (D), May 25 (R) I Sept. 5 7 am - 7 pm election. 9 pm on the 3rd Sat. before any recall or special election unless held on same day as primary or general election. Then it remains the 5th Saturday. NEW HAMPSHIRE 10 days before an election, or registration at polls Feb. 1 I Sept. 12 11 am - 7 pm on election day NEW JERSEY 29 days before an election June 6 7 am - 8 pm NEW MEXICO 28 days before an election June 6 7 am - 8 pm NEW YORK 25 days before an election March 7 I Sept. 12 6 am - 9 pm NORTH CAROLINA Postmarked 25 days before an election or received May 2 (Cong. runoff date May 30) 6:30 am - 7:30 pm in elections office or voter registry agency by 5 pm NORTH DAKOTA North Dakota does not have voter registration Conventions Feb. 29 (R), March 7 (D) I June 13 719 am - 7/9 pm* OHIO 30 days before an election March 7 6:30 am - 7:30 pm OKLAHOMA 25 days before an election March 14 I Aug. 22 (runoff date - Sept. 19) 7 am - 7 pm OREGON 21 days before an election May 16 7 am - 8 pm PENNSYLVANIA 30 days before an election April 4 7 am - 8 pm RHODE ISLAND 30 days before an election March 7 I Sept. 12 7 am/noon - 9 pm SOUTH CAROLINA 30 days before an election Feb. 19 (R), March 9 (D) I June 13 (runoff dat - June 27) 7 am - 7 pm SOUTH DAKOTA Delivered 15 days before an election June 6 (Cong. runoff date - June 20) 718 am - 718 pm TENNESSEE 30 days before an election March 14 I Aug. 3 6/8 am - 7/8 pm** TEXAS 30 days before an election March 14 (Cong. runoff date - April 11) 7 am - 7 pm UTAH 20 days before an election March 10 I June 27# 7 am - Bpm VERMONT Delivered to town clerk before noon, postmarked or March 7 I Sept. 12 6/10 am - 7 pm submitted to OMV on 2nd Saturday before an election VlRGINfA Delivered 29 days before an election Feb. 29 (R); Convention June 3 (0) I June 13# 6 am - 7 pm WASHINGTON 30 days before an election or delivered in person up to Feb. 29 I Sept. 19 7 am - 8 pm 15 days before an election WEST VIRGINIA 30 days before an election May9 6:30 am - 7:30 pm WISCONSIN 13 days before an election or completed in the local April 4 I Sept. 12 719 am - 8 pm voter registration office 1 day before an election or completed at polling place on election day WYOMING 30 days before an election or register at polling place March 1O I Aug. 22 7 am - 7 pm on election day * Depends on size of jurisdiction; * * 7 pm CST - 8 pm EST;# In Connecticut and Utah, conventions are held by the parties prior to the primary. In Virginia, parties may choose to nominate candidates by convention rather than by primary. SOURCE: U.S. Federal Election Commission.

14 Seafarers LOG Febl'Uary 2000 ·~--- ·------

Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea ••• & ~I 2111JO DECEMBER 16, 1999 - JANUARY 15, 2000 -iliiSbj ,,.,,,. *TOTAL REGISTERED TOTAL SHIPPED **REGISTERED ON BEACH 'Deep sea, takes, 1n1a11d waters AU Groups All Groups Trip All Groups Class A Class B Class C Class A Class B Class C Reliefs Class A Class B Class C Piney Point ...... Monday: March 6, April 3 Port DECK DEPARTMENT Algonac ...... Friday: March 1O .. April 7 New York 30 17 10 20 9 6 5 52 21 10 Baltimore ...... Thursday: March 9, April 6 Philadelphia 3 3 2 4 2 0 1 10 4 4 Baltimore 6 4 2 7 2 2 0 11 6 5 Duluth ...... Wednesday: March 15, April 12 Norfolk 16 14 10 15 13 8 8 20 18 7 HonoJulu ...... Friday: March 17, April 14 Mobile 10 4 4 8 4 5 3 22 8 5 New Orleans 14 11 6 16 14 9 5 23 12 5 Houston ...... Monday: March 13. April IO Jacksonville 36 13 19 28 14 11 18 71 29 16 Jacksonville ...... Thursday: March 9, April 6 San Francisco 24 11 3 18 6 2 6 45 18 3 Wilmington 25 16 7 20 11 3 12 40 23 13 Jersey City ...... Wednesday: March 22, April 19 Seattle 27 7 6 20 7 12 21 59 10 7 Mobile ...... Wednesday: March 15, April 12 Puerto Rico 11 3 4 7 3 4 8 16 2 1

Honolulu 8 8 2 10 6 6 1 15 6 0 New Bedford ...•...... Tuesday: March 2 l t April 18 Houston 29 12 8 14 6 5 6 53 17 12 New Orteans ...... Tuesday; March 14, April 11 St. Louis 3 4 4 2 2 5 2 4 4 Piney Point 0 2 0 0 I 0 1 2 3 0 New York ...... Tuesday: March 7, April 4 Algonac 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 1 Norfolk ...... Thursday: March 9, April 6 Totals 243 130 87 189 100 78 97 445 183 90 Philadelphia ...... Wednesday: March 8, April 5 Port ENGINE DEPARTMENT New York 16 11 3 16 5 0 5 24 13 3 San Francisco ...... Thursday: March 16, April 13 Philadelphia l 3 1 1 4 0 0 3 3 l San Juan ...... Thursday: March 91! April 6 Baltimore 7 5 2 6 7 2 4 6 2 2 Norfolk 5 7 3 5 10 4 3 6 7 4 St. Louis ...... Friday: March 17 ~ April 14 Mobile 8 7 0 5 3 0 18 6 3 Tacoma ...... Friday: March 24, April :21 New Orleans 7 9 4 3 8 3 15 16 3 Jacksonville 14 9 5 19 8 l 4 36 17 11 Wilmington ...... Monday: March 20, April 17 San Francisco 7 8 2 7 4 0 2 18 10 2 Wilmington 7 9 7 6 9 6 4 12 11 6 Each potf's meeting starts at 1g..311 a.m. Seattle 13 3 3 12 3 6 19 8 4 Puerto Rico 2 2 0 3 2 0 11 0 Honolulu 8 5 2 4 3 1 13 12 5 Personals Houston 17 4 3 16 5 2 7 26 6 6 St. Louis 4 2 1 2 1 0 0 3 2 3 HERMAN COLLIER Piney Point 0 3 0 1 5 2 0 I 3 0 Please call you brother, Joe Engbrock, in Houston at (713) Algonac 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 946-6162. He is very anxious to talk with you. Totals 118 87 37 105 76 26 38 211 117 55 DEREK MACKAY Please call you wife at (757) 559-6952. Port STEWARD DEPARTMENT PIDLIP REYNOLDS New York 12 4 2 9 2 1 6 31 2 Bridget Booker would like you to give her a call. She is at Philadelphia 1 1 0 I I 0 0 5 1 (800) 375-0060, ext. 5647. Baltimore 6 3 0 2 3 l 1 6 1 CREW MEMBERS FROM THE 1940s Norfolk 6 7 2 9 5 2 6 13 9 2 Thomas W Hardeman is seeking to contact former crew Mobile 8 1 0 4 1 0 1 12 2 2 members who sailed aboard the Richard Montgomery in 1943, New Orleans 8 5 2 8 4 2 2 10 10 1 the Jacob H. Gallinger in 1943-44, the Joseph H. Hollister in 1944, the William Terry Howell in 1945 and the Tyson Lykes in Jacksonville 21 6 6 13 5 4 10 26 7 5 1945. Hardeman can be reached at 821 Indigo Avenue, Casey, 18 1 4 46 1 San Francisco 29 3 2 2 7 SC 29033 Wilmington 21 4 4 13 4 2 12 33 5 3 SURVIVORS OF THE SS ALCOA PILGRIM Seattle 22 0 21 14 34 4 0 Retired Seafarer James C. Huffmaster would like to get in Puerto Rico 2 0 1 0 0 3 2 0 touch with fellow crew members who survived the sinking of Honolulu 13 9 16 6 4 20 11 24 the SS Alcoa Pi/gram (May 25, 1942). Please contact him via Houston 11 3 0 10 2 0 8 20 6 1 the SIU hall in Mobile, Ala. at (205) 478-0916. St. Louis 2 0 l 2 0 0 2 1 0 Piney Point 3 2 0 0 6 6 2 Algonac 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 Corrections Totals 162 53 36 116 35 15 69 267 83 45 In a photograph published in the November 1999 issue Port ENTRY DEPARTMENT of the LOG, page 13, QMED-Electrician Saro Koumashian New York 4 20 14 4 14 17 0 8 42 26 of the MFOW was misidentified. Philadelphia 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 3 0 In the January 2000 issue, page 5, the article about the Baltimore 2 0 2 2 0 2 3 3 late SIU VP Bob Matthews should have stated that he came Norfolk 2 11 16 0 16 11 0 2 15 12 ashore during the union's formation in the late 1930s and worked as an official from that time until his retirement. Mobile 0 8 1 5 0 0 3 10 4 New Orleans 5 14 4 3 10 11 0 5 15 8 Jacksonville 5 13 15 5 IO 5 0 7 20 20 Brotherly Encounter at School San Francisco 11 11 8 2 11 6 0 22 21 9 The SIU's 11 Wilmington 2 19 9 4 8 7 -0 8 20 motto, "Brother­ Seattle 8 17 9 6 16 16 0 13 20 9 hood of the Puerto Rico 5 1 4 1 1 3 0 5 3 Sea," may Honolulu 16 45 120 5 9 15 0 20 72 157 ' mean a bit more to some 8 Houston 2 6 3 0 7 3 0 2 13 members than St. Louis 0 0 3 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 others. For Piney Point 0 17 14 0 8 16 0 0 13 11 ~ · instance, DEU Algonac 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 Abdulsalam Mohamed (left) 112 268 285 Totals 62 183 222 31 120 0 98 and AB Fadhl Mohamed are Totals All ' brothers who Departments 585 453 382 441 331 231 204 1,021 651 475 recently caught up on family news while upgrading at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. They hadn't seen *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. each other in four years, and were happy to finally renew **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. acquaintance at the school.

February 2000 Seafarers LOG 15 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes DECEMBER 16, 1999 - JANUARY 15, 2000 MchaeJ Sacco '" President CL - Company/Lakes L-Lakes NP - Non Priority +· .. , ;Jobnfay :&eeutive Vice President *TOTAL REGISTERED TOTAL SHIPPED **REGISTERED ON BEACH h ;{~~~i!Wiit!ii£i;.@J'; if" David Heindel AU Groups All Groups All Groups r;; Secretary-Treasurer Class CL Class L Class NP Class CL Class L Class NP Class CL Class L Class NP ;;,< .. . , ,A,~g~s#.n Tellez ·... Vice President Contracts .Jack Caffey Port DECK DEPARTMENT Vice President Atlantic Coast Algonac 0 22 18 0 10 10 0 12 7 Byron Kelley Vlce President Lakes and Inland Waters Port ENGINE DEPARTMENT DeanCorgey 0 7 4 Vice President Gulf Coast Algonac 0 13 5 0 7 4 Nicholas J. Marrone Port STEWARD DEPARTMENT VIce President West Coast Algonac 0 5 10 0 2 7 0 3 3 Kermett .Mangram Vice President Government Services Port ENTRY DEPARTMENT • )I' Algonac 0 40 33 0 21 11 0 21 11 HEADQUARTERS 520l Auth Way Camp Springs. MD 2-0746 Totals All Depts 0 78 69 0 39 27 0 27 30 (101} 899~0675 ALGONAC *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. 520 St. Clair River Dr. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. Algonac, Ml 4&001 (&lO) 194-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St, #IC Anchorage, AK 99503 Disp~chers' Report for Inland Waters (907) SQJ-4988 BALTIMORE _/ DECEMBER 16, 1999 - JANUARY 15, 2000 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 *TOTAL REGISTERED TOTAL SHIPPED **REGISTERED ON BEACH (410) 327-4900 All Groups All Groups All Groups DULUTH Class A Class B Class C Class A Class B Class C Class A Class B Class C 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 Region DECK DEPARTMENT HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Atlantic Coast 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Honolulu, I;Jl .96& 19 Gulf Coast 1 3 10 0 0 1 2 3 18 (808) 845-5222 Lakes, Inland Waters 30 0 0 20 0 0 10 0 0 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. West Coast 3 1 3 10 0 2 6 2 14 Houst

16 Seafarers LOG February 2000 Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead.

ne recertified bosun is Brother Bruer has retired to 1978 aboard the Newark, a Sea­ worked as a captain. Boatman the Seafarers among the 12 Seafarers Indian Harbor, Fla. Land Service vessel. He makes Powell last sailed in 1997 aboard Harry 0 announcing their retire­ his home in Baltimore. the Escort, operated by Express Lundeberg ments this month. Representing 46 HUBERTC. Marine. He makes his home in School. From years of active union membership, CAIN, 65 first DONAL RAY Poquoson, Va. 1967 to 1969, Recertified Bosun Hubert C. sailed with the SWANNER, he served in the U.S. Cain is a graduate of the highest SIU in 1952 in 72, joined the GREAT LAKES level of training available to mem­ the port of Seafarers in Army. Brother bers in the deck department at the Mobile, Ala. 1977 in the TIMOTHY W. WALLACE, 52, Wallace last SIU's training school in Piney His first ship port of began his career with the sailed in 1998 aboard the Buffalo, Point, Md. was the Alcoa Houston. Born Seafarers in 1971. The Michigan an American Steamship Co. ves­ Including Cain, nine of the Polaris. A in Oklahoma, native sailed in the engine depart­ sel. Alpena, Mich. is where he retiring Seafarers shipped in the native of Alabama, he worked in he started his ment and upgraded his skills at calls home. deep sea division, two sailed on the deck department and upgrad­ sailing career in the deck depart­ inland vessels and one plied the ed his skills at the Seafarers ment aboard inland vessels. Great Lakes. Harry Lundeberg School, where Brother Swanner later transferred Aboard the Pathftnder Six of the retiring pensioners he graduated from the bosun to the deep sea division and worked in the deck department, recertification program in 1974. worked in the engine department. Continued from page 10 I had asked for a relief on five sailed in the engine depart­ From 1963 to 1965, he served in During his career, he upgraded arrival in Mobile, but much to ment and one shipped in the stew­ the U.S. Army. Brother Cain last his skills at the Paul Hall Center Due to the shallow depth of my disappointment, none was ard department. Seven of the pen­ sailed aboard a Sea-Land Service for Maritime Training and the Surinam River, we could take available. I had to make a second sioners served in the U.S. mili­ vessel. He calls Mobile home. Education. From 1953 to 1956, only a partial load of the ore. We voyage with the horses and cows. tary-six in the Army and one in he served in the U.S. Navy. Prior were to stop at Port of Spain, During the final week of that sec­ the Navy. WALTERW. to retiring, he worked aboard the Trinidad for the remainder of the ond voyage in early May 1942, This month, half of the pen­ CHANCEY, Paul Buck, an Ocean Ships, Inc. cargo. The deck gang used our Adm. Doenitz, commander of the sioners have retired to the Gulf 58, graduated vessel. He has retired to Channel­ high pressure fire hoses to wash German navy, moved a wolf states and two each have chosen to from the view, Texas. down the ship as we made good pack of his submarines into the live on the East Coast, Midwest Andrew time down the river. We were Gulf of Mexico. Our Navy was and Puerto Rico. Furuseth INLAND glad to see the open ocean and helpless to combat this maneu­ On this page the Seafarers Training escape the heat, even if it did ver, and ships were being sunk LOG presents brief biographical School in mean there was a danger of run­ even at the mouth of the accounts of the retiring Seafarers. TERRYR. 1958 and LeBLANC, ning afoul of one of Der Mississippi River. Like the run joined the Seafarers in the port of DEEP SEA 65, joined the Fuehrer's submarines. up the East Coast, the Gulf Mobile, Ala. Brother Chancey's Seafarers in In Port of Spain, there was became a shooting gallery for the JOSE A. first ship was the Alcoa Partner. 1954 in the frantic construction. They were enemy. The radioed cries for help BERDIEL, Born in Florida, he worked in the port of building an airbase that could be from torpedoed ships were heart­ 58, joined the engine department and frequently Houston. The used for aircraft to protect ship­ wrenching, but there was nothing Seafarers in upgraded at the Paul Hall Center Texas native ping, and as a ferry base for we could do except try to make it 1967 in the for Maritime Training and flights to Africa and Europe. As I into Mobile Bay- where my port of New began work­ Education in Piney Point, Md. ing in the deck department and walked up the street, a catchy lit­ relief was waiting. York. His first During his career, he was active later transferred to the engine tle tune called "Rum and Coca Five days after I signed off ship was the in union organizing drives. Prior department. Boatman LeBlanc Cola" blasted at maximum vol­ the ship in Mobile, the German Bienville, to retiring, he worked aboard the last sailed aboard the Manta, a ume from every cantina's open submarine U-181 slammed a tor­ operated by Sea-Land Service. Sea-Land Express. He makes his G&H Towing Co. vessel. Aransas doorway. "Go down Point pedo into the Pathfinder as she The Puerto Rico native worked in home in Seffner, Fla. Pass, Texas is where he calls Cumana - both Motha an' Dahta crossed the Gulf. Six months the engine department and -workin' fo' the Yankee dollah." later at an island in the South upgraded his skills at the home. From 1956 to 1958 he ARTHURR. served in the U.S. Army. Point Cumana happened to be Pacific called Guadalcanal, I Seafarers Harry Lundeberg LANG, 62, the red light district. It was war received a report that the sur­ School in Piney Point, Md. Prior joined the SIU MICHAELJ. time, and some of the people vivors had taken to the lifeboats to retiring, he worked on the in 1968 in the were destitute. As we sailed back and were picked up days later by Humacao, an NPR, Inc. vessel. POWELL, port of Jack­ 55, first sailed to Mobile with our full load of a ship bound for Laurenco Brother Berdiel makes his home sonville, Fla. aluminum ore, we heard reports Marques, Mozambique, where in Cleveland, Ohio. with the SIU His first ship in 1970 in the of ships being sunk near our they were put ashore. The ani­ was the port of intended route. Capt. Dumke mals did not survive. RAMON Longview BONAFONT, Norfolk, Va. changed course frequently to Victory. A native of Florida, he keep us well clear of the latest JMS 60, started his Born in worked in the deck department. Virginia, he enemy action. SS Alcoa Pathfinder career with the From 1956 to 1958, he served in SIU in 1964 in the U.S. Army. Brother Lang last the port of sailed aboard the Galveston Bay, Reprinted from past issues of the Seafare rs LOG 20,000 seamen. New York. He a Sea-Land Service vessel. He In response to the demonstration, Adm. John first sailed has retired to Jacksonville. Harllee, chairman of the federal Maritime aboard the 1947 Colorado, a Waterman Steamship In a stirring demonstration of inter-union sup- Commission, promised a "confident, deter- Corp. vessel. Born in Puerto ANGELL. port, the Seafarers International Union took to mined and aggressive effort" to aid in the solv- Rico, he sailed in the deck O'NEILL, 61, the streets of downtown New York in support ing of the Puerto Rico freight rates controver· started his department and upgraded his of the strike of the rr;:::::::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::==m sy. He said that such skills at the Seafarers Harry career with the Lundeberg School. During his Seafarers in United Financial a solution should be career, he was active in union 1958 in the Employees, Local 205, THJS MO TH found without having organizing drives. Brother port of New AFL. More than 200 to resort to the use Bonafont last sailed aboard the York. Born in Puerto Rico, white-capped Seafarers J·Aj SJ t t HJS?,O, a~ of foreign-flag vessels Sea-Land Producer. Carolina, joined the picket lines l "f _ _V - l ' .ft f ' in Puerto Rican P.R. is where he calls home. he sailed in the steward depart­ ment. He was active in union and distributed more trade. GEORGE organizing drives during his than 25,000 leaflets, BRUER, 66, career. Brother O'Neill last sailed prepared by the SIU,. to began sailing aboard the Mayaguez, operated by NPR, Inc. Carolina, P.R. is inform the public of the need for organizing 1992 with the the underpaid workers in the brokerage busi- The MV R.]. Pfeiffer, the only large commer­ Seafarers in where he calls home. 1959 from the ness. cial ship under construction in the United port of New LARRIE L. States, was christened February 1 5 at a ship· York. He PROFFITT, 1965 yard in San Diego. The new 71 4-foot contain· sailed in the 88, began his At a joint demonstration in San Juan, the SIU ership is owned by Matson Navigation deck department and frequently career with the strongly protested attempts by the government Company and is named for the company's upgraded his skills at the Sill's SIU in 1955. training school in Piney Point, Born in and certain industry leaders on the island to chief executive officer and chairman of the Md. Born in Germany, he became Hawaii, he allow foreign-flag vessels to enter the Puerto board. Delivery of the ship is scheduled for a U.S. citizen and served in the worked in the Rico trade. The SIU warned that the introduc­ June, with service commencing in August .... U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. engine depart- ...... ~ -­ tion of foreign-flag shipping into the island The cost for the Pfeiffer is $ 129 million and During his career, he was active ment as a chief electrician. in union organizing drives. Brother Proffitt last sailed in trade could result in the unemployment of does not include government subsidies.

February 2000 Seafarers LOS 11 Final Departures-

DEEP SEA passed away WILLIAM HUNTER of retirement and sailed aboard the sailed in the deck depart­ May 25, 1999. =-,,,..--~ Pensioner USNS DeSteiguer. He made his LEON A. ACOSTA Brother Candela William Hunter, home in Central, Utah. ment and joined the Sea­ attended an Pensioner Leon A. Acosta, 74, 73, passed away EMIL H. RIUTTA passed away December 7, 1999. farers in 1942 October 29, education con­ Born in Colombia, he first sailed in the port of 1999. Brother Pensioner Emil ference in 1978 with the Seafarers in 1967 aboard New Orleans. Hunter joined H. Riutta, 78, at the SIU's the Falmouth. Brother Acosta sailed During his the Seafarers in passed away training school in Piney Point, in the engine department as a chief career, he 1955 in the port November 14, electrician. Prior to retiring in June L__.....,L"'""'""...__ __J worked in the of Mobile, Ala. 1999. A native L----=..;;.....;;.----' Md. A resident 1991, he signed off the Robert E. deck department and was active in A native of of Oregon, he of Mathews, Va., he last sailed in Lee, a Waterman Steamship Corp. union organizing drives. Prior to Alabama, he worked in the deck joined the 1985 aboard a Moran Towing Co. vessel. He was a resident of New retiring in August 1986, he worked department, last sailing aboard the Seafarers in vessel. aboard the Sea-Land Producer. New Orleans. OMI Sacramento. A resident of 1957 in the port SIDNEY JACKSON Orleans was his home. Mobile, he started receiving his pen­ of Seattle. MICHAEL J. BARROW sion in April 1990. He was a veteran During his career, he worked in the Pensioner GUILLERMO S. CASTRO SR. Sidney Jackson, Michael J. of World War II, having served in engine department and was active in 89, passed away Barrow, 49, Pensioner the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1946. union organizing drives. Brother November 16, died November Guillermo Riutta last sailed aboard the Sea­ 1999. He began 22, 1999. He Castro Sr., 78, JOSEPH KRISTOF Land Philadelphia and began receiv­ sailing with the began his career died November Pensioner Joseph Kristof, 83, died ing his pension in November 1986. SIU in 1957 with the SIU in 24, 1999. Born November 12, 1999. Born in Astoria, Ore. was his home. During from the port of 1981 from the in Puerto Rico, Wisconsin, he started his career with World War II, he served in the U.S. Mobile, Ala. He port of he began sailing the Marine Cooks & Stewards Coast Guard from 1942 to 1946. San worked in the Francisco. His with the SIU in (MC&S) in 1952 in the port of San 1945 from the RUDOLPH ROMA steward department and began L---....:.!J=...-.....lllZ..---l first SIU ship Francisco. He sailed in the steward receiving his pension in May 1976. port of Phila­ department and began receiving his Pensioner was the Santa Maria, operated by Boatman Jackson was a resident of Delta Steamship Lines. During his delphia. The deck department mem­ pension in August 1978. Brother Rudolph Roma, Carlton, Ala. career, he sailed in all three depart­ ber was active in union organizing Kristof was a resident of Santa Rosa, 67, died drives and upgraded his skills at the ments. Brother Barrow last sailed Calif. December 7, GREAT LAKES aboard the Global Link. Born in Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School, 1999. Brother Jamaica, he made his home in where he graduated from the bosun HERIBERTO MIRANDA Roma began his HENRY J. BENTON Richmond, Va. recertification program in 1974. career with the Pensioner Pensioner Brother Castro last sailed aboard the SIU in 1962 in Heriberto Henry J. CASIMIR BOGUCKI Boston, a Sea-Land Service vessel. A Miranda, 74, the port of resident of Ludowici, Ga., he began Benton, 84, Pensioner passed away Houston, first receiving his pension in 1983. sailing aboard the Santa Emilia. The passed away Casimir November 29, November 19, Bogucki, 74, 1999. A native Texas native worked in the engine LEONG CHUN department. He retired in May 1995, 1999. Brother died November of Cuba, he first Benton began Pensioner Leong Chun, 89, passed last sailing aboard the Overseas 11, 1999. A sailed with the sailing with the away November 22, 1999. Brother Alice. Brother Roma was a resident native of Penn­ Seafarers in Seafarers in Chun joined the Marine Cooks and 1953. Brother of Spring, Texas. sylvania, he L--~~~-__. 1950 from the Stewards. He sailed as a member of Miranda worked in the engine joined the SIU the steward department and started PETER SERNYK port of Chicago. The Michigan in 1948 in the department and started receiving his native worked in the engine depart­ receiving his pension in June 1970. pension in July 1990. He made his Pensioner Peter port of New He was a resident of San Francisco. ment, last sailing aboard the Adam E. York. Brother Bogucki sailed in the home in Miami. Sernyk, 78, Cornelius, operated by American deck department and upgraded his JOSEPH COLLINS passed away Steamship Co. A resident of North skills at the Seafarers Harry Lunde­ LIN SUEYONG October 31, Pensioner Muskegon, Mich., he began receiv­ berg School in Piney Point, Md. Pensioner Lin Suey Ong, 87, died 1999. He first ing his pension in March 1977. During World War II, he served in Joseph Collins, October 10, 1999. Brother Ong sailed with the 52, died the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1946. began sailing with the MC&S in Seafarers in VANDELIN P. KOVALIK December 15, 1951. Born in Prior to retiring in September 1987, 1946 from the port of San Francisco. Pensioner Vandelin P. Kovalik, 82, 1999. A native Poland, he he signed off the Overseas Alice. Born in China, he worked in the died November 2, 1999. Born in of Alabama, he L----=.~...... :L---l worked in the Reno, Nev. was his home. steward department and retired in Ohio, he first sailed with the S graduated from August 1973. San Francisco was his deck department and upgraded his the SIU's entry 1948 in the port of I-arta. He MILTON G. BROUSSARD home. skills at the SIU's training center in started in the steward department level training Piney Point, Md., where he graduat­ Pensioner program in and later transferred to the deck GENE A. PASCHALL ed from the bosun recertification department. Brother Kovalik last MiltonG. 1968 and joined the union in the port program in 1975. Prior to retiring in worked aboard the Lakewood, an Broussard, 85, of New Orleans. Brother Collins Pensioner Gene December 1987, Brother Sernyk Erie Sand Steamship Co. vessel. He passed away worked in the engine department and A. Paschall, 74, sailed aboard the !TB Mobile. He was a resident of Richmond Heights, November 11 , upgraded his skills at the Seafarers passed away made his home in Ringwood, NJ. Ohio and retired in April 1982. 1999. Born in Harry Lundeberg School. A resident November 28, Louisiana, he 1999. He first of Mobile, Ala., he began receiving INLAND DONALD L. MASKELL first sailed with his pension in April 1994. sailed with the the Seafarers in Seafarers in ROYCE M. CARAWAN Pensioner Donald L. Maskell, 62, 1946 aboard the passed away November 16, 1999. A t 1956 aboard the WILLIAM J. DUNNIGAN Pensioner Royce M. Carawan, 64, Joseph Kemp. native of Michigan, he joined the Antinous, a Waterman Steamship Pensioner I. A native of died November 27, 1999. A native Seafarers in 1964 in the port of De­ Corp. vessel. Brother Broussard William J. of North Carolina, he began sailing Texas, he worked in the deck depart­ troit. Brother Maskell began working worked in the deck department, last Dunnigan, 92, with SIU in 1961 from the port of ment and upgraded his skills at the in the engine department and later sailing aboard the Banner, operated passed away Norfolk, Va. Boatman Carawan Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School, transferred to the deck department. A by International Ocean Transport December 1, worked in the deck department and where he graduated from the bosun resident of Alpena, Mich., he started Corp. A veteran of World War II, he 1999. Born in upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall recertification program in 1979. receiving his pension in 1994. served in the U.S. Army from 1941 Maryland, he Center for Maritime Training and to 1944. He also served in the U.S. During World War II, he served in joined the Education in Piney Point, Md. From HOWARD N. NEGARD Navy from 1933 to 1940. He was a Seafarers in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1946. 1952 to 1955, he served in the U.S. Prior to retiring in April resident of Yardley, Pa. and began 1945 in the port 1992, Navy. He last sailed aboard an Pensioner Howard N. N egard, 86, Brother Paschall worked aboard the died receiving his pension in 1979. of Baltimore. He worked in the Allied Towing Co. vessel and retired November 4, 1999. He started Star of Texas, operated by Seahawk engine department as a chief electri­ in February 1997. Boatman Carawan his career with the SIU in 1961 in RICHARD S. BYNUM Management, Inc. He was a resident the port of Duluth, Minn. A native cian. Brother Dunnigan last sailed was a resident of Scranton, N.C. of Eagle Lake, Texas. of Minnesota, he sailed as a member Pensioner Rich­ aboard the Kainalu and started of the engine department. Brother ard S. Bynum, receiving his pension in December HENRY S. GEORGE Negard made his home in Duluth 68, died Nov­ 1985. He was a resident of Bel Air, THOMAS R. READING Pensioner and retired in November 1978. ember 14, 1999. Md. Pensioner Henry S. He began his Thomas R. George, 84, career with the ANGEL GARCIA Reading, 80, passed away RAILROAD MARINE SIU in 1978, died October November 23, Pensioner JAMES J. MONTENES first sailing on Angel Garcia, 18, 1999. Born 1999. He joined the Del Sol, 85, died recent­ in California, he the SIU in 1961 Pensioner """"""""""'----"' operated by ly. He began his started his in the port of James J. Delta Steamship Lines. Brother career with the career with the Norfolk, Va. "'• Montenes, 78, Bynum sailed in the deck department SIU in 1948 SIU in 1966 in '--.i.L..-"""L...o...... 1...L.---' The Virginia passed away and upgraded his skills at the SIU's from the port of the port of San native worked as a tugboat captain, November 27, training school in Piney Point, Md., New York. Francisco. His first ship was the last sailing aboard a McAllister 1999. Brother where he graduated from the bosun Born in Florida, Beloit Victory. He sailed in the deck Towing Co. vessel. A resident of Montenes recertification program in 1988. The he worked in department and upgraded his skills at Whitestone, Va., Boatman George joined the Louisiana native served in the U.S. the steward department and upgraded the SIU's training center in Piney began receiving his pension in Seafarers in Navy from 1948 to 1952. He made his skills at the Sill's training center Point, Md., where he graduated from February 1979. I 960 in the port his home in Seattle and retired in the bosun recertification program in of New York. The ?-W York native in Piney Point, Md. During his ROBERT F. HUDGINS December 1997. His last ship was career, he was active in union orga­ 1980. Prior to retiring in September sailed as a deckhand and started the Global Sentinel, a Transoceanic nizing drives. Prior to retiring in 1985, he sailed aboard the Sea-Land Robert F. Hudgins, 54, died receiving his pension in December Cable Ship Co. vessel. October 1979, he worked aboard the Independence. During World War II, December 3, 1999. Boatman 1981. During World War II, he Guayama, operated by Puerto Rico he served in the U.S. Army from Hudgins started his career with the served in the U.S. Navy from 1941 SALVATOR CANDELA Marine Management. Tampa, Fla. is 1940 to 1946. During the Persian Seafarers in 1962 in the port of to 1945. He was a resident of Pensioner Salvator Candela, 73, where he called home. Gulf War, Brother Reading came out Norfolk, Va. The Virginia native Waterloo, N.Y.

18 Seafarers LOG February 2000 Secretary reported good crew and Murray, Secretary Raymond Communication from VP Contracts reminded them to leave clean Jones, Educational Director Augie Tellez read and posted Digest of Shipboard rooms for reliefs. Educational William F. Payne, Engine rega;ding new ships' meetings. director stated upgrading at Paul Delegate Kenneth L. Biddle, Chairman also read several articles Hall Center can improve skills and Steward Delegate Pedro from Seafarers LOG about SIU­ Union Meetings job security. No beefs or disputed Rodriguez. Payoff scheduled NMU merger. Suggestion made to The Sealare~s LOG attemptJ to print as many digests of onion shipboard OT reported. Communications read November 22 in Jacksonville, Fla. lower vacation requirements to 60 mmutes as possible. On occasion, because of space and posted regarding upcoming Chairman advised everyone that days. Clarification requested on limitations, some will be omitted. vote about SIU-NMU merger. Next ports: Oakland and Long Beach Ship~ minutes li~t are reviewed by the union's contract department. Calif ' Ready for Lunch on the Osprey Those issues ~equmng a~en!io~ or resolution are addressed by the union SEA-LAND KODIAK (Sea-Land upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then forwarded Service), October 30-Chairman to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Roger Reinke, Secretary Melvin E. Morgan, Educational Director Marvin Wells, Deck Delegate industry. No beefs or disputed OT SEA-LAND CHALLENGER Basil D. Stolen, Engine Delegate reported. Explanation of Maersk (Sea-Land Service), August 1- Jan Haidir, Steward Delegate Sea-Land agreement read, dis­ Chairman Richard L. Volkart, Sam Kassem. Chairman cussed and posted. Steward related Secretary William E. Bragg, announced vessel entering shipyard difficulty ordering adequate stores. Educational Director Herman November 25 until December 5. Manzer, Deck Delegate Frank MAERSK ARIZONA (Maersk Not yet sure whether company will Cammuso, Engine Delegate Lines), September 29-Chairman keep everyone. Educational direc­ Teddie H. Carter, Steward Scott A. Heginbotham, Secretary tor advised crew members to use Delegate Henry 0. Wright Jr. Joseph S. Henby, Educational facilities at Piney Point to upgrade Chairman noted that new toaster Director David W. King, Deck education and get credentials need­ received and installed in crew ed in future to ensure eligibility mess. He led discussion of Delegate Joseph LeBeau, Steward Delegate Raford Nixon. Chairman and job security. He also stressed announcement of Maersk's intend­ noted seamen must complete 70 need for everyone to vote on merg­ ed acquisition of Sea-Land's inter­ days or two trips to receive trans­ er of SIU and NMU. No beefs or national assets. Awaiting more port home. Parts available for crew disputed OT reported. ~nformation. Secretary passed on When the Osprey arrived in the port of Norfolk, Va. recently, stew­ mess salad bar and should be fixed Recommendation made and sent to mformation pertaining to asbestos ard department members went to work fixing lunch for the crew. soon; dumbwaiter still waiting on contracts department for considera­ settlement and talked about relaxed From the left aboard the Osprey-Acomarit vessel are Steward parts for repair as are several wash­ tion to reduce seatime needed for assessment for STCW compliance. Gregory Johnson, Chief Cook Lawrence Winfield, SA Max Hassell­ ers and dryers. Some transformers vacation pay. Also recommended Educational director stressed El and Steward Felipe P. Orlanda. available aboard ship and must be Welfare Plan pay full cost of opti­ importance of regular upgrading signed for and returned. Chairman cal and dental benefits. Next ports: $160 in ship's fund to be used for GUD work hours. Antenna needed and benefits of attending Piney Tacoma, Wash. and Anchorage and Point. He noted that as more reminded all hands to make sure to videos for crew. He also advised for crew lounge. Before next pay­ firmly close both elevator doors. Kodiak, Alaska. ~equirements and training are them of February 2002 deadline for off, ship headed to Bahamas Discussion held on hatch-handling lmposed on livelihood of seafarers SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Land STCW compliance. Secretary sug­ Miami, Panama and Colombia. safety. Secretary noted ship to tran­ it is more important than ever to ' Service), October 31-Chairman ~est~d all members going on vaca­ remain current and up-to-date. No sit Suez Canal, then head to tton m December be sure to vote at MAYAGUEZ (NPR, Inc.), Djibouti, Africa and Chittagong, Larry Watson, Secretary Richard beefs or disputed OT. Suggestion Riley, Educational Director union hall on SIU-NMU merger November 22-Chairman Roan R. Bangladesh. Educational director made and forwarded to contracts Edward Rynberg. Chairman stat­ and upgrade skills at Paul Hall Lightfoot, Secretary George stressed need for crew members to department to revamp Article V of Center. No beefs or disputed OT Vorise Jr., Educational Director have STCW basic safety endorse­ ed new VCR received and in use in standard contract to better relate to crew lounge. Tape rewinder still to reported. Suggestion made to have Michael C. Martykan. Discussion ments. Treasurer announced $20 in three-man steward department be purchased. Vote of thanks given shipyard layoff period extended to held on SIU-NMU merger. ship's fund. Clarification requested which is now norm. Request 60-90 days, instead of current 30- Chairman stated SIU is respected ~ade on rates for ABs going directly to deck department for dealing to bring up issue of late standbys at with winch on back deck (due to day period, so members can organization within maritime next union meeting in Wilmington from watch to deckjobs. No beefs reclaim jobs. Request also made to industry and on Capitol Hill or disputed OT reported. Question ~e repaired by shoreside personnel Calif. Inquiry made as to lack of ' m Tacoma). Educational director have Welfare Plan cover prescrip­ because it has consistently stood up fans in cabins and common areas. raised concerning issuance of cov­ tion medication for dependents and for its members. Secretary stated eralls and high prices in slop chest. noted he upgraded last year at Steward will investigate. Crew Piney Point and suggested all for vacation time to be used as payoff in Philadelphia November members getting off vessel should NORTHERN LIGHTS (IUM), Seafarers look into upgrading in seatime for retirement purposes. 26. He advised crew members to vacate cabin for new member. If September 28-Chairman John O. their departments for whatever Everyone reminded to have TRBs upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. overnight stay courtesy extended, Glenn,. Secretary Gregory Keene, endorsement they might need to signed off by chief mate for any Educational director informed crew then he should move to spare Educat10nal Director Daniel P. keep sailing. Treasurer announced training and demos on board. Vote that upon completion of relief peri­ cabin. Next ports: Oakland and Mitchell, Deck Delegate Saleh several hundred dollars in ship's of thanks given to steward depart­ od, members are entitled to file for Long Beach, Calif. · Ali, Engine Delegate Mark D. fund from which $50 is spent each ment for excellent meals. Next vacation benefits for that period. port: San Juan, P.R. SEA-LAND EXPLORER (Sea­ Savage, Steward Delegate Jose P. trip for fresh fish in Guam. No No beefs or disputed OT reported. Land Service), August 13- Maglalang. Captain thanked crew beefs or disputed OT reported. LIBERTY SEA (Liberty Everyone reminded that safety is Chairman David Messick for good work during storm last Communications read and posted Maritime), November 28- number one priority aboard ship. trip. Bosun pleased with crew for regarding proposed SIU-NMU Chairman Harold L. Sebring, Secretary William Burdette OVERSEAS NEW YORK Educational Director Robert J. keeping laundry room and passage­ merger. Secretary Thomas D. Kreis ways clean and gave vote of thanks (Alaska Tanker Co.), November Flesey Jr., Deck Delegate James EL MORRO (IUM), November Educational Director Micha~l A. C. Henry, Engine Delegate Jesse to steward department for job well Birke, Deck Delegate Harry G. 8-Chairman J. Carlos Loureiro done. He urged members to 29-Chairman William J. Card, Secretary Nancy Heyden, ' Manard, Steward Delegate Secretary Gina Lightfoot, Champagne, Steward Delegate Michael Briscoe. Chairman upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. Christopher M. Green. Chairman Educational Director Edward Self Secretary noted new television on Educational Director Fredrick W. Engine Delegate Michael P. ' announced payoff after arrival Dougherty Jr., Deck Delegate reported receipt of new ice board. No beefs or disputed OT Brown. Chairman noted receipt of August 17 in Long Beach, Calif Angelo Wilcox Sr., Engine machine for crew. Next port is reported. Recommendation made raise retroactive to May 12, 1999. Educational director reminded Delegate Eliesel Montalvo, New Orleans where vessel will and forwarded to contracts depart­ Those who did not receive it at ~veryone about fire fighting train­ Steward Delegate Robert G. load and proceed to Philippines. mg at Paul Hall Center and about ment to raise monthly pension Secretary asked everyone getting home should call Keystone allowances. Members want clarifi­ Maschmeier. Chairman announced STCW requirements. Treasurer payoff in San Juan, P.R. off to strip bunks and have clean Shipping. Payoff scheduled for announced $1,200 in ship's fund. cation on possible reimbursement linen ready for next crew member. November I 0 at anchor in Port for money deducted from pay for Educational director stressed Chief Cook Briscoe purchased importance of upgrading skills at Educational director stressed Angeles. Patrolman from Seattle video rewinder for ship and will be New Jersey Health Care, which importance of upgrading at Piney hall will attend. Asst. VP Nick doesn't affect them. Next port: Paul Hall Center. No beefs or dis­ r~imbursed. He also wants to buy Point and getting STCW endorse­ C~lona came aboard ship in Tacoma, Wash. puted OT reported. Discussion held n~e cooker for galley. No beefs or on SIU-NMU merger. Suggestion ments. No beefs or disputed OT Richmond, Calif. to discuss possi­ disputed OT reported. Notice PETERSBURG (IUM), October made to get refrigerators for all reported. Steward department ble SIU-NMU merger. Letter from received from VP Contacts Augie 24--Chairman Eddie E. Hall unlicensed personnel. Vote of given vote of thanks for job well headquarters regarding merger also Tellez regarding sale of portion of Secretary Oscar R. Angeles, ' thanks given to steward department done. Requests made for new received and posted in crew Sea-Land to Maersk. Suggestion Educational Director John P. and unlicensed apprentice for fine toaster, bread box and hook for ice lounge. Secretary asked that wet made and forwarded to contracts D' Alessandro, Steward Delegate job. machine scoop. paint gloves not be left on washers department to change time required and dryers. Educational director Mohamed Muthanna. Chairman M_AERSK COLORADO (Maersk for tour of duty. All hands remind­ announced ship under new man­ GALVESTON BAY (Sea-Land reminded crew to attend safety Lme), November 14--Chairman ed to take complaints directly to agement. So far, nothing changed Service), November I I-Chairman classes at Piney Point in order to department delegate. Paul Dornes, Secretary Hasan A. Mohamed S. Ahmed, Secretary continue shipping. No beefs or dis­ from old company, and vessel still Hugh E. Wildermuth, under coastwise articles. Educa­ Rahman, Educational Director ~uted OT reported. Several sugges­ SEA-LAND VOYAGER (Sea­ Educational Director Everett W. Francis C. Quebedeaux, Deck tlons made and sent to contracts Land Service), August 2- tiona~ director urged crew to keep Snow, Deck Delegate George Delegate Charles B. Collins, department for consideration. They Chairman Stephen R. Garay, up wtth current upgrading courses Jordanides, Engine Delegate at Piney Point. Treasurer Steward Delegate Larry L. included being able to file for Secre~ James E. Harper, Robert J. Arneel, Steward announced $165 in ship's fund. No Griffin. Chairman announced pay­ vacation pay after working 90 Educattonal Director DiMarko L. off in Jacksonville, Fla. November Delegate Lionel Packnett. Ship to Shoulders, Deck Delegate beefs or disputed OT reported. pay offNovember 17 in days, being able to retire with full 12. He advised crew members to benefits after 20 years of seatime, Edward F. O'Brien, Engine SEA-LAND DISCOVERY (Sea­ Charleston, S.C., according to take advantage of courses at Piney regardless of age at retirement and Delegate P. Alegado, Steward Land Service), October 17- chairman. He thanked crew for Point. He also noted toll-free num­ abolishing the one-day Delegate Jorge A. Barahona. Chairman Nelson Sala, Secretary good job and helping keep ship seatim~ ber for questions on TRBs and requirement in six months to Chairman announced extended D~nald C. Spangler, Educational STCW requirements. Secretary clean. Discussion held on STCW deadline for STCW relaxed assess­ Drrector Roger M. Wasserman, requirements. Crew members remain eligible for medical bene­ stressed importance of contributing fits. Vote of thanks given to stew­ ment. He also reminded everyone Dec~ Delegate Ron J. Sagadraca, to SPAD and upgrading skills at ~waiting answer to previous ques­ to get TRBs signed by mate or Engme Delegate Ricky D. Arroyo, tlons on Money Purchase Pension ard department for good food, to Paul Hall Center. No beefs or dis­ deck department for hard work on engineer and urged crew to consid­ Steward Delegate Susan Moe. puted OT reported. Plan. Educational director urged er upgrading skills or endorsements c.hairman noted everything run­ everyone to upgrade at Paul Hall ?eek, ~nd to engine room for keep­ at Piney Point. Secretary noted nmg smoothly. Payoff expected HUMACAO (NPR, Inc.), Center at frrst opportunity. No mg ship running. New furniture for upgrading is vital to maritime this voyage in Long Beach, Calif. November 21-Chairman David beefs or disputed OT reported. crew lounge expected soon.

February 2000 Seafarers LOG 19 Secretary reported good crew and Murray, Secretary Raymond Communication from VP Contracts _ reminded them to leave clean Jones, Educational Director Augie Tellez read and posted Digest of Shipboard rooms for reliefs. Educational William F. Payne, Engine reg~ding new ships' ~eetings . director stated upgrading at Paul Delegate Kenneth L. Biddle, Chamnan also read several articles Hall Center can improve skills and Steward Delegate Pedro from Seafarers LOG about SIU­ . Union Meetings job security. No beefs or disputed Rodriguez. Payoff scheduled NMU merger. Suggestion made to The Seafare'? LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard OT reported. Communications read November 22 in Jacksonville, Fla. lower vacation requirements to 60 mmutes as possible. On occasion, because of space and posted regarding upcoming Chairman advised everyone that days. Clarification requested on limitations, some will be omitted. vote about SIU-NMU merger. Next ports: Oakland and Long Beach Ship~ minutes 11~1 are reviewed by the union's contract department. Calif. ' Ready for Lunch on the Osprey Those rssues !"'qumng a~en!io~ or resolution are addressed by the union SEA-LAND KODIAK (Sea-Land upon receipt of the ships mmutes. The minutes are then forwarded Service), October 30-Chairman to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Roger Reinke, Secretary Melvin E. Morgan, Educational Director Marvin Wells, Deck Delegate SEA-LAND CHALLENGER industry. No beefs or disputed OT Basil D. Stolen, Engine Delegate reported. Explanation of Maersk (Sea-Land Service), August 1- Jan Haidir, Steward Delegate Sea-Land agreement read, dis­ Chairman Richard L. Volk.art Sam Kassem. Chairman cussed and posted. Steward related Secretary William E. Bragg, ' announced vessel entering shipyard difficulty ordering adequate stores. Educational Director Herman November 25 until December 5. Manzer, Deck Delegate Frank M_AERSK ARIZONA (Maersk Not yet sure whether company will Cammuso, Engine Delegate Lmes), September 29-Chairman keep everyone. Educational direc­ Teddie H. Carter, Steward Scott A. Heginbotham, Secretary tor advised crew members to use Delegate Henry 0. Wright Jr. Joseph S. Henby, Educational facilities at Piney Point to upgrade Chairman noted that new toaster Director David W. King, Deck education and get credentials need­ received and installed in crew Delegate Joseph LeBeau, Steward ed in future to ensure eligibility mess. He led discussion of Delegate Raford Nixon. Chairman and job security. He also stressed announcement of Maersk's intend­ noted seamen must complete 70 need for everyone to vote on merg­ ed acquisition of Sea-Land's inter­ days or two trips to receive trans­ er of SIU and NMU. No beefs or national assets. Awaiting more port home. Parts available for crew disputed OT reported. ~nformation. Secretary passed on When the Osprey arrived in the port of Norfolk, Va. recently, stew­ mess salad bar and should be fixed Recommendation made and sent to mformation pertaining to asbestos ard department members went to work fixing lunch for the crew. soon; dumbwaiter still waiting on contracts department for considera­ settlement and talked about relaxed From the left aboard the Osprey-Acomarit vessel are Steward parts for repair as are several wash­ tion to reduce seatime needed for assessment for STCW compliance. Gregory Johnson, Chief Cook Lawrence Winfield, SA Max Hassell­ ers and dryers. Some transformers vacation pay. Also recommended Educational director stressed El and Steward Felipe P. Orlanda. available aboard ship and must be Welfare Plan pay full cost of opti­ importance of regular upgrading signed for and returned. Chairman cal and dental benefits. Next ports: and benefits of attending Piney $160 in ship's fund to be used for GUD work hours. Antenna needed reminded all hands to make sure to Tacoma, Wash. and Anchorage and Point. He noted that as more videos for crew. He also advised for crew lounge. Before next pay­ firmly close both elevator doors. Kodiak, Alaska. ~equirements and training are them of February 2002 deadline for off, ship headed to Bahamas Discussion held on hatch-handling imposed on livelihood of seafarers SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Land STCW compliance. Secretary sug­ Miami, Panama and Colombia. safety. Secretary noted ship to tran­ it is more important than ever to ' Service), October 31--Chairman gested all members going on vaca­ sit Suez Canal, then head to remain current and up-to-date. No Larry Watson, Secretary Richard tion in December be sure to vote at MAYAGUEZ (NPR, Inc.), Djibouti, Africa and Chittagong, beefs or disputed OT. Suggestion Riley, Educational Director union hall on SIU-NMU merger November 22-Chairman Roan R. Bangladesh. Educational director made and forwarded to contracts Edward Rynberg. Chairman stat­ and upgrade skills at Paul Hall Lightfoot, Secretary George stressed need for crew members to department to revamp Article V of ed new VCR received and in use in Center. No beefs or disputed OT Vorise Jr., Educational Director have STCW basic safety endorse­ standard contract to better relate to crew lounge. Tape rewinder still to reported. Suggestion made to have Michael C. Martykan. Discussion ments. Treasurer announced $20 in three-man steward department be purchased. Vote of thanks given shipyard layoff period extended to held on SIU-NMU merger. ship's fund. Clarification requested which is now norm. Request 60-90 days, instead of current 30- Chairman stated SIU is respected ~ade on rates for ABs going directly to deck department for dealing to bring up issue of late standbys at day period, so members can organization within maritime from watch to deck jobs. No beefs with winch on back deck (due to next union meeting in Wilmington repaired by shoreside personnel reclaim jobs. Request also made to industry and on Capitol Hill or. disputed OT reported. Question ?e Calif. Inquiry made as to lack of ' m Tacoma). Educational director have Welfare Plan cover prescrip­ because it has consistently stood up raised concerning issuance of cov­ fans in cabins and common areas. noted he upgraded last year at tion medication for dependents and for its members. Secretary stated eralls and high prices in slop chest. Steward will investigate. Crew Piney Point and suggested all for vacation time to be used as payoff in Philadelphia November members getting off vessel should NORTHERN LIGHTS (IUM), Seafarers look into upgrading in seatime for retirement purposes. 26. He advised crew members to vacate cabin for new member. If September 28--Chairman John O. their departments for whatever Everyone reminded to have TRBs upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. overnight stay courtesy extended, Glenn,_ Secretary Gregory Keene, endorsement they might need to si~~d off by chief mate for any Educational director informed crew then he should move to spare Educat10nal Director Daniel P. keep sailing. Treasurer announced trammg and demos on board. Vote that upon completion of relief peri­ cabin. Next ports: Oakland and Mitchell, Deck Delegate Saleh several hundred dollars in ship's of thanks given to steward depart­ od, members are entitled to file for Long Beach, Calif. · Ali, Engine Delegate Mark D. fund from which $50 is spent each ment for excellent meals. Next vacation benefits for that period. port: San Juan, P.R. SEA-LAND EXPLORER (Sea­ Savage, Steward Delegate Jose P. trip for fresh fish in Guam. No No beefs or disputed OT reported. Land Service), August 13- Maglalang. Captain thanked crew beefs or disputed OT reported. LIBERTY SEA (Liberty Everyone reminded that safety is Communications read and posted Chairman David Messick for good work during storm last Maritime), November 28- number one priority aboard ship. trip. Bosun pleased with crew for regarding proposed SIU-NMU Chairman Harold L. Sebring, Secretary William Burdette OVERSEAS NEW YORK Educational Director Robert J. keeping laundry room and passage­ merger. Secretary Thomas D. Kreis (Alaska Tanker Co.), November Flesey Jr., Deck Delegate James ways clean and gave vote of thanks Educational Director Micha~l A. EL MORRO (IUM), November 8-Chairman Carlos Loureiro C. Henry, Engine Delegate Jesse to steward department for job well Birke, Deck Delegate Harry G. J. done. He urged members to 29--Chairman William J. Card Secretary Nancy Heyden, ' Manard, Steward Delegate Secretary Gina Lightfoot, ' Champagne, Steward Delegate Michael Briscoe. Chairman upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. Christopher M. Green. Chairman Educational Director Edward Self Secretary noted new television on Educational Director Fredrick W. Engine Delegate Michael P. ' announced payoff after arrival Dougherty Jr., Deck Delegate reported receipt of new ice board. No beefs or disputed OT Brown. Chairman noted receipt of August 17 in Long Beach, Calif Angelo Wilcox Sr., Engine machine for crew. Next port is reported. Recommendation made raise retroactive to May 12, 1999. Educational director reminded Delegate Eliesel Montalvo New Orleans where vessel will and forwarded to contracts depart­ Those who did not receive it at ~veryone about fire fighting train­ Steward Delegate Robert G. load and proceed to Philippines. mg at Paul Hall Center and about ment to raise monthly pension Secretary asked everyone getting home should call Keystone allowances. Members want clarifi­ Maschmeier. Chairman announced STCW requirements. Treasurer payoff in San Juan, P.R. off to strip bunks and have clean Shipping. Payoff scheduled for announced $1,200 in ship's fund. cation on possible reimbursement linen ready for next crew member. November 10 at anchor in Port for money deducted from pay for Educational director stressed Chief Cook Briscoe purchased importance of upgrading skills at Educational director stressed Angeles. Patrolman from Seattle video rewinder for ship and will be New Jersey Health Care, which importance of upgrading at Piney hall will attend. Asst. VP Nick doesn't affect them. Next port: Paul Hall Center. No beefs or dis­ r~imbursed. He also wants to buy Point and getting STCW endorse­ C~lona came aboard ship in Tacoma, Wash. puted OT reported. Discussion held n~e cooker for galley. No beefs or on SIU-NMU merger. Suggestion ments. No beefs or disputed OT Richmond, Calif. to discuss possi­ disputed OT reported. Notice PETERSBURG (IUM), October made to get refrigerators for all r~ported. Steward department ble SIU-NMU merger. Letter from received from VP Contacts Augie 24-Chairman Eddie E. Hall unlicensed personnel. Vote of given vote of thanks for job well headquarters regarding merger also Tellez regarding sale of portion of Secretary Oscar R. Angeles, ' thanks ~iven to steward department done. Requests made for new received and posted in crew Sea-Land to Maersk. Suggestion Educational Director John P. and unlicensed apprentice for fine toaster, bread box and hook for ice lounge. Secretary asked that wet made and forwarded to contracts D' Alessandro, Steward Delegate job. machine scoop. paint gloves not be left on washers department to change time required Mohamed Muthanna. Chairman and dryers. Educational director M_AERSK COLORADO (Maersk for tour of duty. All hands remind­ announced ship under new man­ GALVESTON BAY (Sea-Land reminded crew to attend safety Lme), November 14-Chairman ed to take complaints directly to agement. So far, nothing changed Service), November 11-Chairman classes at Piney Point in order to Mohamed S. Ahmed, Secretary department delegate. from old company, and vessel still Paul Dornes, Secretary Hasan A. continue shipping. No beefs or dis­ Hugh E. Wildermuth, under coastwise articles. Educa­ Rahman, Educational Director ~uted OT reported. Several sugges­ SEA-LAND VOYAGER (Sea­ Educational Director Everett W. Francis C. Quebedeaux, Deck tions made and sent to contracts Land Service), August 2- tiona~ director urged crew to keep Snow, Deck Delegate George up with current upgrading courses Delegate Charles B. Collins, department for consideration. They Chairman Stephen R. Garay, Jordanides, Engine Delegate at Piney Point. Treasurer Steward Delegate Larry L. included being able to file for Secret3!Y James E. Harper, Robert J. Arneel, Steward announced $165 in ship's fund. No Griffin. Chairman announced pay­ vacation pay after working 90 Educational Director DiMarko L. off in Jacksonville, Fla. November Delegate Lionel Pack.nett. Ship to Shoulders, Deck Delegate beefs or disputed OT reported. pay off November 17 in days, being able to retire with full 12. He advised crew members to benefits after 20 years of seatime, Edward F. O'Brien, Engine SEA-LAND DISCOVERY (Sea­ Charleston, S.C., according to take advantage of courses at Piney regardless of age at retirement and Delegate P. Alegado, Steward Land Service), October 17- chairman. He thanked crew for Point. He also noted toll-free num­ abolishing the one-day Delegate Jorge A. Barahona. Chairman Nelson Sala, Secretary good job and helping keep ship seatim~ ber for questions on TRBs and requirement in six months to Chairman announced extended D?nald C. Spangler, Educational STCW requirements. Secretary clean. Discussion held on STCW deadline for STCW relaxed assess­ DITector Roger M. Wasserman, requirements. Crew members remain eligible for medical bene­ stressed importance of contributing fits. Vote of thanks given to stew­ ment. He also reminded everyone Dec~ Delegate Ron J. Sagadraca, ~waiting answer to previous ques­ to SPAD and upgrading skills at ard department for good food, to to get TRBs signed by mate or Engme Delegate Ricky D. Arroyo, Paul Hall Center. No beefs or dis­ tions on Money Purchase Pension engineer and urged crew to consid­ deck department for hard work on Steward Delegate Susan Moe. puted OT reported. Plan. Educational director urged er upgrading skills or endorsements ~hairman noted everything run­ everyone to upgrade at Paul Hall ?eek, ~nd to ~ngine room for keep­ at Piney Point. Secretary noted mng smoothly. Payoff expected HUMACAO (NPR, Inc.), Center at fust opportunity. No mg ship runnmg. New furniture for upgrading is vital to maritime this voyage in Long Beach, Calif. November 21--Chairman David beefs or disputed OT reported. crew lounge expected soon. February 2000 Seafarers LOG 19 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER Safety Specialty Courses 2000 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Course Start Date Date of Completion The following is the schedule for classes beginning between February Tanker Familiarization/ February 7 February 25 through June 2000 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Assistant Cargo (DL)* March 6 March 24 in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of (*must have basic fire fighting) April 3 April 21 Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. May 1 May 19 Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the mem­ May 29 June 16 bership, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before Basic Fire Fighting February 28 March 3 their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the March 27 March 31 morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reserva­ April 24 April 28 tions should be made for Saturday. May22 May26 Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Advanced Fire Fighting February 14 February 25 March 6 March 17 Deck Upgrading Courses Government Vessels February 28 March 17 Course Start Date Date of Completion March 27 April 14 May 1 May 19 Able Seaman February 21 March 17 May 22 June 9 March 20 April 28 April 17 May26 STCW Basic Safety (refresher) February 7 February 11 Life boatman February 7 Feb. 19 (pre-AB) March 6 March 10 March 20 March 31 (pre-AB) April 17 April 28 (pre-AB) Tankerman (PIC) Barge* March 13 March 17 (*must have basic fire fighting) April 3 April 7 Radar March 6 March 17 May22 May26 April 3 April 14 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* March 20 March 24 LNG Familiarization* February 28 March 3 (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) April 17 April 21 (*must have advanced fire fighting) March 20 March 24 Limited License Mayl June 23 Oil Spill Containment February 28 March 3 Engine Upgrading Courses Academic Department Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, Fireman/Watertender & Oiler April 3 May12 basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, Welding February 14 March 3 one week prior to the AB, QMED, FOWT, Third Mate, Tanker Assistant March 13 March 31 and Water Survival courses. An introduction to computers course will be April 17 May5 self-study. May26 June 9 Designated Du E gineer (DDE) ay 5 June 23 Steward Upgrading Courses

Course Start Date

Galley Operations/ February 7, 14, 21, 28 Advanced Galley Operations March 6, 13, 20, 27 (Every week) April 3, 10, 17, 24 Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward February 7, 21 (Every other week) March 6, 20 April 3, 17 ~ . -·-·:.,).·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·- With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty UPGRADING APPLICATION (120) days seatimefor the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, US MMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indi­ cating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Name ------~ Coast Guard tested. All FOWT. AB and QMED applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $280 with their application. The oavment should he made with a money order onlv. Address ______pavahle to LMSS. BEGIN END COURSE DATE DATE Telephone ______Date of Birth ______Deep Sea Member D Lakes Member D Inland Waters Member D

If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security# ______Book# ------Seniority ______Department ______

U.S. Citizen: Yes 0 No 0 Home Port ------Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held ______LAST VESSEL: ______Rating: _ ___

Date On: ______Date Off: Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? D Yes D No SIGNATURE ______DATE If yes, class# ______NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only ifyou Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? D Yes D No present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any ques­ If yes, course(s) taken ______tions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? Admissions Office, PO. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. D Yes D No Firefighting: D Yes D No CPR: D Yes D No The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qual­ ified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, Primary language spoken ______access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 2100 February 2000 Seafarers L06 21 Paul Hall Center Graduating Classes

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Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 595 - Unlicensed Government Vessels - Seafarers who successfully completed the government vessels course apprentice class 595 graduating from the water survival course are (from left, on December 17 include (in no specific order) Steve Roquemore, Charles Sadler, Greg Cherry, Robert kneeling) Randolph Cash, Gregorio Abalos, Christopher Cummings, Ronel Forrest, Frank Patrick, Tim Graham, Edward Milstead, James Tyson, William Kelley, Benjamin Ines, Guerzon, Keyshon Foote, (second row) Tyrone Brown, Montroes Fulton, Michael Roderick Clay, Ahmed Sharif, Justin Seybert, Michael Joel, John Palughi, John Petushin, Timothy Bull, Eli Ade, Benny Perez, Carlos Castillo, Walter Kyles, (third row) Charles Horger, James McCarthy, Brandon Maeda and Keith Kowaleski. Walker, Jonathan Aichs, Christopher Todd, Guy Todd II and Ian Ferguson.

PAUL LIFEBOAT CLASS 591 Unlicensed Apprentice Basic Fire Fighting Class 596 - Members of unli­ censed apprentice class 596 graduating from the basic fire fighting class are (in no partic­ ular order) Kyle Bailey, Spencer Randall, Sherrod Frazier, Armando Garayua-Gonzalez, Edward Joyal Ill, Harry McKever, Terrell McMillian, Felix Medina-Vidal, Andres Morin, Marquel Sapp, Shauntay Shavies, Robert Walter, Raymond Elsner Jr. and Randall Sachs. Their instructor, John Smith, is at far left.

GED - It was a proud day for Justin Germain, a Academic - Ursel (Buddy) Barber Phase Ill unlicensed apprentice, as he receives his receives a certificate of achievement from Maryland high school diploma through the Paul Hall Advanced Galley Operations - Finishing one of the required instructor Peggy Densford for completing a Center. With him are (from left) Academic Department two-week modules in the galley operations curriculum are (from left) Larry college-level course in developmental math. Coordinator Ed Fitzgerald and Academic instructors Pugh, William Mohica, Kim Gardner and Chef/Instructor Ed White. Barber is a Class I QMED who sails from the Peggy Densford and Joan Miles. port of Houston.

Advanced Fire Fighting - Marking com­ pletion of the advanced fire fighting course on December 10 are Allan Gorman, llavia Amaya, Daniel Figge, Daniel Gish, Clarence Sampay, Clovis Pomare, Ali Rhoufiry, Frank Iverson, Gheorghe Savencu, David St. Onge and David Hinson. Their instruc­ tor, Anthony Hammett, stands at far left.

22 Seafarers LOS February 2000 Paul Hall Center Graduating Classes

Tankerman (PIC) Barge Course­ Graduating from the tankerman (PIC) barge course in the port of Jacksonville on August 12 are Crowley boatmen Aitzgorri Gastanaga (left) and Ernest Williams (right) . With them is instructor Mitch Oakley.

Tankerman (PIC) Barge Course - G&H Towing boatmen completing the tankerman (PIC) barge course in September are (from left, kneeling) Jesse Alaniz, T.J . Snead, Roy Wick, Richard Johnson, Adam Simon, Martin Almanza, (second row) Matt Hargrove, Brian Taylor, Kevin Casler, Ted Sliter, Jaime Brown, Steve Williams, Leo Barron and G&H trainer Sabrina Matteson . Their instructor was Mitch Oakley.

Phase I Unlicensed Apprentices - For members of unli­ censed apprentice class 595, this visit to the USNS Antares in Baltimore is their first time on a vessel before they will actually ship out.

Unlicensed Apprentice Class 596 - In the steward culinary lab, mem­ bers from class 596, nd h perv· · of ·n T' · g, po y show the fruits of their labors in preparing breakfast.

Phase III Unlicensed Apprentices - Phase Ill unlicensed apprentices tour the SL-7 USNS Antares in Baltimore to gain a better understanding of the work that goes on in the deck and engine departments. They are (in no specific order) Brett Parkins, Lane Schroeder, Roger Steward, DeMichael Dews, Andrew Straka Jr. , Bruce Weathers, Ramon Thomas, Christopher Gen , Raheem Owens, Jess Chalker, Mitchell Gustafson, Kevin Johnson, Brent Morris, Anthony Cruz Vergara , Kristopher Anderson , Paul Weil , Donaldo Arevalo, John Allan, James Miller Jr. and Chad Partridge.

Upgraders Water Survival - Upgrading Seafarers who completed the water survival class on November 12 are (from left, kneeling) Helen Mitchell, Spencer Moxley Sr., (second row) Bernabe Pelingon (instructor), Ellis Jones, Ali Rhoufiry, Wilfred Scales, Carlos Julio, Marcial Avila, Francisco Harry, (third row) Mohamed Abdulsalam, Ali Naser, Sidney Jenkins, Velly Marquez, (fourth row) George Johnson, Julian Lacuesta Jr., Edgardo Ong, Virgilio Managbanag, Romeo Rivera and William Bruce.

Tanker Assistant Cargo (DL)-Among those completing the tanker assistant cargo (DL) course on October 15 are (in no particular order) Nestor Montoya Jr., Misti Thornbrugh, Martin Vargas, Shatonn Fowler, Antonio Watson, William Rozier, Salvatore Migliara, Chris Daniels, Jeffrey Smith, James Brown, Samuel Giles, Marion Collins, Joshua Weir, Chad Warren, Fahd Alsoofi, Melvin Hill 111 , Paul Flores, Pedro Ortiz Jr. and Jarian Hutchinson. Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is standing at far right.

February 2000 Seafarers LOG 23 Volume 62 Number 2 Attention Seafaren: This year is a leap year. Take advan­ tage of the extra day to work on your SIU scholarship application. See page 11 for additional information. 'Head Reci1•iter' Honored at Meeting Annamarie Haller Is the Proud Mother of Four Seafarers She has gone from "Special SIU Dispatcher" to "Head SIU Recruiter." Left: Two of Annamarie But whatever title is awarded Hailer's four seafaring sons to Annamarie Haller, it cannot join her on the stage in Piney top the one of which she is most Point. From the left are OMU proud-the mother of four SIU Mike Haller, SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez, Mrs. members. Haller, CE John Haller, his Seafarers showed their grati­ wife, Marlene, and SIU tude during the January member­ Sec'y-Treas. David Heindel. ship meeting in Piney Point, Md. ~ when SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez recog­ nized her in the audience. She Below: Annamarie Haller stands received a solid round of before the SIU membership dur­ applause from all those in atten­ ing the January meeting in Piney Point after being recognized as dance. the union's "head recruiter." Tellez called her the "head recruiter" in the union. As proof, he added, she was attending the meeting with two of her four maritime sons: OMV Mike Haller and Chief Electrician John Haller. (The other two are Chuck, a hawsepiper who sails as an engineer, and QMED Robert. A fifth brother, Joey, Since then, she has moved to pursued a shoreside career.) Mississippi, but she still keeps that following the meeting they Mrs. Haller, a resident of up with the happenings in the were taking their mother on a Summit, Miss., had spent union. trip to Washington, D.C. Mrs. Christmas and New Year's with When asked what it took to Haller added she was looking her sons in the Philadelphia area. raise all of her sons, she forward to seeing the White They told her they were planning responded, "A lot of prayers." House, the Vietnam Memorial to attend the union meeting and She quickly added she is and some art museums. invited her to join them. proud of all of them: "We made Ten years ago, the Hallers it and it has worked." Chief Cooks Chat with SIU President were featured in the Seafarers Three of the four brothers LOG as one of the large number graduated from the trainee pro­ of families with more than one gram at Piney Point. John was During a break in member sailing with the SIU. the first, completing the program their recent studies In December 1989, the LOG in 1972. Robert followed two at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime noted that when manpower need­ years later. Mike came through Training and ed to fill a position in the engine in 1995. Education, Chief room, they would call Mrs. Several of them have sailed Cooks Eddie Ong Haller to help locate one of her together. John recalled trips with (right) and Marie Mitchell spoke with sons. In the same article, Chuck Chuck aboard the USNS Antilles, SIU President said he would hate to hear the Overseas Anchorage and Sea­ Michael Sacco con­ phone ring when he was at home Land San Juan. Tellez remem­ cerning the proposed because his mother would be merger of the NMU bered that Robert and John were into the SIU. honest and tell manpower where involved in organizing Crowley he was. tugs on the West Coast. Visiting the Paul Hall Center And Starboard Means ....

Part of the vessel familiariza­ tion training at the Paul Hall Center is learning wheel com­ mands for steering a vessel. Here, students at the Piney Point, Md. facility receive instruction from Larry Malone aboard the training vessel Osprey. Eager to take the wheel are Tim Manes, Earnesto Brandon, Jose Echeverria and John Barrington. Recertified Steward Ekow Doffoh (left) brought his wife, Winifred, to the January membership meeting in Piney Point. While touring the center, they posed with SIU Sec'y-Treas. David Heindel.